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POT PROMISES
City touts closure of 750+ illicit pot shops
While some area leaders celebrate, others say more needs to be done
by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor
The city last week announced that more than 750 illicit pot shops have been shuttered under “Operation Padlock to Protect,” a multiagency task force carried out by the Sheriff’s Office, the NYPD and Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.
In a press release, the city said it sealed a total of 779 shops and issued 41,502 counts of violations amounting to $65,671,487 in penalties. The city estimates it has seized a total value of $41,443,792 in illegal products.
In Queens, approximately 195 illicit shops were closed, as per the city’s estimate.
Legal cannabis sales are up 72 percent in NYC in the 10 weeks since enforcement actions began, with retailers collectively reporting $2.6 million in weekly revenue growth over that period, according the Governor’s Office.
“For too long, illegal shops have contributed to a feeling that anything goes on our streets, while targeting our most vulnerable — including children — with dangerous, counterfeit products marketed as candy,” Adams said. “But today, we are celebrating that this is no longer being tolerated and we are making huge gains to protect communities and usher in a legal cannabis market that will thrive.”
“I was proud to mobilize New Yorkers across all five boroughs to pass the SMOKEOUT Act in the state budget, authorizing the city to shut down illegal smoke shops for good,” said Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) in a statement. “We have already closed over 750 unlicensed cannabis shops, almost half of all shops in New York City, in a matter of weeks. That is 750 fewer shops attracting armed robberies and
selling to children, tons of unregulated cannabis off our streets, and tens of millions of dollars in more tax revenue to invest in communities.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards in a statement said, “Illegal cannabis shops peddle unregulated, low-quality products and undermine our efforts to establish a legal cannabis economy rooted in fairness and social justice. There is no place for illegal cannabis operations in Queens or anywhere in our city. I wholeheartedly support the efforts to take decisive action to shut down these illegal shops.”
Before legislation was passed allowing individual municipali-
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ties in the state to take action, officials had long lamented the existence of the persistent, illegal smoke shops.
Now, their numbers seem to be dwindling, though some may still find a loophole and reopen after being padlocked. Some even rebrand, posing as a deli, but will stealthily sell cannabis, police have said.
According to a report from the New York Post, city Comptroller Brad Lander recently notified the sheriff that he is opening an investigation into the city’s padlock operation.
A representative for Lander told the Post, “New York City has seen a proliferation of illegal weed shops that seem to reopen as fast as the City closes them. We sent an initial letter to the NYC Sheriff shortly after new State legislation went into effect so we could monitor the City’s implementation of the new law.”
Lander is challenging Adams next year in a primary.
Feelings surrounding the illicit pot shop closures are mixed.
“There’s still a lot of work to be done, but this is a great start and sends a clear message — New York City will not tolerate illegal, unlicensed vendors peddling potentially harmful products in our communities,” said Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) in a statement. “We can’t let up and rest on our laurels now. The city needs to continue enforcement, and even ramp it up if necessary, until these neighborhood blights are finally things of the past.”
Councilman Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) was one of many who took to the street to protest Haze Land, a shop located down the street from Renaissance Charter School in Jackson Heights, which was shut down by the Sheriff’s Office on April 20 but reopened the following day. A rep from his office confirmed to the Chronicle that Haze Land has since been closed.
continued on page 8
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Gov. Hochul, Mayor Adams and city Sheriff Anthony Miranda announced last Wednesday that nearly 800 illicit pot shops have been closed in NYC PHOTO BY ED REED / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE / FLICKR
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Ongoing street safety concerns in Rich Hill
Residents voice litany of grievances at digital town hall hosted by CB 9
by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor
Deputy Inspector Jeremy Kivlin, the commanding officer of the NYPD’s 102nd Precinct, and representatives of South Queens’ elected officials were in the hot seat at a virtual Zoom town hall hosted by Community Board 9 last Thursday night, as residents in attendance voiced their concerns on area public safety.
Though the group, like many other civics and community boards, does not have in-person meetings during the summer, Albert Gamarra, the chair of CB 9’s Public Safety Committee, organized the digital town hall.
Those living in Richmond Hill were particularly incensed about street safety, with many speaking on issues involving cars and e-bikes speeding down their residential streets. Requests included adding a four-way stop sign at 109th Street and 85th Avenue.
“Last month, a lady was speeding down our block and she literally ran over my godson’s foot,” said Sherene Mercieca, a resident participating in the virtual town hall who vouched for the lack of safety on 109th Street.
Mercieca said the driver did not immediately stop. But she flagged her down, and the woman behind the wheel allegedly then said she had been looking for parking.
She was one of multiple residents who brought up an area car wash called Mr. Foam Detailing, that neighbors say is disrupting traffic and causing unsafe conditions. Residents claim that cars speed down their street to go to the
business and block traffic and pedestrians on the sidewalk.
“When you’re walking, you cannot walk on the sidewalk because there are multiple cars parked on the sidewalk,” Mercieca said. “We have no option but to bring our kids in the street to get where we need to go.”
Mr. Foam Detailing did not respond to emailed requests for comment and no one answered multiple calls to the business.
Mercieca also expressed concerns about an allegedly illegal flea market vendor at 107th Street and Jamaica Avenue, also adding to the traffic concerns and lack of pedestrian walking space.
Sandra Drozd, a resident of 107th Street between 86th and Jamaica avenues, expressed her ongoing concerns about the street.
Community Board 9 last September hosted a press conference at
the location due to the same issues that were spoken about in last Thursday’s meeting.
“This is the third summer where we’re still at this stage, waiting for some kind of response,” Drozd said. “I do want to acknowledge that so many people have been really helpful in kicking off this multiagency response. James [McClelland, district manager of CB 9] has been really, really active on that front. It just really feels like it’s not going where it needs to go with the level of expediency that is important and necessary.”
With Mr. Foam Detailing on her street’s corner, not only are residents experiencing traffic concerns, but sanitation issues as well.
“Those drains are completely compacted with debris from Mr. Foam,” Drozd said. “There are plastic car mats that are covering
the drains. The area is disgusting. It’s absolutely filthy. It’s an embarrassment. It’s a disgrace. We shouldn’t have to live this way where we know that there are resources that could address it.”
She added, “I don’t know that this is something that the 102 can really manage at this point. I think it requires a bigger response. ... Because at this point, I don’t feel safe walking down to the corner or walking near the corner [near Mr. Foam Detailing] to take a picture because I’ve been there before. They’ve come up to me to say, ‘Why are you taking pictures?’ And so that creates a level of intimidation. That’s not OK for any of us.”
McClelland said he would reach out to coordinate a multiagency response to the situation.
When answering concerns about Mr. Foam Detailing, Kivlin
said, “We have issued summonses over there. We’ve conducted business inspections.”
Community Affairs Officer Scott Adelman said he visited the location, conducted an inspection and issued multiple summonses, and added that officers are often sent there.
“We did a joint operation with [the Department of Environmental Protection],” Kivlin added. “And we attempted to make entry and unfortunately, we were unsuccessful. We do have one that we’re trying to schedule to go out again.”
“It’s going to take a multiagency approach to get it fixed. We’ve attempted one so far with all the agencies, and we’ll continue to do them,” he said.
In a statement, Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) said she will work with the Department of Transportation to implement safety upgrades at the areas of concern and is “working on shutting down the illegal flea market and car wash at 107th Street.”
“I am taking all the issues raised by my constituents last night to Mayor Adams, NYPD Commissioner [Edward] Caban, and DOT Commissioner [Ydanis] Rodriguez,” she said. “Public safety is the top priority of my Office. ... Working together with stakeholders, we have made tremendous progress in public safety, with overall crime decreasing every month for six consecutive months, as well as double digit decreases in Subway crime. I will continue until everyone in my district is safe and secure.” Q
Cityline pushes for more police patrols
by Kristen Guglielmo
Associate Editor
Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) on Tuesday met with members of the NYPD, the Mayor’s Office and other area leaders to discuss ways to improve public safety in the Cityline area, according to a press release from her office.
The discussion focused largely on crime and better communication among police precincts, as Cityline is split up into three: Brooklyn’s 75th Precinct and the 102nd and 106th precincts in Queens. Community advocates also requested increased police
presence in the area.
Daniel Hill, the communications director for the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol, said crime has spiked in the area.
“So what we’re asking for today is better communications with the precincts and maybe even some kind of deterrent here in the Liberty Avenue Plaza, because there’s not enough of a police presence around in the neighborhood,” Hill said.
“It gets to where sometimes we ourselves don’t even know who to call,” said Khairul Islam, secretary of the Cityline Ozone Park Business Association. “There’s lots of
crimes happening here, and the community is concerned, so as community activists we are trying every single day to make our community safer.”
“We have been pressing on having a physical police post in between the borders of the Queens and Brooklyn Cityline area, to have vigilance and let perpetrators see the police presence here,” said Kobir Chowdhury, the president of the Masjid Al-Aman at 203 Forbell St., just over the Queens border in Brooklyn. He said he is glad Ariola has taken initiative.
“We had a very effective meeting to see
the best starting point to move forward and improve our situation altogether,” Chowdhury said.
“For far too long, this area has fallen through the cracks when it comes to proper law enforcement,” Ariola said in a statement. “This meeting is just one step of many when it comes to bringing safety and security to the people of Cityline.
“By working with the Mayor’s Office, the NYPD, and various local leaders, I am confident that we can hammer out solutions and make the neighborhood a better, safer place for residents to enjoy.”
Community Board 9 hosted a Zoom meeting last week to discuss residents’ public safety concerns. ZOOM SCREENSHOT
Some will stick around during high temps for two hours after closure Lifeguards staying at beach until 8 in heat
by Sophie Krichevsky Editor
Lifeguards will remain on public beaches until 8 p.m. during heat waves, even as swimming is not permitted after 6 p.m., Mayor Adams announced last week.
“Unfortunately, we had a series of drownings, particularly with young people, so we want to do everything we can to alleviate that threat, if not eradicate it altogether,” Adams told reporters at a press conference last Tuesday, referring to the six drownings the city has already seen at its beaches this summer.
“It’s about enhancing beach safety, and we want to continue to do what’s possible,” the mayor added.
it’s not all the lifeguards,” Joshi said at the same press conference.
“It’ll be about 66 lifeguards that will stay on call at the particular shacks, and there are more than dozens of them across our city ... they’ll stay there, not on the chairs because they don’t want to give the false impression that the beaches are open and that it’s safe to swim.”
