Queens Chronicle South Edition 06-06-24

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

Councilman calls for DOT redesign effort for streets and intersections City must curtail mopeds: Krishnan

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Mopeds, specifically those that have been running illegally through Paseo Park-34th Avenue in Jackson Heights, were the subject of a town hall meeting with officials from the city Department of Transportation last Thursday night at PS 212.

Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) organized the event that drew elected officials and more than 150 residents.

A common theme among most who spoke at the meeting or talked to the Chronicle was that mopeds, scooters and other “micromobility” vehicles are speeding, running lights and stop signs, driving on sidewalks and ignoring oneway street designations.

“They’re everywhere — mopeds scooters, everything,” an East Elmhurst resident who gave her name only as Claudia told the Chronicle. “Sometimes they’re heading right for you.”

But the auditorium seemed divided between those wanting to address the problem with the three Es — engineering, education and enforcement — and those siding more with Krishnan’s stand that the solution should be primarily in the hands of the DOT.

“It is a place we come together — 26 blocks of joy,” Krishnan said of Paseo Park, the section of 34th Avenue on which vehicles are heavily restricted. “It has become a beloved part of our

Councilman Shekar Krishnan wants the city Department of Transportation to make massive design changes on and around Paseo Park

community ... But we are seeing story after story about speeding mopeds, across our streets, across our sidewalks, our open spaces, our plazas.”

He said neither education nor law enforcement are the keys to a solution.

“The biggest challenge, the biggest problem, is the poor design by our Department of Trans-

portation,” he said. “And DOT wants to build on that poor design with even more poor design.

Krishnan blasted DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez — who was listed in the event’s press release — for being a last-minute no-show.

The DOT did send First Deputy Commissioner Margaret Forgione, Queens DOT Commissioner Nicole Garcia and other officials. Also in attendance were state Sen. Catalina Cruz (D-Corona) and Assemblymembers Jessica González-Rojas (D-East Elmhurst) and Steven Raga (D-Maspeth).

Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton), chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, also was scheduled but did not attend.

“They’re required to have a registration and have a license,” González-Rojas said. “They’re not allowed in bike lanes.”

The assemblywoman touted a bill she has cosponsored that would, among other things, require point of sale registration of mopeds just as is done at car dealerships.

Anyone selling, renting or leasing mopeds also would be required to distribute copies of the rules of the road in 10 languages to customers.

Several comments during the evening resulted in one side booing and the other camp trying to drown that out with cheers.

One man was escorted out by officers from

the NYPD’s 115th Precinct after he refused repeated requests to stop shouting down a signed-up speaker who was at the podium.

DOT Assistant Commissioner for Safety Education and Outreach Kim Wiley-Schwartz, and Sean Quinn, associate deputy commissioner of the agency’s Office of Livable Streets, presented a slideshow depicting moped and overall design strategies that the DOT has been doing and is planning for the future citywide.

They said although traditional bike injuries and fatalities have fallen since 2017:

• e-bike injuries have been flat since 2021, but fatalities are increasing;

• stand-up E-scooter injuries and fatalities are increasing;

• traditional and limited-use motorcycle use has more than tripled since 2017;

• motorized two-wheeler injuries are up 450 percent since 2017 and fatalities have more than tripled;

• almost all fatalities in motorized twowheeler crashes are the operator and tend to be single vehicle or with a motor vehicle; and

• pedestrian fatalities are rarely associated with such crashes, but the numbers have slightly increased this year.

The NYPD also had seized 9,506 mopeds in 2024, or nearly three times the 3,531 the department seized in 2023.

continued on page 6

CONZA | MCNAMARA

CYNTHIA J. CONZA, ESQ.

EDWARD R. MCNAMARA, ESQ.

in Jackson Heights. PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON

Residents brave the sun to shop at more than 75 participating homes Woodhaven yard sale heats up in first week

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Anyone driving through Woodhaven last Saturday might have noticed an unusual number of homes with an outdoor yard sale setup. That’s because more than 75 households signed up for the annual Great Woodhaven Yard Sale, braving the nearly 90-degree heat to sit outside with tables of goods for neighbors to peruse and purchase.

“I do it because my wife wants to,” joked Kenny Goedtel, one of many Woodhaven residents participating.

His spouse, Lorraine, said she eagerly looks forward to the event, which launched in 2013, every year.

During the Great Woodhaven Yard Sale, residents simultaneously host rummage sales to attract shoppers. Prices are usually low, and bargain-hunting browsers can find nearly anything —from clothes and jewelry to technology and housewares.

Respectful haggling is encouraged and those seeking to shop should be prepared with plenty of cash on hand.

This year, the yard sale had two dates — the second and final is this upcoming Saturday, June 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The event is hosted by the Wood-

haven Residents’ Block Association and sponsored by Neir’s Tavern. The historic neighborhood bar even had its own table set up, with all proceeds set to benefit ovarian cancer.

“I do it because I enjoy spending the day with my family outdoors,”

Lorraine Goedtel said. Her sister

even made the flight in from Texas, and her brother drove in from New Jersey to help out with the sale. Her daughters, their significant others and family friends all make a visit to help, too.

“I like meeting people and connecting with my neighbors,” she

added.

One shopper, Ramon Aguado, who hails from Brooklyn, told the Chronicle that he had no idea about the event, but parked his car and walked around Woodhaven to shop once he noticed the multitude of homes hosting sales.

Historic Forest Park carousel, bandshell mark centennials

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Countless Queens residents have fond memories of Forest Park. In the past 100 years, those from Woodhaven, Glendale and the surrounding areas can warmly recall visiting the carousel or watching live music at the bandshell while enjoying the wonders of nature at home in the World’s Borough.

On June 15, all are invited to celebrate the centennial of the Forest Park Carousel and the George Seuffert Sr. Bandshell with a day of fun at a free event sponsored by Councilmembers Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), the Forest Park Trust, the Woodhaven Cultural and Historical Society, the Jamaica Rota-

ry Club and the Parks Department. The day promises fun for the whole family.

The festivities kick off at the park at 11 a.m with a street naming ceremony, where the intersection of Forest Park Drive and Woodhaven Boulevard will become Forest Park Carousel Way. Afterward, from noon to 3 p.m., rides on the historic merry-goround will be free.

Other entertainment offerings include a Flag Day celebration, a bounce house, inflatable slide, obstacle course, glitter tattoos, craft table, rock climbing and a live horse workshop hosted by park rangers.

To educate on fire safety, the FDNY will bring along its Smoke House, a roving teaching tool, to give

students the opportunity to learn what to do in the event of a blaze.

Art lovers can shop the Art Marketplace, courtesy of the Woodhaven Art Circle, to find works created by dozens of area visionaries for purchase.

Then, at 3:30 p.m. at the bandshell, students from PS 97 in Woodhaven and PS 254 in Richmond Hill will take to the stage to perform.

To close out the festivities, at 5 p.m., the Queens Symphony Orchestra will play a patriotic concert.

The rain date is June 22. Those with questions should contact Ed Wendell, the president of the Woodhaven Cultural and Historical Society, at (917) 886-2070 or by email at projectwoodhaven@gmail.com. Q

“I can send clothing to my family in my home country for cheap,” he said. “I’ve never seen so many garage sales in one place.”

Vance Barbour, who spearheads the organization of the event, said that TGWYS fosters a sense of community for the neighborhood.

Asked about the response from Saturday’s sale, which Barbour noted was the warmest TGWYS event thus far, he said, “We‘ve been getting very good feedback from those who were in more prominent places where people are on footpaths with larger streets.”

He noted that social media is a great way to advertise items for sale, especially for residents on side streets that see less foot traffic.

Barbour told the Chronicle it’s not too late to sign up for this Saturday’s sale. By Friday at 9 p.m., those wishing to participate who have not yet signed up should contact him by visiting the Facebook page at facebook. com/thegreatwoodhavenyardsale, filling out Google form linked on the page, or by calling the WRBA office at (718) 296-3735. Barbour can also be reached at thegreatwoodhavenyardsale@gmail.com.

An updated map of the participating households will be posted Saturday morning at the above link. Q

Meet Addabbo at a library near you

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) is bringing his mobile office to libraries in his district so residents can meet with him and discuss personal or community-related issues they may be facing.

The events are as follows, each from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.:

• June 6 in Forest Hills, at 108-19 71 Ave.

• June 13 in Glendale, at 78-60 73 Place

• June 20 in Middle Village, at 72-31 Metropolitan Ave.

• July 11 in Woodhaven, at 85-41 Forest Pkwy.

• July 18 in Richmond Hill, at 118-14 Hillside Ave.

• July 25 in Ozone Park, at 92-24 Rockaway Blvd.

“I know that not everyone can come to my district offices during normal business hours, which is why I am bringing my mobile office to a library near you,” Addabbo said. “I believe that one of the most important parts of my job as an elected official is to hear from my constituents and engage with them on an individual level.”

For more information, contact Addabbo’s office at (718) 738-1111. Q

An array of items for sale can be found at more than 75 households in the neighborhood during the Great Woodhaven Yard Sale. PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLELMO

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Howard Beach historians uncover early days

Area history buffs last Friday attended The Howard Beach Historical Society’s inaugural event at the Howard Beach Motor Boat Club, getting a glimpse of the work that has been compiled thus far. The group aims to preserve the area’s rich history and show residents from the neighborhood more about the place they call home.

At the event, the HBHS showcased rare photographs and artifacts from across Howard Beach, including Ramblersville, East and West Hamilton Beach and South Aqueduct.

Clockwise, from top right: June McCowan takes a look at photos of a home where her ancestors once resided; two

framed artifacts on display: a members card for the Ramblersville Motor Boat Club, dated 1914-15, and a Hotel Howard 1 mile swimming medal dated 1902; a resident views one of the many binders reflecting the area’s storied past as Gail Wetzel, one of the founders of the HBHS, explains the context; a photo of William Howard, who established the neighborhood in 1897; Councilwoman Joann Ariola and her chief of staff, Phyllis Inserillo, pose alongside Wetzel and Roger Gendron, who works closely with her on historical society business; vintage snapshots of families enjoying the sun at the Lindenwood Pool Club; and, at center, photos of the former South Aqueduct Vol-

Schulman movie showcase

Movies Under the Stars, sponsored by Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) continues in parks in the 29th District through mid-August. People are invited to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Popcorn will be provided. Shows begin at dusk, roughly between 8:30 and 8:45 p.m.

“Paw Patrol,” the animated 2021 film based on the children’s television series, is on Tuesday, June 18, in Phil Rizzuto Park in South Richmond Hill, in coordination with the 102nd Precinct.

“Migration,” the 2023 animated comedy-adventure about a family of New Eng-

land ducks visiting the island of Jamaica, will show Wednesday, July 3 at the Russell Sage Playground in Forest Hills.

“Golmaal 3,” the third picture from Bolloywood’s Golmaal comedy series, is scheduled for Phil Rizzuto Park on Wednesday. July 17.

“The Wizard of Oz” will follow the road to Yellowstone Park in Forest Hills on Wednesday, Aug. 7.

“The Iron Giant,” the animated 1992 action/science fiction film, plays at the Ehrenrich-Austin Playground in Forest Hills on Sunday, Aug. 11. Q

unteer Fire Department and South Aqueduct Civic Hall. Wetzel told the Chronicle the group relies upon donations. The HBHS is raising money through a GoFundMe to help cover the costs, which Wetzel said can get expensive, especially with printing fees. Visit gofund.me/f7e523e5 to make a donation.

If you have old photos of interest or business cards to donate, Wetzel can be contacted through the “Ozone Park / Howard Beach & Beyond...Now & Then” Facebook group. The historical society can also be reached via email at howardbeachhistoricalsociety@gmail.com.

— Kristen Guglielmo

Paseo Park

continued from page 2

“And we’re only halfway through the year,” Forgione said.

During the public comment section, Helen O’Reilly, a Jackson Heights resident and car owner, said she considers Paseo Park-34th Avenue a treasure, and like Krishnan, would prefer improved design to an enforcement crackdown.

“But I’m also not an either-or person,” she said. “It’s not just design or enforcement, it’s both. And yes, the signs are bad, but they’re there and people are ignoring them.”

Kathy Farren, who lives on 34th Avenue

and is a member of the New York Safety Alliance, took it a step further than González-Rojas.

“Not just mopeds — all electric vehicles,” Farren said. “Anything that needs a motor needs to be registered.”

Krishnan, approached after the town hall, had no specifics for just how the DOT could design the dozens of access points to 34th Avenue so as to stop a careless or reckless moped operator from gaining entry; or how intersections could be designed to keep them from running red light or making illegal turns.

“There are intelligent people at the Department of Transportation,” Krishnan said. “They can do this.” Q

BY

PHOTOS

KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

Mayor Adams and the Council come to agreement on allocations for schools City allots $127M in funding to education

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

City public schools and their programs will see a $127 million boost in funding, as per an announcement from the Mayor’s Office on Tuesday.

Mayor Adams and City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) announced a $32 million investment to protect long-term school programs that were previously funded with sunsetting Covid stimulus dollars.

The funding comes at the heels of the April announcement of $514 million for similar programming restorations, as well as a previously announced $1 billion for teacher and principal pay increases and $182 million to implement the state’s class size mandate.

The $32 million will also maintain teacher recruitment efforts that the city said are critical to meeting state-mandated class size legislation standards, and preserve funding for restorative justice programs, which aim to solve conflicts without punitive discipline.

The city also announced a restoration of $20 million for Summer Rising, which will return to Friday sessions and extend the school day from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. for middle school students. Additionally, the city is investing $75 million to hold schools harmless against enrollment declines, which previously would have meant a budget reduction for

schools with lower-than-expected enrollment.

The hold harmless policy was introduced during the pandemic and the mayor previously tried to phase it out, but faced criticism from the City Council.

According to a joint press release from the Mayor’s Office, the City Council and the DOE, the latter agency will be releasing initial budget allocations to all schools this week, and the overwhelming majority of them will see budgets increased, by nearly $900 million collectively.

In fiscal year 2024, the Department of Education’s budget was approximately $33 billion, according to data from the city Office of Management and Budget’s website. For fiscal year 2025, the number is forecast at approximately $32.2 billion. The finalized city budget is due July 1.

The mayor attributed the restoration and security of funds to “measures implemented to responsibly manage the city’s budget and a stronger-than-expected economy,” according

to the release.

“We’ve always been honest with the city,” said the mayor at a press conference Tuesday morning. “We’re dealing with some tough fiscal issues, but when you are able to sit down in a room away from the public noise and sit in a room with the finance and the budget directors on both sides, we’re able to land the plane. This is what we have done time and time again.”

“Education is the great equalizer, and programs like Summer Rising and restorative justice will help support our students’ educational journeys, while supporting working families,” Speaker Adams said in a statement, and noted there is more to be done. “There is still work to do in our education budget, especially on early childhood education programs, and we look forward to continuing this work with the administration and all stakeholders to deliver the meaningful investments that our children and families need to succeed.”

The schools chief, Chancellor David Banks, also lauded the new funding.

