Queens Chronicle South Edition 06-15-23

SOUTH

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

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Primary elections around the corner

Find out who is running in your Council district, and other races

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

With the city’s June 27 primary elections less than two weeks away and early voting starting this Saturday, Queens voters are preparing to cast their ballots in several different races. While Democrats throughout the World’s Borough will make their pick for Queens district attorney, some districts have City Council races or even judicial contests.

For the second time in the city’s history, City Council elections will include rankedchoice voting. That does not apply to judicial and DA races, however, as those are governed by the state, not the city.

While City Council terms are typically four years, in a redistricting year and in the term after, they are two years long. This year’s incumbents are running for their second two-year terms. The district attorney serves a four-year term while Civil Court county judges serve 10 and District Court judges six.

This year’s City Council elections will use the new district maps that the New York City Districting Committee approved last fall.

Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on election day. To find your polling place and distirct information, visit findmypollsite.vote.nyc. You may also call (866) VOTE-NYC, or 1 (800) 868-3692 or email vote@boe.nyc.ny.us, and your polling site will be emailed back to you.

Early voting begins June 17 and ends on June 25. Early polling sites may differ from your election day location. Those can be found at vote.nyc or by calling (866) VOTE-NYC; hours may vary between sites.

Queens district attorney Incumbent District Attorney Melinda Katz is facing a challenge from her left from Devian Daniels and another from her right in former state Supreme Court Judge and ex-Deputy Police Commissioner George Grasso in the Democratic primary [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com].

Queens Civil Court County judge Sandra Perez, a defense attorney and former prosecutor, will square off against real estate lawyer Marianne Gonzalez in the Democratic primary.

Queens Civil Court judge, 6th District Democratic voters will pick between attorneys Evelyn Gong, Steven Beard and John Ciafone for the bench.

City Council District 19

Three Democrats, former Councilman and state Sen. Tony Avella, Flushing land

use expert Paul Graziano and former Assistant District Attorney Christopher Bae, are vying for the chance to face off with incumbent Councilmember Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) come November. The Northeast Queens primary has been among the most anticipated races this

continued on page 12

Queens voters will have their pick of primary candidates on June 27 as they vote in City Council, district attorney and judicial elections.

PHOTO BY MAX PARROT / FILE

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Property owners will not negotiate; congregation is left devastated Living Word church to close its doors

by Kristen Guglielmo

Associate Editor

Living Word Christian Fellowship Church in Ozone Park is officially closing its doors on July 30. Sam Esposito, president of the Ozone Park Residents Block Association, announced the news last Thursday at the civic’s monthly town hall meeting.

The news was met with disappointment by neighborhood residents, many of whom frequented the church, located at 132-05 Crossbay Blvd.

“The congregation that leased the building would have been there 30 years this coming October,” Esposito said. The property owners are selling the land, and are not interested in negotiating with the congregation, he explained.

Of relocation, Esposito said, “They tried to find somewhere local, but they couldn’t, so they’re officially leaving.”

Living Word Fellowship’s pastor, Joel Sadaphal, confirmed the news to the Chronicle, stating, “We have leased the property for 30 years, with an option to purchase it. The landlords are no longer honoring that and refused to send a letter of renewal for the usual terms, so we have to move.”

The property is owned by the United Methodist Church of Richmond Hill. Sadaphal and some members of the congregation said they believe the lack of communication and rescinding the offer to sell are

due to religious differences on behalf of the Methodist Church.

The owners could not be reached for comment. No information for the property could be found on ACRIS, the city’s Automated City Register Information System, which lists records for lots across the five boroughs.

The church, which has a congregation of around 200 people and an online presence where it holds Zoom prayer meetings and livestreams weekly services, is seeking to relocate as soon as it can. The leadership is looking at properties in East Meadow, LI. The block association will honor the congregation for all it has done for the

community on Sunday, July 16, at 12 p.m. at the church.

“We wouldn’t have had a tree lighting or other events without Living Word, so we’re really sad to see them go,” Esposito said.

Sadaphal said, “We have a heartbroken congregation. We’ve been here since 1993.” He added, “We always said we’d be missed when we leave, and that seems to be the case.”

One member of the congregation, Patricia Dyer, spoke about her deep connection with the Living Word Fellowship. “I’m devastated,” she told the Chronicle. “It’s a great loss to the community.”

Dyer has been a member of the congregation for 30 years, and head of the fellowship’s dance ministry for 25 years. During that time, she has participated in a variety of events and developed relationships with her community.

“We have a group of seniors that always come. They’re like our VIPs. We make sure they’re comfortable,” Dyer said. “We cater to them — show them a little extra love. It’s people like them who are truly going to miss the ministry. It was their day out. They got fed spiritually and physically. It saddens my heart that they have to lose that.”

Dyer plans to follow Living Word upon its relocation. “Living Word wasn’t just concerned with one aspect of a person. We were concerned with totality, body mind spirit,” she said.

The property is still listed for sale. Q

102, 106 precincts report crime down

Officers present latest incident data, give new advice to residents

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Crime in South Queens is down this month, as reported by members of the NYPD from the 102nd and 106th precincts during the Ozone Park Residents Block Association town hall last Thursday.

Det. James Gherardi presented statistics for the 106th Precinct. Crime is down 9 percent for the prior week as of this past Sunday, and 8.5 percent for the year.

“We’ve been taking in a lot of stolen vehicles,” Gherardi said.

Criminals have been using devices around the size of a flash drive to access push-tostart vehicles.

“If they’re on the sidewalk, they can pick up your key fob data if you leave it by your front door,” the detective explained. “Now they have your key fob information on that device, so they go to your push-to-start car, unlock it and drive away.”

To prevent that, the NYPD recommends

leaving your key fob far from the front door and toward the rear of your home. “You can try to throw it in your bedroom or somewhere in the back of the house,” Gherardi suggested.

Grand larceny is still an issue, as well, attributed to items left behind in vehicles. “If they see something, they don’t really jimmy doors anymore,” Gherardi said. “They just break your window and make you pay for it.”

It was advised to remove any valuables from your vehicles to deter thieves.

Gherardi also commented on increased domestic violence crimes, saying, “If you know anyone that needs help, please reach out to the precinct. We have all the resources and will gladly help with anything.”

Special Operations Lt. Christopher Estrella and Capt. Pratima Bhullar Maldonado presented information from the 102nd Precinct. For the 28-day period, crime is down 14.5 percent, and down 8 percent overall this year.

continued on page 23

Special Operations Lt. Christopher Estrella, left, and Capt. Pratima Bhullar Maldonado present information at the Ozone Park Residents Block Association meeting.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

Pastor Joel Sadaphal, center, speaks to his congregation at Living Word Christian Fellowship Church in Ozone Park. The church is seeking to relocate. COURTESY PHOTO

Diwali, Lunar New Year bills are OK’d

Both await Gov. Hochul’s signature

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

The state Legislature was hard at work last Saturday morning, passing two bills that honor both Diwali and Lunar New Year as school holidays.

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) authored the bill to designate Diwali, one of the holiest days of the year for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers, as a public school holiday.

In previous iterations of the bill, Diwali took the place of Brooklyn-Queens Day (also known as Anniversary Day) as a school holiday. The bill was since amended to keep both holidays.

Diwali is a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil, originating in South Asia. It is one of the most sacred holidays for over 200,000 Hindu, Sikh, Jain and Buddhist New Yorkers. The day is marked by huge celebrations in the South Asian and Indo-Caribbean communities.

As of now, when Diwali falls on a school day, families have to choose between sending their children to school or celebrating the day together.

Following passage of her bill, Rajkumar said in a prepared statement, “Nothing can stop a community whose time has come. People said this would be impossible, but we

made it happen. To everyone who believed in the power of the possible — whether in the legislature, the streets of Queens, or all around the world, this victory is yours.”

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven), the bill’s Senate sponsor, said, “I am thankful for my colleagues in the Senate who supported the passage of my bill (S7475) designating Diwali a school holiday in New York City before the Senate legislative session ended.”

The bill now moves to Gov. Hochul’s desk. A representative from Hochul’s office confirmed it will reach her desk within the next few days, but could not say if she intends to sign it. Rajkumar’s senior advisor Jacob Gross said the assemblywoman has spoken personally with Hochul about the bill, and that the governor is “excited” about the Diwali school holiday.

While Lunar New Year is already a public school holiday in New York City, the new bill will designate it as such statewide, allowing students across the Empire State to enjoy the holiday at home with their families.

The Lunar New Year bill was led by the Asian Pacific American Task Force, cochaired by Assemblymembers Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) and Grace Lee (D-Manhattan, Brooklyn).

Community Board 9 meets before break

by Kristen Guglielmo

Associate Editor

Community Board 9 held its last meeting before summer recess on Tuesday, June 14, opening with remarks from Chairperson Sherry Algredo and District Manager James McClelland. Algredo wished the group a happy Juneteenth and congratulated the Class of 2023.

Items on the agenda included a monthly update from the 102nd Precinct, a public forum and committee reports. The meeting was attended by state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) and Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven.)

Capt. Jeremy Kivlin, commander of the 102nd Precinct, reported that Plug Smoke Shop, previously located on 110th Street and Jamaica Avenue, had officially been closed after a May homicide. An arrest was made in the matter. Kivlin also confirmed that Night Out Against Crime at Victory Field will happen again this summer. Attendees can expect a variety of activities for families. The date is to be determined.

Rajkumar thanked the community board for its support on her newly passed Diwali bill. “I said I would do it, and I did

it,” she said. Rajkumar also announced her new effort — a bill to give work-leave benefits to mothers who suffered a stillborn loss. “These mothers deserve time to heal,” she said.

The Parks, Recreation, and Environment Committee announced the restrooms at Forest Park are closed until July 1 for repair due to a mold issue.

Public comment included complaints about noise and blocked parking spaces.

The next board meeting will be held in September. Q

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) released a statement saying, “I’m proud New York State is providing the time needed for students and their families to honor and celebrate Lunar New Year. New York has the second largest Asian population in the country, and it’s time we provide them with the time others are given to celebrate and spend time with family.”

Lunar New Year is an important holiday

to East and Southeast Asian cultures all over the world. New York State has the secondlargest Asian population in the country, with nearly two million residents. Lunar New Year marks the first new moon of the lunar calendar, and is typically celebrated between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20, depending on the lunar calendar.

If the bills are signed by Hochul, they will become law on July 1. Q

Kiwanis honors stalwart Verdi

The Kiwanis Club of Lefferts/Liberty last Sunday honored Carol Verdi, at podium with award, for her service as a longtime leader of the charitable organization. The event was held at Vetro in Howard Beach.

Surrounded here by other club members, Verdi is the immediate past super distinguished lieutenant governor of the Kiwanis Queens West Division. The Lefferts/Liberty club was chartered on Jan. 25, 1983.

State Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, center, Assemblyman David Weprin, next to her, and other supporters rallied to make Diwali a city school holiday in Albany in January. The bill to do so has now passed both houses of the Legislature.

PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY

Community Board 9 members listen to public concerns.

PHOTO BY KRISTEN GUGLIELMO

Gratitude Garden at 146

The new Gratitude Garden and outdoor Learning Center at PS 146 was budding with joy on Monday as the school and greater community came together to celebrate the addition and officially cut the ribbon on the revitalized space on the corner of 159th Avenue and 98th Street.

“I am proud to say that this outdoor Learning Center and Gratitude Garden will provide our students with a unique and valuable learning experience,” said Principal Danielle Cross, top right, center. “It is a space where they can explore and

connect with nature, learn about sustainability and develop a sense of gratitude and appreciation for the world around them.”

Cross thanked the Gratitude Garden Team, composed of Linda Vozza, Jodi Tucci, Justine Futerman and Mariana Vozza, who she noted all dedicated time to the project before and after school and even on weekends. They are seen above with Cross, center, and Assistant Principals Veronica Boucher and Christina Kabbadias to her immediate left and right, respectively.

A special thanks went to Fred Ianelli and Lifestyles for the Disabled, which provided the benches, birdbath and more.

Attendees included Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato and Councilwoman Joann Ariola.

Ariola announced $10,000 in city funds for maintenance of the Howard Beach School’s new space. Brina Ciaramella, a PS 146 parent and member of the School Leadership Team, presented Cross with an award on behalf of the Ozone Park Howard Beach Woodhaven Lions Club and

the Ozone Park Residents Block Association. Johnny Christ played the trumpet and provided a live dove release.

