SHELTER STRUGGLES
Richards has concerns about school capacity, garage unit conversions BP approves City of Yes with conditions
by Naeisha Rose Editor
Yes, but with conditions, said Donovan Richards about his recommendation to approve the mayor and Department of City Planning’s City of Yes for Housing Opportunity zoning proposal on Monday.
His conditional yes comes weeks after a nearly five-hour City of Yes for Housing public hearing, which was held on Aug. 8 in Borough Hall in Kew Gardens, left him with some questions regarding how the DCP plans on addressing classroom capacity, deepening the affordability of housing units and making garage conversions environmentally sound.
The zoning proposal would allow for legalized accessory dwellings, create transitoriented development opportunities around train or subway stations and install towncentered zoning, said DCP.
The Borough President believes as the city and Queens face housing and affordability crises, it is abundantly clear that the proposal’s plan to build more affordable housing as rapidly and strategically as possible is necessary but the concerns of community boards are substantial.
“It is important to recognize that all Community Boards highlighted significant concerns about potential impacts on Queens infrastructure and the need for deeper, afford-
Ahead of giving a conditional yes for the housing part of City of Yes, Borough President Dononvan Richards, left, held a public hearing alongside Lisa Atkins, the BP’s housing director, on Aug. 8 at Borough Hall in Kew Gardens.
able housing,” Richards said in a statement.
“Balancing these two critical issues will require thoughtful collaboration and robust commitments from the city and the state.”
Richards’ conditional yes included a commitment from DCP to partner with various agencies to publish quarterly public reports regarding the impacts of increased density on
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borough infrastructure (school enrollment, classroom capacity, hospital bed availability, municipal service delivery and more); parking creation tied to developments in major transit hubs be optional, while areas with out of reach of mass transit require parking; strengthening affordability options and promoting homeownership; establishing a $1 billion fund to
support legalization of basement apartments versus penalization; and removing garage conversions from the plan in locations susceptible to inland flooding, along with aging sewer and electrical infrastructure.
Paul Graziano, an urban planner from Flushing, told the Chronicle via email that Richards was disrespectful for supporting a plan that 12 out of 14 community boards in Queens voted no on.
“BP Richards’ “Conditional Yes” vote makes no sense,” said Graziano. “A request for a report from DCP on infrastructure needs? The City of Yes Environmental Impact Statement — which is deeply flawed and purposefully low-balls the outcome of the proposed zoning changes — states that there will be virtually no impact on most infrastructure or other needs.”
A draft EIS was released in April.
During the public hearing, Richards asked Veronica Brown, a DCP representative, how the city would mitigate class sizes, if it was working with the city Housing Preservation and Development to ensure a decent number of the new housing units are affordable — unlike in Astoria — and whether it intends to address the challenges with connecting water and sewage lines to garage apartments. He also expressed concern about parking in low-
continued on page 25
ZOOM SCREENSHOT / BP’S OFFICE
E-bike shop erupts into flames — again
Lithium-ion battery causes store’s second blaze in less than two years
by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor
A fire erupted at an e-bike store early last Thursday in Richmond Hill for the second time in less than two years, attributed again to a lithium-ion battery.
According to the FDNY, a call was received around 2:28 a.m. for a fire at The Kings Electric Scooters, at 102-44 Jamaica Ave., a twostory, mixed-occupancy building.
A hazmat unit was assigned due to the presence of lithium-ion, the agency said. The fire was under control by 3:21 a.m.
One firefighter was transported to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center with minor injuries.
The FDNY was able to confirm through video footage that a lithium-ion battery was the cause of the fire. The battery was not charging when it erupted into flames, the department said.
“This is the second time a lithium-ion battery has sparked a fire at this location,” the FDNY wrote on X. “If you see unsafe lithium-ion charging, repairs, or storage at a local business,
contact 311 so that we can investigate.”
In March 2023, The Kings Electric Scooters suffered a two-alarm fire, also attributed to lithium-ion batteries. In that incident, two firefighters were injured.
Data from the city
DEP’s been busy in HB
Just over a week after the last one, Howard Beach experienced another water main break on Aug. 25.
The city Department of Environmental Protection responded to the site, at the corner of 161st Avenue and 91st Street, after neighbors reported flooding in the street at around 7 a.m.
Five homes were impacted by the break, the DEP said, and service was restored to those houses by 5 p.m. A water on-the-go fountain was set up during the outage.
The DEP told the Chronicle the break had no connection to the one that occurred on Aug. 17 in Coleman Square, and added that fiscal year 2024 saw the fewest water main breaks on record citywide.
— Kristen Guglielmo
released in July showed that 59 percent of lithium-ion battery fires in 2023 started when the batteries were not charging.
The city Department of Buildings was called to the scene last Thursday to conduct a structural stability
inspection following the fire, an agency representative told the Chronicle. At the scene, inspectors observed extensive fire damage throughout the structure and holes in the roof.
DOB personnel observed
that the building’s cellar had been illegally converted into two apartments and issued a partial vacate order for the construction and conversion work in the interest of public safety, the agency said.
The building owners could not be reached.
The American Red Cross was on the scene and assisted five individuals in emergency relocation, the group said.
In a statement posted to X, area Councilwoman Lynn Schulman (D-Forest Hills), said, “This morning’s fire in Richmond Hill just proves how important enforcement of current e-bike battery laws is. It also points out the need for more stringent legislation to ensure shops like this one don’t continue to operate in a manner that makes our communities unsafe. Sending prayers for the injured firefighter and grateful no one else was hurt.”
Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park), the chair of the City Council’s Committee on Fire and Emergency Management, agreed with Schulman, reposting her statement and adding, “Our city has seen far too many avoidable tragedies because of e-bikes and lithium ion batteries. We need stricter legislation and greater enforcement of our current lithium ion battery laws so that nobody else needs to be harmed by these devices in the future. The firefighter that was injured is in my prayers, and I hope for a speedy recovery.”
As per July data from the city, since 2019, lithium-ion batteries have been the cause of more than 700 fires in NYC. Q
In March 2023, lithium-ion batteries caused a fire, left, at The Kings Electric Scooters, an e-bike shop in Richmond Hill. Last Thursday, another fire erupted there, right, which the FDNY also attributed to an lithium-ion battery.
PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN / FILE, LEFT, AND SCREENSHOT VIA FDNY / X
Animal Care Centers of NYC asks for public’s help; Holden seeks hearings New rescue shelter far over capacity
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
A perfect summer storm has the city’s newest animal shelter scrambling to reduce overcrowding and to handle the surrendered or discarded animals in its care.
The $75 million Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter at 1906 Flushing Ave. opened in July. Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) in recent weeks was alerted by residents that animals were being kept in cages with insufficient room and sometimes lingering there in their own filth without enough exercise or ready access to veterinary care. The story was first reported by the New York Post.
“They’re way over capacity,” Holden told the Chronicle last week. He believes the economy and lingering effects of the pandemic have been greatly exacerbated by the failure of the ACC and city to make adequate plans.
Holden also believes there is a correlation between the overcrowding and the ACC’s decision to shut down its Brooklyn center for the next two years for renovations. The
A worker at the Animal Care Centers of NYC facility in Ridgewood takes one of his charges for a walk on Tuesday. The month-old shelter right now is suffering from too many animals and too little staff and space.
agency has an exclusive contract with the city for shelter services that expires in 2052.
Holden wants the City Council to
hold hearings on the matter and wants the city to help find temporary space. While he says the ACC also should have had better contin-
Man, 26, nabbed in Guyana for ’19 crash
by Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor
A man was found in Guyana, flown back to New York and arraigned last week for his role in a car crash that killed a father of four in South Ozone Park on Christmas Day in 2019, according to the Queens District Attorney’s Office.
According to the charges, Ainsley Dalrymple, 67, of Hempstead, LI, was attempting to cross Rockaway Boulevard between 113th and 114th streets at about 9:30 p.m.
Ravindra Dharamjit, 26, of 124th Street in South Ozone Park, was allegedly operating a Toyota Tundra pickup truck traveling at approximately 74 miles per hour in the 25 mph zone when he struck Dalrymple, according to the DA’s Office.
Dalrymple was transported to a nearby hospital with severe head, body and lower torso trauma. He succumbed to his injuries.
After the collision, the DA’s Office said, Dharamjit allegedly drove through a steady red light at Rockaway and Linden boulevards, traveled on the wrong side of the road and fled the scene.
Dharamjit left the country on Jan. 9, 2020, on a one-way ticket from JFK Air-
port to Guyana, according to the authorities. The DA’s Extraditions Unit worked closely with the U.S. Marshals to locate him and return him to New York so that he can answer to the charges, they said.
Dharamjit was arraigned on a sevencount indictment on charges of seconddegree manslaughter, criminally negligent homicide, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an incident without reporting, failing to obey passing safety markers, driving in excess of the maximum speed limit and operating a vehicle at an unreasonable speed. He faces up to 15 years in prison if convicted.
“The defendant is accused of driving 74 miles an hour — nearly three times the legal speed limit — when he struck and killed Ainsley Dalrymple,” Queens DA Melinda Katz said in statement. “Rather than stop the vehicle and render aid, the defendant allegedly continued speeding through a busy intersection and later fled the country on a one-way ticket to Guyana. My office and our police partners never give up on cases and today we arraigned this defendant, nearly five years after the fatal crash.” Q
gency plans ready, he said it also has been forced in part to play the hand it was dealt.
“To me, the city’s got to be planning this better,” Holden said.
“Somebody’s got to be planning this better. They shut down the Brooklyn shelter for two years. That’s one of the reasons. We’ve had fewer adoptions obviously because of inflation and the pandemic. And at the same time more people were surrendering their animals.”
A chart on the ACC’s Facebook page says the center’s average intake was just under 53 animals per day between Aug. 1 and 22.
A statement on the website said the public can help by adopting one of the many animals who are ready for new homes; volunteering to temporarily foster pets to free up space; and helping any strays they encounter get back to their homes and families.
“We are so proud of the new shelter and of all the work we are doing and will continue to do within the community,” the ACC said in an email to the Chronicle. “Unfor-
tunately, pet shelters across the nation are packed as people struggle to afford basic necessities and other costs associated with pet care. Not only are these factors leading to pet surrender and abandonment, but they are potentially the reason why adoptions are waning.
“In the meantime, ACC is working hard to care for all of the pets that come through our doors.” The email also encourages anyone looking to bring a furry friend into the family to visit the shelter.
Holden said animal care issues come under the purview of the city’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. He would like the Council to host hearings on the matter. He also has called in the past for the creation of an animal welfare committee.