“What we’re putting together is a skeleton crew — it’s not all lifeguards.”
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Though lifeguards will not sit in their raised chairs between 6 and 8 p.m. when the city’s emergency heat plan is activated, Adams said, some will still be at the beach during that time.
Meanwhile, as the city has continued to suffer from a shortage of lifeguards, Councilmember Shekar Krishnan (D-Jackson Heights) has called for public beaches and pools to extend their hours and season. Legislation he introduced earlier this year seeks to see beaches open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi
Asked why the administration did not take the extra step of keeping the beaches open until 8 p.m., Joshi pointed to lifeguard union restrictions broadly.
Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi emphasized that those guards remaining at the beach later in the evening will be far from a full-fledged staff.
“What we put together is a skeleton crew. —
“Ultimately, these are about work rules and being a lifeguard is a difficult job,” she said.
“You’re out in the hot sun. You’ve got to stay in shape. You’ve got to pass that test. You’ve got to be vigilant at all times and you’ve got to have nerves of steel and quick reactions. All of
Ozone Park woman gets the gold at the Olympics
by Naeisha Rose Editor
City Hall was lit up in red, white and blue to celebrate the Big Apple’s very own Lauren Scruggs of Team USA’s foil fencing team, which earned a gold medal at the Paris Olympics last Thursday.
“New York City is the Olympic Village of the world,” Mayor Adams said on X. He went on to say that he was proud of Scruggs and Team USA.
USA took home the country’s first-ever gold in fencing at the foil meet, said a spokesman for the team. Scruggs’ teammate Lee Kiefer became the first U.S. fencer with three Olympic gold medals and the first U.S. fencer to win two in the same games.
Nick Itkin from the men’s foil team won a bronze medal, said the spokesman, who added that it was the first time both teams medaled in the same Olympic Games.
that means that whenever we adjust schedules, we’ve got to consider hours, staffing and the schedules.”
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards also acknowledged the lifeguard union’s role in the matter.
“A lot of this is union-related, as well,” Richards told the Chronicle Tuesday. “So we have to work with the union — and they’ve been a hindrance to a lot of progress for decades, quite frankly. But what I will say is I’m happy with the work [Department of Parks and Recreation Commissioner] Sue Donoghue has done to try to make this a little better.”
A spokesperson for District Council 37, the umbrella organization for the city’s lifeguard union, did not respond to the Chronicle’s requests for comment on the change in policy.
Krishnan was not totally satisfied by the mayor’s policy change, saying there has been a “lack of meaningful action” from Adams on water safety this summer.
“His announcement is a small step in the right direction, but still falls far short of the free swim lessons, the flexible hiring of lifeguards and the extension of operating hours for city pools and beaches that we need to confront
this emergency,” Krishnan said in a statement. Richards, too, called it a “step in the right direction,” but said “there’s a lot more work that has to be done.” He said he supports a slightly different approach: extend swimming hours to 7 p.m., but keep some guards on the beach until later, and not just during heat waves.
“Even though I do think they should allow swimming up until 7 — or 6:30, 7 — I’m also very conscious that we don’t want people swimming as it gets darker. We don’t want to put the lifeguards in jeopardy, but the sun is still up at 7 o’clock. So I think at minimum, push it as close as you can to 7,” Richards said.
“And then you do designated areas so that the whole swath of the beach is not open, because we understand the personnel issue that Parks has.”
Adams took to X last Friday after a swimmer was rescued by lifeguards who had been on the beach during that two-hour period the evening prior. “Last night, during the first heat wave since implementation, two lifeguards saved a life thanks to that new protocol,” he wrote. The mayor did not say where the save had occurred. Q
Clothing drive for veterans
City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) congratulated the Ozone Park native on X for closing out the winning match and securing the gold for Team USA.
Stephany McClain of Ozone Park, Scruggs’ mother, is also bursting with pride.
“It’s more than I ever dreamed,” McClain told the Chronicle via Facebook. “All the sacrifices big and small have paid off. I am proud of my daughter and the legacy she has created for herself.”
After a nail-biting bout with the favored Italian group on Aug. 1, the women of Team
Scruggs shattered a glass ceiling at an earlier individual foil-fencing match on July 28, where she took home a silver medal, becoming the first Black and openly LGBT+ woman to medal in that event.
Scruggs and Kiefer were joined at the podium by teammates Maia Weintraub and Jackie Dubrovich.
Team USA beat Italy with a score of 45-39.
After her second historic win, Scruggs shouted, “USA, let’s go!” and held up the American flag with her teammates. Q
State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) is hosting an ongoing clothing and supply drive for veterans at his Woodhaven and Middle Village offices.
Requested items include sneakers, slippers, sweatpants, pants and jeans, hoodies, body wash, razors, shaving cream, neutral-colored washcloths and bath towels, 5-packs of men’s T-shirts, men’s socks and underwear.
Clothing sizes should range from medium to 2XL. All donations must be new and unopened.
Items can be dropped off Mondays
through Thursdays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Fridays during the summer from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Addabbo’s district office, located at 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven, or at his Middle Village office, located at 66-85 73 Pl.
Once enough items are collected, they will be distributed to veteran organizations in the community and then collection will begin again, Addabbo’s office said. Items will be distributed as long as the need exists.
For more information, contact Addabbo’s office at (718) 738-1111. Q
Some lifeguards will remain on city beaches for two extra hours during heat emergencies, Mayor Adams announced last week.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE
Olympic fencing champion Lauren Scruggs. PHOTO COURTESY #BIZZITEAM / USA FENCING
A rainy Night Out with the 102nd Precinct
Gloomy weather on Tuesday didn’t stop residents from coming out to support and mingle with their neighborhood officers from the 102nd Precinct at the National Night Out Against Crime event at Victory Field in Woodhaven. Though the affair experienced some difficulty at its start due to significant flooding caused by heavy rain, left and top center, families still
enjoyed pizza, cultural cuisine and standard barbecue fare served up by volunteers and NYPD officers, above center and right. Snacks and sweet treats, such as popcorn and cotton candy, far right, were also dolled out. The event culminated with a patriotic flag-folding ceremony, top right, which ended just before a second wave of rain. — Kristen Guglielmo
Ferry fares up; kids get break
“Don’t pay the ferryman until he gets you to the other side” an early ’80s pop tune advised, but if you pay in advance today you can avoid the worst of a looming fare hike.
NYC Ferry is raising its single-ride rate from $4 to $4.50 come September, a 12.5 percent increase. But you can buy 10 trips ahead of time at $2.90 per ride, the same as the subway and just 15 cents, or 5.5 percent, more than now. The changes were announced by the city Economic Development Corp. July 22 but were only noticed by some media outlets in the last week.
High school students will enjoy a discount for weekday travel to and from school. Enrollment info is at ferry.nyc.
Mayor Adams touted the system as a good eco-friendly way to get around. “We’re continuing to make our ferry system more equitable, more sustainable, and more accessible through our Ferry Forward plan, and these latest updates will help keep our ferries on track,” Adams said in a prepared statement. “More and more New Yorkers are riding our ferries, and we’re going to keep delivering for them.” Q
— Peter C. Mastrosimone
Illegal weed shop closures
continued from page 2
“Our community has been relieved to see the closures of a number of unlicensed cannabis shops, especially those located close to our schools, parks, and libraries, like Hazeland,” Krishnan said in a statement. “While there’s more work to be done, there has been real, noticeable progress in recent weeks.”
Councilwoman Julie Won (D-Long Island City) told the Chronicle in an emailed statement, “Together with our community, my office has worked to report unlicensed smoke shops in our district, especially ones that sold products to minors. Nine illegal smoke shops in District 26 have been identified and closed, but there is more work to do to ensure the City shuts down establishments that endanger our children.”
Won said “illegal shops discredit the legitimacy of licensed smoke shops” in her district and citywide, and added that through sponsoring Local Law 107 — which prohibits commercial landlords from knowingly leasing retail space to smoke shops that sell unlicensed cannabis — and by reporting unlicensed smoke shops, she will continue working with the city to shut down the stores.
Sherry Algredo, the chair of Community Board 9 in South Queens, said she’s glad to see illegal smoke shops closing down.
“However, what we expected was that all illegal cannabis shops would be permanently closed down,” Algredo told the Chronicle.
“Sad to say some of them are reopening days after being shut down, and fully functioning, as in selling cannabis, even in areas at close proximity to schools. Why are they allowed to be called a deli?”
She added, “Close the loopholes, close these shops permanently and then talk about how to control the amount of legal cannabis shops coming into the neighborhood and change the very open criteria of proximity to schools and houses of worship. This is not a bar that sells liquor, this is cannabis! ... We are not ready to celebrate yet.”
Frank Taylor and Giovanna Reid, the chair and district manager, respectively, of Community Board 3 in East Elmhurst, said the illicit smoke shops are still a concern.
“The smoke shops really had no rules,” Taylor said. “With liquor stores you have a 500-foot rule between churches and schools. You had none of that here. ... If the rules are not put in place at the beginning, they make their own rules.”
Reid said that while she appreciates what’s being done, “more attention is needed.” She noted that though those under the age of 21 are not permitted to enter the shops, some of the merchandise carried attracts young people.
“Again, any assistance that we are getting from the mayor and from the state is greatly appreciated,” she said. “We just need to continue and expand the number of agents that are coming out to do inspections.” Q
EDITORIAL AGEP
Not an uplifting tale in LIC
Does anything work right anymore?
Hunter’s Point South Commons and its sister building, HPS Crossing, are not even 10 years old, yet their elevators are already an unreliable mess. The two Long Island City residential towers are notable for their modernistic good looks, various amenities and rent-stabilized affordability. They’re filled with regular folks.
But regular folks deserve regular elevator service. And they’re not getting it. At HPS Commons, two out of three lifts for the high floors have been out for nearly a week, with no end in sight for the repairs. That leaves one elevator for anyone who has to access floors 15 to 38. And that one has been acting up, too, making residents worry they could end up stranded. Stranded for real, that is, with no way up or down. Just getting stuck between floors — maybe with a nonfunctioning intercom — already has happened to people.