Student performances included songs from 3K and pre-K students, above left, a rendition of the national anthem and poetry readings from the school’s contest winners, top left. The event also was attended by the school’s brand-new newspaper club, center, which spoke with members of the Queens Chronicle before the festivities.

— text and photos by Deirdre Bardolf

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City Hall’s police debacle

The mayor may be full of something (not just himself; that’s a given) when it comes to his reaction to Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell’s pending resignation, but he’s right on one thing: She worked hard to make the city safer, and thanks in large part to the efforts of the department she leads for a little while longer, much of the recent spike in crime is being reversed. Not all of it, not in all places, but the trend at least appears to be going in the right direction now.

For that we all owe Sewell thanks. And we can’t blame her for deciding to quit a position of such incredible responsibility after only 18 months given the handcuffs that were placed on her. Despite the mayor’s pseudo-denials and berating of the press, everyone knew from the start that Sewell would be stymied in her job. The giveaway was Adams’ establishment of a deputy mayor for public safety position, a job he gave to his confidant Phil Banks. Banks is the brother of David Banks, the schools chancellor. That’s a pretty tight crew. Sewell had to report to Banks, rather than to the mayor directly. Meanwhile, according to all the good reporting out there that Adams tries to dismiss, she

couldn’t even do routine administrative things like promote officers to detective without getting Adams’ OK. And rivals reportedly made other moves behind her back, like getting the physical requirements to become a cop eased and having the rapper Cardi B appear at a Queens event meant to empower girls. Apparently Sewell wants her cops in shape and didn’t want to empower girls to get into fights at strip clubs and end up with a criminal record like Cardi B.

So now Sewell, who’s had her fill of the palace intrigue, politicking, mean guys’ cliques and other nonsense among the white-shirt segment of the NYPD, is out. We wish her the best. And, it’s worth noting, so do the rank and file on the force, as well as many of the white shirts, who gave her a long standing ovation at Police Headquarters the day after she announced her resignation. Sewell is not just the first woman to head the department, and only the third black person to do so, she’s a cop’s cop and a good commissioner.

Whoever replaces her will have to be someone the mayor trusts and empowers, and the police and public respect. It will not be easy to find such a person.

Fake plate road hazard

Outside of the Staten Island Advance, this is probably the most pro-automobile opinion page in a general interest newspaper in the city. But we don’t hold with chicanery or criminality on the road; just the opposite. So we’re thrilled to learn the Department of Motor Vehicles has been teaming up with the State Police and municipal departments including the NYPD to crack down on fake and defaced license plates.

You’ve seen the scofflaws out there, driving around with a strategically placed leaf on the rear plate that never moves because it’s glued on, blocking speed and red-light cameras from reading the tag. Or the remarkably convenient bend in the plate that obscures a letter or two. The owner just can’t find the time to unbend it! And of course there are the plastic covers, which are not there so much to keep the plates clean as to block cameras from reading them. Lastly there are the paper plates, which recent remarkable reporting in Streetsblog reveals are fake quite often, the products of a growing illegal industry.

The crackdown has resulted in more than 400 tickets issued. Keep ’em coming. These people are breaking laws and costing us all money. You can help out by reporting suspected fake tags to 311. Remember, kids: Paper plates are for picnics, not cars.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Yanks put fans at risk

Dear Editor:

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All over the radio, on TV and in the news they spoke about the dangerous levels of smoke coming from Canada last week. Doctors spoke of the dangers to your lungs and how the little smoke particles can cause health issues. Outside activities for schools were canceled. Other outdoor activities were canceled. The horses in Central Park were taken indoors. The mayor and the governor urged people to stay indoors. The governor was monitoring if there would be horse racing at Belmont during the weekend. People were told to close their windows and put on their air filters or air conditioners.

If you had to go out wear an N95 mask and don’t stay out too long. The levels of pollution in NYC were the highest in the world.

But the Yankees played baseball and it was a doubleheader, causing more exposure to fans. No media, reporter or journalist asked the governor or mayor, why is baseball being played when everything else has been cancelled because of the dangerous levels of smoke? It is so hypocritical for the Yankees to play and for the media not to even question the governor or mayor about this issue.

I can only think of one reason. It’s a five-letter word, with the first letter being M and the last being Y. Now you know why. It’s so sad to

put the health of human beings at risk for the sake of greed. But you know what? It happens all the time. This was just another example.

Antoni Capozello Laurelton

Pot problems burn me up

Dear Editor:

The entire rollout of the recreational marijuana program in New York has been a total disaster. In order to obtain a license to sell alcohol, you must undergo a thorough criminal investigation and show no history of doing anything illegal. Yet to get licensed to sell pot, an applicant has to have been arrested. Bizarro world.

Needless to say, the process of opening up legal businesses has been incredibly slow. So why not allow the handful of medicinal mari-

juana stores to sell recreational weed products? They already have everything in place. That could take away some of the customers going to the huge network of illegal vape stores selling unregulated cannabis.

Lee S. Rottenber g Middle Village

Penny was right to act

Dear Editor:

A letter writer to the Chronicle wants justice for Jordan Neely (“Neely was murdered,” June 8). “Neely was being loud and unruly,” he wrote. “He threatened nobody. He touched nobody. He had no weapon.” Rather than “murder” him Daniel Penny should have called 911 and had the police meet them at the next stop to arrest him.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

In other words, be like Daniel Enriquez, who rode the Q train on May 22 last year trying to mind his own business when a man, like Neely ostensibly failed by the system and (it turned out) with a history of violence, was “walking back and forth inside the train car.” That individual touched nobody and apparently had no weapon until he did and without provocation pulled out a gun and fired at the respectfully seated Enriquez at close range as the train crossed the Manhattan Bridge. Enriquez was met, unconscious and unresponsive, by police at the next stop, Canal Street Station and taken to Bellevue Hospital, where he died.

Once upon a time, New Yorkers could routinely rely on heroic, capable, law-abiding young men to step in and defend them against random violence. Such men are now, sadly, few and far between. Those who remain, like Daniel Penny, can count on criminalization, vilification and abuse by a ready cohort of opportunistic virtue signalers.

Edwin Eppich Glendale

Penny protected people

Dear Editor:

Re Robert Vogel’s June 8 letter: “Neely was murdered”:

Jordan Neely and Daniel Penny are both victims of NYC’s dysfunctional criminal justice and mental healthcare systems. Their tragic situation and public reaction to it must be placed in proper perspective.

Neely, a Michael Jackson impersonator, was a moonwalking monster with 42 arrests, including a charge for punching a 67-year-old woman in the head. Penny, a former Marine infantry squad leader, acted as a subway Samaritan trying to save other riders and himself after Neely threatened to kill passengers on that ill-fated F train, said terrified on-scene witnesses speaking to police (New York Post, May 10).

Neely’s misguided mourners claim he didn’t get the help that he needed. Not true. After one of his arrests, a criminal court judge placed Neely in a 15-month-long outpatient psychiatric treatment program, but he left after just a few weeks, violating the terms of his plea deal (CBS News, May 12).

Vogel condemns Penny as an ex-Marine who was “trained to kill,” painting him as a hardened murderer. That’s an insult to all who have served their country in uniform. Speaking as an Air Force veteran (1964-68), I urge all NYC military veterans to rally behind Penny’s legal defense, which has raised nearly $3 million. He deserves the support of all New Yorkers who cherish public safety and deplore violent felons who endanger it.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

The transgender agenda

Dear Editor:

As citizens and grandparents, we are very concerned about what is happening in our country today.

With the new transgender movement on the rise, the very idea of being a boy or girl at birth is being compromised and manipulated to fit an agenda that seriously affects our children.

Sixteen states already have laws that allow young children, who have fallen prey to the scourge, to be scarred for life after having private parts removed without parental permission.

After such irreparable damage, children become depressed and suicidal never to be the same again. But thank God this madness has awoken the traditional middle-class Americans, who have decided to boycott such stores as Target and Kohl’s for selling products that promote this sick agenda. Nonetheless, parents and all citizens should constantly be on the alert to protect our children in every area of public life when this movement rears its ugly head and tries to manipulate them into easy pawns. Hands off our children!

Thomas and Constance Dowd Oakland Gardens

So much killing

Dear Editor:

I am horrified to learn that a total of 250 mass shootings were committed so far this year. There is no respect for human life and no respect or caring and no knowledge of danger.

What happened to society, to the Ten Commandments — thou shall not kill — and to the sanctity of human life? I wonder what motivates mass shootings.

Cynthia Groopman Little Neck

Dangerous divisions

Dear Editor:

The major issue for this nation to confront is its pervasive divisiveness. We have political representatives calling members of the opposition socialists and communists, and representatives of the other party calling members of their opposition fascists and autocrats. Some are publicly disparaging the validity of our elections and condemning the legitimacy of this nation’s federal institutions, laws and practices. Also, it is not uncommon to hear our nation described disjointedly as “red states” and “blue states,” with reckless talk of a new civil war. The prospect of that dire event happening would be this nation’s Armageddon.

However, even though the right to make those statements is protected by our Constitution, a nation divided against itself cannot stand. More than any other factor, this corroding divisiveness will do most to embolden our enemies that this nation is weak.

Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

Four more years!

Dear Editor:

Joe “Gets Things Done” Biden is truly the most effective president of the 21st century! His secret weapon is his skillful use of the art of compromise with leaders like GOP House Speaker Kevin McCarthy. We need four more years of this masterful skill. Biden’s approach to solving very critical issues like debt crisis was sufficient proof.

We Americans are on our way to being ... Great Again!

Anthony G. Pilla Forest Hills

Sewell handcuffed on the job: reports

Sources say police commissioner wasn’t really in charge under Adams

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

She was an outsider nominally given command of a storied organization filled with big egos and fierce factions, and when she had had enough of being stymied and snubbed, she quit.

That’s the consensus among analysts and media outlets as to why NYPD Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, a Queens native, announced her surprise resignation Monday, effective June 30.

She simply had had it with being micromanaged by City Hall, according to reports.

Mayor Adams bristled at the claims, telling reporters that Sewell was brought in to apply her skills to the tasks at hand and did so successfully. When one journalist asked him about the idea that she was restrained in the job, Adams asked if she had told him that, and scoffed when the reporter said only that news reports said so.

But according to those reports, Sewell couldn’t even do routine things like promote officers to detective without getting the permission of the mayor.

Her position had always been weaker than that of her predecessors because Mayor Adams created a deputy mayor for public safety position, filling it with Phil Banks, a retired cop who had served as chief of department, the highest uniformed position in the NYPD, about 10 years ago. Banks’ brother is David Banks, the city schools chancellor.

Sewell is a cop’s cop who chafed at having a buffer between her and the mayor, according to multiple articles and analysts. Some said she really was not the most powerful figure at Police Headquarters due to the intrigue.

Asked for his reaction to the resignation, John Jay College of Criminal Justice professor and former NYPD Sgt. Joseph Giacalone expressed frustration. “To say that I’m disappointed is an understatement, but to say I’m shocked would be a lie,” he said.

Giacalone, who used to live in Howard Beach and Forest Hills, agreed with those who say Sewell was stymied in her efforts to run the Police Department.

“She was undermined the whole way,” he said. “Adams made himself the de facto police commissioner.”

Adams was a cop before going into politics, rising to the rank of captain.

While remaining publicly silent about politics, Sewell only had good words for the police force in a letter announcing her resignation that she sent out Monday, which she addressed to “the women and men of the NYPD.”

“Since I joined you almost a year and a half ago we have faced tremendous tragedy, challenges and triumphs together,” the letter reads, according to multiple media outlets, including the Daily Mail, which said it published the complete text. “I have witnessed your compassion, heroics and selflessness on a daily basis. They have reaffirmed to me, what people around the globe have always known: you are an extraordinary collective of hard working public servants dedicated to the

safety of this city, engaging our communities and sharing what we know with our partners for the benefit of the world.

“You and your predecessors are the reason that the NYPD is known as the gold standard in law enforcement.”

Sewell went on to salute the families of those killed in the line of duty and retired officers who remain involved while telling those on the force that she is acutely aware of the challenges they face. She offers hope that new changes to officers’ schedules will prove beneficial and says she will always be a champion for the people of the city.

“There are people all over this city who want and appreciate you. They want safe streets, transit and housing. They are families, workers, tourists, business owners and students, and they depend on the NYPD,” the Long Island City native wrote. “Please continue to do what you do well to secure this city. Thank you for stepping forward and as always, stay safe. Please.”

Sewell was the city’s first female police commissioner and its third African-American. Before coming to the NYPD she spent her career with the police department in Nassau County, where she lives.

“She was great for women in the department as a role model,” Giacalone said. “She’s got more ... nerve than most of the executive staff in that department.”