“Our schools are not only places of academic excellence, but community centers, buildings filled with mentors and trusted adults, and classrooms dedicated to developing the future leaders of our city,” said DOE Chancellor Banks. He commended the administration for putting students first by investing in essential programming. Q

City officials at a Tuesday press conference in Manhattan announced over $120 million in funding for the Department of Education and its programming.

PHOTO BY JOHN MCCARTEN / NYC COUNCIL

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EDITORIAL AGEP

Bye, bye, congestion pricing

We won! Though she arrived late to the party, Gov. Hochul has done the right thing and put the kibosh on congestion pricing. Not just Queens, not just New York but the whole tri-state area can celebrate. And we commend the governor on her decision.

This page has stood against congestion pricing — the MTA’s imposition of sky-high new tolls for drivers going to Manhattan at or below 60th Street — since the beginning. We were joined in that by a wide array of forces, everyone from the United Federation of Teachers to the Trucking Association of New York, from GOP Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella to Democratic New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, from the Town of Hempstead in Nassau County to the mayor of Fort Lee, NJ. And those were just some of the plaintiffs in some of the six lawsuits filed against the plan. Kudos to Murphy for filing the first litigation (sometimes New Jersey and you are perfect together). All made good claims.

Whether Hochul decided to nix the plan on its merits, or lack thereof, or over political considerations hardly matters. Word has it that Rep. Hakeem Jeffries of Brooklyn, who formerly had a bit of Queens in his district and

would be speaker of the House if Democrats win in November, swayed Hochul to kill it. It would be a lot harder for Democrats to win if the costly new tolls they cooked up to start June 30 were to be an issue in suburban swing districts. Even the remarkably incompetent Republicans might be able to leverage that to their advantage.

Fifteen dollars a car? Twenty-four bucks for trucks, and $36 for big trucks? Who are you kidding? Could you be any more tone-deaf? Could you show any more indifference to a regional economy still unsettled from Covid?

There are families for whom congestion pricing would be the final straw, the thing that keeps them from going to that museum, to that show. There are well-off people who would stop going to restaurants south of 60th Street just on principle. We know them! And of course every company that had to pay the new fees would immediately pass them onto the consumer. Hello, renewed inflation! Meanwhile, pollution would not be cut, only shifted. As for the $1 billion the MTA claims it would get annually, collecting the $700 million lost in a year to fare evasion would cover most of that. Then raise fares modestly. We applaud Hochul for making the call. We won!

Mayor must craft gov’t

New York City was considered ungovernable within living memory, and it requires a strong mayor to keep its moving parts in any kind of synchronicity. The chief executive has to be able to surround himself, and, perhaps soon, herself, with like-minded individuals to run city agencies. Meanwhile, the City Council is free to make new laws, hold hearings, negotiate the budget and correctly act as a check against the mayor, when the members aren’t running out to ribbon-cuttings and street co-namings.

But a new bill would upset the balance of power and give the Council far too much sway, by requiring the mayor to get its “advice and consent” for his appointments to lead 20 agencies — buildings, health, parks, sanitation and more.

The measure comes from Council Speaker Adrienne Adams of Jamaica, who insists it has nothing to do with the current mayor but is just about good government. Maybe so, though it’s easy for an observer to think otherwise. Our objections, on the other hand, are not just because we think the bill would make for worse government but because of how far left this City Council is. People elected a centrist in Mayor Adams. Junk this measure to keep their will intact.

MARK WEIDLER

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Fund senior centers

Dear Editor:

Older adult centers have become more crucial than ever. Over the past decade, New York City’s 65-and-over population has surged by 36 percent, with Queens seeing a nearly 40 percent increase. Older adult centers are essential community hubs, but many in Queens and across the city are in dire need of investment. Due to increased use but a lack of funding, they’ve fallen into disrepair. Due to the condition of these older adult centers, many seniors, like myself, are staying away. This is a real problem, as many older adults need opportunities for socialization and access to critical services such as meals and connections to social services.

As the mayor and City Council work on the city budget, it is imperative that they allocate funds to improve the infrastructure of our senior centers. Every community should have a safe and welcoming space where older adults can gather, socialize, and receive essential services.

Kitty Ruderman Forest Hills

Great article, great paper

Dear Editor:

Thank you for the informative article about the Rev. Robert Ross Johnson (“Beloved reverend’s legacy lives on in St. Albans,” May 2, multiple editions).

I attended St. Albans Congregational Church as a small child and young adult. Rev. Johnson’s towering presence was a gift to the church and the community. Rev. Johnson’s love of God and people shaped and benefited the church and the community.

Ariella Kissin wrote an excellent article highlighting the reverend’s many contributions to the community. The gift of the front page (in the Eastern and Southeast Queens editions), picturing the gathering of the community, including many community leaders, was wonderful.

My family also appreciated the article saluting nurses serving in various roles that same week (“Nurses serve in a variety of roles”).

Lastly, a huge congratulations for 14 journalism awards! The Queens Chronicle is a superior newspaper my family looks forward to reading each week.

Cynthia Phillips Springfield Gardens

Kudos to Krichevsky

Dear Editor:

Re your May 30 report “Krichevsky speaks at IS 237”: I can think of no one better qualified to enlighten school students about journalism than Queens Chronicle Associate Editor Sophie Krichevsky. Her reports are always comprehensive, compelling and clarifying, including coverage of events that impacted me.

One of those was heartbreaking — the closing of Kew Gardens Hills Main St. Cinemas after 81 years of entertainment service to its community (“Main St. Cinemas closes its doors,” Sept. 8, 2022, multiple editions). I had been a patron since 1946 and its demise marked the end of my movie theater-going experience. But I was elated by her story on the Kew Gardens Hills Public Library’s 70th anniversary (“Kew Gardens Hills library hits 70 years,” Feb. 29, 2024, multiple editions). I have been an

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

active library user since it first opened in 1954.

Sophie did a great job on both articles. Her reporting is one reason why the Chronicle recently won 14 awards from the New York Press Association, and why the Chronicle remains my favorite newspaper.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Don’t parade Trump flags

Dear Editor:

Thanks to all who made those Memorial Day parades happen, and to the Chronicle for its wide coverage.

But one thing marred the Little Neck-Douglaston Parade for me: a contingent of Republican clubs flying a large Trump flag. As the daughter of a combat Marine veteran (now deceased), it shocked and saddened me to see a flag bearing the name of someone who denigrates our military, our NATO allies and former POWs, while never himself serving and receiving multiple deferments. No former, or prospective, commander-in-chief should have that little respect, or care, for our troops. Chalk it up to bad judgment and poor taste, or to just plain inconsiderate electioneering, but a Trump flag did not and does not belong in any Memorial Day observance.

We — as a nation, along with our Allies — went to war to prevent a dictator, and fascism, from taking over the world. A candidate who talks about becoming a dictator shows complete ignorance of our history and the importance of our nation’s security, our military and our trusted Allies.

Thankfully, better men of different parties (Democratic President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Gen. Dwight David Eisenhower, supreme commander of our European forces, understood the evils of fascism. Eisenhower, a Republican who later became president, went so far as to order that the Holocaust and the destruction brought about by a dictator and fascism be recorded for posterity in hopes no global conflict of that nature be repeated.

The last group of World War II vets arrived in France in advance of the June 6 D-Day remembrance. Let us all remember (or learn about) and honor those who never made it back, but who served their country under the most appalling of times. And let us remember, we must not repeat that history.

Vivienne Lenk Little Neck

Don’t salute a socialist

Dear Editor:

I was shocked to read that Socialist Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez was honored by American Legion Post 1836 on Memorial Day (“Ceremony looks to both past and present,” May 30, multiple editions).

Has the congresswoman ever voted to increase defense spending? Has the congresswoman ever spoken in support of American troops serving abroad? Has the congresswoman ever voted to send aid to American allies such as Ukraine or Israel? The answer is surely no.

And then I read that the ceremony included a chorus singing “This Land is Your Land,” a song written by Woody Guthrie, a one-time

member of the Communist Party and a supporter of Joseph Stalin. Have the leaders of American Legion Post 1836 lost their minds?

John Attanas Forest Hills

Prioritize veteran’s services

Dear Editor:

Veterans, when returning to civilian life, are disproportionately impacted by mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and unemployment — and they face unique barriers when trying to access support systems. They often struggle to find a sense of belonging and purpose. At Samaritan Daytop Village, where we have been supporting veterans for more than 30 years, we have found that three key elements can have a huge impact on improving veterans’ access to services and their overall well-being: briefer screenings for resources, community-building initiatives, and veteransupported peer support programs.

Shorter, brief screenings during initial interviews gently introduce veterans to resources so they are less likely to become overwhelmed or feel judged. Community-building initiatives help our veterans develop a sense of purpose and belonging beyond their military service. Our organization regularly does this through pilgrimages to DC and participation in programs such as alumni meetings.

There is still a pervasive stigma surrounding mental health and substance use disorders, which often dissuades veterans from seeking employment in relevant fields. To combat this, veterans need access to peer recovery programs, which empower veterans, break down barriers to employment, and foster a culture of understanding within our communities.

I urge our policymakers to prioritize funding for mental health and other support services tailored to the unique needs of our veteran population. As a veteran myself, I can tell you our veterans have sacrificed so much in service to our country, and it is our moral obligation to ensure they receive the care and support they deserve.

Deirdre Rice-Reese Assistant Vice President of Residential Treatment

Samaritan Daytop Village Briarwood

The writer oversees Samaritan Daytop Village’s veterans and upstate residential treatment programs.

Both parties win wars

Dear Editor:

In last week’s Letters to the Editor a writer said that we should vote Democrat because “Democrats win wars.” The logic that led to this conclusion is a perfect example of how ideologues cherry-pick the facts, polish them up and present them as truth. Both the Civil War and the Spanish-American War were won by Republicans.

More importantly, we are voting on the present and not the past. President Biden‘s exit from Afghanistan was a fiasco. When I was in fifth grade, with no military training, I knew that the very last people you pull out of a war zone are your troops. Apparently, the logistics of leaving were too complex for Biden to figure out. At continued on next page

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

continued from previous page

the time, several thousand U.S. citizens were still in Afghanistan. Do we know what happened to them? Did they choose to stay because of relatives or other considerations, or are they being detained? As far as I know, our news media have never followed up on the story. They seem to be too busy chasing shiny objects like Stormy Daniels and other irrelevant stories.

One final, unrelated point. Biden does not just have a stutter. He has brain freeze. People with a stutter do not remain silent. They struggle to get a word out. You hear the struggle and see it. You don’t see a vacant, hollow look in their eyes.

Michael Gallagher Forest Hills

Mistruths are out there

Dear Editor:

Sadly, we now live in a society where every aspect of daily life is prone to embracing what we read, or what we hear as being true. In Greek mythology, legend has it Sisyphus was condemned to roll a bolder uphill that was so heavy it rolled back down for all eternity. In this very same way today, many people take their interpretations of the truth and try again and again to push them uphill. If enough people read it and hear something, it becomes gospel truth. Rumors take on the

same kind of power when gossiped about enough times.

In an age when information is available 24/7, with hundreds, if not thousands, of people adding to any story, it’s much like the game of telephone in grade school. Almost always, when the last person in the circle shares what he or she heard, it’s different than what was first shared. When individuals praise someone for sharing something they want to hear, the same mentality is experienced. People in general react to what they want to believe is true.

As this year heats up towards our November elections, it is vital that people investigate whether what they read and hear has solid grounds of accuracy and validity. There are way too many people hell-bent on displaying their hatred of people, places and things in our modern world. These people seemingly grab hold of negativity like they were grasping a knife to plunge into the heart of everything they dislike. They embrace their own bitterness without regard for how it affects others.

With Memorial Day now past, the summer season is here. Continue to keep dear in your heart the values our military men and women — for those who gave the ultimate sacrifice so we could embrace the freedoms the world envies.

Craig Schwab Glendale

Protecting pensions for public employees

by Stacey Pheffer Amato

I’m proud to know that our community has one of the largest populations of governmental employees — dedicated men and women who work in public service to make our state and communities thrive. It’s a laudable career.

Of course, one of the major benefits of having a governmental employee job is the pension, which is a retirement plan for those who work in public service. Upon retirement, a pension can be accessed, and this results in monthly monetary allotments, healthcare insurance and coverage, and the distribution of benefits to any beneficiaries. Throughout a career in public service you contribute to your own pension, which ensures a form of stability in retirement.

As chairwoman of the Committee on Governmental Employees, which oversees all city and state employees, and their retirement benefits, I vowed to protect and advance pensions. During my tenure as your assemblywoman I have done that, and have taken even stronger steps to build up the retirement system and make sure no one gets diminished benefits.

switch to a Medicare Advantage pla n, I joined with retiree groups like the NYC Organization of Public Service Retirees and National NYCPD 10-13 to combat this problem. While the lawsuit to stop this disastrous plan appears to be successful, I agree with all retirees that we need legislative action to ensure that no one can take away your health insurance. After months of legislative work and conversations with retirees in our own community, and throughout NYS, last week, as chairwoman of the Committee on Governmental Employees, I brought A.7866 to the table for a vote. This bill would prohibit public employers from diminishing health insurance benefits provided to retirees and their beneficiaries. And guess what ... the bill passed committee! Now the bill is off to the Committee on Ways and Means.

Tier 6 (Tier 3 for police and firefighters) is the most recent pension plan that now has over 50 percent of our public workforce enrolled in it. This plan was created in 2012 and has resulted in individuals working longer, and receiving less in benefits, than those in other pension plans. It was obvious to me that Tier 6 needed a change and I committed to workers and their families to enact pension reform!

The first change happened in 2022 as I helped amend the “vesting period” for Tier 6 workers from 10 years to five years. That means that after five years of public service you are permanently in the pension system — you’re covered. This was important because all other public employees had this protection and benefit after five years, but not our most recent hires.

Since being appointed to the role of chairwoman of the Committee on Governmental Employees, I have worked to pass other protections and benefits for our current workers and retirees. Bills like: A.7414, which guarantees surviving spouses and domestic partners of fallen firefighters will always have health insurance benefits; A.7156, which changed the law to make sure eligible City workers who could be in the BERS retirement system were automatically enrolled; and A.6806, which ensures that governmental employees who retired from an on-the-job injury and their spouses have access to the New York State Health Insurance Plan, or NYSHIP — all of which have been signed into law.

After that change, I focused on amending the final average salary — or the salaries that calculate a person’s pension. My bill, A.9133, was included in the 2024 state budget and made an important change from the current five-year final average salary calculation, to now being derived from the “highest three consecutive years” to determine a person’s pension. This guarantees that pensions will be calculated from your highest salaries, making sure that when people retire they get more money in their pockets!

While pension reform and retiree healthcare may not be a sexy topic, they matter. Our governmental employees and their families deserve respect- retired or actively working. As chairwoman, and your assemblywoman, I do everything I can to help our current workforce and our retirees. If you or someone you know might be interested in a job with the state or city government, you can find openings at either statejobs.ny.gov or cityjobs.nyc.gov.

