Queens Chronicle South Edition 12-19-24

Leaders call on feds to determine source; no threat yet detected Drones are in the sky across the city

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

Whether it’s with fear or fascination, everyone in the tri-state area is wondering where all the drones are coming from.

Though she sees no reason to worry, Loretta Alkalay, a former attorney for the Federal Aviation Administration and an adjunct professor at the aeronautics-centered Vaughn College in East Elmhurst, has a theory.

“Everything that I’ve seen and read indicates that the government is not concerned about it, which is part of what leads me to conclude that the government or the military knows what’s going on and is either operating them or they’re under contract,” she told the Chronicle via phone Monday.

Described by the school on LinkedIn as “a driving force in shaping drone laws,” Alkalay earned a spot in Women And Drones’ 2023 Women in Emerging Aviation Technologies Hall of Fame.

craft, with drones and panicking,” she said.

Sightings are widespread. It was reported to police last Thursday evening that between five and 10 drones were hovering over LaGuardia Airport and Citi Field, according to the Citizen app.

Three to four craft also were seen heading eastbound above the Belt Parkway just before 7 p.m. Thursday. Around 8:20 p.m., police were informed of three drones flying over the Cross Island Parkway and Northern Boulevard, according to Citizen.

Drones were spotted in the Bronx in the morning that same day — the Daily News reported that they flew away when police arrived on the scene.

In Staten Island, 20 drones were spotted flying around a house at around 8 p.m. A summary of the incident on Citizen states that drones seen in recent weeks appear to avoid detection by traditional methods such as radio and helicopter, a New Jersey official briefed by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said.

have not yet

Thursday over the Cross

an adjunct professor at Vaughn College in East

behind the drones and that people should not

deal directly with the craft.

“I basically think people should stop looking at the sky and freaking out, especially because a lot of people seem to be confusing legitimate aircraft, manned air-

Gov. Hochul said on X on Sunday that the feds are sending a drone detection system to New York, but more action is needed. Hochul urged Congress to allow the state to

That afternoon, Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) called on the DHS to deploy drone detection technology across New York and New Jersey. Schumer said he is working to pass a bill that would give local law enforcement “more tools for drone detection.”

The Daily News reported that he is looking into the company Robin, which makes

advanced drone detection technology, to figure out who is deploying them.

Aries Dela Cruz of the New York City Emergency Management Department said on X last Thursday that the agency is “monitoring the situation and working with relevant agencies to ensure the safety of all New Yorkers,” adding that it is illegal to operate

continued on page 34

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detected malicious activity related to recent drone sightings. Three were seen

Island Parkway and Northern Boulevard, above. Loretta Alkalay, left,

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Holden plan would require license, registration; DOT not interested E-bike bill causes sparks in Council

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

A City Council hearing on how best to rein in reckless operators of e-bikes and other two-wheeled devices sparked numerous terse, sometimes heated exchanges between some Queens members and Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez last week.

The genesis of the Dec. 11 hearing was the stated need to rein in device users who are increasingly running lights and stop signs, riding on sidewalks and going the wrong way on one-way streets. The goal is to integrate and regulate micromobility options.

“We must work to balance the use of any micromobility devices with public safety,” Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton), chair of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, said in her opening remarks.

“Although I am supportive of alternative modes of transportation, we must ensure that our streets function properly and safely where different types of transportation interact,” BrookPowers said.

The three items on the agenda included Intro. 606 by Councilman Bob Holden (D-Maspeth); Brooks-Powers’ own Intro. 1131 (D-Laurelton); and a resolution by Councilwoman Gale Brewer. (D-Manhattan)

Holden’s bill would require the licensing and registration of e-bikes, scooters and other power-assisted or motorized vehicles. It has 29 sponsors.

Brooks-Powers’ measure would create a task force to study options for making street design and infrastructure safer for riders, pedestrians and drivers. It has 10 sponsors.

“It’s a holistic approach,” Brooks-Powers said in a video that can be seen on the Council’s official YouTube feed at tinyurl.com/5dfhjkzj.

Design and engineering changes to be considered include more protected and wider bike lanes; daylighting, which removes parking spaces close to intersections to improve visibility; e-bike loading zones which would keep sidewalks clear while giving delivery workers places to wait; and public e-bike charging stations.

Brewer is calling on the Council to formally back state bills that would increase regulation of and liability for businesses that count on the vehicles in their operations.

Holden’s bill drew the most attention, with speakers from government and the public either loving or excoriating the idea.

It is called Priscilla’s Law for Priscilla Loke, who died in Sep-

tember 2023 days after being struck by an electric Citi Bike in Manhattan’s Chinatown. The still-unidentified rider spoke briefly with police before getting back on the bike and disappearing. Holden, prior to addressing Rodriguez and his staff directly, called his bill a matter of common sense.