“That’s fallen on deaf ears,” he said. “Animal matters are not in the forefront for the Adams administration, and they’re not in the forefront for the City Council. I don’t see a way out of this. The conditions have deteriorated and the place has only been open for a month or so. It’s already looking pretty bad.” Q
In another act of charity, the Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach last week donated $1,500 to the Foundation for Community Assistance, a nonprofit also known as FUPAC.
The funds will be used toward FUPAC’s mission of helping families in need of medical attention, food and housing in the Dominican Republic.
by Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach President-elect Steve Sirgiovanni, left, current club President Anthony Sama and member Frank Monteforte. — Kristen
The check was presented to FUPAC member Frank Almonte, second from left, of Key Food in Howard Beach and Food Emporium in Lindenwood,
Guglielmo
PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN
Stay safe on the road this weekend
Labor Day holiday is often the second deadliest for motor vehicle accidents
by Naeisha Rose Editor
Labor Day may be a holiday rooted in celebrating the contributions of workers, but it also has become the second-most dangerous national holiday after Independence Day for motor vehicle accidents, according to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, which boasts a Level 1 trauma center.
“Labor Day is a weekend, a holiday weekend where you party,” said Dr. Robert Laskowski, associate trauma medical director at JHMC. “It’s not like one of the ones where you are getting on a plane and flying to see family.”
More people are out on the road, said Laskowski.
cles only, or a person being hit by a car or a car slamming into an immovable object, are the type of situations that can result in people being sent to the trauma center.
“We just see an increase in volume,” said Laskowski, “because there is just so many more people on the road. We’ve had cars go off overpasses, cars pin themselves under tractortrailers, people get hit by cars driving erratically and things like that are just devastating accidents and injuries.”
Car accidents increase by 9 to 15 percent on average during this holiday weekend nationwide, said Laskowski.
“Sometimes prevention is the best medicine.”
—
“A lot of people stay relatively local — barbecues and beaches and things like that,” are some of the activities that result in an uptick in driving during the threeday holiday weekend, which is from Aug. 31 to Sept. 2 this year. “With the increase in revelry there are a lot of more serious MVAs and things like that.”
Dr. Robert Laskowski, Jamaica Hospital Medical Center
People who get in a fender bender are likely to be sent to the emergency room, but more serious car crashes, whether they involve vehi-
JHMC’s admittance numbers for serious car accidents are on par with that.
Michael Hinck, a spokesman for JHMC, said the hospital, located at 8900 Van Wyck Expy. in Richmond Hill, sees so many car accident victims because it is so close to the expressway, along with the Jackie Robinson and Grand Central parkways.
“We will see somewhere between a half a dozen to a dozen serious car accidents over that three-day weekend,” said the doctor. “That is not including little fender benders. We are talking about all-hands-on-deck trauma
Dr. Robert Laskowski of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center shared with the Queens Chronicle the dangers of motor vehicle accidents ahead of the Labor Day weekend. PHOTO COURTESY JHMC
teams.”
Some of the specialists who aid in supporting the trauma team include the emergency room nursing staff, anesthesiologists, neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons.
“There are a lot of broken bones and head traumas,” Laskowski said.
Wearing a seatbelt can make a difference when it comes to the severity of an injury, the doctor noted.
“You have to think about the mechanics of the impact,” Laskowski said. “With a gunshot
wound or stab you have an object flowing through you. In a car accident, if you don’t have a seatbelt on you can get thrown through the windshield and get slashed up. ... Your body is absorbing that energy. It is a big energy transfer. ... You will see a lot of broken legs, broken arms, a lot of people who have bleeds in their heads and you know the broken bones the orthopedic surgeons will fix.”
Even when a seatbelt is worn, there will still be an impact to the body, he said, adding, “The things I deal with are injuries to inside your belly.”
JHMC patients have an average survival rate of 97.5 percent, the doctor said.
“That just speaks to the team that we have here from the lowest rung on the ladder to the chair people,” said Laskowski.
Hinck said the goal this Labor Day weekend for the people of Queens is prevention.
“We are here if people need us,” said Hinck. “Our goal as a trauma center is to help people avoid issues such as this, whether it is MVAs or other kinds of trauma ... Be safe, don’t be distracted, don’t drink and drive.”
The hospital spokesman also said that people should check their tires, brakes and other parts of their car before driving out this holiday weekend.
“Sometimes prevention is the best medicine,” Laskowski said. Q
EDITORIAL AGEP
Big topics, big fun in our Back to School and Fall Guide
One of the biggest issues school leaders face right now is whether to continue to allow smartphones in the classroom. Everyone knows they create distractions for kids on a level far beyond quaint old note-passing. So the city is eyeing some kind of restriction, though a flat-out ban seems unlikely. Too many parents want their kids to have phones on them in case of emergency. Calling the school to have a child taken out of class and brought to the office for some vitally important call? That’s the last century. Today you text. But what about the lure of TikTok?
These are big issues. And we explore them in the first story in this week’s Back to School and Fall Guide special supplement. We hope you’re making it part of your routine this time of year: Get the kids new clothes and haircuts, put the beachwear in the back of the drawer, air out the jackets and get yourself a copy of the annual special edition. For one thing, it’s got that handy school calendar that fits perfectly on the freezer door, with plenty of room left over for your youngster’s artistic masterpieces. And the article on smartphones is just the first of several on key issues.
Another piece goes into an topic many say is closely related: the mental health of students. It’s a bigger issue
than ever before, and we have two Queens professionals discuss what parents should watch out for and what they can do both before and after any issues arise.
In between those articles is one detailing the new school expansions that will be ready for students on the first day of classes, Sept. 5. There are six in Queens, three of them in the northeastern quadrant of the borough, and three scattered from Astoria to South Ozone Park.
If there’s an opposite to a school expansion, it’s a school shutdown. And though it’s always tough, it sometimes happens, especially to parochial schools. What happens when a Catholic school closes? That’s another article topic.
And even while our focus is on K-12 education, we don’t ignore the post-secondary side. Another piece touches base with Queens College, St. John’s University, York College, LaGuardia Community College and Queensborough Community College to see what’s new in the course catalog.
College kids also are a big part of the first article in the Fall Guide segment of the supplement. The subject is fashion, and while the story speaks to everyone, let’s face it: It’s those in their late teens and early 20s who major in it.
On the other end of the age spectrum, according to the
conventional wisdom at least, are those who might be most interested in what new shows the traditional TV networks are debuting this fall. We give you a rundown, and yes, there is a new derivation of NCIS. How’d you know?! Meanwhile, live from Queens, it’s community theater night! We’ll see an interesting mix of shows this season, on both the amateur and pro stages, everything from a revue featuring the best of Rodgers & Hammerstein, the genius musical theater legends, to the borough’s first staging of “Frankenstein,” but with female characters elevated, to “Alice in Winter Wonderland,” a reimagining of Lewis Carroll’s beloved fantasy, replete with some favorite characters.
And we continue a longstanding tradition here at the Chronicle with a final article about a possible day trip, or trips, outside of Queens. This time the target area is Orange County. It’s a little ways up the Hudson River, on the west side. The trip might be an hour and a half or two hours, depending on where you’re going. And there’s plenty to go to — historic West Point, Legoland, farms with apple- and pumpkin-picking. Sometimes you could use a day away. But here in Queens, we hope you find our 2024 Back to School and Fall Guide both useful and a great read!
MARK WEIDLER President & Publisher
SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders
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Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief
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Kristen Guglielmo Associate Editor
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Dear Editor:
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
Big on Bix jazz
Queens County: “Ain’t We Got Fun”? Resoundingly yes, and that’s now the new anthem of the World’s Borough (“Bixieland jazz,” Aug. 22, Western Queens edition, page 1).
No more so than on Friday, Aug. 16, 2024, which signaled the return of the Bix Beiderbecke Tribute Concert, almost tying with another fantastic event that occurred in 1896 on the same day: Prospectors discovered gold in the Klondike River in the Yukon Territory of Canada, thereby igniting the Klondike Gold Rush.
But the incalculable value of the joy, jigs and jazz liberated that Friday in Sunnyside really amplified the role of business improvement districts throughout all New York City’s boroughs (“Jazz beneath the arch honors a master,” Aug. 22, multiple editions).
The Beiderbecke Concert, sponsored by the BID, Sunnyside Shines, truly demonstrates how a BID can create great synergy between historic figures who have lived in an area and that community’s interaction in a collective activity.
Next time you are in Sunnyside, swing by 43-30 46 St., and behold the front plaque thereon acknowledging that once upon a time the 20th century’s greatest cornetist lived there. Listen very carefully and maybe you’ll hear sounds emanating from Apt. 1G that will make your trip truly thrilling.
Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, will commemorate Bix’s next transition anniversary. The BID executive director, Dirk McCall de Palomá, has indicated that the Bix Concert/Dance in Sunnyside will next shine even closer to that annual benchmark date.
Arrive early. I can’t wait to walk you off the dance floor. Bix Beiderbecke is Sunnyside’s forever real breadstick.
Frances Scanlon Flushing
Cause of the crisis
Dear Editor:
Re “Yes to CoY housing,” Letters, Aug. 22: Amidst the ongoing hoopla around City of Yes, let us recall a headline from last October in The New York Times that caused a brief stir: “How 100,000 Apartments in New York City Disappeared.” At a rate, The Times reported, which “ramped up in the 1990s” through smaller apartments being combined into larger ones “and conversions of buildings with several units
into single-family homes.”
The Wall Street Journal occasionally brings things up to date with high-end real estate profiles like the one in February 2022 of how a Park Slope $6 million brownstone renovation “once divided Into eight apartments is now a mansion asking $11.995 million.”
Assisted by our own share of aspirational local pro-Yes apologists, liberal politicians representing elite, wealthy areas in Manhattan and Brooklyn where all that housing got lost point the finger and call for the defilement of bosky middle-class areas of Queens for the sake of cue the violins — desperately needed housing. By contrast, our quisling politicians might at best publicly pout while never mentioning that Times statistic; nor outrages like that $12 million Park Slope mansion. And certainly not look it up — that same mansion’s all-too-typical roughly $100,000 annual property tax discount, basically subsidized by we City of Naysayers. Let’s keep it real, folks.
Edwin Eppich Glendale
LETTERSTO THE EDITOR
BP Richards: why?
Dear Editor:
I am angry, proudly disappointed and thoroughly confused why Borough President Donovan Richards chose to ignore the overwhelming supermajority of Queens residents and declare his approval of City of Yes (housing).