Adams only had good words for her in a statement issued after she resigned.

“Her efforts played a leading role in this administration’s tireless work to make New York City safer,” he said. “When we came into office, crime was trending upwards, and thanks to the brave men and women of the

The June 1 photo essay “Woodhaven remembers” lacked credit for the images. They came from Community Board 9’s Facebook page. We regret the omission. Q

NYPD, most of the major crime categories are now down. The commissioner worked nearly 24 hours a day, seven days a week for a year and a half, and we are all grateful for her service. New Yorkers owe her a debt of gratitude.”

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) acknowledged policy differences in her own statement, while saying she empathized with Sewell over race and sex and wished her well.

“I want to thank NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell for her service to New York City,” Adams said. “Commissioner Sewell broke barriers as the first woman, and first Black woman, to lead the largest police force in the country. I empathize with the unique challenges she faced that are so familiar to many of us in positions that have not traditionally been held by those who look like us. Despite differences about NYPD disciplinary policies, we shared a bond and mutual respect as professionals.”

Other than the commissioner, the city’s top cop is Chief of Department Jeffrey Maddrey.

Giacalone said the problem is that now, officers will see whoever is appointed the next commissioner as a figurehead. The only way to avoid that and to restore legitimacy to the commissioner’s position in the eyes of the rank and file, he said, is to name one of the two men who really wield the power to the job: either Phil Banks or Timothy Pearson, another former high-ranking police official who is a good friend and close advisor to Mayor Adams. Q

Primary elections on June 27

continued from page 2

cycle. Avella lost to Paladino in 2021 by a few hundred votes.

City Council District 20

In the borough’s only Republican primary this time around, voters will cast their ballots for either accountant Yu-Ching James Pai or Dany Chen [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com]. Incumbent Councilmember Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) does not have a Democratic challenger on June 27.

City Council District 22

Progressive Councilmember Tiffany Cabán (D-Astoria) is getting a challenge to her right from Charles Castro, an ex-police sergeant and former chief of staff to former Councilman and state Sen. Hiram Monserrate, who was expelled from the Senate in 2010 after being charged with assault and later served 21 months in federal prison for corruption.

City Council District 23

In addition to a challenge from community activist Rubaiya Rahman, Democratic Councilmember Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) is once again squaring off with former Council staffer Steven Beher.

City Council District 25

Councilmember Shekar Krishnan

(D-Jackson Heights) is squaring off with retired NYPD Sergeant Richard Pacheco in the upcoming Democratic primary. Also on the ballot is Fatima Baryab, who ran for the same seat in 2021.

City Council District 26

District 26’s Democratic primary is arguably one of those most contested in the borough. While activist and former MinKwon Center staffer Hailie Kim and Councilmember Julie Won (D-Sunnyside) — both progressives — broadly agree on the issues, voters have not forgetten the controversy Won found herself in last year over the Innovation QNS proposal and her victory in it.

City Council District 29

Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) has two Demoractic opponents this primary season: labor lawyer and Community Board 6 member Ethan Felder and Richmond Hill resident Sukhi Singh [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com].

City Council District 34

Though it is predominantely in Brooklyn, District 34 extends east into Queens and includes parts of Ridgewood. Incumbent Councilmember Jennifer Gutierrez (D-Brooklyn, Queens) is facing off with artist and activist Paperboy Prince, who ran for mayor in 2021 and for New York’s 7th Congressional District in 2022. Q

Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell, third from left, sits with Deputy Mayor for Public Safety Phil Banks, speaking, and other law enforcement and emergency service officials at an online safety briefing held Feb. 24.

PHOTO BY CAROLINE WILLIS / MAYOR’S OFFICE / FILE

Mayor, UFT reach contract agreement

by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor

Mayor Adams and the United Federation of Teachers announced they have reached a tentative five-plus-year contract agreement in a press release on Tuesday.

The tentative agreement will cover approximately 120,000 municipal employees, bringing the total workforce under contract to approximately 66 percent. It is retroactive to Sept. 14, 2022 and expires on Nov. 28, 2027. It conforms to the economic pattern established by the agreement with District Council 37 earlier this year, City Hall said.

The agreement includes wage increases of 3 percent for the first three years of the contract, 3.25 percent in the fourth year and 3.5 percent in the fifth year. Also included is a $3,000 lump sum ratification bonus for all UFT members and an annual retention payment to be paid in May of each year.

Adams said the tentative agreement establishes New York City public schools as the first major school system in the nation to offer an expansive voluntary virtual learning program, ultimately available

to all high school students and some middle school students. It will give access to a broad set of course offerings across the city, and allow students to take classes at nontraditional times, such as evenings and weekends. It is a supplement to, not a substitute for, in-person learning. Virtual classes will be offered through citywide and school-based programs.

In a press statement, Adams said, “Our city’s educators work each and every day to provide a brighter future for our children and our city, and they deserve to be paid a fair wage.” Chancellor David Banks said, “The future of New York City public schools looks brighter today with this collaborative agreement, and I stand shoulder-to-shoulder with all of our educators as we set out on this transformative journey.”

UFT President Michael Mulgrew said, “The city’s public-school educators need to be respected, appropriately paid, and have more autonomy in how they do their jobs. This tentative contract accomplishes all these goals.”

The tentative agreement must now be ratified by UFT’s membership. Q

Street named for Lew Simon

The corner of Beach 116th Street and Rockaway Beach Boulevard was co-named Lew M. Simon Way in honor of the late 23rd Assembly District Democratic leader. Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Howard Beach) organized the co-naming ceremony, held on Sunday, June 11. In a statement on Facebook, Ariola wrote, “With this, his name will forever live on, allowing future generations on the peninsula to remember the many contributions he made to make Rockaway a better place for all!”

Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato (D-Queens) was among the event attendees. She praised his work in a statement to the Chronicle — and alluded to his driven

personality. “I never knew a man I could admire and love so much, but also want to slap in the head. Lew was one of a kind, and I miss him every day.”

Anthony Acevedo Kellenberg Memorial High School

Julian Bravo

Archbishop Molloy High School

Emma Bridgemohan

Archbishop Molloy High School

Bella Cabeza

Archbishop Molloy High School

Hailey Campos

Archbishop Molloy High School

Francesco Casillo

Xaverian High School

Annabella Chinosi Kellenberg Memorial High School

Alexa Chirico Kellenberg Memorial High School

Nickolas DeFino

Archbishop Molloy High School

Christian Deliote

Archbishop Molloy High School

Gemma DeSanti

St. Francis Preparatory School

Nicholas Hermann

Christ the King High School

Hailey Limitone

Kellenberg Memorial High School

Jack Lombardo

Archbishop Molloy High School with Academic Scholarship

Arielle Lopez

Christ the King High School with Partial Academic Scholarship

John Magna

Archbishop Molloy High School with Partial Academic Scholarship

Alessia Mohan

Archbishop Molloy High School

Emma Perlicki

Archbishop Molloy High School

Gia Piccirillo

St. Francis Preparatory School

Matthew Pineda

Archbishop Molloy High School with Academic Scholarship

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) also attended the event. In a statement to the Chronicle, he too lauded Simon’s work for the community, adding, “It was typical of Lew to be a guest at my wedding in 1998, run against me in 2001 and thereafter support me for every following election. He is very deserving of the street co-naming honor, and I hope that when people see the sign it will bring to their mind the good times they had with Lew and the good that he did for others.” — Kristen

Gabriela Rivera

Guglielmo

Valedictorian Kellenberg Memorial High School

Alice Rodriguez

Archbishop Molloy High School

Lila Scheinberg

St. Francis Preparatory School

Rhea Singh

St. Francis Preparatory School

Julia Spadaccini

St. Francis Preparatory School

Amy Valic Salutatorian

Edward R. Murrow High School

Katelyn Vargas

Archbishop Molloy High School

NYPD PHOTO; INSET, PHOTO BY DOMENICK RAFTER / FILE

Organic compost bills to mandate collection

Council directs DSNY to have entire city participating by end of 2024

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The City Council overwhelmingly passed a package of sanitation-related bills on June 8, including legislation that would mandate that New Yorkers separate food waste from their trash to be composted via curbside collection.

Though Mayor Adams announced earlier this year that the city’s curbside compost program will be unveiled in all five boroughs by the end of 2024, his plan is an opt-in program; the City Council’s is not.

Enforcement provisions still would need to be worked out. Yard waste is not covered by the new legislation.

“With the passage of the Zero Waste Act, the New York City Council has taken a critical step forward to achieving the sustainable future New Yorkers deserve,” Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) said in a press release issued by her office on June 8.

“Through increased access to composting and recycling sites, all New Yorkers will now be able to

participate more equitably in our collective goal of diverting all recyclables and organic waste from landfills and incinerators by 2023,” Speaker Adams added.

The DSNY is required to notify Mayor Adams and the speaker by July 1 as to how it will implement such a program; details of the outreach and education program; how

the department intends to distribute the necessary materials, including rodent-proof collection bins, at no cost to residential building owners; and a set timeline for such distribution.

A spokesperson for Councilwoman Shahana Hanif (D-Brooklyn), who sponsored the mandatory composting bill, told the Chronicle in an email that the DSNY must have curbside programs set up in at least 30 of its collection districts by this coming Oct. 2. The rest must be set up by Oct. 7, 2024.

The dates roughly coincide with those in Mayor Adams’ voluntary program.

The DSNY also is required to develop outreach and educational materials and post those on its website “to inform residents about the program and instruct residents on how to properly source separate organic waste.”

Queens co-sponsors included Speaker Adams and Councilmembers Jim Gennaro (D-Hillcrest), Tiffany Cabán (D-Astoria), Sandra Ung (D-Flushing), Shekar

Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights), Francisco Moya (Corona), Bob Holden (D-Maspeth), Nantasha Williams (St. Albans) and Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills).

It is not known if Mayor Adams will sign the measures, but The New York Times has quoted City Council sources as saying the body has enough votes to override him in the event of a veto.

Ever since talk of mandates became known, many questions have been asked about how large apartment buildings and condominium or co-op residents with large numbers of units could be accommodated in order to safely store such large amounts of organic food waste between collection days.

The DSNY has said that such building complexes already have recepticles for things like trash and recycling; so there would only be a need to separate recycling material differently within the same space and same number of containers. Q Sophie Krichevsky contributed to this story.

Upon July departure for UJA role, lawmaker sets up competitive race Rosenthal to resign from state Assembly

by Sophie Krichevsky

Associate Editor

Assemblyman Daniel Rosenthal (D-Flushing) will resign his post this summer to take a position with the United Jewish Appeal-Federation of New York, the organization confirmed Tuesday afternoon. His early exit sets the table for what could be a close special election.

Rosenthal officially announced his upcoming departure from the Assembly “with a mix of emotions” in a statement Wednesday.

“After much contemplation I have come to the conclusion that it is time for me to embark upon a new chapter,” he said.

Rosenthal will serve as the UJA’s vice president of government relations, according to a press release from the organization. The move was first reported Tuesday by The Forward.

Rosenthal took office in 2017 after winning a special election to replace the late Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz, and at the time was the Assembly’s youngest member. Since then, Rosenthal — an Orthodox Jew himself — has championed issues like anti-Semitism and hate crimes while working to secure funding for schools, libraries and more.

Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie (D-Bronx) wished Rosenthal luck in a statement to the Chronicle. “We will certainly be sad to see Daniel go,” he said. “He was a true public servant and a team player, ensuring Queens was

represented in the big decisions being made in Albany while also making his district a better place for his constituents.”

Ricky Malone, Rosenthal’s chief of staff, told the Chronicle the assemblyman’s last day in office will be “toward the end of July,” but did not give a specific date.

That becomes important when it comes to scheduling a special election for the seat. According to the state Constitution — and as both Heastie’s office and a spokesperson for the state Board of Elections confirmed — Gov. Hochul must issue a proclamation setting the date of the special election within 10 days of the departure. That date must be within 70 to 80 days of the proclamation. Due to the short window, parties would nominate candidates as opposed to holding primary elections.

Under that timeline, were Rosenthal to resign on July 31, the latest an election could be held is Oct. 29, which is a Sunday; a spokesperson for the BOE said the board tries to schedule special elections on Tuesdays. Even if the clock were put in motion earlier, Assembly District 27 would legally need to have a special election before general munici-

pal elections on Nov. 7.