The Tier 6 changes were huge and will help our new and future workers. However, I also demanded we take care of our retirees. Retired governmental employees deserve the retirement plan they were promised. When New York City made the appalling decision to force 250,000 retirees to

As the legislative session continues, I will continue to work to deliver more results for the people of the 23rd Assembly District! As always, do not hesitate to contact my office by phone at (718) 945-9550 or by email at amatos@nyassembly.gov. It is a pleasure to serve you and I look forward to representing you for many more years to come. Q

Stacey Pheffer Amato is New York State Assemblywoman for the 23rd District, in southern Queens and the Rockaways.

Teen moped migrant shoots cops: NYPD

Venezuelan national and shelter resident, 19, also suspected in robberies

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

The teenager who shot two police officers early Monday morning in East Elmhurst is an illegal immigrant from Venezuela suspected of committing multiple robberies from the back of a moped as part of an organized crew, the NYPD says.

Bernardo Raul Castro Mata, 19, crossed into the United States illegally at Eagle Pass, Texas, in July 2023, NYPD Chief of Detectives

Joe Kenny said during a press conference with Mayor Adams, Commissioner Edward Caban and other top police officials.

He is among those responsible for a skyrocketing number of crimes committed with scooters and mopeds, police said.

And at about 1:40 a.m. June 3, he allegedly led cops on a foot chase and started a shootout with them in East Elmhurst rather than comply when they tried to pull him over.

Mayor Adams started the 6 a.m. press conference at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst by holding up the bullet-resistant vest worn by one of the two officers who were wounded. Both were treated at Elmhurst and released later in the morning.

“This is a bullet hole,” the mayor said, pointing at a low spot on the vest. “Because of this vest, a young police officer’s going home. Senseless act of violence. A total disregard for life. Our officers responded with a level of discipline, a level of focus, a level of professionalism.”

Adams was a police captain before going into elective politics.

“This is what we’re fighting every day,” he said. “This department has removed over 15,000 illegal guns off our streets, in the hands of dangerous people. Everyday New Yorkers are not wearing this. And I want to thank the police commissioner and the men and women of the Police Department for putting their lives on the line every day. And if this is not a real symbol of that, then I don’t know what is.”

The two cops who were shot are uniformed officers assigned to the 115th Precinct Public Safety Team, Caban said, who were working to address robberies in the area involving perpetrators on mopeds and scooters. They saw Mata allegedly driving a moped the wrong way on 82nd Street near 23rd Avenue and attempted to pull him over.

“The suspect then fled on foot and our officers began a foot pursuit, which led for several blocks,”

Caban said. “During the pursuit, the suspect fired multiple rounds at our officers, who then returned fire. One officer was shot in the front of his bullet-resistant vest. The other officer was shot in his leg.”

The officers were not named during the press conference but later were identified as Christopher Abreu and Richard Yarusso.

The suspect was shot in the right ankle and taken to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens hospital by Emergency Medical Services, Caban said. All three were in stable condition when transported.

“Once again, this could have gone a very different way. It’s only by the grace of God that we’re not here talking about a terrible tragedy.

ways, no motorcycle helmet and missing plates.

The DA’s Office said the officers caught up with Mata around 23rd Avenue and 89th Street but he resisted arrest, pulled out a gun and shot Yarusso point-blank. His vest stopped the bullet. Mata allegedly then shot Abreu in the leg.

Abreu fired back, hitting Mata, at which point he was handcuffed.

“The criminal justice system is putting police officers and the public at risk.”

— Police Benevolent Association

“According to the criminal complaint, this defendant fired his gun point blank into the chest of a New York City police officer, and just seconds later shot another officer in the leg,” Katz said in a prepared statement. “NYPD officers put their lives at risk every day to protect New Yorkers and keep our communities safe.

President Patrick Hendry

“But we are here again talking about illegal firearms and the violent criminals with absolutely no problem using them against our officers. Our officers were out there doing the job that we ask them to do and we are very grateful that they are going to be OK.”

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz announced on Wednesday that Mata had been charged with a 17-count complaint including two counts of attempted murder in the first degree; two counts of attempted murder in the second degree; two counts of assault in the first degree; two counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree; four counts of assault in the second degree; obstructing governmental administration in the second degree; resisting arrest; as well as three vehicle and traffic law violations pertaining to one-way road-

Amongst other charges, including criminal possession of the weapon and assault, we are charging the defendant with the attempted murder of both police officers.”

Kenny said Mata has no prior arrests in the city but is a suspect in several robbery patterns in Queens. He was living at 90-10 Ditmars Blvd., the former Courtyard Marriot hotel, now the Landing Family Shelter for migrants.

Motorized scooters and bikes are being used to commit crimes citywide at rates not seen before, Kenny said. Those crimes include “shootings, robberies and phone snatches,” he said.

For comparison’s sake, he said, from Jan. 1 to June 1, 2022, the city saw no robbery patterns involving motorized scooters or motorcycles. For the same time period in 2023, there were 20.

“This year,” he said, “we have over 80 robbery patterns citywide involving incidents where the perpetrators are riding motorized scooters or motorcycles. That’s over 80 robbery patterns alone encompassing ... hundreds and hundreds of incidents.”

Police Benevolent Association President Pat Hendry noted that when the officers were shot, the one hit in the vest was most concerned about helping his partner, getting a tourniquet.

“That’s what partners do in the NYPD; they save each other’s lives,” Hendry said. “And that’s what happened here today.”

Hendry said the criminal justice system must change in order to protect police and the public.

Questions have to be asked, he said: “Why did this individual run? Why did he go on that scooter? Why’d he take off? Why didn’t he stop for the police? Why was he carrying a firearm? Why wasn’t he afraid to shoot New York City police officers?”

Hendry said, “We’ve been in courtrooms across this city demanding change, packing those courtrooms, demanding change to the criminal justice system. And what we notice, when the cameras are on, everyone is doing their job holding criminals accountable. When the cameras are off and people aren’t paying attention, the criminal justice system is putting police officers and the public at risk.”

In response to media questions, the NYPD officials also said the gun Mata allegedly used was not legally possessed; that he does have “co-defendants” in the robbery patterns in which he is a suspect; that one of the shot officers has been on the force for five years and one for two and a half; and that in one case, the defendant allegedly attacked a woman, stole her credit card and

used it at a Queens “smoke shop.”

Chief of Department Jeff Maddrey, the NYPD’s highest-ranking official other than the commissioner, also lauded the officers for the job they have been doing.

“Young officers, very bright, talented — they’re going to have an amazing career in this department,” Maddrey said. “They’re very brave and courageous for what they did tonight, for what they’ve been doing, keeping New Yorkers safe.”

The gun police recovered, based upon information visible in the photo the department provided, is a Hi-Point CF 380 semiautomatic that takes an eight- or 10-round magazine. It fires bullets of the same diameter as a 9 mm pistol.

Katz’s office said two fired bullets, nine fragments and several shell casings were recovered.

One nearby elected official issued a statement to the media via email following the shooting.

“Every day, the dedicated members of the NYPD risk their lives to protect our communities, a tragic reality made clear by this morning’s shooting of Officers Christopher Abreu and Richard Yarusso in East Elmhurst,” City Councilman Francisco Moya (D-Corona) said. “While I am relieved their injuries were non-life-threatening and the suspect is in custody, no act of violence against our police officers can ever be tolerated. Even though this incident did not occur in my district, our entire community stands united in wishing these brave officers a full and rapid recovery.”

State Sen. Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) said on the social media site X, “I’m thankful no lives were lost & wish the officers a quick recovery. Getting guns off our streets can’t just be a talking point. The lives of our neighbors & those who protect us are at stake.” Q

At center, NYPD Chief of Detectives Joe Kenny addresses the media at NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, flanked by Mayor Adams, right, and Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey, left, Police Commissioner Edward Caban, Police Benevolent Association President Patrick Hendry and NYPD Deputy Commissioner for Public Information Tarik Sheppard. At right, Adams points out the hole put in one officer’s vest, allegedly by this semiautomatic pistol.

SCREENSHOTS VIA NYPD / X

Increasing income eligibility for transit program would benefit 197K Qns. folks City Council pushes for subsidy increase

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica), transit activists and other elected officials gathered outside a subway station near City Hall Tuesday to call on the city to increase the income eligibility criteria for a second time for the Fair Fares program.

The Fair Fares program was launched in 2019 and offers a 50 percent subsidy on public transit costs for people with low incomes, regardless of immigration status, who take the bus or subway.

The Council and the Mayor’s Office baselined $75 million in the city’s expense budget for the program in fiscal year 2023. Those earning up to 100 percent of the federal poverty line were eligible. The Council successfully negotiated a baseline increase of $20 million and had the income threshold increased to 120 percent of the FPL for the 2024 budget. For 2025, the Council is pushing to raise eligibility to 200 percent of the FPL.

“Fair Fares is an essential program that expands access to our city’s public transit system for working-class residents, and we must expand its eligibility to reach even more New Yorkers,” Adams said in a statement. “The Council has consistently cham-

The areas in dark blue and blue on the City Council transit map would benefit the most by an increase to the income eligibility criteria for the Fair Fares program.

pioned the expansion of Fair Fares to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level to expand opportunities for 650,000 additional riders.

Since the launch of the initiative, Fair Fares has served more than 325,000 straphangers, according to her office.

Fowler honored 25 years later

Capt. Vincent Fowler tragically died in the line of duty 25 years ago. To honor his legacy of service, Engine 331/Ladder 173, in Howard Beach, held a ceremony Tuesday morning.

Students from PS 108, the South Ozone Park school posthumously named after Fowler, FDNY officials, Councilwoman Joann Ariola and Sean McCabe, a rep for state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr., were all in attendance.

“Captain Fowler was, and continues to be, a beacon of excellence, and his legacy continues to inspire firefighters throughout the city,” Ariola wrote on Facebook. “Thank you for your sacrifice, Capt. Fowler. You will never be forgotten. And thank you to everyone who came

out to remember him today.”

In a statement, Addabbo said in honoring Fowler, “we pay tribute to a man whose selfless sacrifice and enduring legacy remind us that true heroism lies not in fame or grandeur, but in the quiet strength of character and unwavering commitment to others.”

He called Fowler’s legacy “a guiding light illuminating the path of service, kindness and the belief that each of us has the power to make a difference,” and added, “It is a fitting tribute that PS 108 is named after Captain Fowler, so he can inspire future generations who can learn from his story of sacrifice, dedication and hard work.” — Kristen Guglielmo

A source at City Hall told the Chronicle that at 120 percent FPL, a single person making approximately $18,200 or a family of four making $37,440 or less would be eligible for the program. At 200 percent, a single person making approximately $30,100 or a family of four making $62,400 or less would be eligible. If the expansion were to go through, it would require a baseline increase of $54.2 million, bringing the total budget for the Fair Fares program to $149.2 million.

“When it takes an estimated salary of $70,000 just to cover basic necessities in New York City, it is more than reasonable to consider raising the eligibility of Fair Fares recipients to 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level at $30,120,” state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) said in a statement.

An analysis by the Permanent Citizens Advisory Committee to the MTA said that more than 500,000 New Yorkers would qualify under the expansion.

tion underway are a part of the Penn Station Access project, a project that would extend the Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line to reach Penn Station, according to the MTA.

PCAC says that 70 percent of city LIRR and Metro-North stations are closed to communities in which more than a quarter of residents would qualify for Fair Fares.

“While there is no doubt that Fair Fares has become an essential program to hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers since its launch just five years ago, the fact remains that far too few residents who work in our city are able to participate in the program,” Lisa Daglian, executive director of PCAC, said in a statement. “Our research clearly shows that New Yorkers living in working class neighborhoods around the city will greatly benefit from expanding Fair Fares, saving them hundreds of dollars annually ...”

Some transportation activists had been saying that with congestion pricing around the corner, the city should make it easier and more affordable to travel to work, school and doctor’s appointments via transit.

But Gov. Hochul announced on Wednesday that the state would halt congestion pricing, which was to start June 30, indefinitely. Congestion pricing would have charged operators of passenger, some buses and commercial vehicles $6 to $36 for driving into Manhattan below 60th Street. Rideshare and taxi drivers would have had to pay $1.25 to $2.50.

“We can help lower transit costs for hardworking families ...”

Data from the PCAC report illustrates that working-class folks from Queens (197,000), Brooklyn (nearly 218,000) and the Bronx (141,000) would benefit the most from the expansion. There would be benefits for people in Manhattan (101,000) and Staten Island (27,000) too.

— Borough President Donovan Richards

“Expanding the impact of Fair Fares to even more New Yorkers will open doors of opportunity, especially in outer-borough neighborhoods and transit deserts that currently lack access,” said Council Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton), chair of the committee on transportation and infrastructure, in a statement. “The Council supports expanding the program’s eligibility, and we look forward to working with all stakeholders to secure the necessary investments in the city budget.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richard said far too many people are living paycheck to paycheck during an affordable housing crisis, while the cost of living continues to rise.

The neighborhoods in Queens that would benefit the most are Flushing, Elmhurst and Jackson Heights, according to PCAC, which is also advocating to expand the program to the LIRR and Metro-North, a change that would be impactful to residents in Southeast and Northeast Queens, Western Bronx and eventually the Eastern Bronx after the completion of four new Metro-North stations.

The Metro-North stations with construc-

“Many of them are frontline workers, who show up for us every day,” Richards said in a statement. “That’s why we must help alleviate their financial burden in whatever way we can. By expanding the eligibility threshold for the critically important Fair Fares program, we can help lower transit costs for hard-working families, increase subway and bus ridership and ensure our mass transit system is accessible to all.” Q

IMAGE COURTESY PCAC

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Mayor’s appointments would need Council OK under speaker’s bill Adamses at odds over ‘advice and consent’

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

The Adamses are at an impasse.

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) recently introduced legislation that would give the chamber more say over whom Mayor Adams appoints as part of his administration.

The bill covers 21 different commissioner roles that the Council would have “advice and consent” power over, including the heads of the departments of Buildings, Parks and Recreation, Transportation and Sanitation, among others.

“It would help ensure the top positions in city government remain beacons of public service,” Speaker Adams said of the bill during last Wednesday’s Committee on Governmental Operations hearing on the matter.

“I want to be clear that this bill is certainly not about curbing the power of any particular mayor, but is instead focused on improving government.”

The speaker’s introduction of the bill comes at a time when tensions have run high between the Council and Mayor Adams. In April, the Adams administration attempted to streamline all agency communications with councilmembers through City Hall by requiring lawmakers to submit a written request form to meet with members of a given agency, much to the Council’s chagrin. All the while,

the Council has pushed for the mayor to restore funding to city libraries and childcare programs in the fiscal year 2025 budget.

That tension carried over into last Wednesday, when Tiffany Raspberry, the mayor’s director of intergovernmental affairs, walked out on the committee hearing.

“This, to me, illustrates a contempt for this

Council, which we have all witnessed with great clarity,” Speaker Adams said in response at last week’s hearing.

Though the mayor was not in attendance, he did submit written testimony. In addition to referring to an 1848 quote from then-Gov. Grover Cleveland — in which he says the mayor “should not be hampered by any inter-

ference with his selection of subordinate administrative officers” — Adams voiced concern about the impact of the legislation. “Any uncertainty or delay in appointing agency leadership creates the real possibility for harm from delayed service delivery. From emergency management to senior services, to health care continuity, to garbage collection and construction safety — this bill risks diminishing the city’s ability to manage and respond to the service needs that we all hear from the public every day,” Adams wrote.