Was he listening and reading letters from his constituents who oppose City of Yes? For the life of me, I cannot comprehend the willful disrespect of ignoring the unique characteristics of Queens communities. He had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to stand up for his constituents and instead chose to turn his back on the preservation of single-familyzoned neighborhoods. He chose to ignore and disrespect the decades of work to preserve the remaining 15 percent of NY history.
Why, indeed?
Maria Becce Flushing
Requiem for a radio station
Dear Editor:
Re John Lynch’s Aug. 22 letter: “We’ll miss WCBS 880”:
I share Lynch’s lament for the loss of News Radio 880. I’ve listened to that station since it first went on the air in 1967, and enjoyed its comprehensive and compelling coverage of local, national and global news. Audacy, the owner of WCBS-AM, also owns all-news radio WINS, which went on the air in 1965.
“New York can no longer support two all news radio brands,” said Audacy’s New York market President Chris Oliviero (New York Post, Aug. 13). If that’s true, then why can New York support four all-sports radio stations, including WFAN, which Audacy also owns? Audacy’s death blow to WCBS-AM silences a vital radio voice and adds to journalism’s massive job losses.
Audacy’s pathetic policy can best be summed up in one word: “Idiocy.”
Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills
Vance has to go
Dear Editor:
Cynthia Groopman has spent some space attacking JD Vance, who, she notes, has made truly insulting comments regarding women who decline to have children, whom he has described as “sociopaths” and “psychopaths,” who should have a special tax imposed upon them (“Vance insults women,” Letters, Aug. 1, and “Personal, not political,” Aug. 15). He may be unaware that 17 percent of adult American women do not have children and do not want to have children, and absolutely none of them will vote for a Trump-Vance ticket. Mr. Vance has accurately described Kamala Harris as “completely fake in every way.” Quite correct; however, Harris, unlike Vance, respects women of minority preference, and it is for this reason that the latest public opinion polls show Harris-Walz leading Trump-Vance in five of the seven battleground states. Additionally, other polls show that Trump is highly unpopular with suburban moms. There is only one way for Trump to solve his
very serious woman problem.
In a month, if polls still show a deadlock, perhaps Trump will right the ship by requesting that Vance drop out of the race and withdraw. If the latter is replaced by a first-rate woman such as Nikki Haley or the brilliant economist Tiana Lowe-Doescher (who has pointed out that the Democrats are secretly conspiring to loot the separate trust fund that finances Social Security disability payments), Trump will be our next president.
We will see if Trump is willing to admit he made a mistake and is willing to correct it.
Clifton Wellman Elmhurst
Too many lies all around
Dear Editor:
Democrats are always quick to point out that Donald Trump often lies and that he does not have the character to be president. I agree with them.
Yet, during their convention, they reminded me why they also do not deserve my vote.
Like Trump, they engaged in a lot of childish name-calling, and they had more than their share of lies.
President Biden said that the rich pay a tax rate of only 8 percent and thus, don’t pay their fair share. That is a lie. I advise readers to go to IRS Publication 1304 where they can see the real statistics.
Another lie was that Trump is all for the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, whose policy recommendations they disagree with. Trump denounced the document but just because some of his former administration officials helped write part of it, the Democrats are trying to tie Trump to it.
Democrats claimed that Project 2025 would cut Social Security. PolitiFact stated that “none of its 10 references to Social Security addresses plans for cutting the program.”
Democrats also said that Trump favors a national abortion ban. In fact, he said that it should be left up to the states as the Supreme Court stated in Dobbs.
Remember that before the convention, it was the Democrats who told us for the last three years that Biden was sharp as a tack.
I understand why people would vote for Trump or Harris as the lesser of two evils. I, for one, cannot morally do that which is why I will be voting for myself.
Lenny Rodin Forest Hills
America’s cruel capitalism
Dear Editor:
What do you expect in America?
The opportunity to make money is what makes America great. Price gouging is a nasty way of saying, “Hey! We can double our prices and get away with it by simply saying our costs have risen so we have to pass them on.”
The corporate executives didn’t go to business schools like Wharton to learn charity and decency.
Ray Hackinson Ozone Park
Our Lady of Grace RC Church Howard Beach 100-05 159th Avenue, Howard Beach, NY 11414 • 718-843-6218
Our Lady of Grace is Remembering
We will Never For get WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11th
Starting 7:00 PM
Our Lady of Grace Church 100-05 159th Ave., Howard Beach, NY 11414
PROGRAM INCLUDES Flag Raising ★ National Anthem ★ Taps ★ 21 Gun Salute
Come Show your Devotion and love for St. Padre Pio Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024 at the 12:00 pm Mass
After Mass there will be a blessing of the First Class Relic
Followed by A Buffet Barbeque Call the Rectory for your Reservations (718) 843-6218 $25.00
All are welcome to join as we pray and remember so many who lost their lives on 9/11
Labor
On
this Labor Day,
please join me in recognizing and thanking the efforts of our workforce in this great city.
Legalize ADUs to help our neighbors in their homes OPINION
by Annetta Seecharran
As a longtime resident of Queens, I see every day how my neighbors are feeling the impacts of a tight housing market. Skyrocketing housing prices and limited housing options are forcing longtime residents to consider leaving — particularly low- and moderate-income families, immigrants, communities of color and essential workers, the communities that make the World’s Borough the special place it is.
Renters are struggling to find affordable apartments. Aspiring homeowners, including many who were raised here, can no longer afford to buy in their own neighborhoods. Existing homeowners are struggling to afford their mortgages or property taxes.
offer a housing solution that is manageable financially and close to home in proximity.
QNew York State Senator - District 15
DISTRICT OFFICES:
84-16 Jamaica Avenue Woodhaven, NY 11421 (718) 738-1111 addabbo@nysenate.gov
66-85 73rd Place Middle Village, NY 11379 (718) 497-1630
Accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, including basement and cellar apartments or apartments in structures like garages or sheds, present an affordable housing alternative, but under current New York City zoning law, most of these units are illegal and not subject to the same oversight as other traditional units. But New York City is in no position to turn away viable housing options. Instead of shying away from the challenge of legalizing ADUs, we should embrace and enhance them. If we’re going to unlock more affordable housing options across the city, we need to legalize ADUs, and updating our outdated zoning laws is a vital first step.
ADUs present homeowners in Queens with earning potential and a means to offset the ever-increasing cost of property taxes and maintenance. Renting out a basement apartment would create an additional income stream for homeowners and ensure financial security. The option to rent out a basement apartment or attached unit can empower homeowners to overcome the mounting financial pressures of homeownership and stay in their homes.
But as long as basement apartments and other ADUs remain unregulated and illegal, their potential to address the affordable housing crisis and ensure greater financial security and safety in neighborhoods like mine can’t be realized.
ueens needs lawful and safe accessory dwelling units to protect residents.
That’s where the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity comes in.
This citywide proposal, which has been the subject of discussion among housing advocates and at community boards across the city over the past year, would update zoning restrictions, ease barriers to legalizing basement apartments and bring them up to code, ensuring they are safe and habitable, while providing tenants with the same protections and rights as those in recognized rental apartments, such as lease renewals and eviction protections.
While acronyms like ADUs might seem unfamiliar, New Yorkers know basement apartments. In the outer boroughs, most of us know someone — a relative, a neighbor, a friend — who lives in one of the estimated 376,000 basement apartments around the city. Despite their prevalence, and the glaring need for more housing that these units address, they are not legally recognized, leaving homeowners at risk of fines and enforcement and denying tenants the same safety precautions that other New Yorkers get in typical apartments and other homes.
Several cities across the country, from Portland, Ore. to Princeton, NJ, have already legalized basements and other accessory units. In California, maybe one of the few states that rivals New York’s housing and affordability crises, ADUs are proving to be an effective solution.
In Queens, where close-knit communities and deep family ties encourage many families to stay in their neighborhoods, ADUs can be an essential tool to support multigenerational households. Whether for an older New Yorker with a fixed income, or a young person between jobs, or an individual striving for home ownership someday, ADUs
City of Yes is a strong, viable path for the legalization of basement apartments and other ADUs. And yet, many people have been influenced by fear-mongering that City of Yes will destroy our neighborhoods, or that adding legal, safe and affordable housing units would somehow burden our communities. On the contrary, expanding our housing options would strengthen our communities by providing homeowners with greater financial stability and renters with safe and affordable housing options, minimizing displacement and foreclosure, and preserving the character and cultural and economic diversity of my home borough.
It’s time to turn the page on decades of inequitable housing policy and embrace a future where everyone has access to safe, affordable housing. It all starts with Queens getting onboard with the City of Yes. Q
Annetta Seecharran is Executive Director of Chhaya, a nonprofit community development corporation, and a resident of Jackson Heights.
Hochul
end of the year Manhattan tolls are the talk of the town
says new MTA funding plan could
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
If it was Gov. Hochul’s intention on Aug. 19 to get people talking about congestion pricing, she succeeded.
Speaking with Politico, the governor said she will be announcing a replacement plan for the planned $15 automobile tolls into Manhattan by or near the end of the year.
The program, passed in Albany in 2019, was intended to rise $1 billion a year for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s capital improvement plan, and was scheduled to go into effect on June 30.
Hochul placed it on indefinite pause on June 5, citing concerns about how the $15 fee for cars and $24 or $36 per trip for trucks going on or below 60th Street would affect New Yorkers in the present economy.
Critics included environmental and mass transit advocates, as well as the MTA, which says the delay has cut off critical funding.
Meanwhile, those who opposed the fees from the start were not placated, with many suggesting that Hochul announced the delay mainly to protect vulnerable Democratic congressional and state Legislature candidates while planning to reimpose them after election day.
In an email from Hochul’s office last week, a spokesman said she is being completely consistent with her June 5 stand.
“Gov. Hochul’s position has not changed and congestion pricing continues to be paused indefinitely,” the email said. “Like the majority of New Yorkers, Gov. Hochul believes a $15 daily toll is just too much for working people trying to get by in today’s economy. That’s why, as the Governor has repeatedly said in public, she is exploring multiple options
come by the
Gov. Hochul says she is planning changes or alternatives to the paused congestion pricing law she suspended in June less than a month from implementation.
with legislative leaders to fund transit as the pause continues.”
Published reports have stated multiple possibilities including reduced toll prices, hikes in existing fees such as the transportation mobility tax and exemptions for certain government employees.
The state also is facing a number of lawsuits coming from both sides of the dispute.
Corey Bearak of Glen Oaks is one of the plaintiffs in the
class-action suit filed in opposition to the plan by New Yorkers Against Congestion Pricing Tax.
Quoting Hochul’s press release, particularly the passage about her seeking multiple options, Bearak told the Chronicle in an email last week that she has only bolstered his group’s contention that there are alternatives.