These buildings are run by The Related Companies, one of the city’s top developers. How could management be so incapable? How can a New
York real estate giant not manage to keep its elevators going? We’re waiting on parts, they say. But this isn’t the first time the HPS buildings have had lift problems; it’s just the worst. It was foreseeable. Eventually Related put some chairs in the HPS Commons lobby for people to rest in while they wait for the one working high-floor elevator. The firm said it would put some refreshments there, too — it’s been hot! — but those have yet to materialize, according to tenant leader Matt Aaron. It was Aaron who last Friday led a rally calling for Related to get its act together and fix the elevators, along with City Councilwoman Julie Won.
Related is a wealthy enough company that it should be able to keep a stock of elevator parts on hand for whenever they’re needed. Forget “just in time ordering.” The pandemic showed us the fragility of supply chains. Related also gets plenty of government aid to run these buildings. It should give the taxpayers as well as the tenants their money’s worth. Fix the elevators. Let’s have a return to normalcy, and capability. We’re not there now.
Cops, crime and climate
What terrible timing! Tuesday’s storms created so much disappointment, as National Night Out Against Crime events either were canceled or relocated so quickly many people must not have been able to find them.
That’s a shame, as the annual events are a favorite at police precincts across Queens and the city. They lack the impetus they had decades ago, when crime was much worse and it was all about taking back the night from criminals, but they’re a unique fun time.
We still saw some turnout at the Night Out events we got to on Tuesday, but nothing like it would have been. Aside from the radicals, people generally like their cops. They generally deserve it.
And like precinct community council meetings, Night Out gives people a chance to tell commanding officers where they are falling short. This week alone we have two articles in our South Queens edition about communities wanting more police coverage, more cracking down on scofflaws, more safety when they open the door.
Crime continues to fall overall, according to new statistics the city released Tuesday, but we know that’s not true of all crimes in all precincts. For example, robbery is down 3.8 percent, the city said, but we have a story this week noting that it’s up 28 percent in the 110th Precinct, based in Elmhurst.
Let’s see more cops now, and no rain the first Tuesday next August.
MARK WEIDLER
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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
Bane of Briarwood
Dear Editor:
Welcome to Briarwood, Queens! City shelter clients here loiter sunrise to sunset on the park benches of the Queens Boulevard mall, smoking, drinking beer and liquor, and blasting boom boxes. The boulevard and side streets are loitered by similar ilk, particularly in front of bodegas. Panhandling is prevalent. Plus other homeless are attracted to the area like to a magnet.
There is one homeless man living and sleeping on the streets in the neighborhood who set up an altar in front of a store and panhandles from passersby and vehicular traffic. When drunk, he menaces people. Both 311 and 911 have failed to resolve the problem.
There is one store that is smelly, filthy, deteriorated, with rats at the parking lot and recycling center. No courtesy counter and disrespectful, nasty managers. Expired food. Price gouging. Staff is solo Español. But there are illegal cannabis stores galore.
There’s been a 15 to 20 percent depreciation in home and co-op property values due to the bane of a community shelter in the area. Don’t move or buy property in this Briarwood ghetto, or you’ll be very sorry! I’m Movin’ Out, Billy Joel!
Joseph N. Manago Briarwood
Respect riders, toll drivers
Dear Editor:
Regarding yet another new estimate that 47 percent of NYC bus riders don’t pay: New Yorkers do not accept blame for problems with public transit, particularly our buses, which are the slowest in the nation. Gov. Hochul used fare payment as a phony excuse for breaking her promise to start congestion pricing.
Bus fare collection is hard to measure because many riders have unlimited MetroCards, already paid for the subway or will pay for the subway. And just as NYPD overtime spiraled at the turnstile, enforcing the bus fare is not free.
Gov. Hochul owes the bus riders who elected her fast and reliable service. The governor needs to stop cutting service, start congestion pricing, allow all-door boarding, and work with her partner Mayor Adams to build the bus lanes he is required and promised to build.
Jolyse Race
Riders Alliance Senior Organizer Brooklyn
Redo bus redesign plan
Dear Editor:
I agree with your editorial and coverage regarding the Queens Bus Network Redesign but would like to add a few points (“MTA’s new bus plan rankles residents,” “Riders group slams Queens bus plans” and “Bus plan needs another hearing and no service cuts,” Editorial, all Aug. 1).
I have been advocating for a new bus route connecting the Sheepshead Bay subway station with the Rockaways that would cut travel time from up to two hours to only 30 minutes. Isn’t that the purpose of a bus network redesign?
Nowhere does the MTA present any data estimating the percentage of trips that will be made quicker and the percentage that will take longer. That would be a true measure of redesign improvements. Instead, agency officials have asked us to trust them because they are the so-called experts.
Engineer Stephen Bauman, utilizing posts on the internet, making certain assumptions and using publicly available data, ran 171 pages
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
of tables, seen at tinyurl. com/4ws5jxhn, and concluded that the redesign changes very little in terms of time saved.
He also did the MTA’s job of determining the effect on bus speeds of eliminating 1,400 bus stops. He showed that on a typical Wednesday, bus speeds would increase from 8.63 to 8.77 mph, but on Saturdays would decrease from 9.29 to 9.25 mph, and from 9.74 to 9.73 mph on Sundays.
His conclusion is that there will be no meaningful change in bus speeds, while the inconvenience to bus passengers will be significant, meaning that trips will take longer due to increased walking. Ninety-five percent of bus stops must remain where they are.
Allan Rosen Brooklyn
The writer is a former director of MTA New York City Transit Bus Planning with three decades of experience in transportation and a master’s degree in urban planning.
War of the sexes
Dear Editor:
I must respond to Cynthia Groopman, who had her letter “Vance insults women” published in the Aug. 1 issue of the Queens Chronicle. In reference to comments made by vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance regarding women who have no children, Groopman stated that never in her 76 years has she heard such nasty words coming from a so-called lawyer.
It seems Groopman has forgotten that Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor had proclaimed that she could do a better job than a white male. Those words ought to have immediately disqualified her for appointment to the high court. Instead, during confirmation hearings Democrats praised and lauded her. Just imagine the reverse situation, if a male appointee had said the same about a nonwhite female.
May I suggest Groopman discern that offensive and improper words come from all sides of the political scale.
Edward Riecks Howard Beach
Kamala Harris cover-up
Dear
Editor:
Two weeks ago I wrote about how the mainstream media covered up Joe Biden’s mental decline during the past three years (“Hiding the real news,” Letters, July 25). Now, they are engaged in another cover-up.
The mainstream media has not been shy about telling us whatever vice presidential candidate J.D. Vance has said over the years.
What they are not talking about are the extreme positions Kamala Harris has had as recently as four years ago. She has been in favor of eliminating fracking and off-shore drilling, abolishing Immigration and Customs Enforcement, eliminating all private insurance
by substituting a Medicare for All plan and supporting the defund-the-police movement.
All of this is on video for us to see, but the mainstream media seem to have no interest in reporting it, and as of the time I am writing this letter Harris has not given any interviews in which these embarrassing facts would come out.
Just because former President Trump does not have the character to be elected president does not mean we have to settle on someone who is trying to pretend she is someone she is not.
I realize that what I wrote may be news to those who only watch CNN and MSNBC and read The New York Times. No need to thank me for this public service announcement.
Lenny Rodin Forest Hills
We’re all on Team USA
Dear Editor:
What is something that happens every four years? In an election season as heated and divisive as this one, many might be quick to answer “the presidential election.” While that is true, we are also blessed with a 17-day distraction from the world of politics — the Summer Olympic Games.
It sure is convenient that the Summer Olympics happen the same years as our presidential elections. Election years are such a tense time in America, with people divided between candidates and party lines, and ultimately choosing teams to fight against each other. But at the Olympics, as we cheer on the hardworking and talented athletes representing America, we are all rooting for one team — Team USA. During this time of political division, the Olympics are something we can all enjoy, unified as one, with one common goal: for Team USA to win.
At the Olympics, merit is what counts. It is all about who is the fastest, strongest, hardestworking and, simply put, the best in the sport.
As our athletes have shown, when merit is the focus, America delivers. So many things would be better off if we emphasized merit, with education being the tip of the iceberg. Academic achievement would be much higher if we prioritized merit by pushing students to reach the bar instead of lowering the bar to cover up the failures of the education system.
It is incredible to see athletes in a variety of sports, from gymnastics to swimming, to track and field, compete individually but at the end of the day come together to fight for the honor that is Team USA.
I know it is optimistic thinking, but if we could bring the same teamwork into politics, America would be much better off. At the end of the day, we are all on one team — Team USA.
Kristina Raevsky Forest Hills
for
and other reasons. They may be emailed to letters@qchron.com.
The writer is a rising ninth-grade student, education meritocracy advocate and author of four books including, most recently, “Marriage or Espionage: Read Between the Lines.” Write a Letter!
Meeks talks Harris, migrants and more
Jamaica U.S. rep. speaks highly of VP’s running mate, Gov. Timothy Walz
by Naeisha Rose Editor
U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) did not break the news about who Vice President Kamala Harris would choose as a running mate as she runs to become the first Black Caribbean and Indian woman commander in chief during a Monday morning media roundtable held ahead of his campaigning for re-election.
In fact, he was running a little late to the meeting as he had anticipated the announcement would be made that day.
Harris did eventually make her veep pick, Minnesota Gov. Timothy James Walz — the U.S. rep for his state’s 1st Congressional District from 2007 to 2019 — the following day.
While mentioning people on Harris’ short list, Meeks did speak highly of Walz, who was his colleague.
“Gov. Walz was a member of Congress and a member of the House, so I know what he will bring,” Meeks said. “He will bring a lot to the table legislatively as far as communications with the future Harris-Walz administration. He knows a lot of folks in the House and he would make a difference there, similarly to what Joe Biden did for President Obama with the Senate side.”
When asked if America is ready for an LGBT vice president in the form of Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, Meeks said yes.
“Yeah, you know, that is becoming a more perfect union when you include everybody,” he said. “I think that is what is important. That is what makes America one of the greatest countries that this planet has every seen — you correct some of the past mistakes that we made. That is why we don’t want to go back like they say in the [Make America Great Again] world. That is why we want to go forward, meaning being a more inclusive country.
“I think you can update what Dr. King said ... You want to judge a person, not by their sexual preferences, but by the content of their character. Secretary Buttigieg — no one can challenge his intellect, no one can challenge his ability to communicate.”
Meeks said he also personally knew another potential pick, U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), whose wife, former U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords (D-Ariz.), turned gun control activist, was a colleague of his.
Giffords resigned from office after being shot in 2012 in an assassination attempt that left her with a severe brain injury.
Meeks said he has dual responsibilities on the campaign trail.