Lisa Zornberg, the mayor’s chief counsel, denounced the bill during the mayor’s weekly off-topic press conference Tuesday.

“The bill proposes that the City Council should have the final word, that they should have the power to confirm candidates for the executive administration,” Zornberg said. “The Legislature is trying to take power from the executive. That was tried in New York City in the 1800s. You know who loved it? Tammany Hall.”

If passed, the bill would require a voter referendum in order for it to be enacted, as it would be a change to the City Charter. But since the bill was introduced, the mayor has appointed a City Charter Revision Commission, which could knock the proposal off the ballot come November. The administration has insisted the commission was not created in response to the bill. Q

Speaker Adrienne Adams’ new bill would require certain mayoral appointments to be approved by the City Council. Mayor Adams is not a fan.

PHOTO BY ED REED / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FILE

Mayor must fully fund our ‘backyards’ — parks

by Elizabeth Goldstein

The importance of our city’s urban green spaces cannot be overstated, as they are essential to our well-being and health and are critical infrastructure in the fight to address climate change and support our long-term sustainability goals.

As a resident of Jackson Heights for over six years, I know how vital local parks and open spaces are to my neighbors and their families. They serve as our community’s backyard: a place to relax and gather our thoughts, to catch up with friends, and respite for kids (and pets!) to release some extra energy. On any warm evening during the summer, the newly expanded Travers Park is brimming with families from every corner of this diverse neighborhood having dinner, playing games and enjoying music.

DEnsuring our parks and urban forest are properly maintained is no small feat. NYC Parks provides maintenance to over 30,000 acres of public parkland, operates community and recreation centers that are part of the city’s lifeblood and administers crucial public programs for New Yorkers of all ages.

years to come.

Unfortunately, the mayor’s latest preliminary budget would cut nearly $55 million from the NYC Parks budget. This will mean cuts to essential maintenance programs and job layoffs that jeopardize the quality of our parks. Even as the mayor has begun to restore proposed cuts to other agencies, NYC Parks has seen a larger decrease in its proposed budget. That’s simply unacceptable to the millions of families who benefit from these spaces every day!

on’t diminish NYC’s vital green spaces.

In addition, NYC Parks maintains nearly 54 percent of the city’s total urban forest, which helps improve public and environmental health by mitigating the heat island effect, removing air pollution and supporting biodiversity. The Municipal Art Society is proud to be a member of Forest for All NYC, a coalition of over 140 organizations pushing for the city to reach at least 30 percent tree canopy coverage citywide by 2035 in an equitable way. This imperative and achievable goal necessitates additional investment now to return greater cost-savings in the future.

It is vital that NYC Parks is sufficiently funded to serve New Yorkers throughout the five boroughs, across all seasons and for

The continued underfunding of NYC Parks also contributes to growing inequality across our communities. In order for our parks to serve as backyards for millions of New Yorkers, they must be maintained to be fully enjoyed. To fulfill Mayor Adams’ campaign promise, the city budget must allocate 1 percent to NYC Parks and retain prepandemic staffing levels to effectively uphold these vital public resources. We know that so many other large U.S. cities commit this level of funding for their residents, so why not us?

My local Council member and Parks Committee Chair Shekar Krishnan said it best: “We need to make sure that every New Yorker can step outside their front door and have access to a well maintained and high-quality park. That’s not a luxury, that is not a privilege, that is a right.”

Let’s hope Mayor Adams hears our calls for 1 percent of our city’s total budget going to protect, maintain and improve NYC Parks. Our city’s backyards depend on it! Q

Elizabeth Goldstein is president of the Municipal Art Society of New York and a resident of Jackson Heights.

Straw joins Amazins’ immortals

Darryl Strawberry, above, threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Citi Field last Saturday as the New York Mets retired his No. 18. He is the ninth Met to be so honored.

“Little did I know I was going to the greatest place to play baseball,” he said on the Mets’ X feed. “Little did I know I would play in front of the greatest fans forever.”

The No. 1 pick in the 1980 draft played for the Mets from 1983 to 1990, winning Rookie of the Year honors and starring in right field for the 1986 Word Series champions. Seven of his eight all-star appearances came in a Mets uniform.

His 252 home runs still are a Met record, and the 335 in his career rank him No. 112 all-time. He still is in the top 10 all time in most Mets offensive categories.

— Michael Gannon

Ozone Pk. motorcyclist killed

A 24-year-old Ozone Park man was killed last Saturday morning when his motorcycle was involved in a crash with a tractor trailer as both were exiting the Long Island Expressway in Maspeth.

Police said the crash took place at about 8:20 a.m. According to a press release, the driver of a 2021 Isuzu tractor trailer was in the right hand westbound lane near 63rd Street when “he disobeyed pavement markings at the location and traveled to the right of the markings to use the exit.”

According to the NYPD, as the truck

crossed the markings and entered the left westbound exit lane, it struck Gregory Benning of 92nd Street, who was operating a 2002 R6 Yamaha motorcycle there. Benning suffered severe trauma to his torso and leg. He was taken by EMS personnel to NYC Health + Hospitals/Elmhurst, where he was pronounced dead.

Police said the driver of the tractor trailer remained on the scene. There have been no arrests, and the case is being handled by the NYPD’s Highway Collision Investigation Squad. Q — Michael Gannon

The New Queens Pride Parade and Multicultural Festival exhilarated Jackson Heights with bright smiles and all the colors of the rainbow on Sunday, continuing a tradition dating back to 1993. Music, dance, flag waving, pride and joy were the orders of the day as the procession made its way down a sunny 37th Avenue, with all kinds of groups and individuals resplendently marching. Above, the Sirens Motorcycle Club contingent poses for a photo before leading the parade. — Peter C. Mastrosimone with reporting by Walter Karling

the drum, not so slowly,

far

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and state Attorney General Letitia James don’t have to ask what is love as they share a tender moment.

Parade Grand Marshals Billy Green and Amber Ferrer, left; and LGBT Network founder and President David Kilmnick with parade founder Danny Dromm, right.

Lily Georgick, left, is ready for the festivities; Kiera Colwell is ready for the sun; and emcees Marcus Woollen and Candy Samples smile at the reviewing stand.

City Councilwomen Linda Lee, left, and Sandra Ung enjoying the celebration; and the Lynnelle W. Heavy Commotion dance troupe getting ready to perform.

At

left, three friends, one of whose shirts reads “In a world where you can be anything be antiracist”; at near left, Lady Natasha, left, Flame, Paul Pixel, Frankie D-Tank and Claudia; above left, members of Gotham Cheer practice; above right, one flag flies high; and at right, inveterate parade participants Oscar Escobar and Jim Burke step lively.

Banging

are the Fogol Azul percussionists, left. Above, one colorful cruiser deployed by the Police Department.

Learn about Black liberation and more

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

The Voice of Youth Changes Everything nonprofit will host a virtual education series from June 10 to 18 ahead of Juneteenth, a Black liberation holiday that is traditionally commemorated on June 19.

VOYCE will host the event in collaboration with elected officials and Elmcor Youth & Adult Activities Inc., a Queens-based nonprofit that provides services from preschool-aged students to senior citizens.

The purpose of the series is to educate and empower the next generation of changemakers through joy, learning and healing, according to VOYCE, which will also host the 4th annual Juneteenth in Queens event at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans on the 19th.

“It’s an honor and privilege to organize Juneteenth in Queens each year,” said Tunisia Morrison, co-founder for VOYCE Inc.

“When pitching the idea to recognize Juneteenth as a [state] holiday and seeing it come to fruition ... we knew it was crucial to educate and celebrate our journey toward liberation.

“We aim to continue fostering collabora-

tion in Queens that highlights the progress and efforts of the Black Diaspora. Although some states, cities, and corporations have yet to acknowledge Juneteenth as a permanent paid or legal holiday, we remain committed to raising awareness through celebration, education, and service.”

To register, visit juneteenthinqueens. com/virtual-series. Each forum begins at 6:30 p.m. To register for the festival, visit juneteenthinqueens.com and scroll down.

“As efforts to actively erase our history from school curriculums nationwide continue to intensify, now more than ever, it’s critical that we deploy our activism to create safe spaces to tell our stories on our terms — with truth always at the forefront,” said Elmcor CEO Saeeda Dunston in a statement. “With this goal top-of-mind, Elmcor is proud to be a community partner for Juneteenth in Queens since its launch and a co-sponsor of the virtual education series.”

Morrison thanked Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens) and state Sen. Kevin Parker (D-Brooklyn) for co-sponsoring legislation that made Juneteenth an official state holiday in the Empire State. Q

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HB Kiwanis raises Old Glory

The Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach has installed 70 American flags along Cross Bay Boulevard, from 156th to 165th avenues. It is the fifth consecutive year the club has supplied flags for the boulevard and it plans to place 30 more this year.

The group purchases the flags on its own, but it accepts monetary donations

from residents looking to help.

To contact the club, visit its website at howardbeachkiwanis.org.

The Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach also extends gratitude to Lou Ruocco, Bob Fanizza, Saul Belsky, Mike Smith, Joe DeMarco, Bill Vallely and Dylan Bisram, who aided in the flag raising duties.

Chapin Home celebrates 155 years

The facility for the aging also acknowledged a centenarian

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

Chapin Home for the Aging in Jamaica Hills had a lot to celebrate last Friday.

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) and state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) honored the nonprofit nursing home and rehabilitation facility, located at 165-01 Chapin Parkway, with proclamations for its 155th anniversary.

“Thank you to all the staff and volunteers and of course our members here who make this place one of the best kept secrets in Queens and throughout New York,” said Meng. “I’m proud to represent this area in Washington, DC. I’m thrilled to be here with you.”

Jennifer McManaman, the executive vice president and administrator at Chapin, said the facility has seen its fair share of troubles over the years.

“Two world wars, a Great Depression and several pandemics and countless environmental challenges,” said McManaman, whose mother, Janet Unger, was the previous administrator, from 1989 to 2017. “Still, here we are, genuine and compassionate protectors of the elderly ... Let us continue to celebrate milestones like today.”

year since opening.

“This has been 155 years of compassionate care, and we are very proud of that,” said Kathleen Ferrara, director of activities, volunteers and spiritual care. “Chapin Home is a long-term and short-term care home. We offer services to our beautiful elder community, whether they need rehab ... and go home. We have a fantastic social work team that helps with that. But most of the people here do live here. Many of them have different levels of dementia and need memory care and programming.”

Along with the rehab team, the facility has music specialists, a sensations group, doll therapy, and beauty parlor, and residents can shop and buy candy and fruits weekly, Ferrara said.

“Chapin Home is in Queens and we have the most diverse group of people ever,” Ferrara said. “We bring Caribbean music, we bring different styles of Latin music, we listen to classical music and opera once a week. There might be your 1940s standard music playing. We have everything.”

“Thank you ...”

— U.S.

Rep. Grace Meng

Unger said that P.T. Barnum once donated to the facility, as well as a former King of Sweden.

“Louisa May Alcott,” the “Little Women” novelist, “came through here,” said Unger.

Dr. Nodar Janas, the medical director of the facility, said Chapin Home has provided more than 200 million hours of service, conservatively, to an average of 150 clients a

Students from PS 203 performed song and dance numbers for the seniors a week earlier and the folks also had the opportunity to pet some pups from North Shore Animal League during the anniversary event, according to another staff member.

Marcola Pagan, a client who turned 100 years old on May 1, was also honored at the event, which included cake that she cut with her son, Ramon Rodrigues of Kew Gardens.

“My mom was born and raised in

Puerto Rico,” said Rodrigues. “Now she has spent more time in the United States than Puerto Rico. She was a domestic house worker since the age of 12.”

Pagan only had a second-grade education, but she was self-taught in English and Spanish and was very politically active, Rodrigues told the Chronicle.

“I’m immensely proud of my mother,” said Rodrigues, noting that she immigrated to the U.S. in 1950 after meeting his father.

“She returned to Puerto Rico in 1952 and spent about four years in a tuberculosis sanatorium,” Rodrigues said. “We were separated for that time. She came back in 1957 or 1958.”

When his parents divorced, Pagan raised Rodrigues as a single mother.

Throughout the event Friday Jim Mola performed jazz standards by Frank Sinatra and sang Happy Birthday to Pagan. Q

As Chapin Home for the Aging in Jamaica Hills celebrated its 155th anniversary last Friday, people at the facility also took the time to recognize Marcola Pagan, a client who turned 100 years old on May 1. Ramon Rodrigues, her son, was in attendance for the festivities. Cookie Hermoso, a client, and Luanne Buckmaster, an activities coordinator of 38 years, below, were among those in attendance.

PHOTOS

Pagan, 100, left, and her son Rodrigues cut the 155th anniversary cake for Chapin Home of the Aging. Jennifer McManaman, center, received a proclamation by U.S. Rep. Grace Meng for the anniversary. Staff from Chapin Home, right, received free food from a Jamaican food truck.

Lawmaker talks LL 97, City of Yes, mental health and much more CM Linda Lee: ‘a New York moderate’

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Councilmember Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) knows she is more moderate than some of her Democrat peers on the City Council. But she did not always view herself in that way.

“It’s funny, because I thought this entire time I was pretty progressive. And then in terms of New York City politics, I’m like, ‘I don’t know,’” she told the Chronicle in a wideranging interview last Thursday.

Recalling a question at a candidate forum during her first bid for the City Council, she continued, “It was asking, ‘How would you describe yourself politically?’ So I said, ‘a New York City moderate.’ Because I think in New York City, I’m very moderate. And I think it does match in line with a lot of my district where I’m at, but at the same time, I feel like anywhere outside of New York City, I’d be more a lot more progressive.”

buildings over 25,000 square feet to meet certain greenhouse gas emissions benchmarks through various upgrades, such as switching from gas boilers to electric heating systems. Condo owners and co-op shareholders are largely opposed to it, as they would pay for the renovations directly. Noncompliance lands them steep fines.

As such, Lee has made a point of trying to ease the impact of the law, which went into effect Jan. 1, on co-ops and condos. She’s introduced legislation that would require the inclusion of green space in carbon footprint calculations used to determine LL 97 compliance.

the interview

Indeed, Lee’s district is not easily classifiable into clear party lines. Though she was reelected in November by a 28-point margin, many of the issues that are most concerning to her constituents would not necessarily get the same reaction from many of her fellow councilmembers.

Case in point: Local Law 97, which requires

“I’ve been talking to a lot of the naysayers who are coming at me against this bill,” Lee said. Referring to one particular conversation she had with a proponent of LL 97, she said, “I spoke with him, he’s like, ‘Wait, let me understand this: In your district, you have 3,000-unit coops that are part of one board?’”

“And I said, ‘Yes.’ We’re talking about villages. I’m not talking about a single building that’s more than 25,000 square feet — I’m talking about sprawled-out garden apartments, and the infrastructure they have to do the heating and cooling is much different than a high rise building that’s up and down.

“So when you think through how old these

buildings are, as well as the challenges of what they’re going to have to do to outfit it to make it more in compliance, it’s going to be super expensive.”