“The Governor by pausing this toll-tax scheme simply concludes that the regressive, inequitable and unfair congestion pricing needs replacement,” Bearak wrote. “Despite its name this Congestion Pricing toll-tax achieves nothing of any consequence with relieving congestion. It even falls short of its claims concerning the environment; instead it negatively impacts public health: just look at the MTA’s own Environmental Assessment and its revision.”
The suit also claims it would devastate the city’s economy.
Other suits against congestion pricing have been filed by New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy; Mayor Mark Sokolich of Fort Lee, NJ; the United Federation of Teachers and Staten Island Borough President Vito Fossella, an action subsequently joined by the city’s 400,000-member Municipal Labor Council and the Staten Island Chapter of the NAACP; and the Town of Hempstead in Nassau County, LI.
The state also was served with two lawsuits in July in response to Hochul’s ordering the pause.
Litigation by the Riders Alliance, the Sierra Club and the New York City Environmental Justice Alliance claims the delay violates the state Constitution and the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act of 2019.
An action filed by the City Club of New York asserts that Hochul does not have the legal authority to have ordered the delay. Q
CONZA | MCNAMARA ESTATE PLANNING ATTORNEYS
CYNTHIA J. CONZA, ESQ.
EDWARD
PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON / FILE
Queens welcomed the start of the US Open last week, and the Open welcomed people from all over Queens last Saturday during Kids Day.
At top right, Ahmed and Francine Abdelmeduid, left, took in an exhibition match in Louis Armstrong Stadium with friends from Brooklyn. Next to them at left, Helen and Claudia Stratigakis of Astoria and Diane Escobar and Pablo Ron of Jackson Heights pause as they arrive at the Billie Jean King National Center opposite the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
In the second row, the Amarnani family, left, of Long Island City visited the balloon animal sculptors among other Kids Day attractions. Moving to the food court, Melody Johnson, Briana Ellis-Gibbs of Queens Village, Monika Ellis and Stephanie Ellis-Gibbs of Briarwood enjoyed
a late lunch. Next to them, Aaron Bloomfield of Jackson Heights, center, was joined at Louis Armstrong by Elana Bloomfield, Oren Maidman and Rich Maidman of Brooklyn.
Above left, former Elmhurst resident and US Open veteran Vanya Chabra attended for the first time with her family. Forest Hills resident Rebecca Joseph, center, with her daughter, Tina, has been attending since she was 6. She aspires to attend the French Open at Roland Stadium in Paris. To their right, three generations of fans included Benjamin Samuel of Jackson Heights, daughter Poppy and his mom, Heather Cumming. At right, Henri and Ernest Hodge of Kew Gardens Hills strolled the grounds. At far right, Justin and Dani Liu from Long Island City brought young Jaxon to his first Open. — Michael Gannon
Queens well-represented at the US pen
PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON
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One arrest in Pitino office burglary
Legendary hoops coach’s memorabilia allegedly taken
by Sophie Krichevsky Editor
The office of St. John’s University Men’s Basketball Coach Rick Pitino was burglarized last Tuesday evening. While one of the two alleged perpetrators was arrested last Friday night, the other remains at large.
The NYPD said it received a report that at about 6 p.m., two men had entered Carnesecca Arena without authorization and “removed various items” before fleeing the campus on a moped heading west on Union Turnpike.
A video from the NYPD shows two men walking in a Carnesecca Arena hallway that appears to be the one Pitino’s office is in. As one clutches a bullhorn, the other, who has since been arrested and identified as 25-year-old Long Island City resident Emanuel Yakubov, carries what appears to be a sword. Both items were among the things stolen, according to published reports.
“St. John’s University is grateful for the rapid response made by the NYPD and the recovery of sto-
len property,” Associate Vice President of University Communications and Public Affairs Brian Browne said in a statement. “The safety and security of our campus community are essential, and our cooperative relationship with law enforcement helps ensure that.”
Browne clarified that not all the stolen goods had been returned, but could not say for certain which items had or had not made their way back to their rightful owner.
Pitino, however, gave Red Storm fans an idea in several posts to X last week. Reposting a New York Post article last Thursday that said memorabilia worth $375 in total had been taken from his office, the legendary coach added, “Really upset! Taking my memorabilia is one thing but the 1985 6L Petrus Pomerol has me livid!!!”
Though he’d say in a subsequent post that “The 1985 Petrus was a joke” and that he would
“never keep that on my desk! Saving that one in a wine cellar to open after the Johnnies go to the final four,” he’d write in others to come that he hoped to be gifted a new sword “to replace [his] stolen one” and joked that “SJU has made no attempt to replace the Tequila & wine. The wine belonged to Fr Rock. You all in administration are in big trouble.”
Yakubov was charged with burglary in third degree, petit larceny, criminal trespassing in the third degree and criminal possession of stolen property in the fifth degree.
As of press time Wednesday, the investigation remained ongoing and the second alleged burglar had not been arrested.
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
Purported dissident really a spy: U.S.
Flushing man allegedly worked against, then for, PRC
by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief
A Chinese dissident who survived the Tiananmen Square massacre in 1989 and went to prison for his role in the protests turned into a spy for the Communist government in Beijing, sending information to his handlers from his adopted home of Flushing, the U.S. government alleges.
Yuanjun Tang, 67, reported back to his masters on anti-Communist activities here such as protests in Flushing and Manhattan, including through a bug installed in his phone that allowed photos, videos and metadata within such files to be transferred directly to agents of the Chinese Ministry of State Security, federal prosecutors say.
While doing that, he acted as a dissident promoting democracy in China.
Tang was arrested Aug. 21 and charged with one count of conspiring to act as an agent of a foreign government without notifying the attorney general, which carries a maximum penalty of
five years in prison; one count of acting as an agent of a foreign government without notifying the attorney general, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and one count of making false statements, which carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York.
Tang was released on $100,000 bond, subject to several conditions including the surrender of travel documents and limits on his movements, with location-monitoring technology, according to the Department of Justice. He has a preliminary hearing date of Sept. 20.
Tang is a naturalized U.S. citizen, the DOJ says. He took part in the spring 1989 pro-democracy protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, which ended with hundreds or even thousands killed by the government. He was imprisoned for an unspecified period of time by the People’s Republic of China for his activities opposing the Chinese Communist Party, the
Yuanjan Tang was jailed for his pro-democracy efforts in China, but in America allegedly served as a spy for the regime.
PHOTO COURTESY U.S. DOJ
DOJ says, before defecting to Taiwan in or around 2002. He then was granted political asylum in the United States and moved to New York City.
He leads a nonprofit group dedicated to promoting democracy in China and regularly participates in events with other PRC
City corrections officer charged
by Naeisha Rose Editor
A city Department of Correction officer who pretended to be heading up a TV show was indicted on Monday by a grand jury and arraigned on rape and other related charges for an attack on a young woman five months ago, authorities said.
Anthony Martin, 37, of Springfield Gardens, was hit with first-degree rape, first-degree sexual abuse, thirddegree rape and second-degree unlawful imprisonment charges, said District Attorney Melinda Katz’s office. If convicted, the defendant, who was ordered to return to court on Oct. 18, could face 25 years in prison, said the DA’s Office.
According to an investigation, Martin allegedly used social media to contact and lure the victim to his residence while claiming to be casting a new TV show as both the producer and director.
On March 26, the victim arrived to the defendant’s home expecting to meet him, other producers and prospective cast members, but when she arrived he was alone and allegedly started touching her leg when she attempted to leave, prosecutors said. Martin allegedly blocked her exit, pulled down the 20-year-old’s pants and raped her.
As soon as she was permitted to leave Martin’s residence she reported the attack to police and sought medical attention, said Katz’s office.
dissidents, U.S. prosecutors say — but behind the scenes, it’s a different story.
“Between at least in or about 2018 and in or about June 2023, Tang acted in the United States as an agent of the PRC by completing tasks at the direction of the PRC’s Ministry of State Security (MSS), which is the PRC’s principal civilian intelligence agency,” the DOJ says in a press release.
“The MSS is responsible for, among other things, the PRC’s foreign intelligence, counterintelligence, espionage and political security functions.”
Tang used encrypted messaging to receive instructions and to report on the activities of people China considered potential threats to its interests, such as democracy activists, prosecutors say. He also allegedly traveled at least thrice for face-to-face meetings with MSS intelligence officers and helped them infiltrate a group chat used by dissidents and democracy activists. And he allegedly lied to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Q
“This defendant — a New York City correction officer — lured a young woman to his home with promises of casting her in an upcoming television show,” Katz said in a prepared statement. “Instead, he allegedly sexually assaulted her and imprisoned the woman. Thank you to the brave survivor for coming forward. My office is committed to standing up for the survivors of sexual violence and we have secured a grand jury indictment against the defendant for first-degree rape.” Q
The two alleged burglars were seen on video in Carnesseca Arena last Tuesday evening.
NYPD VIDEO SCREENSHOT
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Donate blood and save a life
The New York Blood Center is seeking donors of all blood types to help members of the community as the state continues to face a blood shortage.
Donations are used to help surgery and cancer patients, accident victims, new mothers and babies.
Information on how to donate blood, check eligibility or schedule a drive can be found at nybc.org.
In South Queens, upcoming blood drives include:
• Knights of Columbus No. 197, 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at 94-04 Linden Blvd. in Ozone Park;
• Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 11, at 89-00 Van Wyck Expwy. in Richmond Hill;
• Geordie’s Joint, 12 to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, at 79-19 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven;
• NYPD 106th Precinct, 12 to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 103-53 101 St. in Ozone Park; and
• Holy Child Jesus Church, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 29, at 111-02 86 Ave. in Richmond Hill. Q — Kristen Guglielmo
DOE nurses will train to screen for suicide
by Kristen Guglielmo
Associate Editor
City school nurses will participate in new suicide prevention training, according to the Department of Education.
The agency on Tuesday announced its partnership with the city Department of Health, the Office of School Health and the Jed Foundation, a nonprofit that aims to protect emotional health in teens and young adults, to develop a new standardized suicide prevention training course for school nurses.
Approximately 1,500 city school nurses, supporting the city’s roughly one million students in grades K-12, will complete Jed’s 90-minute, eight-module online course, Suicide Prevention for School Nurses, by the end of October, the DOE said in a press release. The training launched in June after pilot testing with 30 school nurses.
The course uses scenario-based learning and the Ask-Suicide-Screening Questions tool to enhance nurses’ abilities to identify, screen and refer students at risk for suicide, the agency said. At least 375 nurses have completed the course to date.