“One is electing Kamala Harris to be the president of the United States,” he said. “When I go on the surrogates’ circuit for her, I will be in those battleground states delivering the message as to why I believe she is the best person to be the president of the United States.”
106 opts for an afternoon out
Due to inclement weather, the 106th Precinct took its National Night Out indoors on Tuesday, swapping the evening event at PS 146 in Howard Beach for an afternoon shindig in the parking garage of Resorts World Casino in South Ozone Park.
In attendance was Assemblywoman Stacey Pheffer Amato, center, who met with the precinct’s commanding officer, Capt. Berkley Vantull, left, and the commanding
At a media roundtable, U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks discussed Vice President Kamala Harris’ vice president pick, the Democratic agenda, the stock market and more.
The congressman is also running around the country to work toward winning a majority of Democratic seats in the House as chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Political Action Committee.
“There are 27 seats that we believe that we can flip from red to blue, and then also there are other seats in addition there too that we believe we can protect,” Meeks said. “The other objective I have is making Hakeem Jeffries [D-Brooklyn] the next speaker of the House of Representatives and of course, that ensures that I again become the chair of the House of Foreign Affairs Committee ... Having a House of Representatives that is ready to move forward with an agenda that would pass various things for Harris and whoever it might be [on her] team in the White House.”
Meeks said he would start to help to flip or keep Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Arizona, Nevada, Georgia and North Carolina blue. On a local level, he will start to help win back, keep or flip New York Congressional seats in Districts 1, 4, 17 and 19 for Democrats.
He also faces a rematch here with GOP challenger Paul King, whom he beat 75 to 25 percent in 2022.
Meeks said Biden, who “will go down as one of the best presidents” and “surpasses what a lot of individuals did in two terms,” has passed the torch to Harris, who would go into office with the most relationships with other heads of state due to her experience as vice president.
“She brings that to the table,” he said, adding, “There was more jobs created under the Biden administration, particularly for ... African-Americans, Hispanics, Asians and those in Appalachia.”
logue that Donald Trump brings.”
When asked about the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping more than 1,000 points Monday and the Nasdaq falling 3 percent amid fears of a recession, Meeks noted that, overall, the stock market under Biden for the past three and half years has been at its peak.
“It’s been higher than any other time in history,” said Meeks, a senior member of the House Financial Services Committee. “You are talking about this month. Something that just took place. If you listen to the financial advisors and consultants, they say there is no need to panic.
“You have not heard a word of having a recession in a while. They say these are just some signals — I think that part of it is really disappointment that the [Federal Reserve] did not reduce interest rates last week ... We will see what will take place in September.”
Meeks also touched on the Middle East.
“We all saw the horrific attack of Hamas on Oct. 7, killing over 1,200 Jews,” he said. “The worst event for Jews since the Holocaust. Hamas is a terrorist organization and its leadership needs to be held accountable. So the United States stood with, and will continue to stand with, our friends in the Middle East, Israel, to continue to defend themselves.”
Meeks said that Hezbollah and Hamas do not believe Israel has the right to exist.
“We will stand by our allies so that Israel does continue to exist,” he said. “But, now, when you look at what is taking place in Gaza, there is time for a need for a ceasefire and the Biden Administration is working to get that.”
Meeks also spoke about the U.S.-Mexico border and the migrant situation.
“She was not a border czar,” Meeks said about Harris, who was appointed by Biden to address the root causes of migration and visited Central American countries early in her tenure. “Her assignment was to go talk to the governments ... where we saw the mass number of migrants coming to find out the root cause of migration. ... She was looking at ways that we can get the private sector to see if we could do business with those countries and create some jobs there so that they would not have the need to come to the United States of America.”
Meeks also blamed Trump for getting Republicans to scuttle a bipartisan border bill in Congress. Q
Chronicle
$eeks a
freelance reporter
officer of Patrol Borough Queens South, Assistant Chief Kevin Williams.
Pheffer Amato wrote on Facebook, “Despite the rain National Night Out is still going strong! We started out with some fun with the NYPD 106 Precinct and the 106 Pct. Community Council. Our community came out to talk with law enforcement and support local groups. Such a great start to NNO!!” — Kristen Guglielmo
Along with building upon on Biden’s gains as president in terms of job creation, Meeks said, Harris has a vision that includes a living wage for Americans, affordable healthcare and housing, as well as fixing the infrastructure of the country.
“There is hope with her,” he continued. “I’ve not seen this kind of excitement that has taken place since, quite frankly, 2008 with Barack Obama. Everybody seems to be engaged as opposed to [dealing] with the dia-
The Queens Chronicle is seeking a freelance reporter who is conscientious, reliable and able to turn stories around quickly when needed. The ideal candidate will have a flexible schedule and be able to cover events such as night meetings, press conferences, protests and art exhibit openings. Knowledge of and interest in government and politics are strong pluses.
Applicants should send their resumes and three writing samples to Editor-in-Chief Peter C. Mastrosimone at peterm@qchron.com. Experience is preferred; talent required. Q
PHOTO BY NAEISHA ROSE
Armstrong Museum to get love and care
Jazz legend’s former house receives $750,000 historic preservation grant
by Naeisha Rose Editor
A Corona landmark celebrating a jazz great was the recipient of a huge donation recently from The National Park Service that will go toward giving it some tender loving care.
The Louis Armstrong House Museum received a $750,000 grant on July 24 as part of the Historic Preservation Fund’s African American Civil Rights program, which focuses on the safeguarding of sites and stories directly associated with the struggle of African Americans to gain equal rights, according to the NPS.
Regina Bain, the museum’s executive director, was thrilled about the grant.
“We are so excited to receive a presti-
gious, $750,000 National Park Service grant,” Bain said last Wednesday via email.
“Louis and Lucille Armstrong are important pillars, not only to the Corona and Queens community but also to the United States’ jazz legacy. The museum continues to share their story and we look forward to doing so for years to come.”
The historic site and archival center dedicated to the legendary Armstrong will use the funds to protect the structural integrity of the house and enhance the safety of the environment for staff and visitors, NPS said.
“LAHM is embarking on a pivotal conservation and restoration project of the Armstrong home, built in 1910 — designated as a National Historic Landmark in 1977 and a New York Historic Landmark in 1988,” said Bain.
“Lucille Armstrong, Louis’ wife, purchased the home in 1943. The Armstrong home opened to the public as a historic house in October 2003 after a $1.8 million renovation.
“Until 2021, there had not been any major renovations or conservation projects since the initial investment prior to the 2003 opening.
“The home receives tens of thousands of visitors every year. The opening of the Armstrong Center in July 2023 has catapulted visitorship, bringing a significant amount of
Louis and Lucille Armstrong in their Corona home, which is now a museum dedicated to the
jazz great. Recently, the historical house received a
new visitors to Corona and to the home. It’s important to ensure this 100-plus year old home is prepared to welcome the influx of new guests and fulfill our mission of disseminating this incredible American legacy.”
Lucille was Armstrong’s wife of 29 years and gave up ownership of the house after the trumpeter’s passing in 1971.
On Aug. 3 and 4, Bain spoke at the Satch-
9 dines out again to back area small biz
Last summer, Community Board 9 Chairwoman Sherry Algredo brought together members of the group and their families to patronize area panel businesses. Despite inclement weather, the board continued the tradition last weekend with a visit to Tikka Indian Grill, at 119-30 Metropolitan Ave. in Kew Gardens.
Algredo, second from left in front, told the Chronicle there were 50 patronizing guests in her party Friday evening and altogether, the group spent more than $2,000 in two hours.
“Even though the rain fell and some got a
bit wet, there was so much laughter and support that this did not phase anyone,” she added.
The group celebrated three birthdays: those of Tikka Indian Grill owner Julie Chowdhury, center left in front, board member Joan DeCamp, and Ozone Park Residents Block Association Vice President Angela Nocerino.
The board was joined by Assemblymember Jenifer Rajkumar, center right, and her chief of staff, Anna Sargeant, as well as representatives of Councilmember Lynn Schulman and
Assemblymember David Weprin. Loycent Gordon of Neir’s Tavern, the first business publicly supported by the board last summer, also joined the festivities.
Chowdhury was presented with citations from Rajkumar and Schulman, while James McClelland, the board’s district manager, gave her a certificate of appreciation.
“Our Community Board 9 members are simply the best and really came out and spent their money to support local restaurants,” Algredo said. — Kristen Guglielmo
mo Summerfest in New Orleans, highlighting the museum’s advancements in arts education. On Aug. 24, Victor Dey Jr., a Ghanian pianist, will be at the center for a performance in the Louis Armstrong Center Jazz Room.
Tickets for the event can be found at eventbrite.com.
The LAHM is located at 34-56 107 St. Q
Saving a life this summer
The New York Blood Center is seeking donors of all blood types to help members of the community. Donors can help surgery and cancer patients, accident victims, new mothers and babies. Information is available at nybc.org. Drives include:
• The Shops at Atlas Park, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 10, at 8000 Cooper Ave. next to TJ Maxx in Glendale;
• Our Lady of Mercy Church, 8:45 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 11 at 70-01 Kessel St. in Forest Hills;
• St. Margaret’s Parish, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11, at 66-05 79 Place in Middle Village;
• Queens Place mall, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 11, in the former T-Mobile store at 88-01 Queens Blvd. in Elmhurst;
• Jackson Heights Elakabashi, 1:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 15, at 37-22 73 St.;
• Our Lady Queen of Martyrs church, 9:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., on Sunday, Aug. 18, at 72-55 Austin St. in Forest Hills; and
• Forest Hills Jewish Center, 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 18, at 106-06 Queens Blvd. in Flushing. Q
late
preservation grant. PHOTOS COURTESY LAHM / FILE
The Louis Armstrong House Museum.
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The passerby who stopped ESSAY
by Bob Brody
The old lady — she had to be about 90 — leaned her shoulder against the wall of a brick building, propping herself upright. Her right hand held a tripod walker, her left a plastic bag with groceries. She just stood there on the sidewalk, half a block from Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills, sweltering in the summer heat.
of her now, he wondered as he headed home. Why did she have no one in her life to call? Would someone else have stopped for her if he had kept going?
It was about 85 degrees out now and steaming up fast. A passerby waited a minute for her to move, then asked her if she needed help. Yes, she said.
“What happened?” he asked.
“I should never have gone to the store today,” she said. “I’m going to have to stop going to the store.”