The race to replace Rosenthal is likely to be a competitve one, and could even result in the seat being flipped. The district, which includes Kew Gardens Hills, Flushing, College Point and Whitestone, has become increasingly conservative in recent years. As an extensive report by the Chronicle showed, Rosenthal overwhelmingly won election districts in Kew Gardens Hills and near Queens College —

ones where former Rep. Lee Zeldin, the Republican gubernatorial candidate, far outperformed Hochul.

While special elections, especially in an off year, often have low turnout, St. John’s University political science professor and analyst Brian Browne said, “Anything could happen ... particularly in Queens.”

Still, he noted the district has had a history of showing up for special elections.

Who will run for the seat is an open question. While Browne would not name names, he suspected that a “Daniel Rosenthal type of Democrat” could potentially do well, and that often, former political staffers or state committee members step up to the plate. Neither New York Democratic Committee Chair Jay Jacobs nor District 27 Committeeman Jeffery Kohn responded to requests for comment.

On the Republican side, things are slightly more clear: Stefano Forte, who ran for state Senate in the area last year and is managing Councilmember Vickie Paladino’s (R-Whitestone) re-election bid, told the Chronicle that “nothing is off the table,” though he said he needs to confer with family members and advisors. Q

Assemblyman Daniel Rosenthal will resign from his postion in late July to take a role with the UJA Federation.

PHOTO BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY

The DSNY already is collecting organic waste from Queens residents who place it curbside. By the end of next year it will be mandatory throughout the five boroughs.

PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON

Clean Slate bill now on Hochul’s desk

Most criminal records would be sealed from employers, landlords

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Companion bills that would seal most criminal records in the state after prescribed time limits were passed in Albany last Friday night, sending it to Gov. Hochul’s desk.

The Clean Slate Act would seal most misdemeanor convictions three years after an individual’s release from incarceration or imposition of sentence where there was no incarceration. Most felonies, including some violent ones, would be sealed eight years after release.

A press release issued by the state Senate said in order to be eligible, an individual cannot have a pending criminal charge, and must not be under supervision of parole or probation departments.

The Senate statement said class A felonies for which the maximum sentence could be life in prison also are not eligible. Neither are any crimes that would require registration as a sex offender.

Supporters say the measures, if signed into law by Hochul, will alleviate major hurdles for people with criminal records looking for work and places to live. Opponents are calling it procriminal legislation

“There are millions of people across the state who have served their sentences, completed parole, and are now ready to move on with their lives,” said Assemblywoman Cata-

lina Cruz (D-Corona), who sponsored the Assembly measure. “I am proud to have sponsored this legislation that gives them the opportunity to start a new chapter. Who can argue against giving someone a second chance when they’ve already paid their dues to society?”

Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt (R-Lockport) said the bill is an example of state Democratic leadership being out of touch with the electorate.

“Instead of taking steps to address the most important issues, Albany Democrats spent the final days of session passing more pro-criminal and unaffordable legislation,” Ortt said on his official Twitter account. “Demonstrating to New Yorkers exactly why One-Party Rule doesn’t work, and how out of touch they truly are.”

Hochul’s office, in an email on Monday, said

the chief executive “is reviewing the legislation.”

The law would allow release of sealed information to courts and prosecutors during a new case; law enforcement officers conducting ongoing investigations; any entity that is required by state or federal law to conduct a fingerprint-based background check; or any entity conducting a check-in which a job applicant would be working with children, the elderly or vulnerable adults.

Information also would be available to a licensing officer who is processing a firearms license application.

A spokesman for state Senate Democrats told the Chronicle in an email that the rules will apply to the Legislature as well.

“We’re not exempt,” he wrote.

The spokesman said the law should have no impact on people wishing to apply for marijua-

na retail licenses that are reserved for those who have past marijuana convictions.

“[T]his shouldn’t have an impact on people who apply for cannabis licenses, since people whose records are sealed can always access their own records,” the spokesman said. “We accounted for this in the expungement statutes in 2019 and 2021 as well.”

Under state law, Hochul has until Dec. 31 to sign or veto legislation passed in a given calendar year.

Queens co-sponsors of the bills include Sens. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Kristen Gonzalez (D-Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan), John Liu (D-Bayside), Jessica Ramos (D-Jackson Heights) and Julia Salazar (D-Brooklyn, Queens).

Assembly co-sponsors include Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria), Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens), Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park), Andrew Hevesi (D-Forest Hills), Jeffrion Aubry (Corona), David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows), Ron Kim (D-Flushing), Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica), Clyde Vanel (D-Queens Village), Juan Ardila (D-Sunnyside) and Steven Raga (D-Maspeth).

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) approved the bills in a statement on June 2, saying it would present opportunities for more than 2 million people. Q

State Sen. Sanders implores her to sign it for a more ‘equal America’ Reparations bill on Gov. Hochul’s desk

by Naeisha Rose Associate Editor

If signed into law by Gov. Hochul, a reparations bill that passed in the state Legislature last week would make New York the second state to have such a measure.

State Senate bill S1163A, and its Assembly counterpart A7691, made it through both chambers with votes of 41-21 and 106-41, respectively.

The bill, which was introduced by state Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park), would establish a New York State Community Commission to study reparations remedies for African Americans who are descendants of slaves. Once an analysis into the generational impacts of slavery and segregation in New York is completed, the commission would formulate an approach to compensate for the damages.

The deadline for the bill to be signed is Dec. 31, according to the senator.

“The idea of reparations has been around the nation since 1866, where the enslaved people have been calling for back pay,” Sanders told the Chronicle. “They have been calling to be made whole.”

Despite promises from the country to provide the formerly enslaved with 40 acres and a mule and other forms of compensation, those assurances fell by the wayside, Sanders said.

State Sen. James Sanders Jr.’s reparations bill passed the Legislature. It will only need a signature from Gov. Hochul to become law. FILE PHOTO

“This contributed to the current conditions we have in America,” Sanders said. “Two hundred years of slavery and then there were another 100 years of Jim Crow, a type of apartheid. This was slavery by other means. Slavery by another name and the people had few rights and very little chance in making it in an unequal America.”

While the civil rights movement helped to overthrow Jim Crow in the 1960s, the senator said that when measuring quality of life across the board, Black people are not equal to their white counterparts.

“Blacks are not only not equal to whites, they are indeed going backwards,” said the senator. “There is a gap in health, wealth — all of these disparities are getting wider and wider. The nation needs to resolve this matter by making the descendants whole. Reparations — to repair ... That is the nature of

reparations.”

Sanders said he believes there can be a more just and fair America.

If the law is enacted, the study should be completed one year after the commission has its first meeting.

“In the meantime, I will be imploring the governor that New York can do this and indeed must do this,” he said.

A spokesman for the governor said that she will review the legislation.

Sanders said the commission would ultimately decide what the reparations will be and that it probably won’t just be money.

“The problem is not simply money,” he said. “There may be a check involved, but we also have to look at what can we do to create Black wealth. Does that mean we have to help Black people buy a home or buy a business? Does that mean we have to work on healing the education system? Does that mean we have to work on the environmental factors that the people are living under that creates havoc in their lives and shortens their lives? There are a lot of possibilities to ensure we have an equal America ... It’s about the equality of opportunity. It’s not that anyone is being given a handout, but a hand up.”

Sanders said with the science of DNA and tax records, it would be easy to determine who is the descendant of a slave.

“Even before the enslaved were considered people, they were considered property and as property they were taxed,” he said. “Tax records would be able to determine what period did people get to America.”

When asked about descendants who live in different states or whose ancestors left the country generations ago, the senator said that the commission would have a difficult decision to make.

“That’s a good question,” Sanders said. “Let’s be clear. No one thing will solve all problems. Ultimately, the money of New Yorkers is not endless ... Hard decisions will have to be made ... If a choice is made between giving money to people who stayed and giving money to people who left I would not like to be the one to make that choice personally.”

If signed, the bill will be in league with the incredibly flawed but great people who wrote the Constitution, Sanders said.

“We will be in the tradition of the greatest people in America like Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Adams and Tom Paine — all of these great people who wrote these incredible words that the country has yet to live up to,” he said. “We will be completing the goals of the Civil War, which is not just to end slavery ... but to make people true citizens. This is an American struggle. This is a struggle to make an America that is an America for everyone.” Q

Gov. Hochul now has a decision to make on Clean Slate legislation.

PHOTO BY KEVIN P. COUGHLIN / NYS GOV. OFFICE / FILE

Democrats line up for Queens DA primary

Incumbent, challengers have different views of what reform should look like

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

In 2019, Melinda Katz won the Democratic nomination for Queens district attorney by a mere 55 votes over carer public defender and now Councilwoman Tiffany Cabán (D-Astoria), who ran to Katz’s left.

Four years, a pandemic, criminal justice reform and large spikes in crime later, Katz is being challenged from her right by fellow Democrat George Grasso, a retired Queens supervisory criminal court judge and retired NYPD official.

In a 180-degree turn from four years go, Grasso is running to Katz’s right on a law-and-order platform.

tions, many based on testimony from police officers later found to have committed perjury or falsified documents.

Katz largely supports many of the bail and other criminal justice reforms that were passed in Albany back in 2019, though she told the Chronicle that New York needs to give judges the latitude to weigh a defendant’s potential dangerousness to the community, which judges in all 49 other states have.

Queens votes

Also on the ballot is defense attorney and former judicial candidate Devian Daniels, who is running to Katz’s left in a call to reform the prosecutor’s office.

The winner will face Republican Michael Mossa in the general election in November.

Katz is running on a number of changes and reforms she has made in the DA’s Office since taking over in January 2020.

Expansions within the office include a Violent Crime Enterprise Bureau that targets guns and gang activity. She initiated a Conviction Review Unit which she told the Chronicle this spring had found 99 cases of improper convic-

Grasso, whose duties during his NYPD career included investigating and prosecuting fellow police officers, has accused Katz of refusing to acknowledge increases in crime that have taken place in the last two years. He also has repeatedly said on the campaign trail that the incumbent has ignored quality-of-life issues. Grasso says his office would prosecute things such as fare beating, with the aim of stopping small problems before they become big ones.

He salo promised a robust community outreach program.

Daniels’ website speaks of her desire to implement criminal justice reform in the office but offers few specifics.

Katz’s political endorsements include those of U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY); U.S. Reps. Grace Meng (D-Flushing);

Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) and Nydia Velazquez (D-Brooklyn, Queens);

Borough President Donovan Richards and 10 members of the City Council from Queens.

The two dozen supportive labor unions listed on her campaign website include the United Federation of Teachers; the Uniformed Firefighters Association; the New York Court Officers Association; the Teamsters representing city sanitation workers; the Allied Building Inspectors; the Retail and Department Store Workers Union; 1199 SEIU, representing healthcare workers; the United Food and Commercial Workers; and a dozen building and construction trade unions and locals.

Grasso’s endorsements include those of former NYPD Commissioner Bill Bratton; the Uniformed Fire Officers Association; the Asian Wave Alliance; crime victim advocates Madeline Brame and Jennifer Harrison; and a number of organizations representing retired law enforcement officers.

Grasso and Paul Graziano, a Democratic pri-

mary candidate in the 19th Council District, also have cross-endorsed each other.

Daniels said she has not sought or gotten any endorsement that she is aware of.

Katz also has had a distinct advantage in fundraising.

Financial disclosure records show her to have more than $1.15 million in the bank on her 32-day preprimary financial report.

Grasso had just under $51,000 left. Katz outspent Grasso $476,000 to $344,000 since the previous reporting period.

The Chronicle could not find any record of Daniels’ fundraising.

Primary day is Tuesday, June 27. Early voting runs from June 17 to 25. Q

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz, left, retired criminal court judge and NYPD official George Grasso and attorney Devian Daniels will be on the ballot June 27. PHOTOS BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE / FILE AND, RIGHT, FILE PHOTO

Mayor’s ‘Community Conversation’ series continues in World’s Boro Adams talks floods, housing in Flushing

by Stephanie G. Meditz Chronicle Contributor

Mayor Adams spoke with constituents in Flushing for his second round of Community Conversations at the Al Oerter Recreaction Center Monday as part of his “Talk with Eric” series of neighborhood-specific discussions. Nearly 250 attendees were divided into tables, and each group discussed their concerns internally and devised one question for Adams.

The mayor addressed concerns about the city’s housing crisis, flood protection and Willets Point-Flushing Meadows developments, including the New York City Football Club stadium and a possible casino next to Citi Field, and more with a panel featuring Borough President Donovan Richards and Councilmember Sandra Ung (D-Flushing).

Asked about the housing shortage, Adams said residential projects in the city are “dependent on Albany.” He added that legislators failed to pass Gov. Hochul’s housing compact to build 800,000 homes over the next decade and extend 421a, which grants property tax exemptions to developers for constructing less expensive housing.