Participants learned about common mental health challenges, signs of distress, when to mobilize a crisis team, tips for managing emotional carryover and burnout.
The 2023 NYC Teen Mental Health Survey conducted by the Health Department found that 48 percent of NYC teens experience depressive symptoms ranging from mild to severe.
Nearly one in four teens, or 24 percent, said that sometime in the past 12 months they had needed or wanted mental healthcare but did not get it.
“Our schools are not only centers of learning, but safe havens where our young people can find trusted adults and support for whatever may be going on in their lives. Our school nurses are champions of students’ well-being, and they must be equipped to jump into action and help any student calling out for it,” said Schools Chancellor David Banks in a statement. “I’m so proud to be partnering with JED to bring this training to school nurses across the city as we continue the critical work of supporting the mental health of our students.” Q
Back to School
Get involved in the community
Residents of South Queens have opportunities in September to attend civic and community board meetings. At the gatherings, area leaders and residents meet to discuss neighborhood concerns and events.
Upcoming meetings include:
• Our Neighbors Civic Association, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 4, at 10118 101 Ave. in Ozone Park;
• Community Board 10, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5, at 163-15 Cross Bay Blvd. in Howard Beach;
• Community Board 9, 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 10, at 120-55 Queens Blvd. in Kew Gardens;
• Ozone Park Residents Block Association, 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12, at 88-03 101 Ave. in Ozone Park;
• Woodhaven Residents Block Association, 12 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, at 93-12 91 Ave. in Woodhaven;
• Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic, 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 83-09 157 Ave. in Howard Beach; and
• Richmond Hill Block Association, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 25, at 110-08 Jamaica Ave. in Richmond Hill. Q
— Kristen Guglielmo
Queens congresswoman discusses speech, scheduling change and more Meng reflects on her DNC experience
by Sophie Krichevsky Editor
Though many Queens elected officials made the trip to Chicago last week for the Democratic National Convention, Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) stood out from the rest as she had the opportunity to address delegates last Wednesday night.
While this was not her first time attending the convention — she headed down to Philadelphia back in 2016 — Meng said the atmosphere at this year’s was noticeably different, no doubt due in large part to President Biden’s decision last month to end his reelection bid and Vice President Kamala Harris’ rapid ascent to the nomination.
“[It was] definitely very high energy, as was the 2016 one, but I think this time, what felt different was that there was always a part two to the energy,” the congresswoman said. “Statements like, ‘Oh, we’re so excited, but we have to get to work.’ ‘Oh, you know, I’m so happy. What are you going to do to help?’ ... People knew that they needed to do more than just be happy and excited. I think people wanted to make sure that we learned whatever lessons we had learned from the 2016 election.”
Getting on stage was a journey for Meng, however (though not literally, unlike many of her colleagues, who drove to Chicago due to flight cancellations).
Meng originally had been slated to speak Monday night, but was told her remarks would be postponed to another evening because “President Biden needed a little bit extra time, and the Monday show was two hours over schedule,” she said.
appreciate all the love from everyone. I felt very loved. I’m like, ‘Never reschedule a New Yorker.’”
And in the weeks leading up to the convention and her speech, Meng initially had shown some resistance to endorsing Harris. Asked what changed for her, Meng attributed her hesitancy largely due to a lack of a clear process to replace Biden on the ticket, should the party have chosen to steer clear of Harris.
“It wasn’t necessarily about Joe Biden or Kamala Harris,” Meng said. “I understand the situation, but I had also gotten enough calls from certain influencers and donors in the Democratic Party, let’s say, who ... basically wanted to open up the whole primary process again, but in less than 80 days.
“I’m a very practical person ... I did not think that bypassing both Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, who has been part of the Biden ticket this entire time, made any sense, and we have a very short time to win this election.”
Once on stage last week, Meng spoke about protecting abortion access and reproductive rights. Though that has been a large issue for Democrats this election, Meng has been as vocal as anyone in her party about the increasing number of Asian-American voters opting to back Republicans.
That drew some criticism from the Queens delegation, including from state Sen. John Liu (D-Flushing), who noted in a post to X that Meng was the only Asian-American person on the public schedule. He’d tell Politico it was “infuriatingly offensive.”
Asked about the bump, Meng said, “I felt very loved and embraced by New York Democrats, and I think that it’s a large production ... I wanted to be a team player and make sure that President Biden got his due credit. So I totally
Asked why she chose not to speak about that, Meng told the Chronicle that while she had many discussions behind the scenes about mobilizing Asian-American voters, “My priority has been, in relation to Asian voters, meeting them where they are ... so my priority, at least for the convention, wasn’t just for the Asian-American community, but also for me as a woman and as a mom, and because of Kamala’s historic candidacy, I thought, this is one topic that I feel like I could weigh in on.” Q
After being bumped from the schedule on opening night, Rep. Grace Meng spoke at the Democratic National Convention last Wednesday night.
PHOTO COURTESY GRACE FOR NY
New Yorkers can dial 988 in
a crisis
A year into hotline’s launch, people are still navigating when to use it
by Sophie Krichevsky Editor
In the year since the city’s 988 line went live, the program has worked to find its footing and connect New Yorkers in crisis to various resources. Yet many still do not know it exists.
According to the city’s 988 website, the hotline is intended to provide New Yorkers with confidential support, crisis intervention, information and other services — for free, at any time. What differentiates 988 from 911 is that while 911 is meant to be dialed in an emergency, 988 is reserved for crises. The city defines a crisis as a “time of intense difficulty, distress or trouble,” whereas an emergency requires immediate attention, as someone is “at immediate risk of hurting themself or someone else is in immediate danger.”
According to Jamie Neckles, assistant commissioner of the Bureau of Mental Health, Division of Mental Hygiene, that is perhaps the most common question asked of the program.
“If you’re not sure if [911 is] what you need — and I think many people are not, you know, ‘Is it a crisis or an emergency, I don’t know,’ — my recommendation is to dial 988,” Neckles told the Chronicle.
That’s largely because 988 is answered by a trained crisis counselor who has more time to speak with callers than a 911 dispatch operator.
988, the crisis-intervention hotline that went live in New York City last year, is still a resource unbeknownst to many. So when should it be dialed?
“Nine-one-one is not about spending time on the phone to talk with you right there — they’re making quick decisions to dispatch police, fire or ambulance,” Neckles said. “They’re not there to listen and support. And so if you need listening and supporting, 988 is the place to go.”
The length of 988 calls varies greatly, Neckles said, but on average, they last about 17 min-
utes. And while some callers hang up with a plan of action or resources to look into, for some, it ends there, in part because many calls are made anonymously.
“Some people will talk about some coping skills on the phone that they can use independently later. The plan may be to connect them to a mental health clinic nearby to make a referral for ongoing treatment services ... And
sometimes, they may be in more of a crisis, and the plan may be for a mobile crisis team to come out and visit them,” Neckles said, noting the latter is a separate service provided by 988 that allows for an in-person response. “And so depending on the plan, there may or may not be follow up.”
Though she did not have data on hand, Neckles said that it’s rare that a 988 caller needs to be redirected to 911. But in those instances, she said, many of them occur when a third party calls on behalf of someone in crisis, in which case, the counselor would remain on the line until emergency responders arrive.
Councilmember Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) chairs the Committee on Mental Health, Disabilities and Addictions, and is a staunch proponent of the program. She alluded to the death of Win Rozario, a 19-year-old Ozone Park resident who was shot and killed by police when they responded to a call at his home and he approached them with scissors.
“That, to me, seems like it would have been a situation where maybe if the family and he had called 988, that would have been a more fruitful outcome, because it would actually be mental health professionals, or someone that he would get connected to on the other side, that would have been able to respond to that situation, versus NYPD having to come to that household,” Lee said. Q
MTA, cops out to get bus fare
Pay your fare share! That’s the message from the Metropolitan Transportation Agency this week as it launches a new effort to get bus riders to pay the fare, after an analysis showed that half of them don’t.
The MTA was to deploy security officers starting Wednesday. “Fare inspectors are enforcing fare payment on local buses throughout the city,” the agency said in an Aug. 26 announcement. “If you don’t pay your fare, you may be asked to exit the bus and may receive a summons.”
Published reports say fare evaders may be turned over to police officers who will be deployed to some bus stops to issue summonses.
The MTA says fare avoidance on buses cost it $315 million in 2022, with the rate of people not paying going from 21 percent in 2020 to “roughly 50 percent” now.
The news outlet Gothamist pointed out that the initiative sounds like one announced last year. “However, that effort appeared to fail, as the MTA estimated the bus fare evasion rate grew from roughly 35% in 2023 to 47% earlier this year,” Gothamist said. Q
— Peter C. Mastrosimone
Holden, DEP have meter deal City will revise letters to homeowners, put off fines
by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor
The city’s Department of Environmental Protection and Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth) have reached a truce over DEP policies aimed at getting owners to replace lead water service lines that were installed on older houses in the decades before the city and federal government banned them.
Holden had accused the DEP of fining and threatening homeowners who have not yet replaced lead lines, a necessity as the city installs new water meters. The cost of hiring a plumber to do so can be exorbitant.
Holden also complained to DEP Commissioner Rohit Aggarwala that homeowners in his district had received letters threatening them with theft of service charges until new meters could be installed.
Homeowners who previously hired plumbers for meter installations may be eligible for bill credits under the Reimbursable Metering Program, though further details are expected.
“DEP’s acknowledgment of the need to reform its approach to lead service lines is a step in the right direction,” said Holden.
“When constituents contacted my office about the DEP’s handling of lead service lines and water meters, we sprang into action. While the response from the DEP is a step forward, more work remains.”
“I think the DEP just jumped the gun ...”
A spokesman for the department told the Chronicle in an email that it is adjusting some of its protocols related to lead line replacement and reviewing others.
— Councilman Bob Holden
In a press release last week, the councilman said the DEP also has committed to removing denial-of-access fees, a significant concern for many residents. He said Commissioner Aggarwala has confirmed that the DEP is sending letters to affected customers with detailed information about meter replacements and potential reimbursements.
“DEP is aware that the letter we sent relating to meters and lead service lines might be causing some confusion with homeowners and we are revising it to make instructions more clear,” the spokesman said. “We are also reviewing our policy regarding meter installations on lead service lines. To clarify, this is not theft of service and we are not accusing any customers of stealing water.”
He continued by noting that the commis-
sioner recently spoke with Council Member Holden; and that the DEP has placed a moratorium on the penalty phase of the policy.
The federal government banned the new installation of lead pipes and fittings in residential water systems in 1986. But Holden said his home and many, many more in the city were built before 1940.