He said, “Let’s get you home.”
He kept turning the incident over in his head. What if some day I’m lucky enough to grow as old as she, he asked himself. What if I, too, falter in the blazing summer sun, stricken into immobility? Will a passerby stop to help?
He offered his arm and she slowly took a few short, teetering steps. She lived down the street, she told him, about four blocks away. At this rate, he soon realized, getting her home, step by faltering step, would take easily an hour. And who knew if the old lady, so frail and withered, so compromised now in the noonday heat, would even make it?
GThe passerby tried to flag a car in the street nearby to give her a ride home, but the car kept going. The next car kept going, too. Then he spotted a man and a woman getting into a car 40 yards up the hill.
ood Samaritans are all around us.
“Wait here,” he said to the woman. “I’ll be back in a minute.” He approached the man and woman and explained the problem. “She’s unable to walk,” he said. “She needs a ride home.”
The guy said, “Maybe you should call 911. We’re in kind of a hurry.”
The passerby surrendered to a force beyond his control and let a look of disgust come over his face. He said, “You’re here now. Who knows how long 911 would take?”
The guy quickly agreed. Together they helped the women out of the shade and into the sun and the front seat of the SUV and drove her the five blocks to her building. He and the passerby guided her into the lobby.
“Is there someone you can call when you get home?” the passerby asked.
“No,” she said.
“Nobody?” he asked.
“No. Nobody,” she said.
“What about your doctor?” he asked.
“He lives far away,” she said. The doorman came out of the lobby to take her arm. He would lead her to her apartment.
“Thank you,” the old lady said to the passerby and the driver. The passerby thanked the driver and left the old lady at her building. What will become
“Whoever walks a furlong without sympathy,” poet Walt Whitman wrote, “walks to his own funeral, dressed in his shroud.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines a good Samaritan as “someone who gives help to people who need it.” The term originated in a parable recounted by Jesus in the Book of Luke, Chapter 10. Jesus tells of a man traveling on a road from Jerusalem to Jericho until robbers stripped, beat and left him half-dead. But, he says, “a certain Samaritan traveling the road came upon him, and at seeing him, he was moved with pity.” The Samaritan approached the victim, bandaged his wounds, led him to an inn and took care of him.
Good Samaritans are all around us. They pull the wounded from the rubble in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. They rescue neighbors from tsunamis and earthquakes and typhoons. They even stop on a sidewalk around the corner from where you live to prevent a suffering old lady from collapsing in the summer heat and get her home safe.
At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, in April and May of 2020, Good Samaritans met the moment, found a study of 1,512 U.S. residents conducted through the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai.
“Overall, people made more altruistic choices as the pandemic worsened,” the authors concluded, because they were “primarily driven by a greater preference for social welfare.”
Pope Francis addressed the Good Samaritan parable in “Il Fratelli” (“The Brothers”), his 2020 encyclical on fraternity and social friendship. He wrote, “Jesus’ parable summons us to rediscover our vocation as citizens of our respective nations and of the entire world, builders of a new social bond.”
We’re summoned to this higher calling, the passerby thought, for the most basic of reasons. To survive. Unless we help each other, he realized, who will? Q
Bob Brody, a former Forest Hills resident now living in Italy, is the author of the memoir “Playing Catch with Strangers: A Family Guy (Reluctantly) Comes of Age.”
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How to avoid deed theft and property scams
by Melanie Marich and Rachel Holliday Smith
THE CITY
This article was originally published on August 5 at 4:59 a.m. EDT by THE CITY
Owning a home in this city is a serious achievement and a valuable asset often built up over years. But losing control of it can happen in a New York minute.
Over the last few years, THE CITY has reported extensively on cases of deed theft and scams — unscrupulous moves where people use fraud, forgery and other unlawful methods to take possession of a home, often without the true owner even knowing.
Straight theft is illegal. But there are other, mostly legal, ways property speculators scoop up deeds that New Yorkers should know about, too.
These practices often impact the city’s Black and Latino communities the most, many of which have seen their homes’ worth rise significantly in recent years..
In this guide, we’ll help you understand how deed fraud works, what’s legal and illegal — and how to take precautions to protect yourself either way:
What is deed theft?
Deed theft is when someone takes over the title of a home — represented by a physical deed document — without the approval or knowledge of the true homeowner.
That’s what happened to Johnnie Jackson, as previously reported by THE CITY. Jackson, 64, lived in his family’s three-story house in St. Albans for most of his life. Then, in 2010, he went to refinance his mortgage through low-rate ads he saw in a newspaper.
But that refinancing company turned out to be part of a federally investigated scheme to defraud homeowners, according to federal court documents from 2015. Jackson had signed away the rights to this
house thinking that they were paperwork for refinancing.
The New York City Sheriff’s Office received nearly 3,500 complaints of deed theft between 2014 and mid-2023, according to the state Attorney General’s Office.
Property ownership-related fraud goes beyond just theft of a deed. Criminals could record fraudulent deeds, mortgage records or liens (a document indicating owed debt) on a property without an owner knowing about it. Those situations may be called deed fraud, according to the NYC Department of Finance.
That’s what may have happened in Harlem, where Joseph Makhani was indicted by the state attorney general last year for allegedly forging documents claiming he had bought two brownstones worth millions for just $10 each.
New York City has a deadly combination of factors that make deed fraud and theft “particularly pernicious,” said Jacob Inwald, the director of litigation and economic services at Legal Services NYC.
“There is a significant population of homeowners at risk of losing their homes due to foreclosures or property taxes, combined with exponentially increasing property values,” he said.
Who is most at risk for deed fraud or theft?
THE CITY has found that speculators in the five boroughs often target homes in rapidly gentrifying historically Black and Latino neighborhoods. Other vulnerable groups include older people and families with no estate plan or will.
Studies show that only about a third of Americans have a will, with Black and Latino people significantly less likely than white people to lock in formal estate planning. That reality means that scores of family homes in nonwhite neighborhoods are prime targets for speculators looking to cash in.
Another group at risk, according to the state attorney general, are people struggling to make payments on their mortgages. Currently, the city Department of Finance puts liens on properties for unpaid property taxes and sells them to privately managed trusts, which can attempt to collect the debt and initiate foreclosure proceedings.
What can I do if I think I’m the victim of deed fraud?
If you think you are the victim of deed fraud or theft, immediately report it to the Sheriff’s Office — at (718) 707-2100 or online — and to the district attorney in the borough where your property is located. You can also call the office of the state attorney general at 1 (800) 771-7755 or file a complaint online.
You should also get your own lawyer, according to the attorney general. But beware of hiring a lawyer referred to you by someone who may have a vested interest in your property, the office notes, including realtors. You can also get legal representation through programs such as the Homeowner Protection Program, or HOPP, a network of housing counselors and legal service providers throughout New York State.
Man shot in Richmond Hill
A man was shot multiple times inside a smoke shop in Richmond Hill Monday night, according to authorities. Police said that at approximately 10:35 p.m., inside 119-19 Jamaica Ave., a 34-year-old male engaged in a dispute with two unknown male individuals. One of the individuals discharged a firearm, striking the victim multiple times. He was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in critical but stable condition, police said. The unidentified males fled the location to parts unknown. No arrests have been made and the investigation
Police are seeking these two men. NYPD PHOTO
remains ongoing.
Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit tips by logging onto nypdcrimestoppers. com, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES) and then entering TIP577, or by going to @nypdtips on X.
All tips are strictly confidential. Q
According to Inwald at Legal Services NYC, one of the most important factors in these cases is timing, as it often takes years for people to even realize that there is something wrong with the deed of their house. The statute of limitations — meaning the legal timeframe in which a crime can be prosecuted — for the criminal prosecution of deed theft recently changed from five years to eight.
How can I prevent deed fraud or theft from happening to me?
There are several key steps you should take that can help protect you from future fraud or theft, according to experts:
Sign up for the Notice of Recorded Document Program through the city Department of Finance, which automatically notifies you by mail when a new record is filed on your property.
Check your property’s deed on the Automated City Register Information System at least once a year to make sure no fake or fraudulent documents have been recorded there.
Keep your records safe. Make copies and keep all of your important documents and a list of your heirs — with their names, contact information and addresses — in a secure spot. Make sure those you trust know
where to find them.
Never transfer ownership of your property, including to organizations like mortgage assistance companies. Trustworthy people or businesses will not ask you to transfer your property rights to them.
Be skeptical about online ads, phone solicitations or visits from strangers who promise mortgage modifications or to save your home from foreclosures.
Have a will. It is the easiest way to transfer the title of your home after your death.
Do not abandon your property or stop mortgage payments, property tax payments, or water bills, as this is a common way would-be deed thieves find targets. If you are struggling to make payments, get in touch with the Homeowner Protection Program, sponsored by the state Attorney General’s Office, and it can help you connect with housing counseling agencies as well as legal services.
How can I get legal help to make a will or estate plan?
Not everyone absolutely needs a will or trust — direct heir and spousal inheritance is often covered by default estate law — but determining whether you do is something you may need an attorney to figure out. There are many local groups that provide free legal services to help low- or moderate-income New Yorkers sort out end-of-life planning, including:
• City Bar Justice Center, Planning and Estates Law Project: (212) 382-6756;
• Legal Services NYC: (917) 661-4500;
• NY Legal Assistance Group, Advance Planning: (212) 613-6514; and
• Center for NYC Neighborhoods Homeowner Hub: (646) 786-0888. Q THE CITY (www.thecity.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hard-hitting reporting that serves the people of New York.
Two stabbed in Ozone Park
A man was arrested after allegedly stabbing two others in Ozone Park in separate incidents Tuesday evening, police said.
At about 5 p.m., officers responded to a 911 call of a man stabbed at 100-03 North Conduit Ave., within the confines of the 106th Precinct. Upon arrival, police observed a male, 25, stabbed in the back. He was taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in stable condition, police said.
Shortly after, police received a 911 call of a man stabbed at the Aqueduct-North Conduit Avenue subway station. Upon arrival, officers observed a male, 67, lying on the
northbound A train platform with a stab wound to the neck, authorities said. He was taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in critical condition. Feruz Radjabov, 40, a homeless man, was arrested at the scene.