“We’re still going to ... do what we have to do to get a shovel in the ground, but it’s going to take even longer without that housing proposal that the governor put in place,” he said.

In light of the controversy about a possible

casino in the Citi Field parking lot, which is parkland and part of Flushing Meadows Corona Park, constituents asked about “the importance of public lands for public use and how that model is going to be used in the redevelopment of the Willets Point area.”

“We are really pushing the use of public space ... I think that’s so important to determine how that space is going to be used,” Adams said. “The more open space we have, the more public space, the more parks ... the

more we hear from you in utilizing these spaces, I believe it creates the right environment for our city.”

Attendees expressed concern about traffic congestion on Roosevelt Avenue in Flushing. Department of Transportation First Deputy Commissioner Margaret Forgione responded that the DOT is working on improved and alternative forms of transit, including Citi Bike.

One resident said “the community feels that there’s a bit of a target” on residents’ backs

when it comes to speed cameras, suggesting they are used as “a way of ... getting more funding for the city.”

“Speed cameras save lives,” Adams replied, citing a decrease in serious physical injuries in areas with them installed.

Co-op owners expressed concerns about Local Law 97, which will enforce limits on greenhouse gas emissions with fines in 2024, followed by stricter measures in 2030. Compliance with the law will weigh heavily on co-op owners’ wallets, as it may require them to retrofit appliances.

Department of Environmental Protection Commissioner Rit Aggarwala said that, while building owners must prioritize decarbonization, the city will implement the law “in a way that doesn’t bankrupt” residents. He said the DEP is working on a set of regulations to guide building owners to comply with the law, as well as an interagency approach to add new financing mechanisms to help buildings come into compliance over time.

The DEP is also devising a citywide stormwater resilience strategy with green infrastructure. Hurricane Ida devastated Queens in 2021 and, according to Aggarwala, doubled the amount of rain that the city’s sewers can handle in one hour. Low sewer capacity and low elevation make Flushing especially prone to flood-

continued on page 23

Almost 250 people headed to the Al Oerter Recreation Center in Flushing for a “Community Conversation” with Mayor Adams, flanked by officials, on Monday night. PHOTO BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ

No street spots for car dealers

A new bill rolling off the assembly line in Queens would make it illegal for car dealers to park vehicles up for sale in the street, and would take the same route for those autos awaiting or undergoing repairs.

The bill is meant to halt “curbstoning,” the term for dealers parking cars on the street and advertising them for sale as if they were just individuals looking to part with their old jalopies. Authored by Councilmembers Sandra Ung (D-Flushing) and Francisco Moya (D-Corona), it was introduced at the Council’s June 8 meeting.

The measure would require cars for sale

Crime report

continued from page 4

“We’re down on violence and shootings, but we’re still struggling with property crimes, such as grand larceny,” Maldonado shared.

For preventative measures, Maldonado urged residents to never leave their car unlocked with the key in the ignition, and also suggested Apple AirTags.

“It can track your car. I have one. It’s $29. Throw it under your seat or in your glovebox. It’s the easiest way to know where your car is and you’ll be able to find it right away.”

to have a placard showing the dealer’s name, address, license number and contact information. Illegally parked vehicles could be hauled away and would not be released until fees for towing and storage are paid. Both lawmakers said they get many complaints about curbstoning and issued statements saying parking is for the people. Parking is at a premium, and available spots are “meant to be used by city residents, not as overflow space for car dealership to make repairs or advertise their cars to prospective buyers,” Ung said. Q

— Peter C. Mastrosimone

B SPORTS EAT

Abysmal in Atlant a

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Most Mets fans came into the 2023 season accepting the notion the Atlanta Braves were a better team than their Flushing heroes. Yes, the Mets did lead the National League East for most of last year, Saturday, June 24 until they were swept in a three-game series by the Braves in Atlanta the last weekend of the season. Frankly, it felt as if the Braves were toying with the Mets until it really counted. It is a movie Mets fans have seen many times before.

hurler Charlie Morton. It was not intentional. The bottom line, however, is Alonso is now out of action, and the timeline for recovery is three to four weeks. Don’t be surprised if Alonso does not return until after the All-Star Game break.

Judging by the dour mood of Mets fans calling into sports talk radio stations, as well as the commentary on social media, this is the lowest ebb since Steve Cohen purchased the team.

She also stressed the importance of keeping homes safe through security cameras, like Ring doorbell systems or even a dog. “Don’t discuss money or jewelry with anyone. They’re looking for easy targets, so let’s not be one,” Maldonado warned.

As of now, five officers from each precinct will be relocated to Rockaway Beach for patrol, as well as one sergeant from the 102nd Precinct.

Residents at the town hall expressed dismay at losing officers in their neighborhoods, concerned that crime might increase as a result.

There is a second beach assignment in mid-June, so the NYPD may send more officers to the beach during that time. Q

Flushing hears from Adams

continued from page 22

ing. Rainfall Ready NYC includes flood maps to predict addresses of severe flooding and free flood barriers for eligible homeowners, Aggarwala explained. The response did not appear to resonate with the audience, who remained silent.

Asked about the city’s homeless and mental health crisis, Adams noted a “noticeable difference” in streets and subways since he took office, which he attributed to his plan to remove encampments and involuntarily hospitalize unhoused, mentally ill people.

Adams said that “all the major crimes

[are] moving in the right direction” under the leadership of NYPD Commissioner Keechant Sewell, whose resignation became public just hours before Monday’s event.

Asked about class size mandates and asylum seekers in schools, Adams said that Albany’s demand to cap kindergarten to third-grade classes at 20, middle school classes at 23 and high school classes at 25 is an “unfunded mandate” that complicates compliance. He said the city will construct new facilities to accommodate students and enforce the mandate if needed. Q

The Mets returned to Atlanta last week for the first time since that end-of-season debacle. They were coming off a three-game sweep at the hands of the Toronto Blue Jays at Citi Field, so you could not blame Mets fans if they were merely rooting for their heroes to just win one game in Georgia. Alas, that was too high a bar.

While getting swept by the Braves again was upsetting for the Flushing faithful, what really stung was how the Mets blew leads of three runs or more in each game. Even the yardstick of baseball ineptitude, the 1962 Mets, had never done that. The starting pitching was abysmal, the bullpen even worse. Once again, Mets fans were left with the feeling the Braves were deliberately letting them take leads for the sadistic pleasure of breaking their hearts in the last inning.

Adding injury to insult, Pete Alonso suffered a deep wrist bruise on a pitch thrown by Braves

A reader in Lake Worth, Fla., Barry Cogan, contacted me recently about a more upbeat Queens baseball story: the 65th anniversary of Martin Van Buren High School winning the PSAL baseball championship.

“I grew up in Bayside. Martin Van Buren had just opened, and Cardozo had not yet been built so I was zoned to go there. I was a third baseman on the team, but I was on the bench for the championship game against Staten Island’s Curtis High School. They were a perennial powerhouse. Former major leaguers Bobby Thomson, Frank Fernandez and Terry Crowley went there.”

Cogan added a fascinating trivia note. “The game was played at Ebbets Field. The Dodgers left for LA the previous year. Our rightfielder, Rich Ruffino, hit the last homer in Ebbets Field history!” Cogan said. That 1958 championship remains the only PSAL championship for Martin Van Buren in any sport.

Q

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

New York’s Bravest honor Queens heroes

Dogged determination, tremendous teamwork and high-wire high-rise rescues

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Ten FDNY firefighters and EMS workers who either live or work in Queens were among those honored at Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park on June 7 at the New York City Fire Department’s annual Medal Day ceremony.

The awards were presented for acts of heroism or extraordinary performance of duty in 2022. All photos and citations are from the official Medal Day program book.

No reply

Engine Co. 310 of Jamaica was returning from a call at 6:18 p.m. on April 14 when the crew was dispatched to a house fire with people reportedly trapped inside.

Black smoke was billowing from the front door upon their arrival when residents on the front lawn confirmed Lt. Martin Murphy’s worst fear, telling him two people hadn’t made it out.

Heading inside as a hose was being set up, Murphy discovered an unconscious adult behind the door. As he started to move the victim he heard “I’m in here,” from deep inside the house.

With no other units yet on scene, Murphy turned the man over to FF Julio Andrade to begin medical treatment. Re-entering the building alone, Murphy called out to the second victim from the living room, but this time got no reply. Searching in heavy flames, Murphy found the semiconsious victim, who was elderly and disabled. He soon encountered FF Michael Rauer of Engine Co. 150, and the two brought the man out.

Both victims survived. Murphy was awarded the Michael J. Delehanty Medal for distinguished service in the line of duty.

with a portable extinguisher and FF John Mulder with the irons to a smoke-engulfed thirdfloor hallway with searing heat. They made their way to the burning apartment where they also were greeted by massive amounts of clutter and no visibility.

Andres attacked the fire while Walter and Mulder crawled off in search of victims. Walter found a disabled elderly woman and got her out with the help of FFs Roger Buck and Brendan Tracey, who had forced their way in through a third-floor bedroom window. Still with no active hose lines, Andres placed himself between the fire and the rescue team to cover their retreat with the patient.

His water can now empty, Andres struck out on his own, finding a child in a bedroom and getting his patient out through spreading flames to EMS personnel in the hallway. He then went back to assist Buck, who had gone back in and found another child wedged between a bed and a wall.

Walter received the Company Officers Association Medal and Andres the Edith B. Goldman Medal. Buck was awarded the Chief Joseph B. Martin Medal.

No time to wait

As Engine Co. 275 of South Jamaica responded to a house fire on the evening of Sept. 16, Capt. James Spencer saw the first floor already was heavily engulfed by fire.

It was about to get worse.

As hose lines were being set up, two frantic residents told Spencer their mother was trapped inside.

With no other units yet on-site, Spencer went in alone, immediately encountering fire in an open living room with no doorway to close it off. He pushed past in blinding smoke, groping his way deep into the first floor before radioing that he had found the unconscious woman in a bathroom.

Spencer maneuvered the woman toward the front door while shielding her from the flames and intense heat before meeting up with FF James Hayden of Ladder 133, who helped get her out to the street. Spencer was awarded the Albert S. Johnston Medal.

Change of plan

search-and-rescue mission.

Seeing flames from the burning room starting to close in on a staircase to the attic, Travis opened another bedroom door, assessing that another hose line would be needed through the smoke-filled room.

In “a moment of floor-level visibility,” Travis recognized the bottom of two wheelchair wheels, calling into his radio that he had found the unconscious woman.

He carried her outside and performed medical treatment until EMS personnel arrived, earning the Shelly Rothman Memorial Medal for valor.

With elevators out, firefighters climbed 21 and 19 flights of stairs, respectively, to position themselves in the apartments directly above and below the fire.

Koranteng was the first to be lowered down. Absent anything more solid on which to tie off the rope, the decision was made to secure it to FF Christian Wellinger and a metal door frame. Koranteng immediately realized that one victim was only being held up by a child guard window gate in which she was entangled, and that the others still needed help.

Right place, right time

A car accident near the Cross Bay Bridge in the early morning hours of Oct. 29 pinned a woman inside a burning car.

The first call for help came from EMTs Michael Cavanagh and Thomas Langford of Station 47 on Beach 49th Street, who were riding in their ambulance when they heard a loud bang. They noticed a large debris field and a smashed car spewing black smoke.

Cavanagh rushed to the woman’s aid while Langford tried to hold the engine fire at bay with an extinguisher. Noxious smoke began filling the badly damaged passenger compartment when the woman told Cavanagh her leg was pinned and she could not get out.

Langford had to use a second fire extinguisher as the blaze began to encroach on the passenger compartment. Cavanagh and an offduty NYPD officer freed the woman just before car became engulfed. She then was taken to an area hospital. Cavanagh and Langford were awarded the EMT Tracy Allen-Lee Medal.

Out of options

The FDNY calls it the rescue of last resort.

The decision was made to lower Podgorski, secured mostly by FF Julian Castaneda.Koranteng held the woman while Podgorski secured her. Koranteng was then lowered to the 19th floor window, but when the woman’s rescue proved more difficult that anticipated, Podgorski was pulled back up and lowered in a better position, this time joined by FF Darren Harsch. Once she was free, she and Podgorski were lowered to the 19th floor.

Harsch and FF Adam Nordenschild rescued the remaining victims. All, along with Lt. Christopher DiGiulio and FF John Petito, were honored on June 7.

“ ... expect a delay of water.”