Under city regulations, homeowners own and are responsible for maintaining and replacing their service lines, which connect directly to the city’s water mains.
The DEP recently announced a free lead service line replacement program in the Bronx to assist low-income homeowners in certain areas and is seeking federal and state grants to expand the program.
Holden said his own home still has a lead connector, an that he has installed a sophisticated filter system.
“I think the DEP just jumped the gun on what I think is a federal issue, a state issue, a city issue,” Holden said. “This is a citywide issue and it requires a citywide response, not the piecemeal approach the DEP was doing.”
Holden would like to see any program in Queens try to be a coordinated effort, such as replacing connectors on whole blocks or in whole neighborhoods when a utility such as Con Edison or National Grid has a project that already will require digging up a street. Q
Jamaica back-to-school giveaway a hit
More than 1,000 people lined up for five hours for Greater Allen AME Cathedral of New York’s 11th annual Back to School Backpack and Nike Sneaker Giveaway last Saturday.
Throughout the event, held at the church’s parking lot, on Merrick Boulevard between 111th Avenue and 111th Road in Jamaica, children between the ages of 4 and 13 had their feet measured, as seen above.
The shoes were given out by volunteers, above center, from the church and put big smiles on the youths’ faces, center right.
Along with backpacks, sneakers and school supplies, kids like preschooler Jonathan, 4, right, got a free haircut before going back to school. Xavier, 10, on cellphone, got his hair cut
by volunteer barber Maya Dinkins, far right. Children, center far right, also received books during the giveaway from Sister’s Uptown Bookstore from Harlem.
Some kids, top right, got hot during the event and sat under some shade as they waited their turn to get measured.
The backpack event also included live music from a deejay and a game truck.
The Rev. Stephen Green, the church’s newest pastor, said in a statement that he was excited by the giveaway.
“Our goal is to help minimize back to school costs for families by providing backpacks, school supplies, sneakers, and books to families in need,” Green said. — Naeisha Rose
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GoFundMe set for man struck by U-Haul
Family of David Opiela mourns tragic loss with killer still at large
by Sophie Krichevsky Editor
Flushing resident David Opiela was tragically killed early last Tuesday morning when, while walking mere blocks from his home, he was struck by a U-Haul box truck. He was 56.
The NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad determined that the truck, a 2015 Ford, was traveling west on Horace Harding Expressway around 12:30 a.m. Aug. 20 and, as it approached Kissena Boulevard, mounted the median. It struck Opiela, who was on the median, as well as an overhead light pole.
The truck then came off the curb, the NYPD said, and continued through the intersection before striking a 2015 Honda Accord, which was being driven south on Kissena by a 42-year-old man.
A video of the incident circulating on social media shows the U-Haul barrelling down Horace Harding and going over the divider, though the view of anything else on the scene is largely obstructed.
The driver and front passenger of the U-Haul did not remain on scene, police said. Though the NYPD press office said there was no identifying information on the two, several published reports have said both were women, neither of whom were wearing shoes. The video allegedly shows them running away, but its authenticity could not be confirmed.
Upon arrival, emergency services pro-
nounced Opiela deceased. The Accord driver was transported to NewYork-Presbyterian Queens hospital in stable condition, the NYPD said.
As of press time Wednesday, no arrests had been made and the investigation remained ongoing.
Members of Opiela’s family started a GoFundMe to help pay for a casket and burial beside his parents, brothers and sisters. Opiela’s funeral is scheduled for Sept. 7, but a location is not listed.
The page, which can be found online at gofundme.com/f/LayDavidOpielaToRest, had garnered $2,085 as of Wednesday, with 40 donations of varying amounts.
“Our family is distraught and in shock over this tragedy,” the accompanying post reads. “There are no words to describe the grief and horror we feel knowing that his killers are still on the run.” Q
David Opiela, 56, was struck and killed by a U-Haul truck just blocks from his home in Flushing Aug. 20. Here he visits a garden named for another David, in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.
GOFUNDME PHOTO
No car idling by parks, schools
In response to concerns primarily raised by environmentalists, the city this week tightened its rules against cars idling near parks and schools.
The law generally allows one to run a stopped, standing or parked vehicle at idle for up to three minutes. But adjacent to parks and schools, the maximum is one minute. The city had been working on exactly how to define “adjacent” to parks and schools, and on Tuesday released the final rule deciding the matter.
The news and advocacy group Streetsblog reported the change that day.
The new definition says the one-minute rule applies when one is parked in front of or on the side of a park or school property. That includes being parked across the street, except when there is a raised median down the middle of the roadway.
“The final rule has been changed from the proposed rule in response to public comments that the proposed definition was too narrowly drawn and would allow too much idling,” the DEP says in the document, which, complete with an illustration, is available at tinyurl.com/4ftssxkp. Q
— Peter C.
Mastrosimone
COMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL IMAGING
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PET/CT
BP approves zoning proposal
continued from page 2
transit areas being optional.
Brown said developers are making decisions on parking based on demand. She said she would have to follow up with the BP’s Office after speaking with the Department of Environmental Protection on the water and sewage challenge and that the DCP is working with the School Construction Authority, but she did not have a map of which community boards would be impacted the most by new density.
The Chronicle asked the BP’s Office if the DCP answered its concerns at a later time. The BP’s Office said a final environmental impact statement was not yet available.
The Rev. Patrick O’Connor, of First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica, was pleased by the BP’s approval of the initiative.
“The BP has landed on the side of creating more affordable housing quickly which is the only way to respond to the housing crisis,” said O’Connor in an email. “Like every ambitious plan modifications will be necessary but bold action is required!”
Eastern Queens Community Board 13 said in a statement that it agrees with Richards on his point on the need for thoughtful collaboration and robust commitments both from the city and state; hence it rejected City of Yes.
“We argue that instead of creating any new zoning, whether it would permit base-
PEDIATRIC RADIOLOGY
WOMEN'S IMAGING
3D DIGITAL MAMMOGRAPHY
ment apartments or ADUs or multi-story buildings on corner lots among the many provisions of City of Yes, ‘allow’ opportunities to ‘grow’ new housing [in] low density ... nabes where the community identifies appropriate locations,” said CB 13 via email. “We recommend changing City of Yes from amending existing residential and commercial zones to creating a NEW zoning designation that those community boards can implement if/when/where THEY think make sense.”
Western Queens Community Boards 1 and 2 both voted yes, but with conditions to City of Yes.
Both boards wanted parking mandates to be eliminated for new residential developments and unless builders determined that the market dictated it, according to documents. CB 2 wanted transit-oriented housing units to be centered on seniors and the disabled. CB 1 wanted permanently affordable units to go to people with incomes no higher than 40 percent of area median income.
“The BP’s support is meaningful,” said Anatole Ashraf, chair of CB 2. “We are pretty much aligned on some of the big stuff.”
CB 1 said in a statement in June that the “board’s approval does not negate many concerns regarding City of Yes including the voluminous text that had to be reviewed in an inadequate time period.” Q
Pet food drive through Sept.
State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) has teamed up with Puppy Kitty NYC, a nonprofit animal rescue group based in Middle Village, to host a pet food drive.
New cans and bags of cat and dog food can be dropped off at Addabbo’s district office locations — 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven or 66-85 73rd Place in Middle Village — from Sept. 3 through 30. Collected items will be distributed throughout the city to help pets in need and facilitate Puppy Kitty NYC’s mission to save homeless, sick and dying animals.
Puppy Kitty NYC in January saved and provided care for 34 cats from a building in Woodhaven after discovering some had been thrown out a second-floor window.
Addabbo in a statement said he hopes the food drive will help the rescue group continue to do such good work. He added that pet ownership is a big responsibility.
“Potential pet owners should be prepared for this long-term, emotional and financial commitment before moving forward, because in the end when pet owners walk away it’s the animals, who through no fault of their own, that suffer,” he said. Q
— Kristen Guglielmo
Making moves for 15 years at JCAL
Dance festival returns to Jamaica with three-day event from Sept. 20 to 22
by Naeisha Rose Editor
The Making Moves Dance Festival will celebrate its crystal anniversary at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning with a presentation commemorating its 15 years with a threeday event, which kicks off Friday, Sept. 20, and runs through Sun., Sept. 22, with all festivities starting at 7 p.m. at JCAL’s performing arts center.
The festival, which will be held at 153-10 Jamaica Ave., is made possible thanks to the support of the Mertz Gilmore Charitable Trust, Harkness Foundation for Dance, Howard Gilman Foundation, the city Department of Cultural Affairs, the Mayor’s Office, City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) and Councilwoman Nantasha Williams (D-St. Albans).
“Supporting cultural programming like the Making Moves Dance Festival is essential to keeping our communities vibrant and connected,” Williams told the Chronicle via email. “As a lifelong dance student, I understand firsthand the transformative power of the arts in shaping young minds and fostering creativity.
I am proud to support this incredible festival, which not only showcases the talents of choreographers and dance companies but also celebrates 15 years of enriching our community through the joy of movement.”
The speaker is also proud to support JCAL for its many years of bringing joy, entertainment and education to Queens, her spokesperson said via email.
“Arts and culture organizations like JCAL are cornerstones of our communities, providing opportunities to local artists and contributing to our economy,” the spokesperson said. “Community members should come out to enjoy this special edition of the Making Moves Dance Festival next month.”
A panel of professional jurors selected 10 dance companies to perform for the event.
Commissioned groups set to perform are The DynamitExperience, a contemporary dance company; LaneCoArts, a company that blends dance, theater and visual arts; and Vissi Dance Theater, which creates numbers that touches on social justice and the human condition. They will present
new 30- to 45-minute works at MMDF 2024.
Winston Dynamite Brown, associate choreographer for the Metropolitan Opera’s 2023-24 season, leads The DynamitExperience; and Lane Gifford, a dancer, choreographer and film producer, who has taught in Queens and Brooklyn for the public school system, is the founder of LaneCoArts.
Several early career artists include Arielle Telfort, a sophomore at SUNY Purchase Conservatory; Enya Kalia of Enya Kalia Creations, a company that focuses on dance styles from the African diaspora; Miaotian Sun and Andi Pei of X&Y Quadrant Dance Company, a troupe that brings to life Chinese traditional and folk dance with a contemporary twist; and Rachel Lee Heinkel of Brooklyn, a performer and choreographer who explores movement as a modality for healing. They will present 15- to 25-minute works.
A few emerging artists and groups, Ballet Waramba; Lavy Cavaliere of Ridgewood, a gender queer choreographer and dancer; and Leonardo and Olga Suarez-Paz of Nuevo Tango Ballet, an Argentine dance couple, will also have 15- to 25-minute works. Q
WISHING YOU A HAPPY AND SAFE
Enya Kalia, an early career artist, will be among those performing at The Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning’s 15th anniversary Making Moves Dance Festival at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center from Sept. 20 to 22.