Police said Radjabov was charged with second-degree attempted murder, three counts of second-degree assault, thirddegree assault, fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon, third-degree criminal trespass, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration in the second degree and second-degree harassment. The investigation remains ongoing. Q
Townhouses in Crown Heights, Brooklyn. PHOTO BY JASON SCOTT JONES / THE CITY
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In LIC, 38 floors and one iffy elevator
Rent-stabilized residents fear they’ll get stuck as lift problems worsen
by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief
Residents living in the upper two-thirds of a chic Long Island City high-rise are down to just one elevator, with fears that it may fail at any time, as it has before.
Tenant leader Matt Aaron led a rally last Friday morning with other residents of 1-50 50 Ave., also known as Hunter’s Point South Commons, and City Councilwoman Julie Won (D-Long Island City), calling on the building’s management to fix its worsening elevator problems.
The property’s manager, development giant The Related Companies, told tenants the two elevators that are out will be down until Aug. 7, according to Aaron and Won. As of press time Wednesday, they were still out of service and there no longer was an expected completion time for repairs, Aaron said.
Related handles both HPS Commons and a sister building, Hunter’s Point South Crossing, at 1-55 Borden Ave. Both buildings have massive, recurring elevator problems, Aaron and Won say, putting nearly 1,000 tenants at risk.
The buildings are rent-stabilized and subsidized, and tenants believe they are being taken advantage of by Related’s corporate greed even as it gets tax breaks from the city
and neglects residents’ safety by failing to provide reliable and safe elevators.
At HPS Commons, there are three elevators that serve floors 15 to 38, Aaron told the Chronicle. Two are down. The one that is working is the smallest of the three, and that one has had its own problems.
Residents have been getting trapped in the elevators over the previous months and even years, he said, and on July 31 a woman and child were stuck. Having that happen when it is so hot is a big concern, said Aaron, who lives on the 34th floor with his wife, Rebecca, and their dog, Uni.
“The main issue is the safety of these elevators,” he said. “I don’t trust they are functioning properly and dread getting stuck in one, especially in this heat.”
Tenants also are being “inconvenienced immensely” because maintenance staff is unable to use the freight elevator for trash and large deliveries, according to Aaron.
Things did not improve over the weekend, aside from management setting out some chairs in the lobby because people have to wait so long for an elevator, he said.
The light for the one working high-floor lift does not always stay on when pressed, Aaron added, leaving people to wonder if it will arrive. Even if it does, the doors may not open.
“The frustrating thing is how management responded to me when I brought it up,” he said via email. “Instead of saying, ‘Thanks for bringing this to our attention,’ it was the opposite: ‘That is not accurate, the elevator has always been functioning.’ Well if the elevator works but the doors don’t open, I’m still stuck.
Last Friday, Won said a 10-year-old child told of being trapped in an elevator for more than an hour, while a woman told her the front desk had told her not to call 911 if people get stuck. That resident also said she was trapped for more than an hour and that the intercom was shut off, so she could not call anybody.
“Related Companies is a negligent landlord, ignoring elevators that have malfunctioned and broken down multiple times since July and jeopardizing the safety of thousands
of tenants who are forced to use the stairs during a heatwave,” Won said in a prepared statement. “Some tenants who live on higher floors have been trapped in their apartments while the elevators remain unrepaired.
“I demand management cuts ties with the Kone Elevator Company and immediately and permanently fix the elevators at Hunters Point South Commons. Elevators are essential to the elderly, individuals with disabilities, parents with strollers, and so many other New Yorkers. I will continue to advocate for the proper repair and replacement of elevators for our neighbors who rely on this crucial accessibility requirement.”
Kone did not respond to an email from the Queens Chronicle seeking comment.
The Buildings Department, however, said it was sending an inspector to HPS Commons to check out the situation after being contacted by the Chronicle.
A spokesperson for the building, Kathleen Corless, said via email:
“We appreciate the patience of residents as we work through repairs and inspections on two elevators. Getting the elevators back in working order as quickly as possible is our top priority, and we have brought in outside technicians multiple times over the last several days in an effort to expedite repairs. We are waiting on the arrival of additional parts to complete the repairs and will continue to keep residents updated as we work to resolve the matter in the coming days.”
The sole working elevator for the high floors also went down Saturday morning, Aaron reported, and though it was returned to service, it was then used to move someone out of the 38th floor, leaving everyone else without a usable lift for a time.
Management sent out an update Monday, saying it was still waiting for parts to complete repairs and asking residents to be patient and courteous. It promised refreshments in the lobby along with the chairs, but no beverages arrived, Aaron said. Q
Jamaica blaze injures 14 people, says FDNY
by Naeisha Rose Editor
A fire that ripped through Jamaica left 11 firefighters and three civilians with minor injuries last Saturday, according to authorities.
The FDNY told the Chronicle that it took 198 firefighters from 44 units to put out the five-alarm blaze that started at the rear of a two-story house, located at 88-21 Francis Lewis Blvd. between Hillside and 89th avenues. The fire was called in at 4:02 p.m. and put out by 6:07 p.m.
Police said that the three civilians suffered
11 households destroyed because of fire
from smoke inhalation, but did not elaborate on what injuries were sustained by the firefighters or what condition they were in as of Monday.
According to the American Red Cross of Greater New York, the flames ripped through 11 households and left a total of 32 adults and 12 children displaced. All 11 households got financial assistance and five got help with lodging, the Arc said.
Displaced residents will speak with a caseworker team within the next few days to discuss their recovery needs and receive information regarding government programs and other nonprofits who may be able to assist them longer, said an ARC spokeswoman. Any residents displaced by the fire who did not have the opportunity to connect with the Red Cross on the scene may call 1 (877) RedCross (733-2767) the spokeswoman added. Q
A five-alarm fire in Jamaica destroyed 11 homes. FDNY PHOTO / X
City Councilwoman Julie Won speaks last Friday about the elevator issues at Hunter’s Point South Crossing, joined by residents including tenant leader Matt Aaron, in blue, saying hello to a friend’s child after his time at the mic.
PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL
Now you see it, now you don’t: The button on the one working high-floor elevator at Hunter’s Point South Commons is not staying on when pressed, leaving residents wondering whether the lift will arrive. PHOTOS COURTESY MATT AARON
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New track and field for future Olympians
Renovated sports structure at York College gets $8.1M facelift in Jam.
by Naeisha Rose Editor
It was a marathon-like journey, but after approximately 17 years the ribbon was cut for the newly renovated $8.1 million sports structure at York College in Jamaica last Thursday.
The NCAA-level 400-meter track and soccer field, located on 160th Street between Liberty Avenue and Tuskegee Airmen Way, will have many more features soon.
As of now, the track and field includes long jump runway strips and space for pole vaulting equipment, shot put, discus, javelin, hammer and more, thanks to funding provided by the City Council, the Borough President’s Office and York College students, according to the CUNY school.
“Today we proudly celebrate ... the first and only National Collegiate Athletic Association, NCAA-level facility in Southeast Queens,” said York interim President Claudia Schrader. “This has been a three-president relay project.”
The project first started under former York President Marcia Kiezs and Schrader replaced the most recent President Berenecea Johnson Eanes, who now heads up Cal State Los Angeles in East Hollywood, Calif.
Rochdale Village started right here in Southeast Queens and went on to win medals and to break world records,” Adams said. “Just this week we saw 21-year-old Lauren Scruggs from Ozone Park earn a silver medal in fencing, becoming the first Black woman athlete to accomplish this feat for Team USA. This is homegrown talent. Future star athletes will get their start on this very track and field and they too will emerge on the world stage proudly representing us in Queens ... The best is still yet to come.”
Richards, a former councilman, said that when he used to take the Long Island Rail Road to get to the city, he would see how people looked down on the area.
“I would look at how people coming through our community would look at our community,” Richards said. “We deserve everything that every other community gets. We are hardworking taxpayers right here. As a matter of fact, this community pays higher taxes than any other part of New York City last time I checked.”
“We deserve everything that every other community gets.”
Along with thanking the Southeast Queens community, the New York City Football Club, the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York, York’s foundation board members, staff and the facilities crew, alumni and students, Schrader also praised state Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman (D-Springfield Gardens) Borough President Donovan Richards and Councilwomen Nantasha Williams (D-St. Albans) and Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica).
Richards said the days of disinvestment in Southeast Queens are over.
athletes
from
Emelin
and
ley Sanchez, captain of York’s men’s soccer team, celebrate a new track and field that was renovated for $8.1 million.
students, our college community and members of the surrounding community who want to walk better into health, train and even play a quick game of soccer.”
Schrader said it will also be fertile ground for future NYCFC soccer stars and track stars like Sha’Carri Richardson.
“We are not leaving it all on the field,” she said. “We will take our appreciation and gratitude for your support and investment to ensure this track and field ... is a place where futures take flight.” Q
— Borough President Donovan
“I want to take this opportunity to extend a Queens-size, York-size thank you that extends infinitely longer than any high jump,” Schrader said to the elected officials.
For more than a decade, the facility was padlocked because inferior construction led to massive sinkholes leaving students no place to train. The school also experienced several false starts after years of noncommitment to upgrade the space.
“Your commitment has been instrumental in bringing this project to fruition,” Schrader said.
This is just the beginning, said CUNY Executive Vice Chancellor and COO Hector Batista.
“By 2025 we are going to be having a scoreboard and other things here,” Batista said.
It was not lost on Adams that the ribbon cutting was taking place as members of Team USA were winning or gearing up to compete at the Paris Olympics.
“Stars like Dalilah Muhammad out of
Richards
“Think about how these individuals still ran their race and succeeded coming from communities like ours that were disinvested in,” he said, referring to Scruggs and Muhammad. “Imagine if they had stateof-the-art [facilities].”
After the ribbon cutting, student-athletes in track and soccer started playing on the track and field while recruits of the CUNY Public Safety Academy were exercising.
Along with learning procedural law, regulations and diffusion tactics, the PSA students also engage in physical training to stay in shape, said York College Chief of Public Safety James Assmann.
“We also have officer wellness, something that has been overlooked for many years in law enforcement,” Assmann said. “We are constantly helping other people, but sometimes we bring those burdens home. This course teaches you that there are positive resources out there, people to talk to and exercise programs to get involved in.”
Schrader said that others will be utilizing the space as well.
“Someone once said, either Kevin Costner or Noah, ‘If you build it, they will come,’” she said. “Who is coming, you asked? York students of the Department of Health and Human Performance, physical education majors from the Teachers Ed. Department, student-athletes, high school
The July 18 story “Street co-named for Karina Vetrano” misstated who led the prayer and blessed the street. It was the Rev. Michael Panicali. We regret the error.