Lee takes a similar approach to City of Yes, Mayor Adams’ plan to overhaul the city’s zoning regulations in hopes of allowing for more development, namely for housing and economic activity. She has said she will vote against the economic development portion of the plan when it comes to the Council floor June 20.

“I think the problem that I have overall with the City of Yes is that [zoning is] not a one-size-fits-all [thing],” Lee said.

Noting that all 18 proposals in the economic development plan need to be voted on as a package, she continued, “I think that’s where it does get tricky, because some things may not be so bad, some things may actually work for our parts, but then some other parts may not. So I have to sort of look at it as a whole.”

It’s unclear, however, where the councilmember will ultimately vote on the second part of City of Yes in a few short weeks. Lee said she did not know herself. “To be honest, I’m not sure. I think if anything, this probably has

on page 26

Councilmember Linda Lee sat down with the Chronicle last Thursday for a wide-ranging interview on the issues impacting her district and the city as a whole.

PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE

continued

Serving up kindness with 207

The PS/MS 207 Rockwood Park student council last week took some time out to spread generosity at the Ronald McDonald House of New Hyde Park, which is located next to Cohen Children’s Medical Center.

The Ronald McDonald House offers a compassionate, safe and uplifting space to support families with sick children, allowing

them to stay in close proximity to their loved ones in the hospital.

During the trip, students learned about the nonprofit and served up brownies, which they baked themselves, and smiles to families staying there, according to Melissa Meric, the school’s social worker.

— Kristen Guglielmo

CM Linda Lee on the issues

continued from page 25

more of a chance of passing than [the housing plan],” she said. “I think more people have issues with the housing piece. That’s my take on things. They did include a lot of the feedback from community boards, from council members. And so I think they’re trying to get it to a place where it could be passable.”

But when it comes to issues of public safety and its intersection with mental health, she tends to lean more toward her more progressive colleagues, unlike some constituents. A former social worker, Lee chairs the Council’s Committee on Mental Health and Addiction. It’s no surprise, then, that the lawmaker said she hoped the final City Council budget for fiscal year 2025 included more funding for mental health and social services.

“The officers that I talk to also agree this is not their role. They are not social workers.”

—

then, whether the NYPD’s budget should be decreased to address those gaps, Lee said, “I’m going to preface this by saying I’m a huge fan of NYPD. I love the precincts and everything. The officers that I talked to also agree that this is not their role. They’re not social workers. They’re not mental health professionals. So I think what has happened is that we look to the NYPD as a catch-all solution.”

Councilmember Linda Lee

She’d add, “I have seen a report [that says] the NYPD overtime for the officers that [Adams has] put in the subway equals out to about $2.5 million a week. So what I’ve been asking myself is, ‘If we took that $2.5 million and actually gave it to the nonprofits that are doing the outreach on the street, as well as in the clinics, how would that potentially change the landscape of mental health?’”

“With all this talk about public safety and mental health, it’s kind of mysterious to me why you would be cutting the mental health budget,” Lee said, referring to Mayor Adams. She noted that the Council has asked for $43 million worth of funding for various supportive housing programs to be restored, albeit with no luck so far. Asked,

Something readers may not know about Lee? She was in a band in her early 20s. Having played piano as early as age 4, she played the keyboard in the band, the name of which she cannot recall (“We changed it a couple of times,” she says). The genre? “It was sort of like, indie rock, somewhat metal, distorted stuff,” Lee said. Q

St. John’s Preparatory School Congratulates Our Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Valedictorian

Name: T. Pagano

School: St. John’s Preparatory School

Family: Tashi Pagano (Mother) and Buddha Pagano (Father - RIP)

Home Neighborhood: Elmhurst, NY

Parish: Our Lady of The Angelus R.C. Church

Extracurricular Activities: National Honor Society, Jazz Rock Club, Asian Culture Club, Campus Life Team Member, Student-Run Band

Scholarships and Honors: University of Rochester Joseph C. Wilson Leader of Change Scholarship, Stony Brook University Scholarship, Fordham University Dean Scholarship, Tufts University Grant, Brown University Scholarship, NYU Scholarship

Post Graduation Plans: Will attend Brown University. Intends to go to Medical School to become a neurologist

Anticipated Major: Neuroscience

Inspirational Quote: “The more you are motivated by love, the more fearless and free your actions will be.” — The 14th Dalai Lama

Salutatorian

Name: C. Baukloh

School: St. John’s Preparatory School

Family: Judith Baukloh & Juan Ramirez (parents), Santiago Ramirez (brother RIP)

Home: East Elmhurst, NY

Extracurricular activities: National Honor Society, Drama Club, Book Club, Dungeons & Dragons Club, Political Science Club, Tennis and Guitar (electric & acoustic)

Scholarships and Honors: 2022-2023 Hispanic Recognition Program Scholar, Fordham Recognition Full Scholarship, Purchase College Full Scholarship, Binghamton’s Provost’s Promise Scholarship

Post Graduation Plans: Attending Fordham University at Lincoln Center Intend to work up to a PHD to become college professor

Anticipated Major: History and International Studies

Inspirational Quote: “To boldly go where no man has gone before.” — Captain James T. Kirk

Class of 2024

Graduates accepted to colleges include:

Going beyond struggles and hardships, one graduate gets degree 47 years later A new journey awaits York’s Class of 2024

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

This year nothing could stop 1,041 students from walking across the stage to graduate last Thursday at York College’s 54th commencement ceremony at the UBS Arena in Elmont, LI.

For many, the graduation was the most significant in-person large public gathering they attended since Covid-19 restrictions were put in place four years ago.

“I’m excited and ready to walk because I didn’t do it in 2020,” Ilvea Lezama, who graduated from Nassau Community College in 2020 with an associate degree, said in a statement. “Unfortunately, because of the pandemic, we didn’t get to walk across the stage. We had a remote ceremony, but it was not the same. I got to walk in my living room instead of the stage.

“This is literally making up for it,” Lezama, a journalism major, graduating magna cum laude, said. “I’m not mad about it. I love it!”

Claudia V. Schrader, interim president of York, said that a degree is not just a piece of paper one frames, but a tool.

“Why you came to York, what you gained at York and what you will do with it, and how you will pass it along are all important,” Schrader told the Class of 2024. “Use it to address and alleviate the issues we are experiencing in our communities. Use it to tear down walls of hate

and intolerance and build bridges of respect. Use it to elevate yourself into positions of leadership and positive influence.”

Om Shrestha, the Class of 2024 valedictorian, shared his story about journeying from Nepal to the U.S. to join the school’s nursing program and thanked his wife for her support.

“I can still remember the day when I was hesitant about starting college,” Shrestha said. “I wasn’t sure what to expect next but it was you who took my hand, and walked with me to college for that first advisement session.”

Pamela Rider of Jamaica also had a long journey to turning her tassel from right to left.

Forty-seven years ago, she initially planned on becoming a criminal justice attorney while pursuing a degree at John Jay College, another CUNY school, but she became disillusioned with the justice system as she took class trips to Rikers Island, in which she saw prisoners living in less than humane conditions, she told the Chronicle.

“I believe that you are innocent until proven guilty,” Rider said. “I believe in habeas corpus. I believe everything that I was taught. Then I went out into the field and saw that the world doesn’t work that way. The judicial system was corrupt and I cannot embrace that. Reality punched me in the stomach.”

On another field trip to a court, she saw public defenders treat their clients like quotas

Pamela Rider received her bachelor’s degree at York College and plans on becoming an investigative reporter 47 years after initially starting her college education.

they had to fulfill.

“They didn’t know their stories,” Rider said. “They didn’t even know their names.”

Rider left John Jay in 1980 without completing her degree and worked for many years at the United States Postal Office, starting as a clerk, until her father became ill and she left her job as a frontline supervisor in 2007.

After she left her job in February of that year, the economy crashed and Rider had difficulty finding work.

“After that, I decided to dig in and just adapt,” Rider said. “I wanted to live and the only way to live was by getting out there. You can’t let fear get in the way.”

Rider decided that she wanted to make a difference by becoming a journalist. She applied to York College and started classes in 2020.

“The world shut down,” laughed Rider, who started classes during the Covid-19 pandemic. Initially she was struggling as she was not well versed with computers, but a friend, who wants to remain anonymous, spent more than $4,000 on her college education to encourage her to keep going. “I have an excellent support system. I have to thank Jehovah, because my God! He put all the people in place for me to help me to succeed.”

Rider also thanked her academic advisor, Bill Hughes, an assistant professor of English in the Journalism Department for being a great mentor.

“He went beyond the call of duty,” she added. Rider plans on attending Emerson College online in August to pursue her master’s degree in journalism. She hopes to become an investigative reporter. Q

“It was right before my father passed,” she said. “At that time, there was no family medical leave.”

ST. EDMUND PREPARATORY HIGH SCHOOL

Members of the Class of 2024 have been awarded over $35 million in scholarships and have been accepted to over 240 colleges including Adelphi University

Binghamton University

Boston University

Carnegie Mellon University

Clemson University

DePaul University

Fairfield University

Florida State University

Fordham University

Indiana University

Iona University

Le Moyne College

Loyola University Maryland

Manhattan College

Marquette University

Michigan State University

New York University

Ohio State University

Pennsylvania State University

Providence College

University of Florida

Rutgers University

Sacred Heart University

Saint Peter’s University

Savannah College of Art and Design

Seton Hall University

St. Francis College

St. John’s University

St. Joseph’s University - New York

Stevens Institute of Technology

Temple University

The Catholic University of America

University of Alabama

University of Tennessee-Knoxville

University of Arizona

University of Connecticut

University of Florida

University of Mississippi

University of Rhode Island

University of Scranton

University of South Carolina

COURTESY PHOTO

• 100% of our graduates will attend college including such prestigious institutions as Brown University, Columbia University, Cornell University, Howard University, New York University, Pratt Institute, Princeton University, Rensselaer University, Savannah College of Art and Design, Spelman College, Stanford University, The Sophie Davis School of Biomedical Education, University of California—Berkeley, University of California—Los Angeles, Vanderbilt University, Villanova University, Xavier University of Louisiana, and Yale University

• Our students earned more than $47 million in merit-based academic scholarships

• 98% of our students earned the Regents Diploma with Advanced Designation— the highest diploma awarded by the State of New York

• Our students donated over 100,000 hours of volunteer and community service— far exceeding students’ graduation requirements

• 75% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in one or more Advanced Placement Courses

• of the of 2024 enrolled in one or more Advanced Placement

• 82% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in one or more Honors Courses

• of the of 2024 enrolled in one or more Honors

Program coming

to neighborhood this month, despite lawmaker’s concerns E-scooters not for Flushing, Ung says

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Councilmember Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) last Thursday reiterated her distaste for the city Department of Transportation’s e-scooter share program that is expected to be rolled out this month.

The program, which was piloted in the Bronx starting in 2021, would bring up to 6,000 stand-up, motorized scooters to Eastern Queens in hopes of addressing the lack of reliable public transportation in the area. Those vehicles are operated by three companies: Lime, Bird and Veo.

But Ung says Downtown Flushing, which is included in the plan, is not an appropriate place for such a program, mainly because it is already a crowded area for pedestrians.

“I have been clear with the DOT since this proposal was first presented to me over a year ago: Expanding this program to Flushing is a mistake,” Ung said in a statement. “While it may be beneficial for other neighborhoods, Flushing is not the right place for this type of program. Our unique challenges and dense urban environment make this plan unworkable and detrimental to our community.”

Ung was joined by Dian Yu, executive director of the Downtown Flushing Business Improvement District, and Community Board 7 Chair Gene Kelty last Thursday at the Flushing Library to decry the plan.

“As a major transit hub with over 100,000 commuters and pedestrians walking throughout Downtown Flushing, we must keep our sidewalks safe and clear for everyone, especially for people in wheelchairs and baby strollers,” Yu said in a statement.

According to Ung’s office, the plan includes installing about

40 parking corrals — painted areas dedicated to the scooters — on sidewalks and in roadways. Many residents, including members of Community Board 7, have expressed concerns that the e-scooters, unlike CitiBikes, do not need to be “docked,” and can effectively be parked anywhere, even if there is dedicated space for them. But Vin Barone, a spokesperson for the DOT, told the Chronicle via email that in areas where there is “mandatory corral parking,” a scooter will use geofencing to determine whether it is parked in a corral. If it is not, then the rider’s session will not end, leaving the meter running.

Most of Downtown Flushing is a mandatory corral parking

zone, a diagram provided by the DOT shows. With the exception of some small “no riding” zones, that area goes as far north as Northern Boulevard and ends approximately at the Queens Botanical Garden to the south. The zone extends as far east as 147th Street in some parts, with College Point Boulevard being the western border for much of it.

Ung was also adamant that the DOT moved to implement the initiative despite her having previously expressed concerns.

“Throughout the department’s community outreach, DOT has continually ignored the concerns of our immigrant community, and instead are going to go forward with this whether we like it or not,” the councilmember said in a statement. “Our community deserves safe, walkable streets and sidewalks, not additional obstacles and hazards. I wish DOT would work with us to find solutions that enhance our community, not place additional burdens on it.”

Asked about Ung’s comments, Barone said in a statement, “NYC DOT has strict safety and parking protocols to acclimate new users and keep pedestrian paths clear.

“We’ve overseen millions of scooter-sharing rides in the Bronx, helping better connect residents to mass transit and commercial corridors, without a single serious safety incident and a good record on parking compliance.”

The DOT also noted that the agency has safety protocols in place for the program, including a required, in-app safety training, a beginner mode for new riders that limits speeds and restricts them to daylight hours and mandatory age verification. Riders must be 16 or older.

Flushing residents can expect to see the corrals installed in the coming weeks and e-scooters later this month, the DOT said. Q

Councilmember Sandra Ung was joined by Gene Kelty of Community Board 7, at mic, and business official Dian Yu last week to voice concerns about the Department of Transportation’s e-scooter program. PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

Feuer of W’side in Vets Hall of Fame Served in Gulf War, heads American Legion Post 1836

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

Alan Armand Feuer, a retired Army sergeant, combat veteran and commander of American Legion Post 1836 in Woodside, was inducted into the New York State Senate Veterans Hall of Fame on May 28, the day after he led a Memorial Day service before a packed house at the Boulevard Gardens co-op complex.

Feuer was inducted into the hall by state Sen. Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria), the deputy majority leader. Accompanying Feuer to Albany for the event was his girlfriend, Carol. The senator also had attended the Memorial Day ceremony and presented Feuer with a proclamation for his service.

The post commander served on active duty with the Army in Europe from 1985 to 1989 and then joined the military police, became a sergeant and was deployed to the Middle East for Operation Desert Storm, the U.S.-led offensive phase of the Persian Gulf War that liberated Kuwait from Iraq’s control.

After his honorable discharge, Feuer earned a degree in accounting and went into financial services, working for firms such as Dreyfus, Oppenheimer Capital and the Bank of New York Mellon. He also joined Post 1836 and was unanimously elected commander after the death of Commander James Lanza in 2017. He has now led the post longer than anyone in its more than 60-year history and has been sure to

Retired U.S. Army Sgt. Alan Feuer is inducted into the New York State Veterans Hall of Fame by Senate Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris. Feuer’s girlfriend, Carol, joined him on the trip to Albany for the celebration.