“It is not about politics or fear-mongering,” Holden said. “It is about accountability. [Loke’s] story is heartbreaking, but, tragically, not unique,” Holden said. He said that between 2020 and 2023, e-bikes were involved in more than 2,200 crashes involving 2,172 injuries and 22 deaths. He said license plates would be particularly helpful in hit-and-run cases.

“The American College of Surgeons has called e-bikes an emerging public health hazard, and recommend they be licensed and registered immediately,” he said.

Rodriguez, testifying before the committee, said he has no problem with the intent of Holden’s bill, but said much of it can be achieved under existing laws.

He and other critics of Holden’s plan said e-bikes contribute minimally to the city’s injury and death count compared to cars and trucks. The commissioner also believes that Brooks-Powers’ task force could make valuable safety improvements through things like widening bike lanes and redesigning intersections.

Rodriguez, citing numbers for bike-share trips, bicycle trips across the city’s bridges and the now omnipresent food deliveristas, said bicycles and e-bikes are in the city to stay.’

“Our focus is on reimagining the use of public space,” Rodriguez said, referring to making the city’s roads friendly for more than cars. He did acknowledge that there has been a surge in riders ignoring traffic regulations.

“We’re working with the NYPD on education and enforcement,” he said.

He would like app-based companies to be more responsible continued on page 34

SOP man convicted for 2021 shooting

Faces up to 80 years for attempted murder, aggravated assault of officer

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

A jury has convicted a South Ozone Park man of attempted murder, attempted aggravated assault, kidnapping and other charges for a domestic violence incident in September 2021, the Queens District Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday.

According to the charges and trial testimony, on Sept. 14, 2021 at approximately 6 a.m., the victim, Stacy Mosquera, an NYPD officer, arrived at her South Ozone Park home. Her then-husband, the defendant, Marco Mosquera, 46, was awake, had bloodshot eyes and was drinking alcohol.

The defendant engaged the victim in a verbal dispute, the DA’s Office said. During the argument, he broke household objects. The victim tried to calm him down and clean up.

The defendant then entered the victim’s bedroom, where she kept her service firearm and off-duty firearm in a safe. He emerged from the bedroom and pointed the guns at his then-wife and said, “We are about to change the game up.”

He told her they were going to die that day, the DA’s Office said, and that if cops came, “things would not end well.” The victim nonetheless called for emergency assistance.

Officers from the NYPD’s 106th Precinct and EMS responded to the home and discovered the front entrance barricaded, authorities said. The defendant then fired multiple shots, with one shattering the glass door panel and striking a uniformed police officer in the boot.

arm in the direction of the victim and the officer holding the ballistic blanket and discharged the firearm. He then backed away from the window and continued to fire multiple times in the direction of the responding officers. During the exchange, the defendant sustained a gunshot wound to his forearm.

“we are grateful for the jury’s verdict in achieving justice for the victims.”

— Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz

Another responding officer established contact with the victim by telephone and told her to exit the house. The victim jumped out a second-floor window as the defendant approached her with a gun, fracturing her left knee when she fell onto the concrete, the DA’s Office said.

An officer ran over to protect the victim with a large ballistic blanket. The defendant then approached the window, pointed the fire-

After an extended period of exchanging fire with responding NYPD officers, the defendant tossed the firearms out of a window, as instructed by police. He surrendered and was taken into police custody.

After his arrest, officers recovered firearms next to the house and ammunition, including a quantity of 9 mm cartridges and nine 9 mm casings, both inside and outside the home.

The victim was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was treated for multiple fractures

with required surgeries to place plates and screws in her left knee.

Opening statements for the trial began on Nov. 14 and closings occurred on Dec. 11 and 12. The jury deliberated for about two days before reaching a verdict.

The defendant on Monday was convicted of attempted murder in the second degree, assault in the first degree, attempted assault in the first degree, kidnapping in the second degree, two counts of attempted aggravated assault upon a police officer and four counts of criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree. He is due in court on Jan. 24, 2025 and faces up to 80 years in prison.

“The defendant stole his wife’s firearms, threatened her life and held a shoot-out with responding law enforcement officers,” Queens DA Melinda Katz said in a statement. “Despite her ordeal, Officer Mosquera showed remarkable grit in summoning law enforcement to the scene. She bravely jumped from a window to save her own life and escape from the defendant. We are grateful for the jury’s verdict in achieving justice for the victims.” Q

Councilman Bob Holden debates the merits of his e-bike license bill at a public hearing with City Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez. NYC COUNCIL SCREENSHOT / YOUTUBE

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Spreading holiday cheer in Howard Beach

The holiday magic swept through Howard Beach last Saturday morning as the neighborhood came out in full force for the annual Christmas Caravan, a cheerful collaboration between the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic and the New Hamilton Beach Civic Association. Toys were also collected for the NYPD 106th Precinct’s toy drive.