Celebrating culture via dance
Kids at PS 97 in Woodhaven are learning new dance moves while taking in different cultures as part of an afterschool program, Ballet Hispánico, thanks to funding allocations from Councilwoman Joann Ariola.
“Ballet Hispánico is extremely grateful for the support we have received throughout the years from Council Member Ariola’s office in District 32,” said Natalia Mesa, the community engagement director for Ballet Hispánico, in a statement. “Ballet Hispánico strives to celebrate the richness of the Latine and Hispanic identities through dance and we hope to continue to
connect students with their history and empower them to discover their unique talents, promote personal growth, and see themselves reflected in the curriculum.”
“Ballet Hispánico brings some amazing programming to the students in PS 097, and provides them with high quality dance education that they might otherwise never receive,” Ariola said. “In a borough as vibrant and diverse as Queens, it is always good to build bridges of understanding early, and allow our young people to better get to know their neighbors through such a fun, dynamic medium.”
Student
Jessica Ramos, third
left,
Cajamarca, Kresanta Jones
others from York College’s soccer team, York interim President Claudia Schrader, track star Stephen Ulysse, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams, Borough President Donovan Richards, York’s Foundation Board members Dawn Kelly and Pat Robinson, CUNY COO Hector Batista and Stan-
PHOTO BY NAEISHA ROSE
ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING August 8, 2024
easons in the sun VYV___
Aby Kristen Guglielmo
s the summer sun ascends, so too does Hip to Hip Theatre Co. as it kicks off its 17th season of free Shakespeare in the Park. The group will be hitting six parks across the World’s Borough for performances of two of the Bard’s plays throughout August.
S hakespeare’s ‘Midsummer Dream’ and ‘Winter’s Tale’ outdoors now
The troupe performs shows in repertory — a system of play production in which an acting company rehearses multiple plays and performs them on a rotating basis.
This season, the cast is performing “The Winter’s Tale,” directed by David Frederick Mold, and “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” directed by Jason Marr, co-founder of Hip to Hip.
Asked about the two play selections, Marr told the Chronicle, “One of our unofficial goals as a company has been to work through the entire canon. So we have been doing that over the last 17 years.”
He added, “We’ve been getting to some of the later Shakespeare plays or ones that are just not as frequently produced.”
Hip to Hip co-founder Joy Marr said, “This year is especially amazing because each actor plays multiple roles
within each show, which means they are preparing four to five Shakespearean roles at once.”
“The Winter’s Tale” follows King Leontes as he falsely accuses his pregnant queen of adultery with his best friend. He makes a series of decisions that tear his family apart. Sixteen years later, the king tries to rectify his errors.
“I find audiences are captivated by Shakespeare’s telling of this tale, from the powerful and emotional first acts to the surprising final scene” said Mold, who said the play intrigued him since he first saw it more than 30 years ago.
“It’s a decades-long journey of personal and political reconciliation and redemption.”
It is Jason Marr’s fifth time working on “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” a play following four young lovers who escape to a magical forest for love. That night, the king and queen of the fairies declare war on each other, and a company of amateur actors meet to rehearse a play.
continued on page 25
King Crossword Puzzle
Birth control’s Baird had family in St. Albans
by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor
William Baird Jr. was born June 20, 1932 in Brooklyn. He was the fourth of five children born to William Sr. and Olga (nee Knisple) Baird. His father, born in Scotland, was a lumber salesman. His mother immigrated to the U.S. from Germany at age 17. He was raised in a strict Lutheran household. In 1943, Baird’s father became a U.S. citizen, and the family moved out to a 1,632-square-foot, three bedroom corner house at 189-01 Mangin Avenue in St. Albans. While working for a birth control company and doing research at Harlem Hospital in 1963, Bill Baird witnessed the grisly death of a woman from a self-induced abortion. He began giving away birth control samples and devoted his life to lecturing on the topic and challenging laws restricting contraception. He was jailed eight times in five
states. He became the first and only non-lawyer to accomplish three Supreme Court victories, one of them establishing the right of nonmarried people to access contraception. At age 92, Baird is still active as a reproductive rights advocate speaker. Q
The childhood home of birth control crusader Bill Baird at 189-01 Mangin Ave. in St. Albans, as it looked in the 1940s when he lived there. INSET PHOTO BY JONI BAIRD VIA WIKIPEDIA
Library plays are short, free and one day only
by Mark Lord qboro contributor
A wide array of actors, playwrights and directors will once again get to ply their crafts as the annual Equity Library Theatre Summer Play Festival comes to the borough, for one performance only on Saturday, Aug. 17.
The festival, which was created in 2010 by Astoria resident Johnny Culver, who still runs the event, extends over three weekends, including two in Manhattan, before wrapping up at the Queens Library’s Astoria branch, with showtime at 1 p.m. Admission is free but seating is extremely limited.
Several borough residents are represented in this year’s festival, including playwright Eugene Grygo, a Pennsylvania native who has called Astoria home since 1999.
His entry, “Reg & Jared,” a twohander set in 1990 and based on his own experiences living in Boston, is a drama about a gay couple who receive “very bad news” that Grygo said is “a part of that time.”
The piece is actually an extraction from “Portrait of the Birthday Boy,” a full-length play Grygo
JACKIE IVERS
began to write in 2000. It has since seen “various iterations,” according to the playwright, who added
that it took 10 years for the play to reach its final form.
For the upcoming festival, “I had to make some changes,” he said. “Every word is precious, but a lot of exposition had to go” to fit the piece into its 10-minute allotted time slot.
Grygo said he has written around 25 short plays since he “got serious about theater” in 1991, many of them dealing with gay themes. He described most of the other pieces he has written as “unusual comedies.”
Even a play with just two characters can undergo last-minute cast changes. Both actors who were scheduled to perform “got pulled away” Grygo said. With only a couple of weeks to go before show time, “We’re recasting.”
While this is the first time Grygo is involved with one of Culver’s theatrical events, Bayside resident Alexis Tandit makes a return appearance in the festival, following her participation last year.
She will be performing a monologue entitled, “I Ate the Divorce
Papers,” a comical piece she said she “found on my own on YouTube. It really is good.”
Tandit said she has performed the piece a few times before, always to laughs galore which start before she utters a single word, thanks to how she consumes the titular documents.
She looks forward to once again putting on her “ruby red lipstick and very red sweater” as she takes to the stage in the cozy space of the Astoria Library.
“You’re right there with the audience,” she said. “You see their reaction. You work off their reactions.”
Jeremy Zoref, the community library manager, is delighted to have the festival back once again at the branch.
“It’s a great place for local artists to get their work seen,” he said. The event “attracts a nice crowd, from young kids to older adults. It brings in the people.”
The library is located at 14-01 Astoria Blvd. and, in case of any questions, may be reached at (718) 278-2220. Q
Hip to Hip takes on the Bard’s aces in green spaces
continued from page 23
Pairing it with ‘The Winter’s Tale’ offers audiences an added treat because the plays complement each other so well. Beyond the summer-winter contrast, they provide thematic echoes such as love and marriage, personal freedom, magic and the healing power of nature.”
A half hour before each performance, children in attendance are welcome to participate in “Kids & the Classics,” an inter-
Crossword Answers
active workshop for ages 5 through 12.
The activity gives children a chance to interact with the play’s text by previewing the story, creating links between the text and their own lives through theater games and close reading.
“We developed this program over 10 years ago,” Marr said. “It gets kids loosened up and having a good time And also teaches a little bit about theater etiquette, just so that they can enjoy the show and allow their parents to enjoy the show.”
He added, “My wife and I run the company and we have children, so we know how valuable it is to be exposed to theater as a kid — not just to create theater artists of the future, but theatergoers of the future.”
The repertory cast is Neev Bar-David, Konnor Brown, Chaunice Chapman, Nicole Marie Hunt, Dayron Leon, Axel Marr, Bree Marr, Jason Marr, Joy Marr, Mikaya Martin, Nancy Nichols, Parmeet Singh and Stephanie Jeane Toussaint.
The production team is Nancy Nichols, Timmy Costello, Anna Belden, Terry Chun, Mikayla Carleo, Kiki Sanchez and Xavier Rodriguez.
Dayron Leon and Mikaya Martin dazzle audiences in “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” one of Hip to Hip Theatre Co.’s free Shakespeare in the Park offerings this summer. On the cover: Joy Marr and Jason Marr in “The Winter’s Tale.”
Performances take place throughout parks in Queens, in Sunnyside, Bayside, Flushing, Long Island City, Astoria and Fresh Meadows. The Queens show dates are Aug. 8, 9, 10, 11, 15, 16, 17, 18, 21 and 22. More information can be found at hiptohip.org.
Audience members are encouraged to bring a blanket or low chair. Seating is firstcome, first-served. Q
Preparing for their production of “Reg & Jared” in the Equity Library Theatre Summer Play Festival are actors Rick Benson, left, and Duane Ferguson, director Rachael Langton, stage manager Jackie Ivers and playwright Eugene Grygo.