PHOTOS COURTESY NYS SENATE

continue its Memorial Day observances and fundraising for the state Veterans Home in St. Albans and various charitable programs for those who served. Q

Congestion tolls on hold

Gov. Hochul on Wednesday indefinitely postponed the start of congestion pricing, which would toll vehicles entering Midtown and Downtown Manhattan come June 30.

“I have come to the difficult decision that implementing the planned congestion pricing system risks too many unintended consequences at this time,” Hochul said at the end of a 138-second video on her X feed.

State Senate Deputy Majority Leader Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria) said on X that the agreement, passed in 2019, was a hard-fought victory.

“Halting its implementation as it was about to begin is a big mistake,” Gianaris wrote. But Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer-Amato (D-Howard Beach) called it “a victory for the hardworking residents of New York” in a press release.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, which is relying on congestion pricing for $1 billion per year, did not comment prior to the Chronicle’s deadline.

Michael Mulgrew, president of the United Federation of Teachers, which filed one of six lawsuits to stop the plan, praised Hochul for making the right decision. Q — Michael Gannon

MONSIGNOR M CCLANCY MEMORIAL HIGH SCHOOL

Joshly Abrego

Alina Acosta

Evelyn Acosta-Pulgarin

Lilla Adzemovic

Philip Albergo

Melanie Alvarez

Matthew Amatulli

Ava Angerano

Brooke Arnao

Noah Arvelo

Samantha Asaro

Zoe Attard Portelli

Ti any Aucapina

Rafal Baran

David Barrera

Mia Berardino

Paolo Bordone

Vincent Bosco

Conor Buckley

Sean Cabrera

Javier Calle

Giancarlo Campanella

Megan Camporeale

Hailey Cannon

Olivia Carden

Danyel Carrillo

Corina Chung

James Civitano

Louis Cooper

Shelly Cooper

Cara Corridan

Valentina Cruz

Zachary Cruz

Andrew Davi

Brandon De Leon

Alexandria Deck

Rose Marie del Rosario

Eliahs Delgado

Christopher Delio

Ashley Destefano

Alessia Di Giovanna

Juliette Divittorio

Alexandra Doak

David Dojlidko

Lucy Espinoza

Christian Esteves

Nelson Falcon

Edith Felipe

Felicity Arwen Fernandez

Jayla Fernandez

Sebastian Fernandez Rodriguez

Joseph Ferrante

Maeve Fitzgerald

Allura Galasso

Carmine Gangone

Jaiden Gaston

Lauren Giebler

Andreana Gorbea

Kylie Grabler

Matthew Greenwood

Zara Guest

Alyssa Hili

Ashlee Hopkins

Fiona Hosey

Dennis Inga

Luka Ivanov

Vittoria Izzo

Abigail Jalocha

Chloe Kebbe

Tessa Kleinmuntz

Collin Kruszynski

Isabella Kyriakopoulos

Angelo Latempa

Aaron Leach-Wilson

Isabella Leon

Melania Loewy

Alana Lopez

Daniel Lotrijan

Carolyn Maldonado

Ryu Mangal

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2024!

Keilany Marte

Jarown Martinez

Yasmin Martinez

Manuel Martinez-Betances

Marcella Martini

Angelo Mazza

Connell McCabe

Shannan McCarthy

Madison McLaughlin

Tessa McPartland

Angelina Meneses

Josef Metzger

Isabella Miceli

Joella Militello

Matthew Militello

Karan Minhas

Kaylee Morley-Santiago

Styliani Moustakas

Rachel Murray

Jason Musta c

Severino Napolitano Jr

Adem Nebija

Rowan O’Brien

Virginia Marie O’Connor

Daniela Ordonez

Rebecca O’Reilly

Sarah O’Sullivan

Julian Oviedo

Vasilios Papathanasopoulos

Jacob Patycki

Jayden Perera

Christian Perez-Barros

Mavin Peroche

Louis Perrotta

Patricia Perrotta

Sophia Pullara

Angel Quiles

Richard Quinn

Elizabeth Ramirez

Breanna Ramos Moncada

Erika Randazzo

David Ravix

Jeremy Reyes

Luis Robles

Gianfranco Rodriguez

Gizabella Rodriguez

Rhiannon Rodriguez

Yummi Romero

James Rosales

Brooke Rowland

Camila Rua

Mikayla Ryan

Julina Salazar

Zachary Saleh

Eleni Sanchez

Jared Sanford

Zachary Seepersaud

Amanda Seidl

Mara Seno

Kristinka Sestak

Giana Sheinman

Daniela Silva Lopez

Christopher Skouras

David Smith

Paige Staley

Mia Stavropoulos

Daniel Szabunio

Emmely Tello

Valentina Termine

Alyssa omas-Nieves

Ngawang Tsedrub

Carlos Urena

Daniella Velez

Joe Velez

Nicholas Vella

Andrew Verdugo

Luca Vicino

Daniel Vidal

Abigail Vorlicek

Kamryn Walls

Richard Werner

Jacob Patyicki Valedictorian

Isabella Kyriakopoulos Salutatorian

Medical care can be so confusing. With MJHS Health System, you’ll receive individualized care, support, and guidance as your health care needs change over time. Founded in 1907 by the Four Brooklyn Ladies, MJHS offers a range of high-quality programs and services. And, as a not-for-profi t health system, we keep your best interests in mind.

Engaging hobbies for senior citizens

ACHIEVED GOAL!

Whether seniors are retired or still working but free from the responsibilities of parenting, swimming is one of many fun and engaging hobbies to fill that free time — and it's healthy.

The value of hobbies is undeniable. A recent study published in the Journal of Occupational and Organizational Psychology found that employees who engaged in creative hobbies outside of work were more creative on work projects and had a better attitude on the job, while a separate study published in Psychosomatic Medicine recently reported that individuals who engaged in enjoyable leisure activities had lower blood pressure and a smaller waist circumference.

The myriad benefits of hobbies is good news for seniors, many of whom have ample time for leisure activities. Whether seniors are retired or still working but free from the responsibilities of parenting, the following are some fun and engaging hobbies to fill that free time.

Interest in genealogy has risen considerably in recent years, as easily accessible websites like Ancestry.com and 23andMe.com have made it easier than ever for individuals to learn where they came from. Seniors can contextualize the information provided by genealogy websites by writing about their personal experiences and sharing what they know about the lives of their parents, siblings, grandparents and other family members.

• Cooking: Years spent hustling and bustling through the daily grind of personal and professional obligations might have forced individuals to embrace cooking that emphasized convenience over culinary skill. Now that there’s more time to embrace one’s inner Emeril, seniors can look to cooking classes or take the self-taught route and purchase a new cookbook filled with delicious recipes. A well-cooked homemade meal can provide a sense of accomplishment and affords seniors an opportunity to control the ingredients in the foods they eat, which can be important for individuals with health-related dietary restrictions.

• Writing: Many successful individuals have penned their memoirs after long, notable careers and lives. While individuals needn’t follow suit with the goal of making their memoirs public, writing can be a great way for seniors to document their own lives and the lives of their families.

• Gardening: Seniors looking for hobbies that get them out in the great outdoors need look no further than their own backyards. Gardening can benefit the body in myriad ways. According to the Mayo Clinic Health System, gardening can burn as many calories as working out in the gym. In addition, the MCHS notes that individuals who grow their own fruits and vegetables are more likely to include those foods in their own diets, thus saving them money at the grocery store and also increasing their intake of nutrient-rich foods.

• Swimming: Swimming is an ideal exercise for seniors, as it’s low-impact but still a great way to utilize the entire body. A recent notable study published in the journal Quality of Life Research found that water-based exercise improves older adults’ quality of life and decreases disability. A separate study published several years ago in The Journal of Sports Medicine and Physical Fitness found that water-based exercise can improve or help to maintain bone health in post-menopausal women.

These are just a few of the many hobbies seniors can pursue as they look for positive and fun ways to spend their free time. P — Metro Creative Connection

On the go? Use Social Security while travelling

by Lizbeth Portalatin-Perez

Social Security is here for you when you travel, whether you’re in the United States or in another country.

Our online services page provides you with a wide variety of self-service options you can use on your mobile phone, tablet, or computer.

Through our online services, you can:

• Find out if you qualify for benefits.

• Apply for Social Security retirement, disability, and Medicare benefits.

• Get your Social Security Statement.

• Request a replacement Social Security card.

• Appeal a decision.

Do you receive Social Security benefits or Medicare? If so, you can create or sign in to your personal my Social Security account to:

• Get your benefit verification letter.

• Check your information and benefit amount.

• Change your address and telephone number.

• Start or change your direct deposit.

• Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S for tax season.

• Report your wages if you work and receive disability benefits or SSI.

Create a free and convenient my Social Security account today to take advantage of these easy-to-use features. Also, please share our online services page with family and friends who need this important information.

Together, we can “Slam the Scam!” P Lizbeth Portalatin-Perez is Director for the Division of Strategic Communications, Social Security Administration.

An overpayment occurs when Social Security pays a person more money in Social Security benefits or SSI payments than should have been paid. The amount of the overpayment is the difference between the payment received and the amount that was due.

Social Security is required by law to adjust benefits or recover debts when an overpayment occurs. If you receive an overpayment notice, it will explain why you’ve been overpaid, the overpayment amount, your repayment options, and your appeal and waiver rights.

After receiving an overpayment notice, you can:

• Repay the overpayment in full or through a repayment plan by check, money order, credit card or by monthly reductions from your Social Security benefit. You may be able to make a full or partial repayment using Pay.gov or your bank’s online bill pay option. We offer flexible repayment plans, including payments as low as $10 per month.

• Appeal the overpayment if you don’t agree that you’ve been overpaid, or you believe the amount is incorrect. You can request a non-medical reconsideration online or you can submit a completed SSA-561, Request for Reconsideration, to your local Social Security office.

• Request that we waive the overpayment if you believe you are not at fault for causing the overpayment AND you cannot afford to pay the money

back or it is unfair for some other reason. You can ask for a waiver by submitting a completed SSA632, Request for Waiver of Overpayment Recovery, to your local office. If your overpayment is $1,000 or less, we may be able to process your waiver request quickly by telephone. You can contact your local office or call us at 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday, between 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. • Request a different repayment amount if you are unable to meet your necessary living expenses due to the current repayment amount. If you are unable to repay the debt within 60 months * due to the negotiated repayment amount, you will be asked to complete form SSA-634, Request for Change in Overpayment Recovery Rate. You can find the form at ssa.gov/forms/ssa-634.pdf.

*This is a recent policy change. Previous policy required the completion of the SSA-634 if the overpayment could not be repaid within 36 months.

To learn more about overpayments and our process, visit our Understanding SSI Overpayments webpage at ssa.gov/ssi/text-overpayussi.htm, read our Overpayments fact sheet at ssa.gov/ marketing/assets/materials/EN-05-10106.pdf, or watch our Overpayment video at youtube.com/ watch?v=pxYYcjqkFvM.

P

As printed in the Social Security Star (May 2024), published by the Social Security Administration.

Unwindyourmind

byStephanie G. Meditz

As the workday concludes, the sun sets and the blazing heat dies down, grab a yoga mat at Socrates Sculpture Park to let your mind rest and follow suit.

The park invites guests from all walks of life and states of mind to Mindful Astoria’s free Sunset Meditation series on Tuesdays through Aug. 27.

Established in 2013, Mindful Astoria is a community meditation group that aims to integrate mindfulness practices into daily life. Its collaboration with Socrates began four years

ago when the park invited the group to partake in its summer programming.

“We’re around, we’re in the neighborhood, Socrates is in the neighborhood and we connected. It’s a great thing,” Mindful Astoria teacher Carl Hansen said.

He added that bringing sunset meditations to the Long Island City park has brought new people to Mindful Astoria who may not have practiced mindfulness before.

The concept of mindfulness, which has gained popularity in the West

Meditate with the sunset at SocratesSculpture Park

over the last several years, originated from Buddhist teachings related to attentiveness to the present moment.

“To just be sitting and knowing you’re here and to bring awareness to simply the fact that we’re here and we’re alive and things are happening inside us and outside us, that’s mindfulness to me,” Hansen said. “It makes life easier for me and it makes life easier for a lot of people.”

Cultivating a capacity to live in the present moment through mindfulness practices can carry over into everyday

life, he said, and can even spark an interest in Buddhist teachings and ethical systems.

Hansen hopes that attendees not only find the meditation helpful but feel a closer connection to their neighbors.

“There’s the whole community aspect of this, which is just people in the neighborhood coming to the park and being together. That’s very real, it’s very important, we need that as human beings,” he said.

This sociality is precisely what

continued on page 39

King Crossword Puzzle

Roone Arledge changed channels first in Forest Hills I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

by Ron Marzlock

Chronicle Contributor

Roone Pickney Arledge Sr. was born Jan. 4, 1895, in Columbus, NC. He passed the bar and came to New York City working as an attorney for the Equitable Life Insurance Co. He fell in love with a 21-year-old vaudeville dancer named Gertrude Stritmater. They married in June 1930.

Their first son, Roone Jr., was born in Queens on July 8, 1931. A second son, Jerry, was born on Oct. 7, 1932. They lived comfortably at 78-14 Austin St., Apt. 5A, in Forest Hills. However, their building abutted the newly built Interborough Parkway and the noise may have prompted them to move in 1935 to Freeport, LI. Roone Jr. married Joan Heise in December 1953. She bore him four children.

Arledge went to Columbia University and got into the TV business. He had a 38-year career at ABC, becoming the first president

of ABC Sports in 1968. He created “Monday Night Football” in 1970, along with other shows such as “Nightline,” and was innovative with slow-motion replay.

He married his second wife, Ann Fowler, the 1969 Miss Alabama, in 1975. Divorced in 1985, he wed Gigi Shaw in 1994 and was married to her until his death of cancer in December 2002 at age 71. He was buried in Southampton Cemetery on Long Island. Q

The childhood home of ABC Sports Icon Roone Arledge was in this building at 78-14 Austin St. in Forest Hills, as it looked in the 1930s when he lived there. INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA

A bilingual ‘Comedy of Errors’ comes to Queens

by Naeisha Rose associate editor

A bilingual, five-borough production of Shakespeare’s “The Comedy of Errors” is touching down in three neighborhoods in Queens this month.

The Public Theater continues to takes its Free Shakespeare in the Park show on the road via its mobile unit for the 14th year to parks and plazas across the city. Usually, some performances are held at the Delacorte stage in Central Park, but the outdoor theater is closed for repairs this summer.

The first tour stop in the World’s Borough is Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans on Tuesday, June 11, followed by Arrow Field House in Astoria the next day, as well as on Saturday, June 15, and Travers Park in Jackson Heights on Wednesday, June 19. All performances will be at 6:30 p.m.

The Roy Wilkins performance will be at Baisley and Merrick boulevards. Arrow Field House is located at 35-30 35 St. Travers Park is located at 78th Street and 34th Avenue.

“Renovations are fully underway!” said Laura Mullaney, a spokeswoman for the theater, who said the $42 million in repairs should be completed by next summer.