The computer’s description was all too clear to Lt. Christopher Walter of Ladder Co. 108 in Brooklyn on May 18.

Because of the location of an eight-story building — far back from the street — the lack of a standpipe and the location of available fire hydrants, “units should expect a delay in water.”

There also were “credible reports” that people were trapped inside

Walter, a Rockway Park resident, led the inside team with FF Joseph Andres of Bayside

Companies racing to a St. Albans house fire on Sept. 20 were informed en route that a wheelchair-bound resident lived on the second floor. Engine Co. 317 arrived to see black smoke pouring from a second-story window.

That’s when FF Kevin Travis’ foray inside the burning building to secure and maintain hose lines for an interior attack quickly became a

And on Nov. 5, when three residents of a high rise were hanging out of a window with fire to their backs, New York’s Bravest employed a rope rescue 200 feet above a Manhattan street.

FF Artur Podgorski, a Whitestone resident, would earn the Chief of Department Peter J. Ganci Jr. Medal for bravery — the highest honor a member of the FDNY can receive — and with it the New York State Honorary Fire Chiefs Association Medal.

FF Belvon Koranteng, of Briarwood, was honored with the Henry D. Brookman Medal. Both men were working the day with Ladder Co. 16 but normally are with different units.

Six other firefighters also were decorated for their part on the rescue.

Double rescue

Members of Ladder Co. 117 in Astoria knew the three-story apartment building they were heading to on Dec. 29 wasn’t fireproof.

Upon arrival, Lt. Donald Schmidt had his forcible entry team assist Engine Co. 312 personnel in opening the door to the burning apartment. Once that was successful, the intense heat forced all down to the floor. Hearing a man gasping for breath inside, Schmidt headed in and got to a small bedroom where he found two elderly brothers on the floor semiconscious. He removed one of the men to the hallway and headed back. Knowing FF Joseph Greco Jr. had entered through a window, Schmidt directed him to the second victim, then assisted with the rescue. Once outside Greco helped restore the man’s breathing.

Schmidt received the Commissioner Edward Thompson Medal for outstanding courage. Greco was awarded the Columbia Association Medal. Q

Lt. Martin Murphy

Lt. Christopher Walter FF Joseph Andres

Capt. James Spencer

FF Kevin Travis

EMT Thomas Langford

EMT Michael Cavanagh

FF Artur Podgorski FF Belvon Koranteng

Lt. Donald Schmidt FF Joseph Greco Jr.

FDNY names medal for Capt. Russo-Elling

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

A new decoration named for a murdered New York City EMS officer was presented on June 7 at the FDNY’s annual Medal Day ceremony, held at Arthur Ashe Stadium.

Capt. Alison Russo-Elling, 61, had been with the FDNY nearly 25 years when she was attacked on an Astoria street corner on Sept. 29, 2022, and stabbed repeatedly in a brutal, unprovoked assault. She was rushed to a nearby hospital and pronounced dead. The Sept. 11 first responder was posthumously promoted from lieutenant to captain.

The Captain Alison Russo North Star Medal was awarded to EMS Capt. Edgar Baez, the commanding officer of Emergency Medical Dispatch when Russo-Elling was attacked, who coordinated the EMS, fire and NYPD response while piecing together calls and fragments of radio calls. Baez is a 26-year member of the service.

“In this case, his instincts, knowledge and extensive experience as an officer who leads from the front were greatly appreciated,” according to the citation in the

COMPREHENSIVE

Medal Day program [see separate story in some editions or at qchron.com]. The medal recognizes “an FDNY EMS officer who, in the performance of duty, performs an act of distinguished bravery and stamina under averse or extreme conditions.”

The medal is endowed by retired Deputy Chief Zachary Goldfarb in recognition of Russo-Elling, “who through her service to the citizens of New York City, exemplified leadership through responsibility, tenacity, resilience, decisiveness, compassion and courage.” Q

Pride flag torn down at Douglaston church

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

The Rev. Lindsay Lunnum of Zion Episcopal Church in Douglaston arrived at the church early Saturday morning, only to find that the flag the parish had raised for Pride Month had been torn down.

“Most of it had been ripped off,” Lunnum told the Chronicle, noting it appeared to have been “kind of crudely ripped, like, with a key or something.”

“I’m not entirely shocked, but disappointed,” she said.

Lunnum attributed her sentiment to the recent wave of anti-transgender legislation across the country and increasing obstacles to gender-affirming care.

“It’s in the air,” she added.

While saddened by the incident, Lunnum had an easy, short-term solution: She put up a sign that reads, “Last night, someone tore down our Pride flag. We have ordered a new one because we fervently believe that God loves you, no expections!”

The sign, she said, was well-received by people who attended the church’s

strawberry festival Saturday afternoon.

“The vandalism is actually another opportunity to speak up and to stand up,” Lunnum said.

The parish did not order just one more Pride flag — it ordered five.

“We’ll just keep flying them,” Lunnum said. “If it happens again, we’ll just put more out.”

She added that while she had not contacted the NYPD’s 111th Precinct, she will if the problem persists. Q

WOMEN'S IMAGING

EMS Capt. Edgar Baez, left, received the first-ever medal from the FDNY named in memory of Capt. Alison Russo-Elling, who was slain on duty. PHOTOS COURTESY FDNY

Douglaston’s Zion Episcopal Church made a sign after its Pride flag was vandlized.

PHOTO COURTESY ALEXIS SOTERAKIS

Incumbent, two Dem challengers and GOP nominee face off online Education, health top 29th CD debate

by Stephanie G. Meditz Chronicle Contributor

City Council District 29 candidates joined APA VOICE on Zoom last Thursday to discuss issues ranging from the city budget to mental health, immigration and the old Rockaway Beach rail line.

Democratic candidates Ethan Felder and Sukhjinder Singh are challenging the incumbent Councilmember Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills) in the primary election on June 27.

The winner will run against Republican candidate Danniel Maio, who was not present for questions until the end of the forum, in the general election on Nov. 7.

Originally scheduled to take place in-person in Richmond Hill, the forum went virtual in light of the unhealthy air quality in NYC following the Canadian wildfires. Eightyeight people viewed the proceedings, according to Felicia Singh of APA VOICE — Asian Pacific Americans Voting and Organizing to increase Civic Engagement.

All three of the Democratic candidates emphasized funding education.

Felder criticized the incumbent’s vote for a budget that cut $215 million from public schools and “[had] a drastic impact on our students and their future.”

Sukhjinder Singh concurred that “there is no reason to cut education” because teachers already lack sufficient resources.

Schulman said the City Council was told the cuts were administrative.

“If I didn’t vote for the budget, we wouldn’t have healthcare in our communities, we wouldn’t have afterschool programs, we wouldn’t have services for seniors and we wouldn’t have a whole lot of things that we were able to vote for,” she said.

Schulman said that she has since worked with schools to increase the budget and is pushing for a middle school in Richmond Hill. Felder said that she is “dragging her feet” to that end.

He asked Schulman how voters can trust her if she accepts the support of super PAC

Future NYC, which he claimed is “tied to Donald Trump” and is slated to spend up to $100,000 for an ad campaign in her defense, as per Jewish Insider.

The councilmember replied that, although she is not allowed to address PACs, she is proud to have working-class support.

Healthcare was also of special importance.

As chair of the Committee on Health, Schulman said, she is working to expand hospital capacity and healthcare resources, in addition to setting a 10-year public health agenda with the Department of Health.

Felder said that he has not “seen any plan or any tangible results” toward healthcare expansion from the councilmember.

Regarding mental healthcare, Maio called for the state to make more hospital beds available.

Felder disagreed with “unnecessarily institutionalizing people.” He supports funding mental health professionals to respond to emergencies and implementing a universal system for access.

Schulman promoted a mental health roadmap, while Singh proposed proper funding for hospitals.

Given District 29’s large immigrant population, candidates were asked to respond to last year’s striking down of the “Our City, Our Vote” law, which extended municipal voting rights to permanent NYC residents and those with work authorization.

With the City Council’s budget negotiating committee, Schulman allocated funds for voter education in anticipation of the decision. If the court ruled noncitizens cannot vote, she would call for state legislation.

She also promised to work toward permanent housing for asylum seekers.

Felder proposed to change the state Con-

stitution so noncitizens could have a say in municipal affairs and that, in addition to housing, asylum seekers need a path to work authorization and integration.

Singh said that asylum seekers should not initially be placed within city limits.

“First of all, I need to worry about my own constituents, my citizens, and then comes second that we are a welcoming city,” he said. “We will have some sort of system set up for them. We will make sure that they have a path to citizen[ship].”

An audience member asked whether the candidates support QueensWay, which proposes to use the abandoned LIRR Rockaway Beach branch tracks as a linear park, or QueensLink, which would activate an M train subway extension with park space along the tracks.

Schulman and Felder support QueensWay — both candidates noted the historical underfunding of Queens parks.

Singh and Maio support QueensLink. Maio believes funding could fix the trestle problem in Kew Gardens, in addition to tree overgrowth and scarce parking spaces.

Asked about solutions to anti-Sikh and

anti-Muslim hate, Singh discussed his role in implementing community patrols to escort the elderly. If elected, he said, he would invest 50 percent of his salary into the community, including law enforcement.

Felder supports anti-violence programs, community reporting mechanisms and effective NYPD responses.

Schulman cited her work on hate crime forums, financial support for AAPI groups, work to implement AAPI history in schools and community policing.

Asked if they support community-controlled land in light of gentrification, Felder and Schulman said yes, while Singh emphasized both rent stabilization and affordable housing.

“Community land trust is a gimmick,” Maio said. “Affordable housing, we all want that. But the one that’s causing the affordable housing crisis is the government. It is not not enough housing.”

Asked whom they would ask voters to rank as their second choice, Singh and Felder selected each other.

Schulman said that she “[has not] made that decision yet.” Q

Festival of Cinema NYC ready for 2023

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The Festival of Cinema NYC, the annual Forest Hills-based celebration of independent films from around the world, has been scheduled for Aug. 4 through 13.

Tickets will go on sale beginning July 5. Festival organizers also are already looking for volunteers interested in helping stage the event.

The festival will offer showings of more than 100 feature-length and short films from all genres, including drama, comedy, family, horror and documentary.

Sponsors and supporters of the 2023 festival include the National Endowment for the Arts, the New York State Council on the Arts, the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs and Resorts World Casino NYC.

Most films will be shown at the Regal UA Midway Cinema at 108-22 Queens Blvd. in Forest Hills. Free screenings, workshops, seminars and other presentations will take place at the Forest Hills Library, which is at 108-19 71 Ave.

This year festival organizers are working with groups such as Ghetto Film School, FoHi Improv, The Astoria Filmmakers Club,

Theaters Unsilenced and more.

Organizers are looking for volunteers who might be able to share skills in such areas as social media management, photography, videography and audio-video technology. Volunteers also can network with film industry professionals and learn about event operations.

More information on the event is available on the group’s official website, festivalofcinemanyc.com.

Award winners from 2022 pose onstage with their prizes.

PHOTO / FILE

Felicia Singh of APA VOICE, top left, moderated a virtual debate with the City Council District 29 candidates, who are, clockwise, Democrat Sukhjinder Singh, Democratic Councilwoman Lynn Schulman, Republican Danniel Maio and Democrat Ethan Felder. The Democratic primary is on June 27. The general election is on Nov. 7. ZOOM SCREENSHOT

New book reveals life in wartime Queens — in 1776

July 4, 1776 is celebrated in American history for the signing of the Declaration of Independence in

Juuly 4, 17 76 is celebrrated in Amerriccan his tory for the e s si gn in g of o t he D ec la ra ti on o f In de pe nd e en ce e i n

Philaddelphia

But in his book “Long Island City in 1776: The Revolution Comes to Queens” Astoria author Richard Melnick writes that events at Concord, Lexington and Bunker Hill more than a year before meant Western Queens would become neither a celebratory nor even a safe place for

But in his book “Long Island Cit y in 1776: 6 The e Revvoluu t tion Commes e to o Queens” As torria a auuthor o Ricchard r Melnick w writes s that ev e ents t at Cooncor o d, d Lexin i gt g on n and Bunker r Hiill m more e thaan n a ye y ar a befforore e meean a t We W stterrn Qu Q eens wouuld d b beco c me nei e ther a celeleebraatoory y nor even a safe e plaace for those e who o dareed d to t oppose Br Britissh h ruule openl n y.