PHOTO COURTESY
by Sophie Krichevsky
With 2024 marking the 60th anniversary of the 1964-65 World’s Fair, there is perhaps no better time to visit the Queens Museum to check out the World’s Fair Collection, which has been on long-term view since the museum was renovated in 2013. Nor is there a better place to do so — the museum is, aptly, a product of the World’s Fair itself, and was part of the New York City pavilion.
The collection includes a wide variety of artifacts from both the 1939-40 and 1964-65 World’s Fairs, with more than 10,000 in total. That’s thanks in large part to World’s Fair fanatics.
“There have been a lot of donations, actually — [from] a lot of people who are either World’s Fair fans, or who have attended the fair
when they were younger or who maybe never were there, but just are fascinated by the fairs — who have come into possession of memorabilia, ephemera [and] printed matter,” said Heryte Tequame, the museum’s director of communications and digital projects.
“There are regularly folks who reach out to us wanting to make donations. And of course, we can’t take everything.”
Unsurprisingly, not all 10,000 items are on display — about 900 are out in the museum for visitors to see. Much of the collection is in the museum’s back-of-house archival room. The bulk of the collection available for public viewing is displayed in a large vitrine of shelves.
The museum describes the setup of the collection as “visible storage.”
“There is a curation, but it’s not a thematic grouping — it’s really more just about showing what selection of items we have in our collection,” said Tequame. “It really is kind of an invitation for visitors to observe these different objects versus guiding them through some kind of somatic exploration of those different objects.”
One of the highlights of the exhibition is the 1964-65 World’s Fair Traveling Model, a diorama showcasing scaled down versions of Flushing Meadows Corona Park continued on page 29
King Crossword Puzzle
Tex Blaisdell drew on his Whitestone experience
by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor
Philip Eustis Blaisdell Jr. was born in Texas on March 30, 1920, while his father worked there temporarily in a fireworks factory. He was the firstborn of three children to Philip Sr. and Edith.
His mother, a native of Whitestone, quickly moved back to New York. Philip Sr. secured a good job as a clerk in the Maspeth Post Office, enabling them to purchase a humble, 1,410-square-foot home overlooking the East River at 15013 Sixth Ave. in Edith’s hometown.
Philip Jr. knew his life’s vocation early on and studied at the Art Students League of New York. He married Elaine French in June 1941 at age 21, served in the military and went to work for comic artist legend Will Eisner. He and his wife had two children, Barbara and Bruce.
The home of comic artist Philip “Tex” Blaisdell at 150-13 Sixth Ave. in Whitestone, as it looked in the 1950s. INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA / NATIONALCARTOONISTS.COM
The peaceful view over the East River may have helped Blaisdell, known as “Tex,” create some of his best works. He worked on a number of newspaper comic strips, and in 1968, when longtime “Little Orphan Annie” artist Harold Gray died, Blaisdell stepped
into his shoes. He also penciled or inked comic books such as Batman and Superman.
In his later years, Tex sold the house and moved into an apartment on 41st Avenue in Flushing. He passed away on March 14, 1999 at age 79. His quaint house was razed and replaced with a modern “McMansion.” Q
Enjoy a tale of two cultures, in one day, for free
by Mark Lord qboro contributor
Leon Botstein became the musical director of the American Symphony Orchestra in 1992 and now, more than 30 years later, he’s still at it.
And he’ll be lifting his baton once again when the musicians take center stage at LeFrak Concert Hall in Flushing on Sept. 7.
It’s not the only performance that day that is drawing attention to the Queens College campus. Later that evening will see the arrival of “Hechi Goes to New York!” at the college’s Colden Auditorium.
The ASO’s performance, “Beyond the Hall,” will feature music in a context that differs from the usual settings, examining the complex and dramatic role that music has played across various venues, genres or modes of expression.
Founded in 1962 by famed conductor Leopold Stokowski, the orchestra will be performing diverse pieces drawn from the likes of Scott Joplin’s opera “Treemoni-
Goes to New York!” show. Both will appear Sept. 7 at Queens College, the former again at LeFrak and the latter at Colden Auditorium.
sha,” Leonard Bernstein’s Broadway musical, “On the Town,” and Kurt Weill’s “Threepenny Opera.”
The worlds of dance and the silver screen will not be overlooked, either. “Florence Price’s Suite of Dances” will be a highlight, as will Bernard Herrmann’s suite from the Alfred Hitchcock film, “Psycho.”
It’s not the first time the orches-
tra will be appearing at the college.
“We began our partnership with the Kupferberg Center last season in an effort to expand into the borough,” ASO marketing director Ally Chapel said via email.
The upcoming program is part of the orchestra’s signature Vanguard Series, performances which are curated around themes drawn
from the visual arts, literature, politics and history. The orchestra, based in New York City, performs regularly at Carnegie Hall and Symphony Space.
The performance at LeFrak (153-49 Reeves Ave., Flushing) begins at 3 p.m. on Sept. 7. Tickets are free with online reservations.
“Hechi Goes to New York!”
brings the excitement of Korean traditional art to the borough.
Built around the imaginary animal that has been part of Seoul’s 600-year history, the show features a variety of performances, among them traditional dance, folk songs, a Hanbok fashion show and a unique blend of Korean music and jazz.
In Korea, Hechi is known as a protector of justice and safety and a bringer of dreams, hope and happiness. According to a press release, the event is a “celebration of Korean arts” that “promotes cultural exchange.”
With that in mind, it will be presented simultaneously in English and Korean, with masters of ceremonies for both languages.
The performance at Colden (labeled 65-30 Kissena Blvd., the college address, but basically next door to LeFrak) begins at 7 p.m. on Sept. 7. Tickets are free (a price had been listed previously, but one should ignore that).
For more on either event, visit kupferbergcenter.org or call (718) 793-8080. Q
Take a deep dive into the World’s Fairs
and the 150 pavilions featured at the fair. Per the museum, it is one of seven models originally created to publicize the fair in the year leading up to it. Approximately the same size as a kitchen table, it is significantly smaller than the museum’s “Panorama of the City of New York,” which was also made by design firm Lester Associates, but has a similar affect.
A key part of the traveling model is the
Pepsi-Cola pavilion, which was home to the nine-minute boat ride known as “It’s A Small World.” Though trying out the ride today still requires a trip to Disneyland or Disney World, at the Queens Museum, the World’s Fair Collection includes several artifacts that give visitors a taste of what the space was like.
Also featured in the model is “Dinoland,” a part of the 1964-65 fair sponsored by Sinclair Oil, which made nine, life-sized model dinosaurs that towered over Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Some smaller-scale dinosaur models are on display at the museum, which Tequame said are fan favorites.
Given the size of and variety within the collection, the museum swapped out some items from the archives for viewing within the last year or so, Tequame said.
And soon, there will be several more opportunities to dig into the World’s Fair Collection at the Queens Museum.
This fall, the museum will celebrate the 1964-65 Fair with its forthcoming Anniversary Exhibition. On top of highlighting more archival material from the extensive collection, the exhibit will assess the Fair’s role in the moment of cultural and political change
that was the mid-1960s. That will open Nov. 3 and run through March 9.
And, looking further ahead, Tequame noted that, as part of a capital project coming in the next few years, the Queens Museum will open a collections and archives center dedicated to research on the
World’s Fairs. “It’s going to be a completely different way for people to engage [with the collection],” Tequame said. Suggested admission to the Queens Museum is $8 for adults, $6 for students and seniors and free for children 12 and under.
An American Symphony Orchestra performance at LeFrak Concert Hall, left, and the Hwa Sun Mu dance, part of the “Hechi
PHOTOS COURTESY ASO, LEFT, AND KUPFERBERG CENTER FOR THE ARTS
The World’s Fair Collection has thousands of artifacts, some of which are seen here. On the cover: A close-up of part of the 1964-65 Traveling Model.
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Jenelle Victoria Nero-Reid v. Devon Junior Reid Index No: 725386/2023 Queens County Supreme Court of NY To Devon Junior Reid: You are summoned in this divorce action pursuant to NY CPLR Section 316, et seq. Default judgment may be entered if you fail to appear. Jenelle Victoria Nero Reid 112-19 177th Street, Jamaica, NY 11433 (917) 595-6308
ANTIQUE
BRIMFIELD IS
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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, US BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE FOR VRMTG ASSET TRUST, Plaintiff, vs. MARJORIE MORGAN, ET AL., Defendant(s).Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on December 19, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the outside steps of the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on September 13, 2024 at 10:15 a.m., premises known as 214-32 113th Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11429. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 11136 and Lot 16. Approximate amount of judgment is $591,833.30 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #705287/2015. Cash will not be accepted. The Referee shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 policies concerning public auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure’s Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term website. Gregory M. LaSpina, Esq., Referee Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, New York 10591, Attorneys for Plaintiff
34-ANASA LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/8/24. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 2256 37th St. Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: Any lawful activity.
C M SQ page 32 Y K
511 H+H LLC, Arts of Org
filed with SSNY on 07/29/24.
Off. Loc.: 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, PO Box 130233, New York, NY 10013. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.
60-60 FRESH POND ROAD
REALTY, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/19/24. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 57-87 75th Street, Middle Village, NY 11379. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of SPONGE ELECTRONICS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/31/2024. 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 LLC, 5919 57TH DRIVE, MASPETH, NY 11378. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of SALIM GROUP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/03/2024. 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, 8706 101ST AVE. APT 2, OZONE PARK, NY 11416. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
Notice of Formation of Sand & Thread LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/28/2024. 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: GINA L. GONZALEZ, 465 SENECA AVE., 2R, RIDGEWOOD, NY 11385. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.
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.
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.
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-
YUL G. CLARKE, AS ADMINISTRATOR, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SYLVIA COURTAR A/K/A SYLVIA CLARKE, ET AL.
NOTICE OF SALE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on January 3, 2024, wherein BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON TRUST COMPANY, N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR MORTGAGE ASSETS MANAGEMENT SERIES I TRUST is the Plaintiff and YUL G. CLARKE, AS ADMINISTRATOR, HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF SYLVIA COURTAR A/K/A SYLVIA CLARKE, 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 13, 2024 at 10:00AM, premises known as 116-26 133 STREET, SOUTH OZONE PARK, NY 11420; and the following tax map identification: 11688-18.