PHOTO COURTESY
PHOTOS BY JOEL LEFFERT
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The New York City Board of Standards and Appeals has scheduled a hybrid public hearing on the following application on August 12th or August 13th, 2024: BSA Cal. No. 2024-21-BZ Premises: 204-25 Rockaway Point Boulevard, Queens - Block 16350, Lot 400 Variance (§72-21) to permit the development of an accessory community center to an existing House of Worship (UG 4) contrary to underlying bulk requirements. R4 zoning district. Applicant: Sheldon Lobel, P.C. An agenda listing the specific session (including the final date and time) with call-in details will be posted as an announcement on the front page of the Board’s website (www.nyc.gov/bsa) the Friday before. The hybrid public hearing will be livestreamed on the Board’s website and on YouTube. Interested persons or associations may watch online and call in to present testimony during the public hearing. Please see the Board’s Virtual Hearing Guides located at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/bsa/publichearings/public-hearings.page The public hearing will be conducted as a “hybrid” public hearing,” during which the Commissioners will meet in person at the Board’s office in Manhattan and also appear virtually on live-streamed YouTube and on an interactive Zoom Webinar. Applicants and the public may attend in person or participate remotely by calling into the Zoom Webinar and watching the YouTube livestream. The in-person portion of the hearing will take place at 22 Reade Street, 1st Floor, Spector Hall, New York, NY 10007. Anyone wishing to attend the hearing in person must present identification and go through a security checkpoint upon arrival into the building. Details for the hearing will be posted on the Board’s website the Friday before the hearing. Persons who request that a language interpreter or a sign language interpreter or any other form of reasonable accommodation for a disability be provided at any of the scheduled hearings must notify Toni Matias, Deputy Director of the Board of Standards and Appeals, at 212-386-0085 or tmatias@bsa.nyc,gov at least 10 days before the hearing date. In the interest of accommodating social distancing with limited seating capacity and to address ongoing health concerns, members of the public are strongly encouraged to participate in the hearing remotely. You may submit a written statement by using the “Public Comment form” on the Board’s website located at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/bsa/contact-bsa/public-comments.page For any communication, please include or refer to BSA Calendar No. 2024-21-BZ and the property address: 204-25 Rockaway Point Boulevard, Queens - Block 16350, Lot 400. To coordinate review of the application materials, inquire about continued hearing dates and/or assistance, please contact the Board office at (212) 386-0009.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS INDEX NO. 702282/2019 Plaintiff designates QUEENS as the place of trial situs of the real property Mortgaged Premises: 22330 HEMPSTEAD AVE, QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429 Block: 11159, Lot: 41 WELLS FARGO BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO WELLS FARGO BANK, MINNESOTA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR REPERFORMING LOAN REMIC TRUST CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2003-R1 Plaintiff, vs. DEBORA A MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; LATOYA ANNMARIE MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; ROBERT EVERROL MAJOR JR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; BARRINGTON S MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; NATALIA B MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; VERONICA L. MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; EVERORD ANTHONY MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; DENISE ELOISE MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; LEVAR A MAJOR JR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; CAMERON L MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; NATUREL STEINMETZ, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR; JERMAINE MAJOR, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or 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; GWENDELL LAMARE MCKOY, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or 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; ALEX MONTANARO, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or 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; UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT MAJOR, 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, COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SERVICES OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK SOCIAL SERVICES DISTRICT, CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, CITY OF NEW YORK PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU, THE NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; EVEROL MAJOR AS JOHN DOE #3; STEVE LYNCH AS JOHN DOE #5; DOUGLAS MOORE AS JOHN DOE #7; JASMINE MOORE AS JOHN DOE #8; JESSE RUFFIN AS JOHN DOE #9; GLADYS RUFFIN AS JOHN DOE #10, 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 $228,850.00 and interest, recorded on September 08, 2004, in Instrument Number 2004062500233001, of the Public Records of QUEENS County, New York., covering premises known as 22330 HEMPSTEAD AVE., QUEENS VILLAGE, NY 11429. 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: July 10th, 2024. ROBERTSON, ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC Attorney for Plaintiff MATHEW ROTHSTEIN, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675
Afroz Solutions LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/18/24. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to AFROZ SOLUTIONS LLC 112-06 FRANCIS LEWIS BLVD., QUEENS VILLAGE, NY, 11429. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
Notice of Formation of B & E VENTURE PARTNERS LLC
Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/27/2024. Office 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, 22919 MERRICK BLVD., #612, LAURELTON, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
DC Queens Properties LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 07/11/24. Office Location: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 28 Raymond Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.
Real Estate
EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131.
The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.
Furn.Rm.For Rent
Howard Beach Furnished Room for rent: $250 per week. Males only. Gas & electric, Wi-Fi all included. Close to shopping, trans & JFK airport. Contact 718-772-6127. Call or text.
Open House
Howard Beach, Sun 8/11, 2pm-4pm, 159-29 92 St. Call Richard for details at 347-600-5860. Jerry Fink Real Estate
Centreville/Ozone Park, Sat 8/10, 2:30pm-3:30pm, 96-30 149 Ave. Colonial, lovely 1 fam, 3 levels + basement. Laminate flrs, updated kit w/ Quartz counters, new appli. All new doors, new boiler, 3 BRs, 2 1/2 baths. 1 car gar, pvt dwvy. Reduced $750K. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136
Howard Beach, Sat 8/10, 12pm-2pm, 156-22 96 St. Raised Cape, 3 BR, 2 full baths, pvt dvwy, 1-car gar, 1st fl renov 2013 offers potential to be dormered out. Jerry Fink Real Estate, 718-766-9175
Howard Beach/Rockwood Park. Sun 8/11, 1:30pm-3pm, 80-16 159 Ave. Mint Colonial, 6 BRs, 2 baths on 42x93 lot. Asking $1,100,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136
Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat 8/10, 1pm-2pm, 164-37 85 St. Brookfield Hi-Ranch, 4 BRs, 2.5 baths, 40x100 lot, move-in cond! Asking $999K. Connexion Real Estate 718-845-1136
Notice of Formation of DIANE NEW YORK PRELOVED
LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/01/2024.
Office 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: DIANA MALLARE, 42-58 79TH ST APT1, ELMHURST, NY 11373. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Middle Village/Maspeth, 60th Ave & 70th St. Parking space avail behind attached brick houses. $150 per month. Call 347-262-7895
Classified Ad Deadline is 12 Noon on Tuesday for Thursday’s paper. Parking Space Available
Real Estate Misc. Real Estate Misc.
Seller Tip #1: Ensure you’ve received the best offer for your home by keeping it on the market until the contract is signed. Continue showcasing your property, as you might receive a better offer during the contract signing phase.
OPEN HOUSE
Saturday, August 10th, 12:00pm-2:00pm 156-22 96th Street
HOWARD BEACH
Charming Raised cape nestled in Old Howard Beach. Three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, private drive, one-car garage, and large yard for outdoor activities. The first floor was renovated in 2013 and can be dormered out to make more living space.
OPEN HOUSE
Sunday, August 11th, 2:00pm to 4:00pm 159-29 92nd Steet
Renovated High Ranch with 5 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms, featuring an above-ground swimming pool and solar panels.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS
U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR1, -againstADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 26, 2024, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR GREENPOINT MORTGAGE FUNDING TRUST MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-AR1 is the Plaintiff and ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on September 6, 2024 at 11:15AM, premises known as 220-25 134TH ROAD, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413; and the following tax map identification: 13098-2.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE FOURTH WARD, BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 715762/2022. Michele Augusta Baptiste, Esq.Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST, -against- VERNELL GARDNER RICE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF HENRY GARDNER, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on June 27, 2024, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and VERNELL GARDNER RICE, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE TO THE ESTATE OF HENRY GARDNER, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on August 23, 2024 at 10:45AM, premises known as 13015 SUTTER AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11420; and the following tax map identification: 11754-3. ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT, PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE BOROUGH AND COUNTY OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 706039/2018. Rodney R. Austin, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.
Lawyers You Can Rely On Where Every Case
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 #: 705471/2014 Everbank Plaintiff, vs Elena Caniba As Heir To The Estate Of Rhodora Bonello, Leficia Gaba As Heir To The Estate Of Rhodora Bonello 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, Aurora Sermon As Heir To The Estate Of Rhodora Bonello 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, Esperanza Domingo As Heir To The Estate Of Rhodora Bonello 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, New York State Department Of Taxation And Finance-Tax Compliance Division-C.O.-ATC, Internal Revenue Service - United States Of America,
Oscar A. Prieto As The Administrator For The Estate Of Rhodora Bonello, Wilfred Aguilar As Heir To The Estate Of Virgilio Aguilar 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, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, People Of The State Of New York, Unknown Heirs Of Virgilio Aguilar 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, New York City Environmental Control Board John Doe (being fictitious, the names unknown to Plaintiff intended to be tenants, occupants, persons or corporations having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the property described in the complaint or their heirs at law, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors.) Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 32-15 54TH STREET WOODSIDE, NY 11377 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 Leficia Gaba, Aurora Sermon, Esperanza Domingo, Wilfred Aguilar, Unknown Heirs of Virgilio Aguilar Defendants 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 Eighth day of July, 2024 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 foreclosure a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated October 24, 2008, executed by Rhodora Bonello (who died on April 16, 2009, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) to secure the sum of $457,500.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2008000464723 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on December 5, 2008. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 13, 2014 and recorded on March 5, 2014, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2014000077555. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 10, 2016 and recorded on April 4, 2016, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2016000116590. The property in question is described as follows: 32-15 54TH STREET, WOODSIDE, NY 11377 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: July 10, 2024 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. 81664
B SPORTS EAT
The Yankee Way
by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor
The New York Yankees bolstered their roster at the trade deadline by acquiring infielder-outfielder Jazz Chisholm from the Miami Marlins. Chisholm has power, expected for any Yankees position player, but also possesses speed, an offensive weapon they rarely have. He immediately paid dividends for Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman by hitting four home runs against the Philadelphia Phillies in three games at Citizens Bank Park. Cashman, who has taken his share of slings and arrows from fans and the media in recent years, looks to have made a winning deal.
If you are curious about how baseball teams make personnel decisions, you will enjoy reading “The Yankee Way” (Doubleday), the latest book from SNY baseball analyst Andy Martino. Cashman, because of his longevity, gets most of the focus, but Martino credits former Yankees executive Bill Livesey for creating a manual on how to properly value offense and defense at each non-pitching position.
While Martino is not purporting to write a linear Yankees history, he does share some fun stories. One is how pitcher Tommy John ran up to George Steinbrenner’s office in uniform wanting to punch him because he put his wife in the upper deck for a game he was pitching.
Martino expresses his admiration for the late
Gene Michael, whom he fortuitously interviewed shortly before his unexpected passing. It was Michael who had the temerity to stand up to Steinbrenner when few others would. He ended the Yankees’ habit of trading blue-chip prospects for over-the-hill veterans. It was he who pulled the trigger on the 1992 trade with the Cincinnati Reds that sent Roberto Kelly to the Queen City in exchange for Paul O’Neill. That set the basis for the Yanks’ 1990s dynasty.
The key to Cashman’s longevity with the Yankees can be traced back 20 years. His contract was up, and his major demand to remain with the Bronx Bombers was to have oversight of the team’s Tampa office. While Tampa was the center for player development, Cashman saw it as a shadow operation that tried to undermine him. Since the mercurial Steinbrenner spent most of his time in Tampa, Cashman had good reason to centralize control.
Martino also gets Cashman and Derek Jeter to recall the acrimonious 2010 negotiations when “The Captain” became a free agent for the first time in his career. Hard feelings lasted until Jeter became a minority owner of the Miami Marlins, learning what it is like on the opposite side of the negotiating table. They buried the hatchet at Jeter’s 2021 Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Q
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