Massachusetts, Melnick writes, was not the only “The year 1775 belonged to Boston,” according to the book. “After April 1776 the Revolutionary War’s focus became New York City and the highly strategic Long Island, from Brooklyn’s terminal moraine

Ma ss s ac hu se tt s, s M el ni ck k w ri r te e s, w as a n ot t he e o nl n y pl place e wh w ere e me m n coont n emmpl p ated e treeason “TThe yeaar r 17 7 75 bel e onged to t Bos tonn,” ac a co c rddinng g to t thhe bo b ok k “AAfter Apr p il l 177 7 6 th the e Reevolulutitiononar r y Wa War’ r s fo focus beeca c me m New e Yorork City t y and the h higghl h y stra r te tgi g c Lo o ng I sl s an d d, f ro o m Br B oo o kl k yn y ’s s t er r e mi m na a l mo m ra in n e h high h gro r un und d to Queueens’ s Helll Ga G te.” ”

The book, published by The History Press, can be purchased for $23.99 at arcadiapublishing.com or on

Th T e book o , pu publ b issheed d by y The he His i tory r Pressss, caan be b pur uch c a as s ed e f or o $ 23 2 .9 9 9 at t a rc c ad ia a pu p bl b is s hi ng g .c om o r on o

A Ammaz a on.

Me M ln l icck k co colllabbororatated ed on a fe f w boookks foor r The e Hisstor o y Pr P es ess s in his s timme as preesisideent n and tru r stee wiith thhe e Greatt e er r A sttor r ia H is i toori r ca a l So S o ci i c et e y. y “17 17 76 7 “ wa s hi h s fi f rs t so lo o pr p oj o ec c t. t It t allso o was s a lababor o of f l loove ve

“I “ t to took k me fi f ve yea e rs to o wr ite e it it,” ” , Mellniick ck to told d the e C Chrooni n cle in a rec e en e t innteerv r ieew w at the A st s or oria a Park waterf frronont. t Mototiooning g dowwnr n i ivver, he h ind n ic teed so s me connsttruucc t tion n cranes s at Halleett s Poinntt.

“T he e B ri tish had ad a n ar ti ll er e y batt er y wh er e e yo u se e

“The British had an artillery battery where you see those buildings,” he said. “It was right across the river from an American battery on New York Island at Gracie Point, which was called Horn’s Hook back then.” And he said New York Island was never called Manhattan in those days.

At 222 pages, the book is a bit longer than standard offerings from The History Press. But Melnick said his editor and the company gave him a lot of latitude. Sources, he added, were numerous.

He got whatever information he could from the historical society’s rich library. There also were books, personal letters and maps from various sources and even in various languages.

continued on page 29

J l by Miicchha l el e Gaan

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS INDEX NO. 724633/2021

Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 10834 UNION HALL STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11433 Block: 10149, Lot: 57 BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. JOHN ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; ELLINGTON ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; WILLIE ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; BETTY BARNHILL, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; BRENDA CAMERON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; SHIRLEY ADAMS MOODY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; ROBERTA ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS

A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; LATAWN ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; THOMAS DUKE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; ANTWAINE ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; ROMMELL ADAMS, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; SHELMAR ADAMS AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF PEARL ADAMS A/K/A PEARL A. HARRIS A/K/A PEARL ADAMS HARRIS, and 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; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; SUSTAINABLE NEIGHBORHOODS LLC (“SN”); THE BROOKLYN UNION GAS COMPANY D/B/A NATIONAL GRID NY; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; ANTOINE ADAMS AS JOHN DOE #1; SHEA DAVIS AS “JOHN DOE #2”; TERRENCE CLARK AS “JOHN DOE #3”; JULISSA RIVERA AS “JOHN DOE #4”, “JOHN DOE #5” through “JOHN DOE #12,” the last eight 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 $469,342.50 and interest, recorded on July 01, 2006, in Instrument Number 2006000367975 , of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 10834 UNION HALL STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11433. 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 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.

King Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS 3 Driving hazards 4 Wunderkind 5 Seminary subj. 6 Monet’s supply 7 More ironic 8 Disparaging term 9 Pedestal part 10 Declare 11 GI dining hall 16 Slugger’s need 20 Scoundrel

21 Highlander 22 Senate staffer 23 Chill in the air 27 Ballot marks 29 Eccentric 30 Sty cry 31 Baseball stats 33 Curio cabinet 35 Refusals 38 Actor Brynner 40 Viscid

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

43 Bas-relief medium 45 Noah’s boat 46 Poi base 47 Awestruck 48 Patricia of “Hud” 49 Dance move 53 “-- the ramparts ...” 54 Gigi’s “yes” 55 Three, in Rome

Answers on next page

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

In 1972 Martina “Tina” Weymouth of California, Charlton “Chris” Frantz of Kentucky and David Byrne of Scotland met at the Rhode Island School of Design. They hit it off and decided to make music together, calling their group the Artistics. They all left together for New York City, settling in at 195 Chrystie Street.

They were creating a new sound called New Wave. While doing so, they moved to Queens, to the Teepe Whitney Corp. building, located at 9-01 44 Drive in the Hunters Point section of Long Island City. Famous for making colonial Windsor chairs, it went out of business as jobs left for overseas. The group now called themselves “Talking Heads.” They didn’t mind moving to an industrial section of town where they could practice in peace. They moved to the loft of the building in November 1974.

The home of three members of the Talking Heads, when it was the Teepe Whitney furniture factory in the 1940s, at 9-01 44 Drive in Long Island City. Two of the rockers, inset, were married there. INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA / RON BAKER

dren and are still married today.

With hits like “Burning Down the House,” “Once in a Lifetime” and even their cover of “Take Me to the River,” the Talking Heads are one of the greatest musical influences of the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their legacy is still heard in music today.

Tina and Chris got married in the building in 1977. They went on to have two chil-

The once-dismissed building last sold 21 years ago for $1,550,000. Its value today has only appreciated. Q

Farm is the land of milk and honey this month

by Stephanie G. Meditz qboro contributor

Whether you’re curious about New York’s dairy and honey or just a kid who loves sweet treats, the Queens County Farm Museum’s Milk & Honey Month celebration has something for everyone.

Throughout the month of June, the farm is hosting a series of both free and paid programming in honor of National Pollinator Month and National Dairy Month, from daily Cabot cheese samples to a pop-up ice cream shop on weekends.

Milk & Honey Month programs educate visitors about the integral role of pollinators and local farmers to put fresh milk and honey on tables all over New York.

“It’s important for all of us to know where our food comes from,” farm Executive Director Jennifer Walden said over email. “Agriculture is an important industry in New York State and Queens County Farm Museum has been a leader in producing hyper-locally grown food as the largest tract of farmland in New York City. We have three active farmstand locations in Queens, shortening the distance from farm to fork for New Yorkers.”

largest apiary the farm also hosts talks with beekeepers.

founded in 1997, the shop calls itself the founders of cereal ice cream, with flavors like Fruity Pebbles and Captain Crunch Cookies and Cream.

“Milk & Honey Month is about connecting New Yorkers to New York State Agriculture and Queens Farm’s historic site in a very yummy way!” she said. “While visitors are here enjoying the free Cabot Cheese samples or some of our other robust programs, they can learn more about this historic working farm that has been continuously farmed since 1697.”

A Taste of History allows visitors to churn butter by hand, taste honey and receive a free guided tour of the Adriance Farmhouse, constructed in 1772.

Among the farm’s paid programs are Urban Beekeeping, a master class for visitors curious about starting their own beehive, and Art on the Farm: Watercolor, Pen & Ink, in which Denis Ponsot leads the group in recreating the farm’s natural beauty and idyll on canvas.

The farm celebrated the strawberry moon on June 3 with an evening of wine pairings, strawberry tasting and a tour overlooking the sunset.

One kid-friendly way the farm supports New York farmers is through a free Milk & Cookie Hour on Fridays at 3 p.m., courtesy of Hudson Valley Fresh.

Flushing-based scoop shop Max & Mina’s is also bringing an ice cream pop-up to Queens Farm.

Max & Mina’s ice cream uses dairy in unique ways —

Curious minds can also participate in a daily scavenger hunt or hear directly from beekeepers during apiary talks on weekends. The farm museum is home to the largest apiary in New York City.

Visitors of all ages can relax on its beautiful grounds at a Root to Rise: Farm Yoga session with Theresa Rossini.

Walden said that, in addition to the resurgent agricultural industry, Milk & Honey Month events connect visitors to the historic site of the Queens County Farm Museum.

The Queens County Farm Museum collaborated with several of its supporters on Milk & Honey Month programming, including the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, New York City Council, Northwell Health, New York Animal Agriculture Coalition, Andrew’s Honey, Cabot Cheese Cooperative, Max & Mina’s, the Queens Public Library, the Queens Chamber of Commerce, Lifeway Kefir and Hudson Valley Fresh.

For a detailed list of Milk & Honey Month events, visit queensfarm.org. Q

1776 tested rebels’ resolve in Western Queens

continued from page 27

The former U.S. Army paratrooper even called on his military training for reading maps and terrain to finally pinpoint the location in a painting that intrigued him as a landscape of what is now Hallet’s Cove.

“Cemeteries can be a great source,” he said. A sequel for the remainder of the war is in the works.

Once King George III decided to crush the rebellion, New York would be crucial.

Crossword Answers

George Washington in Brooklyn knew the British were coming, and on Aug. 27, they did, routing the rebels and their green army at the Battle of Long Island.

With a trapped Washington pulling off a miraculous amphibious evacuation across the river, all of Western Queens would be occupied within days, and would remain so for the next seven years. Most residents had remained loyal to the crown, meaning rebels either had to flee or risk being denounced to the Redcoats by their neighbors.

Prominent families had their homes occupied if not seized or destroyed. But holding Queens and Manhattan also meant the British had to secure the treacherous Hell Gate, a difficult task for even the most powerful navy in the world given its unpredictable tides and swells, plus narrow channels beset with treacherous hidden reefs and rock formations.

Melnick, who has kayaked the still difficult Hell Gate waters, writes that securing and defending the channel would be no mean feat.

“The untamed Hell Gate was known to mangle ships and send many a good boat to the bottom, sunk, and not a few good sail-

ors to the bottom, dead,” the book states.

In late August, thousands of British soldiers left Newtown Creek and landed at Kips Bay, forcing the rebels to retreat to the north.

But weeks later, the Americans were able to stand their ground, bloodied but unbowed, in the Battle of Harlem. Maybe, just maybe, these rebels could fight ... Q

As soon as visitors enter the Queens Farm, they can indulge in a delicious free honey sample during Milk & Honey Month. Home to the city’s

PHOTOS BY STEPHANIE G. MEDITZ, LEFT, AND COURTESY QUEENS FARM

A French map depicts British and rebel positions on Halletts Point and Manhattan, respectively, in August 1776. On the cover: Author Richard Melnick stands near where Gen. Charles Cornwallis, inset, planned a river crossing to annihilate George Washington’s ragtag rebel army once and for all. MAP COURTESY THE AUTHOR, ABOVE; COVER PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON, DANIEL GARDNER PAINTING COURTESY THE AUTHOR

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Assistant Secondary Principal

The successful candidate should possess: Knowledge of research-based instructional programs & practices; exp. w/ teacher supervision & evaluation; a record of successfully improving learning experiences and enhancing school to home communication; and can provide a supportive environment with knowledge of social-emotional competencies, restorative practices, and promote a culturally responsive educational climate.

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Legal Notices

Assistant Elementary Principal

Administrative Opening

Alma Bank, a New York based depository institution, intends to fi le an application to open a new branch located at 805 Port Washington Boulevard, Port Washington, New York 11050. Any person wishing to comment on this application may fi le his or her comments in writing with the regional director of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation at the regional FDIC offi ce located at 350 Fifth Avenue, Suite 1200, New York, NY 10118, not later than June 30, 2023. The nonconfi dential portions of the application are on fi le at the appropriate FDIC offi ce and are available for public inspection during regular business hours. Photocopies of the nonconfi dential portion of the application fi le will be made available upon request.

Notice of Formation: C&L First LLC. Arts of Org fi led with Sec. of State of New York (SSNY) 05/31/2023.Offi ce in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to the LLC, 3011 Corporal Kennedy St, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: General

D6 LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/31/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 42-20 Kissena Blvd., apt. B2, Flushing, NY 11355. General Purpose

Double One LLC, Arts of Org.

fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 5/18/2023. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 10822 Inwood St., Jamaica, NY 11435. General Purpose

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF UPLAND MORTGAGE LOAN

TRUST A, Plaintiff against LAWRENCE LYONS, et al

Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Fein, Such & Crane, LLP, 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800, Rochester, NY 14614.