“Renovations have been long overdue at The Delacorte, which has been producing

Joél Acosta, foreground, Keren Lugo, left, Michael Castillejos, with guitar, Gían Pérez, in pink pants, Danaya Esperanza and Desireé Rodriguez, among others, make up the cast of “The Comedy of Errors.”

programming for the last 60-plus years.”

New seating, back of house operations, facilities and dressing rooms are expected.

The renovations will also make the theater more accessible with more seating options, ramps and expanded restroom access, she said.

“The materials being used for the renovation are also more durable, which ensures many more years of programming,” Mullaney added.

To learn more about the work being done at the theater visit, publictheater.org/about/ delacorte-revitalization.

Rebecca Martinez serves as the director and English lyricist for the musical adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic comedy. The music, music direction and Spanish lyrics were provided by Julián Mesri.

“The Comedy of Errors” is a slapstick tale of mistaken identity and was a modern adaptation of “Menaechmi,” a Latin play by

Plautus, an ancient Roman playwright. Shakespeare’s version of the comedy was believed to have been released around 1594, according to Oxford University Press.

The new adaptation embraces contemporary musical styles from Latin America in this tale of separation and reunion.

Oskar Eustis serves as the artistic director, Patrick Willingham is the executive director and Praycious Wilson-Gay is the director of the mobile unit.

“Heading out on the mobile unit’s tour is always a special experience,” Wilson-Gay said in a statement. “Last year’s tour of ‘The Comedy of Errors’ brought an immense amount of joy and laughter to New York City to see this production.”

The cast includes Varin Ayala, Danaya Esperanza, Rebecca Jimenez, Keren Lugo, Alan Mendez, Sara Ornelas, Gían Pérez, Desireé Rodriguez, Michael Castillejos, Glendaliris Torres-Greaux and Joél Acosta. Ornelas, Castillejos, Raphael Torn and Jacinta Clusellas serve as musicians. Clusellas is also the musical director.

The theater company will return to Queens with a screening of its stage production of “Much Ado About Nothing” on Aug. 3 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park and on Aug. 29 at Baisley Park. For more details, visit publictheater.org. Q

Experience a stress-free community at sunset

continued from page 37

attracted Astoria resident Fahim Hamid to Mindful Astoria’s events in 2017. He began meditating on his own after learning about it in a college class, but he was also able to find common ground with his neighbors.

“I just wanted to find a community. There were some other places I found in the city, but a lot of them were like, you go there and they try to make you take their classes, which I didn’t want to do,” Hamid said. “This was

Crossword Answers

just purely community, people get together and do it, which I thought was really nice.”

Meditation also allows him to unwind and relieve the stress of his busy corporate job.

“I think getting into the habit of [meditation] definitely is a need I have,” Hamid said. “I just sort of stop doing things and have some quiet and silence and just be still for a little while. I definitely feel it helps.”

The sessions include small group discussions about things people can notice about their surroundings but often overlook.

Mindful Astoria meets on Wednesday evenings to engage in mindfulness practices and discuss their impact. Meetings alternate between fully online and hybrid at Astoria First Presbyterian Church.

“For most people, some kind of meditation is a good thing,” Hansen said. “Some people don’t need it, some people need varying kinds and varying degrees of meditation practices ... I’d say for most people it is a really healthy and helpful thing to incorporate into your life.”

Mindful Astoria will return to Socrates Sculpture Park on Sunday, June 9, for a springtime potluck. To learn more and RSVP, visit meetup.com/Mindful-Astoria/

events/300584681.

Socrates Sculpture Park’s full lineup of summer programming can be found at socratessculpturepark.org/programs/all. Q

PHOTO BY PETER COOPER

Above, some of the many people at a recent Mindful Astoria meditation session in Socrates Sculpture Park. At right, a discussion segment including teacher Carl Hansen, in blue. On the cover: Meditation in practice.

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

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ELLAWAY BLUES CONSULTING LLC Notice of Application for Authority of ELLAWAY BLUES CONSULTING LLC. a foreign limited liability company (LLC). Application for Authority fi led with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 3/8/2024. LLC organized in FL 11/15/2023. NY offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. The post offi ce address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her is C/o Barakat + Bossa, PLLC 2701 Ponce De Leon Blvd, Suite 202 Miami, FL, 33134. Offi ce address in jurisdiction of organization: 20 North Orange Ave, Orlando, FL 32801 Copy of Articles of Organization on fi le with Secy. of State of FL, RA Gray Building, 500 South Bronough Street, Tallahassee, FL 32399. Purpose of LLC:

NOELLE ZINN CERTIFIED REGISTERED

NURSE ANESTHETIST PLLC, a Prof. LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 06/03/2024. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The PLLC, 1732 Hancock St., Apt 2, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: To Practice The Profession Of Registered Professional Nurse.

Notice of formation of PRDGMS, LLC. Articles of Organization fi led with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 01/31/2024. Offi ce located in Queens. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process served against the LLC 2106 Rene CT Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of PURE-ONE LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/20/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: PURE-ONE LLC, 13656 39TH AVE, SUITE 307, FLUSHING, NY 11354. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Prince35 Holdings LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 4/5/2024. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 136-33 37th Ave, 7th Fl, Flushing, NY 11354. General Purpose.

C M SQ page 42 Y K

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Legal Notices Legal Notices

INVITATION TO BID

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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT—COUNTY OF QUEENS, BLUE IRIS HOLDINGS CORP., Plaintiff against WAAA MIDDLE VILLAGE PROPERTIES, LLC, THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF MIDDLE VILLAGE CONDOMINIUM and KEYU LONG, Defendants, Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on April 22, 2024. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the Courthouse Steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 21st day of June 2024 at 11:00 in the forenoon. Premises description as follows: All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Said premises known as 62-48 Mt. Olivet Crescent, Units A and B, Parking Spaces 15P, 16P, 17P and 18P, Middle Village, New York 11379 a/k/a Block 2773, Lots 1001, 1002, 1045, 1046, 1047 and 1048. Approximate amount of lien: $379,696.20, plus interests and costs. Premises will be sold subject to the provisions of the Judgment and terms of sale. Index No.700506/2023, Kerry John Katsorhis, Esq., Referee, Kye Law Group, P.C., Attorneys for Plaintiff, 201 Old Country Road, Suite 120 Melville, NY 11747, 631-6168200

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No.704875/2024 Date Summons Filed:3/5/2024 MICHAEL JOSEPH MORRISSEY, Plaintiff, -against- MARTHA ISABEL ELIZALDE MORRISSEY, SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is Plaintiff’s residence. Plaintiff resides at: 25-98 36th Street, Apartment 6J, Astoria, New York 11103. Defendant. ACTION FOR DIVORCE To the above-named Defendant: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer on Plaintiff’s Attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State of New York, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Dated: February 4, 2024 ZIMMET LAW GROUP P.C. By: Richard A. Schioppo, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 477 Madison Avenue, 2nd Floor, New York, New York 10022, (212) 922-1330 rschioppo@ zimmetlaw.com

REFEREE’S NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLOSURE SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR INDYMAC INDA MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-AR9, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR9, Plaintiff - against - MOHIBUL ISLAM, et al Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered on November 23, 2022. I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the Courthouse steps of the Queens Supreme Court, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 28th day of June, 2024 at 11:30 AM. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough of Queens, City and State of New York. Premises known as 8709 150th Street, Jamaica, (City of New York) NY 11432. (BL#: 9707-90) Approximate amount of lien $886,832.90 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed judgment and terms of sale. Index No. 716393/2021 FKA 29577/2009. Helen Eichler, Esq., Referee. Davidson Fink LLP Attorney(s) for Plaintiff 400 Meridian Centre Blvd, Ste 200 Rochester, NY 14618 Tel. 585/760-8218 For sale information, please visit Auction.com at www.Auction. com or call (800) 280-2832 Dated: May 6, 2024 During the COVID-19 health emergency, bidders are required to comply with all governmental health requirements in effect at the time of sale including but not limited to, wearing face coverings and maintaining social distancing (at least 6-feet apart) during the auction, while tendering deposit and at any subsequent closing. Bidders are also required to comply with the Foreclosure Auction Rules and COVID-19 Health Emergency Rules issued by the Supreme Court of this County in addition to the conditions set forth in the Terms of Sale.

Notice of Qualifi cation of Citrus Haven LLC. Authority fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/12/24. Offi ce location: Queens County. LLC formed in Florida (FL)on 02/15/24. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 31 Monterey Street, Apt. A, Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082, also the address required to be maintained in FL. Arts of Org. fi led with the FL Secy. Of State, R.A. Gray Building, 500 S Bronough St., Tallahassee, FL 32399. Purpose: any lawful activities.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE STRUCTURED ASSET MORTGAGE INVESTMENTS II TRUST, MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-AR8, -against- JOSE TAVAREZ, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on March 10, 2023, wherein THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON FKA THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE FOR THE STRUCTURED ASSET MORTGAGE INVESTMENTS II TRUST, MORTGAGE PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2006-AR8 is the Plaintiff and JOSE TAVAREZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on June 28, 2024 at 10:30AM, premises known as 62-22 BURCHELL ROAD, ARVERNE, NY 11692; and the following tax map identification: 160079. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 706209/2014. Steven P. Goldenberg, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of DEPARTMENT PROJECTS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/06/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 6061 68TH RD # 3, RIDGEWOOD, NY 11385. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Real Estate

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS COLLATERAL

AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiff, vs. WOODNER GARAGE CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated March 4, 2024 and duly entered on March 15, 2024, 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 June 14, 2024 at 10:15 a.m., all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 5137 and Lot 1195. Said premises may also be known as 138-35 Elder Avenue, Parking Garage Unit No. 195, Queens, NY. Approximate amount of judgment is $56,434.91 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index #711834/2019.

The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Tanya HobsonWilliams, Esq., Referee The Law Office of Thomas P. Malone, PLLC, 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 553, New York, New York 10165, Attorneys for Plaintiff

83-30 264th Street LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/3/2024.

Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 141 Crescent Dr, Albertson, NY 11507. General Purpose

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

Houses For Sale Apts.For Rent

Howard Beach/Lindenwood, 1 BR, 1 bath, duplex. Call owner for details. Avail 7/1. 917-855-7390, leave a message.

Middle Village, beautiful legal 2 fam. 2 BR/ 1 bath over 2 rm studio apt. 2nd fl apt has deck & stairs leading to yard. Attached gar in rear plus community drwy. Asking $949K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Open House

Centreville/Ozone Park, Sun 6/9, 1:30-3pm, 96-30 149th Ave. Colonial Lovely 1 fam, 3 levels + basement. Laminate flrs, updated kit w/ Quartz counters, new appli. All new doors, new boiler, 3 BRs, 2 1/2 baths. 1 car gar, pvt dwvy. Reduced $779K. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat 6/8, 1-3pm, 160-32 80 St. HiRanch Brookfield, 4 BR, 3 baths. 40x100 lot. Oversized family rm w/granite radiant heated flr. Wood FP, new kitchen, patio, security cameras, sprinkler system. Asking $1,199,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Legal Notices Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE Index No.

7423824/2023 Date Filed: 5/28/2024 JPMorgan Chase Bank, National Association, Plaintiff, -against- Eunice Anderson, if she be living or if she be dead, her Date Filed: spouses, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to Plaintiff; Eunice Anderson Family Trust; City of New York Environmental Control Board; City of New York Parking Violations Bureau; City of New York Transit Adjudication Bureau; The Richard Gill Company, a Texas Corporation; State of New York, and “JOHN DOE”, said name being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, and any parties, corporations or entities, if any, having or claiming an interest or lien upon the mortgaged premises, Defendants. PROPERTY ADDRESS: 16712 140th Avenue a/k/a 167-12 104th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434 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 a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within thirty (30) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Ulysses B. Leverett, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Queens County, entered May 8, 2024 and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Office. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Consolidation and/or Modified Mortgage (hereinafter “the Mortgage”) to secure $789,166.56 and interest, recorded in the Queens County Office of the City Register on February 5, 2018, in CRFN 2018000041788 covering premises known as 16712 140th Avenue a/k/a 167-12 104th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11434 a/k/a Block 12584, Lot 33. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated. 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 ANSVVER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: March 7, 2024 Brent Surgeoner, Esq. Associate Attorney LOGS LEGAL GROUP LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard, Rochester, New York 14624 (585) 247-9000 Fax: (585) 247-7380 Our File No. 23-094279 #101483

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007AR3, -against- MOHANIE BISHU, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on January 17, 2019, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES SERIES 2007-AR3 is the Plaintiff and MOHANIE BISHU, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 8811 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on June 14, 2024 at 12:15PM, premises known as 92-24 175TH STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11433; and the following tax map identification: 10214-17. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE 4TH WARD, BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 705689/2016. David H. Sloan, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Lefferts 59 LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 3/19/2024. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Gameel Saeidi, 80-59 Lefferts Blvd., Kew Gardens, NY 11415. General Purpose

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS IN TAX LIEN FORECLOSURE–SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF QUEENS – NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, and THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON as Collateral Agent and Custodian for the NYCTL 1998-2 Trust, Plaintiffs, ZENON GALCYZNSKI AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF RASMA GALCYZNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKI A/K/A ROSE GALCZYNSKA A/K/A ROSE VIRSIS, et. al., Defendants. Index No. 711482/19. To the above named Defendants –YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action within twenty days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service or within thirty days after service is completed if the summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Plaintiffs designate Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the county in which the property a lien upon which is being foreclosed is situated. The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to the Order of the Hon. Claudia Lanzetta, A.J.S.C., entered on May 21, 2024. The object of this action is to foreclose a tax lien covering the premises located at Block 2399 Lot 26 on the Tax Map of Queens County and is also known as 68-29 Jay Avenue, Flushing, New York. Dated: June 4, 2024. BRONSTER, LLP, Attorney for Plaintiffs NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST, and THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON as Collateral Agent and Custodian for the NYCTL 19982 Trust. By: Leonid Krechmer, Esq. 156 West 56th Street, Suite 703, New York, NY 10019 (212) 558-9300

Notice of Formation of LUNA PARKING LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/17/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: HARRY JIMENEZ, 6914 171 STREET, FRESH MEADOWS, NY 11365. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR HARBORVIEW MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-5, -against- STACIE C. GRANT A/K/A STACIE N. C. GRANT, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on May 2, 2024, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR HARBORVIEW MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST, MORTGAGE LOAN PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-5 is the Plaintiff and STACIE C. GRANT A/K/A STACIE N. C. GRANT, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on July 5, 2024 at 10:15AM, premises known as 115-112 225TH STREET, CAMBRIA HEIGHTS, NY 11411; and the following tax map identification: 11306-57. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, WITH THE BUILDINGS AND IMPROVEMENTS THEREON ERECTED, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE FOURTH WARD OF THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 722456/2022. Scott H. Siller, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of 1721 Greene Avenue, LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State (SSNY) on 5/17/24. 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 The LLC, 1721 Greene Ave, Ridgewood, NY 11385. Purpose: any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLEY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff against ALEJANDRO JARAMILLO, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered April 5, 2024, 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 June 21, 2024 at 11:15 AM. Premises known as 25-37 89th Street, Jackson Heights, NY 11369. Block 1363 Lot 48. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $715,860.88 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index No 717900/2022. 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. Gregory LaSpina, Esq., Referee File # 2236-000423

AVALANCHE BUILDER LLC fi led Arts. of Org. with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/6/2020. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 37-10 11th St, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful act.