ALL THAT CERTAIN PLOT PIECE OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE, LYING AND BEING IN THE FOURTH WARD OF THE BOROUGH OF QUEENS, CITY AND STATE OF NEW YORK
Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No.: 704596/2016. Joseph Trotti, 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.
H & S786 GROUP LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/07/22. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, c/o Haseena Shamin, 144-38 87th Ave, Jamaica, NY 11435. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.
Center (the Fair
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.
Legal Notices Legal Notices
NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY HELD BY THE BROOKLYN UNION GAS D/B/A NATIONAL GRID, BROOKLYN & NOTICE OF UNCLAIMED PROPERTY HELD BY KEYSPAN GAS D/B/A NATIONAL GRID, HICKSVILLE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to Section 402 of the Abandoned Property Law of the State of New York that:
a) a report of unclaimed amounts of money or other property held or owing by the above named corporation has been made to the Comptroller of the State of New York, and that a list of names of the persons appearing from the records of such corporation to be entitled thereto is on file and open to public inspection at its principal office or place of business in (name of city, village, or county) where any such property is payable;
b) such deposits, payments, and refunds, together with interest due thereon and less lawful deductions, will be paid by it on or before the succeeding thirtieth day of September to persons establishing to its satisfaction their right to receive the same; and
c) in the succeeding month of October, and on or before the tenth day thereof, such unclaimed deposits, payments, and refunds, together with interest due thereon and less lawful deductions, still remaining will be paid to the Comptroller of the State of New York and that it shall thereupon cease to be liable therefore.
The Brooklyn Union Gas Company d/b/a National Grid 2 Hanson Place, Brooklyn, NY 11217
Howard Beach/Lindenwood, stu-
Ayllu Andino LLC. Filed with SSNY on 08/12/24.
Office: Queens County.
SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to: 4141 43rd St A9, Sunnyside, NY 11104.
Purpose: Any lawful.
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.
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS
Citibank NA, Plaintiff, -against- Arthur Hassell Garfield, individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield, Julie Ann Garfield individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield, Geoffrey L. Garfield a/k/a Geoffrey Lawrence Garfield individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield, James Tukumbo Garfield a/k/a James Tukumbo individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield, Bryan Russell Garfield individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield, Julian Israel Garfield a/k/a Julian I. Garfield a/k/a Julian Israel Garfield, Jr. individually and as heir to the Estate of Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield and Wayne K. Garfield a/k/a Wayne Keith Garfield’s unknown heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devises, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors, and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming, under, by or through said defendant, who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, United States of America - Internal Revenue Service, New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, New York City Parking Violations Bureau, New York City Environmental Control Board, New York City Transit Adjudication Bureau, and Andre Garfield, Defendants. Index No.: 707137/2018 Filed: August 2, 2024 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is situated. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the attorneys for the plaintiff within twenty (20) days after service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York; or within sixty (60) days if it is the United States of America. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $180,000.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the clerk of the County of Queens on January 30, 2008 in CRFN 2008000040984 covering premises known as 25-15 Ericsson Street, East Elmhurst, NY 11369. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Bay Shore, New York, August 2, 2024 Frenkel, Lambert, Weiss, Weisman & Gordon, LLP/s/BY: Linda P. Manfredi Attorneys for Plaintiff 53 Gibson Street Bay Shore, New York 11706 (631) 969-3100 Our File No.: 01-087248-F00
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 #: 701261/2017 Nationstar Mortgage Llc D/B/A Champion Mortgage Company Plaintiff, vs Christopher Hubert As Heir To The Estate Of Andre Hubert, Isabelle Hubert As Heir To The Estate Of Andre Hubert, Nathalie Hubert As Heir To The Estate Of Andre Hubert, Unknown Heirs Of Andre Hubert 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 Department Of Finance Parking Violations Bureau, Secretary Of Housing And Urban Development, Ezabelle “Doe”, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises: 10910 210th Street Queens Village, NY 11429 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 Unknown Heirs of Andre Hubert Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Laurentina S. McKetney Butler, Esq. of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-Ninth 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 20, 2010, executed by Andre Hubert (who died on February 9, 2021, a resident of the county of Queens, State of New York) to secure the sum of $615,000.00. The Mortgage was recorded at CRFN 2010000368813 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on November 4, 2010. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed July 16, 2012 and recorded on August 24, 2012, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2012000337592. The property in question is described as follows: 10910 210th Street, Queens Village, NY 11429 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 31, 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. 81968
C M SQ page 34 Y K
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 #: 720532/2023 U.S. BANK TRUST NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS OWNER TRUSTEE OF BRAVO RESIDENTIAL FUNDING TRUST 2021-C Plaintiff, vs JOSE PEREZ 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, CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK, QUEENS SUPREME COURT, ATLANTIC CREDIT & FINANCE SPECIAL FINANCE UNIT LLC A/P/O SYNCHRONY BANK, SOFI LENDING CORP. AS ATTORNEY-IN-FACT FOR WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR SOFI CONSUMER LOAN PROGRAM GRANTOR TRUST 2019-2, TRINCHESE CONSTRUCTION INC, DIAN FA SUPPLIES INC, JAWAM, INC D/B/A EMPIRE BAIL BONDS, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU, NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD, NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU, CEYLON LEASING LP, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA ON BEHALF OF THE IRS JOHN DOE (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.) Defendant(s). MORTGAGED PREMISES: 416 Beach 43rd Street Far Rockaway, NY 11691 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 Jose Perez Defendant In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Timothy J. Dufficy of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Ninth day of August, 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, executed by Jose Perez dated the March 13, 2006, to secure the sum of $423,200.00 and recorded at CRFN 2006000172761 in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County on March 28, 2006. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed March 29, 2007 and recorded on July 17, 2007, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2007000367338. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed April 5, 2014 and recorded on July 8, 2014, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2014000226806. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed January 28, 2020 and recorded on January 30, 2020, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2020000039496. The mortgage was subsequently modified on June 29, 2020. The mortgage was subsequently assigned by an assignment executed June 29, 2023 and recorded on July 11, 2023, in the City Register of the City of New York, Queens County at CRFN 2023000172281. The property in question is described as follows: 416 Beach 43rd Street, Far Rockaway, NY 11691 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: August 13, 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. 82158
SECOND SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Index No. 720881/2019 STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT – COUNTY OF QUEENS METROPOLITAN LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, Plaintiff, -vs- THE HEIRS AT LARGE OF BETSY MIDDLETON A/K/A BESSIE MIDDLETON, deceased, and all persons who are spouses, widows, grantees, mortgagees, lienors, heirs, devisees, distributees, successors in interest of such of them as may be dead, and their husbands and wives, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors of interest of all of whom and whose names and places are unknown to Plaintiff; JERMAINE THOMAS; DANIELLE KIRKLAND; GREG RUSSELL; KERRY KATSORHIS, GUARDIAN AD LITEM AND MILITARY ATTORNEY; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; Defendants. Mortgaged Premises: 104-40 194th Street, Hollis, NY 11412 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): 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 hereof. Your failure to appear or 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, unless the Defendant obtained a bankruptcy discharge and such other or further relief as may be just and equitable. 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 to 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 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. These pleadings are being amended to substitute the unknown heirs for BETSY MIDDLETON A/KA BESSIE MIDDLETON, Mary Middleton and by removing the unknown heirs of Thomas Kirkland a/k/a Thomas A. Kirkland, a/k/a Thomas Anthony Kirkland and Jermaine Thomas as Administrator to the estate of Thomas Kirkland a/k/a Thomas A. Kirkland, a/k/a Thomas Anthony Kirkland. QUEENS County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises. Dated: April 22, 2024 Mark K. Broyles, Esq. FEIN SUCH & CRANE, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff Office and P.O. Address 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, New York 14614 Telephone No. (585) 232-7400 Block: 10887 Lot: 61 NATURE AND OBJECT OF ACTION
The object of the above action is to foreclose a mortgage held by the Plaintiff recorded in the County of QUEENS, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein. TO THE DEFENDANT, the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of HON. TRACY CATAPANO-FOX Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated August 8, 2024 and filed along with the supporting papers in the QUEENS County Clerk’s Office. This is an action to foreclose a Mortgage. ALL that Lot of Ground situate in the County of QUEENS, State of New York Mortgaged Premises: 104-40 194th Street, Hollis, NY 11412 Tax Map/Parcel ID No.: Block: 10887 Lot: 61 of the BOROUGH of QUEENS,
B SPORTS EAT
US Open is underway
by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor
The 2024 US Open has begun, and there is more optimism for American male player success than any time in the last 20 years. There are five American men in the top twenty rankings. Of course, the odds of any of them holding up the trophy on Sept. 8 are still daunting, given that Novak Djokovic continues to defy Father Time, and defending champion Carlos Alcaraz may be on the way to dethroning Rafael Nadal as Spain’s greatest tennis player.
While the Open officially started Monday, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center was rocking the previous week as the qualifying tournament to gain one the 16 wildcard slots on b oth the men’s and women’s divisions took place. Most of the participants were up-andcoming players, but there were some familiar names, such as Argentina’s Diego Schwartzman and France’s Richard Gasquet, who has been playing in the US Open longer than any other current male player. Only Venus Williams has more seniority. Schwartzman made it into the main draw. Gasquet, however, did not.
Twenty-year-old Columbia University junior Michael Zheng was one of the few Americans to take part in the US Open Fan Week qualifiers. New York Times sportswriter David Waldstein profiled him last Friday. Although he is from northern New Jersey, Zheng said he
sharpened his skills playing at Cunningham Park. He lost his match last week but vows he will return in 2025. Let’s see if he can lead the Columbia tennis team to an Ivy League title.
The week before the US Open is a valuable time for players and their corporate sponsors.
Defending women’s champion Coco Gauff is the only current female tennis player with an athletic shoe named in her honor. New Balance held a press event for her last Thursday to introduce the latest Gauff model shoe, the CG2.
It is to be seen whether Alcaraz will repeat as men’s champion, but he did win the Lotte New York Palace Invitational Pickleball Tournament, defeating American star Taylor Fritz.
The US Open is as anticipated by epicureans as it is by tennis fans because of the many fine dining options. While the menu prices at the US Open are not cheap, they are comparable to Manhattan restaurant prices. The best values are
Prime Burger’s $17 hamburger, Hill Country’s $24 chopped brisket sandwich, and Pat LaFrieda’s $27 steak sandwich. Sports fans will be happy to know the Carnegie Deli, which has two kiosks at Madison Square Garden, an d Fuku, which is popular at Citi Field, have outposts at the Open. Jamaica’s The Nourish Spot is serving its healthy smoothies near Court 17.
Bon appetit. Q
See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com