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 31, 2023, 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 30, 2023 at 10:00 AM.

Premises known as 6-41 Beach 65th Street, Arverne, NY 11692 a/k/a 6-41 Beach 65th Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11692. Block 16026 Lot 31. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situated, lying and being at Far Rockaway, Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $448,380.89 plus interest, fees, and costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index No 723027/2021. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certifi ed bank check made payable to the referee.

Janet Brown, Esq., Referee CARC190

Notice of Formation of FRAFFA LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/16/2023. 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: FRAFFA LLC, 128-01 109TH AVENUE, OZONE PARK, NY 11420. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

GSJL LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 05/05/23.

Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 69-20 60th Avenue, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS, INDEX NO. 700641/2016, Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Mortgaged Premises: 145-56 SHORE AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11435 Block: 10084, Lot: 11, BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. NATASHA SMITH A/K/A NATASHA NELSON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MARVA SMITH; OMAR SMITH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF MARVA SMITH; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES TO THE ESTATE OF MARVA SMITH, 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; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; ELITE RECOVERY SERVICES, INC.; CITY OF NEW YORK DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; CITY OF NEW YORK TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; CITY OF NEW YORK ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, 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 $630,000.00 and interest, recorded on July 17, 2009, in CRFN 2009000220689, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 145-56 SHORE AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11435. 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: May 19, 2022 ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff Matthew Rothstein, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Apts.For Rent

New Howard Beach, 1 BR, LR & dining area, utils incl, $1,500/mo. Leave message 718-848-6431

Co-ops For Sale

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Houses For Sale

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Legal Notices

THE CITY

Houses For Sale

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Hi-Ranch, 4 BR,3 new full baths. Wood burning fireplace, in-ground pool. Asking $1,278K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

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Having a garage sale? Let everyone know about it by advertising in the Queens Classifieds Call 718-205-8000 and place the ad!

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

Legal Notices

OF NEW YORK

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION DIVISION OF BRIDGES CONSULTANT PROGRAMS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

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

Project or Contract Title:

Request for Proposal – Resident Engineering Inspection Services in Connection with Protective Coating of Macombs Dam Bridge, Boroughs of Manhattan and the Bronx

Contract No. HB1070MD

PIN: 84123MBBR579

Expected Contract Term: 1140 Consecutive Calendar Days starting from the date of the Notice to Proceed

Description of Services Required:

The services to be procured is the Resident Engineering Inspection Services in Connection with Protective Coating of Macombs Dam Bridge, Boroughs of Manhattan and the Bronx.

A Pre-Proposal Conference (Optional) has been scheduled for June 28, 2023, Time: 10:00 AM through Zoom. Proposers who wish to connect to the Zoom Conference will need a Zoom ID and Password or the link. Therefore, proposers who wish to connect will need to contact the authorized agency contact person via email at least three (3) days prior to the Pre-Proposal Conference for the information to connect. Proposers will need to provide the first name, last name of everyone who wishes to connect, name of the organization, phone number and email address.

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

This Request for Proposals (RFP) is released through PASSPort, New York City’s online procurement portal. Responses to this RFP must be submitted via PASSPort. To access the RFP, vendors should visit the PASSPort public Portal at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/ mocs/systems/about-go-to-passport.page and click on the “Search Funding Opportunities in PASSPort” blue box. Doing so will take one to the public portal of all procurements in the PASSPort system. To quickly locate the RFP, insert the EPIN 84123P0012, into the Keyword search field. To respond to the RFP, vendors must create an account within the PASSPort system if they have not already done so.

Release Date: June 21, 2023

Pre-Proposal Conference: June 28, 2023 at 10 AM

Submission of Request for Proposals are due on or before 2:00 PM on July 19, 2023

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY MOREQUITY, INC., Plaintiff against CENTENNIAL INSURANCE COMPANY, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles, Komosinski & Manfro, LLP, 565 Taxter Road, Suite 590, Elmsford, NY 10523. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered January 29, 2018, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the steps of Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on June 23, 2023 at 12:15 PM. Premises known as 158-11 96th Street, Howard Beach, NY 11414. Block 14166 Lot 55. 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 $356,888.84 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 705317/2021 f/k/a 12717/2009. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee.

Autrey Glen Johnson, Esq., Referee 2296-002975

JAMAICA WDY LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 05/01/2023. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 92-01 Jamaica Avenue, Woodhaven, NY 11421. Reg Agent: Suhail Sitaf, 3 Windsor Drive, Old Westbury, NY 11568. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of LIBRA NY LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/25/2022. 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: SUSAN TING, 110-19 68TH DRIVE, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, HSBC BANK USA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR THE BENEFIT OF ACE SECURITIES CORP. HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST, SERIES 2007WM1 ASSET BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, Plaintiff, vs. SABRINA EDERY, AS ADMINISTRATOR OF THE ESTATE OF ANN LEWITINN, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on August 25, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on June 30, 2023 at 12:00 p.m., premises known as 1352 Dickens Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 15665 and Lot 38. Approximate amount of judgment is $905,788.55 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index # 703799/2021. The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure’s Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Austin

I. Idehen, Esq., Referee Eckert Seamans Cherin & Mellott, LLC, 10 Bank Street, Suite 700, White Plains, New York 10606, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice of Formation of PARADIES LAGARDERE @ JFK T4 (F&B), LLC Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 05/17/23. Offi ce location: Queens County. Princ. offi ce of LLC: 2849 Paces Ferry Rd., Atlanta, GA 30339. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of RECESSION SAVVY LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/05/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 4545 CENTER BLVD APT 421, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11109. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS REVERSE MORTGAGE SOLUTIONS, INC., Plaintiff AGAINST FRANK BROWN AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF MARGARET E. REAVIS AKA MARGARET REAVIS; TANYA COGDELLO-BURKE AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF MARGARET E. REAVIS; TROY REAVIS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF MARGARET E. REAVIS AKA MARGARET REAVIS; ET AL., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered September 28, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Courthouse steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on July 14, 2023 at 10:45AM, premises known as 179-15 134TH AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11434. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 12984, Lot 106. Approximate amount of judgment $442,436.37 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #706566/2014. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the QUEENS County COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale.

William Driscoll, Esq., Referee Gross Polowy, LLC 1775 Wehrle Drive Williamsville, NY 14221 18-002298 76416

Notice of Formation of SASSON CONSTRUCTION LLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/05/2023. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ILAN SASSON, 69-25 MANSE STREET, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Queens Action To Foreclose A Mortgage Index #: 718865/2019 Nationstar Mortgage LLC D/B/A Mr. Cooper Plaintiff, vs Cheryl Scott As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, Ilyas Scott As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In 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, Valerie R. Scott As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, Artemus Scott, Jr. As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, Wahjeeda Scott As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, Unknown Heirs As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In 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, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America Acting Through The IRS, TIAA F.S.B. FKA Everbank, City Register Of The City Of New York, Queens County, New York City Environmental Control Board, Capital One Bank (USA), N.A., Citibank (South Dakota) N.A., Portfolio Recovery Associates LLC, LVNV Funding LLC APO Chase Bank USA N.A., New York City Parking Violations Bureau, John Doe (Those Unknown Tenants, Occupants, Persons Or Corporations Or Their Heirs, Distributees, Executors, Administrators, Trustees, Guardians, Assignees, Creditors Or Successors Claiming An Interest In The Mortgaged Premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 516 Beach 72nd Street Arverne, NY 11692

To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental 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. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. To Ilyas Scott As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, and the Unknown Heirs As Heir To The Estate Of Artemus Scott, Defendant(s) In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Phillip Hom of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Third day of May, 2023 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Long Island City. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage dated November 1, 2006, upon the premises described below, executed by Artemus Scott (who died on September 26, 2018, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) to secure the sum of $163,000.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2006000661193 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on November 30, 2006. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 7, 2007 and recorded on November 19, 2007, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2007000576303. The Filed: Queens County Clerk 10/28/2022 08:49 AM Index NO. 718865/2019 NYSCEF DOC. NO. 74 Received NYSCEF: 10/28/2022 mortgage was subsequently modified on June 20, 2017. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 28, 2020 and recorded on October 5, 2020, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 20200002770317. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed June 19, 2020 and recorded on October 5, 2020, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2020000270318; The property in question is described as follows: 516 BEACH 72ND STREET, ARVERNE, NY 11692. 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. DATED: May 26, 2023 Gross Polowy, LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy, LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 76627

Notice of Formation of Spear Forest Hills LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/8/23. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 31 E 32nd St, 4th Fl, NY, NY 10016. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of TONYA’SHOURCARESERVICE LLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 02/05/2023.

Offi ce location: Queens County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: THE LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, 10001 220TH ST., QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of VORES LLC

Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/09/2023. 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: ACCUMERA LLC, 911 CENTRAL AVE., #101, ALBANY, NY 12206. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Queens Action to Foreclose a Mortgage Index #: 725457/2022 U.S. Bank National Association, Not In Its Individual Capacity But Solely As Trustee For The RMAC Trust, Series 2016-CTT Plaintiff, vs Ronald Abrams If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim

To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein Generally Described And Intended To Be Included In 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, Doris Abrams, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 116-49 167th Street Jamaica, NY 11434 To the Above named Defendant: 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 Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental 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. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Queens. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Ronald Abrams Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Timothy J. Dufficy of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Thirtieth day of May, 2023 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, in the City of Jamaica. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated October 3, 2005, executed by Ronald Abrams and Doris Abrams to secure the sum of $352,000.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2005000616389 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on November 3, 2005. Plaintiff is also holder of a mortgage dated October 5, 2007 executed by Ronald Abrams and Doris Abrams to secure the sum of $48,000.00 and recorded at CRFN 2007000542988 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on October 29, 2007. Said mortgage was consolidated with the mortgage referred to at CRFN: 2005000616389 by a Consolidation, Extension and Modification Agreement executed by Ronald Abrams and Doris Abrams dated October 5, 2007 and recorded November 23, 2007 at CRFN 2007000583769 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County to form a single lien in the amount of $400,000.00. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed May 4, 2018 and recorded on May 7, 2018, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2018000152121. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed November 16, 2018 and recorded on November 28, 2018, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2018000392741. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by a corrective assignment executed February 1, 2019 and recorded on February 1, 2019, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2019000038301. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Ronald Abrams and Doris Abrams on October 25, 2018 and recorded December 20, 2018 in CRFN 2018000418580 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County. Said Mortgage was subsequently modified by a Loan Modification Agreement executed by Ronald Abrams and Doris Abrams on August 26, 2019 and recorded December 23, 2019 in CRFN 2019000418351 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County. The consolidated mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 6, 2021 and recorded on May 17, 2021, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2021000180640; The property in question is described as follows: 116-49 167th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434 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 the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800-269-0990 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 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. DATED: June 8, 2023 Gross Polowy, LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williamsville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy, LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 76763

Notice of Formation of Zhengbo Huang Excelsior, LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with NY Dept. of State: 11/14/22. Offi ce location: Queens County. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: Zhengbo Huang, 40-28 College Point Blvd., Unit 1801, Flushing, NY 11354, principal business address. Purpose: any lawful activity.

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Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., as Trustee for the Certificateholders of the Merrill Lynch Mortgage Investors Trust, Mortgage Loan Asset-Backed Certificates, Series 2005-HE3, Plaintiff, -againstWaveny Alexander aka Waveny Agath Alexander aka Waveny A. Alexander individually, Administrator and Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Tina Alexander, Shaneza Alexander, Tyrone Alexander individually and as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Jael Alexander individually and as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, John Alexander individually and as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Dorell Alexander individually and as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Oneal C. Alexander individually and as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Egbert B. Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Terrence Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Brent Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Hazel Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Michelle Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Teshina Jade Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Anthony Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Eon Shane Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander, Delon Alexander as Heir to the Estate of Egbert Alexander and Egbert Alexander’s, unknown heirs-at-law, nextof-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in the real property described in the complaint herein, Adverlight Collections, Inc., Criminal Court of the City of New York, New York City Environmental Control Board, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, New York City Transit Adjudication Bureau, United States of America, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, United States of AmericaInternal Revenue Service, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, Cavalry SPV I LLC, LR Credit 10, LLC, Defendants. Index No.: 703843/2021 Filed: May 19, 2023 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $491,200.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Queens on June 17, 2005 in CRFN 2005000350105 covering premises known as 146-45 181st Street, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413. 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. 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. Dated: Bay Shore, New York May 18, 2023 Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP /s/BY: Linda P. Manfredi, Attorneys for Plaintiff, 53 Gibson Street, Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100 Our File No.: 01-065730-F00

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