MOHA KALI TEMPLE LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 05/30/24. 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, 112-44 209th Street, Queens Village, NY 11429. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

For the latest

SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Queens County. U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE OF THE LB-IGLOO SERIES IV TRUST, Plaintiff, -against- JAMEL

ANTHONY FREEMAN, PURPORTED ADMINISTRATOR AND HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN

A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; LISA FREEMAN CHANEY, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN

A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; KEVIN FREEMAN, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN

A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; MARK FREEMAN, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN A/K/A

MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; ANDREW W. HOWARD, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; BARBARA DARLENE HOWARD, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; DENISE LOWRANCE, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF MICHELLE R. FREEMAN A/K/A MICHELLE RENEE FREEMAN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (SOUTHERN DISTRICT); THE BOARD OF MANAGERS OF PARK TERRACE CONDOMINIUM A/K/A PARK TERRACE CONDOMINIUM ASSOCIATION; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK (QUEENS); PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; QUEENS COUNTY CLERK; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants Index No. 700796/2023. Mortgaged Premises: 97-48 91st Street, Unit 1D Ozone Park, NY 11416 Block: 9064 Lot: 1004. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Mortgage to secure $209,152.75 and interest, recorded in the Queens County Clerk’s Office on June 17, 2008 in CRFN 2008000241277, covering the premises known as 97-48 91st Street, Unit 1D, Ozone Park, NY 11416. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

C M SQ page 44 Y K

STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA COUNTY OF WILLIAMSBURG IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT CASE NUMBER: 2022-CP-45-00336 JOSEPH ELLISON BROWN, JR., PLAINTIFF, V. JESSIE LUNDY, WILLIA MAE JOHNSON, AGNES E. WOODS, LINDA E. GILLIAM, and John Doe and Mary Roe, representing as a class any and all known and unknown heirs of Raymond Gilliam, and any and all other persons unknown claiming any right, title estate, interest in or lien upon the real estate described in the complaint herein, and any unknown persons who are under disability, or are minors or who are in the military service, DEFENDANTS. SUMMONS: TO THE DEFENDANTS ABOVE NAMED, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to answer the Complaint in this action, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to serve a copy of your Answer to the said Complaint on the Plaintiff or her attorney, Jennifer R. Kellahan, Esquire, Jenkinson, Kellahan, Thompson & Reynolds, P.A., l20 West Main Street, Kingstree, South Carolina, 29556, within thirty (30) days after the service hereof, exclusive of the day of such service, and if you fail to answer the Complaint within the time aforesaid, the Plaintiff in this action will apply to the Court for Judgment by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. YOU WILL ALSO TAKE NOTICE THAT Plaintiff will move for an order of reference or that the Court may issue a general order of reference of this action to a master in equity/special referee, pursuant to Rule 53 of the South Carolina Rules of Civil Procedure. TO MINORS OVER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE, AND/OR TO MINORS UNDER FOURTEEN YEARS OF AGE AND THE PERSON WITH WHOM THE MINORS RESIDES, AND/OR TO PERSONS UNDER SOME LEGAL DISABILITY; YOU ARE FURTHER SUMMONED AND NOTIFIED to apply for the appointment of a guardian ad litem within thirty (30) days after the service of this Summons and Notice upon you. If you fail to do so, application for such appointment will be made by the Plaintiff. DATED at Kingstree, South Carolina, on this 5th day of February, 2024. LIS PENDENS: PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Plaintiff above named has brought an action which is now pending in the Court of Common Pleas to quiet title and partition the tract of land herein below described, to wit: All that certain piece, parcel or tract of land lying, being and situate in Hope Township, County of Williamsburg, State of South Carolina, containing 32.302 acres, more particularly shown and delineated as Tract No. 1 on a map by Kemp C. Ahrens, Surveyor, recorded in the Offi ce of the Clerk of Court for Williamsburg County in Plat Book 45, at page 915, shown as Tract 1, and being bounded and described as follows, to wit: On the Northeast by S. C. Highway 261, measuring thereon 788.21 feet; on the Southeast by Golf Road, measuring thereon 2,486.71 feet; on the Southwest by lands of Swamp Fox Country Club, measuring thereon 609.60 feet; and on the Northwest by Tract No. 2 as shown on the map aforesaid, measuring thereon 1,930.10 feet. The above tract of land was conveyed to Raymond Gilliam, Joseph Brown, Charles Woods, Jessie Lundy and Willia Mae Johnson by Deed of Distribution from the Estate of John Chandler, dated January 16, 2001, and recorded in the Offi ce of the Clerk of Court for Williamsburg County on January 16, 2001, in Book 473, at page 107. TMS: 45-105-040. Dated at Kingstree, SC this 5th day of February, 2024. s/Jennifer R. Kellahan Jennifer R. Kellahan, Esquire SC Bar 7074 JENKINSON KELLAHAN THOMPSON & REYNOLDS, P. A. 120 West Main Street, Post Offi ce Drawer 669, Kingstree, SC 29556 Ph. (843) 355-2000 Attorney for Plaintiff

Notice of Formation of RESOLVE PRODUCTIONS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/07/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: CRAIG MACARTHUR DOLEZEL, 3168 CRESCENT STREET, ASTORIA, NY 11106. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of SMARTSELLHEALTHSHOP LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/11/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: CHRISTINA GUTIERREZ, 6935 150TH STREET, FLUSHING, NY 11367. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Queens County. NEWREZ LLC D/B/A AS SHELLPOINT MORTGAGE SERVICING, Plaintiff, -against- OSCARA. PRIETO, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF MAUREEN MULLANEY; STUART GLUICK, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MAUREEN MULLANEY AND HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES MULLANEY; HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF MAUREEN MULLANEY; UNIFUND CCR LLC; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE ; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants Index No. 711178/2023. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial situs of the real property. Mortgaged Premises: 57-44 57th Drive Maspeth, NY 11378 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above captioned action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a Defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE 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. Please take further notice that any right you may have pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act to dispute the validity or amount of the debt does not change the time within which you must answer this summons and complaint. You must follow the instructions contained in the summons even if you dispute the validity or amount of the debt. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

Notice of Formation of SYSTEM-ADDICT LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/08/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: RUBIN YAGUDAYEV, 180-02 UNION TPKE, FRESH MEADOWS, NY 11366. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of TALKSTORY LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/07/2023. 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 LIABILTY COMPANY LLC, P.O. BOX 750015, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK – COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX # 723641/2023 FILED: 11/08/2023 SUMMONS Plaintiff, designates Queens County as the place of trial based on the location of the mortgaged premises in this action. Plaintiff’s principal place of business is 4425 Ponce De Leon Blvd., MS 5-251, Coral Gables, Florida 33146. LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, against LISA CHARLES A/K/A LISA BELL AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN TO OSWALD CHARLES JR. A/K/A OSWALD CHARLES A/K/A OSWALD REGINALD CHARLES JR.; JOHN DOE AND JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTEES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF OSWALD CHARLES JR. A/K/A OSWALD CHARLES A/K/A OSWALD REGINALD CHARLES JR., WHO WAS BORN IN 1970 AND DIED ON AUGUST 17, 2020, A RESIDENT OF ORLEANS COUNTY, WHOSE LAST KNOWN ADDRESS WAS 110-28 199TH STREET, SAINT ALBANS, NEW YORK 11412, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES, ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF; LUX II RESIDENTIAL SOLAR; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; “JOHN DOE #1” to “JOHN DOE #10,” the last 10 names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises 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 attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. MCCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, LLC, Attorneys for Plaintiff, One Huntington Quadrangle, Suite 4N25, Melville, NY 11747. (631) 8124084 (855) 845-2584 facsimile. File # 23-300160. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or visit the Department`s website at www.dfs.ny.gov RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. You have the right to stay in your home during the foreclosure process. You are not required to leave your home unless and until your property is sold at auction pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale. Regardless of whether you choose to remain in your home, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY and pay property taxes in accordance with state and local law. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner`s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services. § 1303 NOTICE

W & A Craft Kitchen LLC fi led 5/14/24. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. for process & shall mail to: 2320 123rd St., Flushing, NY 11356. Purp: any lawful.

Notice of Formation of Eight Pillar Candles LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/13/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: Eight Pillar Candles LLC, 211-14 23RD AVENUE, BAYSIDE, NY 11360, Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of FIRST PRIORITY PARALEGAL & PUBLISHING LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/07/2023. 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, 107-29 PINEGROVE STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 719775/2021

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property Mortgaged Premises: 8429 153RD AVENUE, UNIT 6K, HOWARD BEACH, NY 11414 Block: 11431, Lot: 2610 BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. CORY STORCH AS HEIR AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS STORCH; DANA GRIFFIN AS EXECUTRIX, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF LINDA STORCH, AS HEIR AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS STORCH; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF DORIS STORCH, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; ATTORNEY GENERAL OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; BOARD OF MANAGERS OF HERITAGE HOUSE; GENERAL APARTMENT CORPORATION CONDOMINIUM; CITY OF NEW YORK ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE-UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF FINANCE-TAX COMPLIANCE DIVISION-C.O.-ATC, “JOHN DOE #1”THROUGH “JOHN DOE #25,” THE DEFENDANTS LAST NAMED IN QUOTATION MARKS BEING INTENDED TO DESIGNATE TENANTS OR OCCUPANTS IN POSSESSION OF THE HEREIN DESCRIBED PREMISES OR PORTION THEREOF, IF THERE BE ANY, SAID NAMES BEING FICTITIOUS, THEIR TRUE NAME BEING UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF, Defendants. To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $435,478.50 and interest, recorded on February 17, 2005, in Instrument Number 2005000099210, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 8429 153RD AVENUE, UNIT 6K, HOWARD BEACH, NY 11414. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: October 18th, 2023 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

BRANNOCK DALL, LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 05/06/2024. 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: Ilya Kiriakis Dall, 148-18 3rd Avenue, Whitestone, NY 11357. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of 528 Locust Street, LLC.Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 04/22/24. Offi ce location: QueensCounty. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 5418 69th Lane, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: any lawful activities.

Notice of Formation of NEXDOOR ENTERPRISES LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/10/2024. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: NEXDOOR, 175-61 HILLSIDE AVENUE, SUITE #202, JAMAICA, NY 11432. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 712580/2023

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property

Mortgaged Premises: 3331 98TH STREET, CORONA, NY 11368 Block: 1713, Lot: 53 FAREVERSE LLC I/L/T/N FINANCE OF AMERICA REVERSE LLC Plaintiff, vs. JOYCE C. GILL A/K/A JOYCE C. CUPID, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CECIL GILL 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,; DEXTER DUNBAR AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF CECIL GILL; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF CECIL GILL 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; JILLIAN WILLIAMS 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,; FEDERAL HOUSING COMMISSIONER; WENDY PARIS; INGRID JAMES AKA INGIRD JAMES; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; CAPITAL ONE, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION S/B/M/T GREEN POINT SAVINGS BANK; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #1; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #2; “JOHN DOE” (REFUSED NAME) AS JOHN DOE #3, “JOHN DOE #4” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last nine 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 $1,089,787.50 and interest, recorded on March 03, 2020, in City Register File Number CRFN: 2020000082242, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 3331 98TH STREET, CORONA, NY 11368. 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 filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: May 21st, 2024 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, NY 11590, 516-280-7675

Public Notice Fact Sheet

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has received a Brownfi eld Cleanup Program (BCP) application and Draft Interim Remedial Measures Work Plan from MRA, LLC for a site known as 101-21 101st Street Site, site ID #C241282. This site is in the neighborhood of Ozone Park within the Borough of Queens, and is located at 101-21 101st Street. Comments regarding this application and work plan must be submitted no later than July 6, 2024. Access the application, work plan and other relevant documents online through the DECinfo Locator: https://www.dec.ny.gov/data/DecDocs/C241282/. The documents also are available at the document repository located at Queens Public Library at Ozone Park, 92-24 Rockaway Boulevard, Ozone Park, NY 11417 and Queens Community Board 9, 120-55 Queens Boulevard, Room 310A, Kew Gardens, NY 11424. Information regarding the site and how to submit comments can be found at http://www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/60058.html or send comments to Javier Perez- Maldonado, Project Manager, NYSDEC, 625 Broadway, Albany, NY 12233-7016; Javier.perez-maldonado@dec.ny.gov; or call 518-402-8172.

To have information such as this notice sent right to your email, sign up with county email listservs available at https://nydecprod.prod.acquiasites.com/environmentalprotection/ site-cleanup/regional-remediationproject-information/environmental-cleanupemail-newsletters.

NMLS#:390568

B SPORTS EAT

The Jorge Lopez fiasco

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

The Mets were in the midst of getting swept in their three-game series with the Dodgers at Citi Field last Wednesday, which was not surprising given the talent disparities of the rosters, as well as the way things had been going this season for the home team. The game was tied 3-3 going into the eighth inning. By the time the Mets came to bat in the bottom of the ninth, they were trailing 10-3, thanks to yet another implosion by their bullpen.

One of the chief culprits that day was Jorge Lopez, who lost his temper with an umpire after getting smacked around by the Los Angelenos. He was ejected, and as he approached the Mets dugout, he tossed his glove high into the stands.

Things quickly snowballed. Lopez was summoned into a meeting with Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns and Manager Carlos Mendoza. Lopez then went to his locker, where he had an ill-fated Q&A with the media.

An upset Lopez called himself “the worst teammate in MLB,” and added a few epithets in between. SNY reporter Steve Gelbs and other reporters thought he said, “the worst team in MLB,” based on his answer to a follow-up question about his statement. Lopez also told the press he had not yet met with the Mets’ brass when in fact he had. Within an hour, reports were emanating the Mets were going to cut him.

Stearns and Mendoza called Lopez’s on-field display, “unacceptable.” The funny thing is most fans on social media appreciated the fact a Mets player expressed the same frustration they have been feeling this season. It makes little sense Stearns, Mendoza and sportswriters were clutching their pearls because he provided a nice souvenir to a happy fan. They never bat an eye when a player smashes a bat or destroys a water cooler.

Lopez was designated for assignment that afternoon. The following morning, Boomer Esiason reported on WFAN that Lopez’s young son was awaiting a medical transplant.

It became evident the Mets mishandled things. HIPAA regulations precluded them from revealing his son’s health issues, but the team was aware of the stress in Lopez’s life. They could have placed him on temporary leave as his former team, the Twins, did a few years ago.

It is hard enough to think in one language and speak in another, especially to the media under duress. The Mets media relations team should have sat Lopez down and provided guidance on how to handle the press, including the importance of expressing remorse. To Lopez’s credit, he did not want to use the team’s interpreter, but the Mets should have had one nearby as insurance against misunderstandings. Common sense could have saved a lot of anguish. Q

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