Above left, Santa and Mrs. Claus swapped their iconic sleigh for a red truck, spreading joy and waving to delighted onlookers. At center, the dynamic duo pause to share special moments with neighborhood kids, leaving everyone with big smiles and warm holiday memories. Top

right, even the Grinch couldn’t resist joining in on the festivities, striking a pose with residents and event organizers. At right, Phyllis Inserillo, copresident of the HBLC, beams alongside Santa and Mrs. Claus; and a parade of festive vehicles makes its way through the neighborhood.

Following the festivities, the HBLC took to Facebook to share photos and wrote, “A magical morning in Howard Beach as the spirit of Christmas filled the streets. Thank you to everyone who donated toys, joined the parade and cheered us on as we brought Santa and Mrs. Claus to town!” — Kristen Guglielmo

| MCNAMARA

73K illegal vehicles now off city streets

Ghost cars, ATVs, two-wheeled devices and mopeds were removed from roads

by Naeisha Rose Editor

A multiagency partnership between Gov. Hochul and Mayor Adams has led to the removal of about 73,000 “ghost cars” and illegal two-, three- and four-wheeled vehicles, including ATVs, from city streets, according to a City Hall press release issued last Wednesday.

“We must be safe,” said Mayor Adams, according to a transcript of a press conference. “These cars ... are part of the hit and runs. They’re part of the robberies that we see. They’re part of the illegal pursuits that we see.”

City Council Majority Whip Selvena Brooks-Powers (D-Laurelton), the transportation and infrastructure chair, said via email that 7,500 ghost cars and 27,000 two-wheeled scooters, mopeds and ATVs were seized this year alone, marking a vital step in ensuring safety and functionality of streets.

The 73,000 is the total since Adams took office.

“These vehicles often contribute to reckless driving, evade tolls and fees critical for city services, and present challenges to enforcement efforts,” said Brooks-Powers, who was grateful for the mayor’s efforts. “I applaud the Administration for their dedication to addressing this pervasive issue and

protecting New Yorkers’ right to safe and accountable roadways.”

Councilwoman Nantasha Williams (D-St. Albans) said via email that 20,000 of the 73,000 vehicles were ghost cars, with the remainder being other illegal vehicles.

“This announcement is a testament to the power of collaboration and the commitment to keeping New Yorkers safe,” said Williams.

“Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul are sending a clear message: public safety is a top priority, and those who flout the law will be held accountable. Ghost cars not only evade

OZP vet announces its sudden closure

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Veterinary Care Unlimited, at 84-09 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park, has permanently shuttered its doors.

The news, sent to clients via email and posted on the business’s Facebook page, shocked many pet owners who have long received care for their furry friends at the location. Recently, the office had announced a rewards program and revamped its website, according to social media posts from the past month.

“Attention Pet Parents! Our team is so grateful for many wonderful years of serving the pets in our community,” the Dec. 11 Facebook post read. “Unfortunately, due to ongoing challenges and current economic conditions, we have made the difficult decision to permanently close Veterinary Care Unlimited, effective Thursday, December 12th.”

The note went on to say that records will be available through Animal Medical Hospital in Hempstead, LI, and prescriptions can be refilled there after a pet becomes an established patient at that veterinarian.

“We will miss all our amazing clients,

tolls and penalties but are often linked to serious crimes that endanger our communities.”

Ghost cars are vehicles with obscured, forged or altered license plates.

According to a New York Post article published in April, with data from an analysis provided by Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine, ghost cars cost the city $200 million a year in uncollected tickets and tolls.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards said in a press release Wednesday that he applauded the NYPD and city Department of Sanitation, along with other partner agencies, for being responsive to the many complaints made about the vehicles by borough residents.

Katz, who thanked the NYPD, said via email. “The efforts spearheaded by the Mayor and the Governor will enhance our ongoing efforts to get these vehicles off the road and ensure safety in our communities.”

Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar (D-Woodhaven) said via email that when the mayor asked the State Legislature for help regarding ghost cars, she was glad to help, hence her Ghostbuster Act, which was prefiled in November for the next session, to eradicate the proliferation of the vehicles.

“My common sense bill authorizes the booting and towing of cars with phony paper plates, allows enforcement against ghost cars using VIN numbers, and prohibits websites like Facebook from allowing sales of paper plates,” said Rajkumar. “Together, we are going to exorcise the ghost plates haunting New York City.”

Patricia Wooden, secretary of the 113th Precinct Community Council, said via email that residents in Southeast Queens have been pleading to officers at various precincts, community council leaders and community board chairs at several meetings about removing ghost cars and ATVs from streets.

“We must be safe.”

— Mayor Adams

“Ghost cars, illegal motorized scooters, and other unregistered motor vehicles present a multitude of risks to public safety and have no place on our city’s streets,” said Richards. “This important and necessary enforcement work is doing a great deal to make our streets safer for all who use them.”

District Attorney Melinda Katz said that a collaboration between her office, the NYPD and State Police has led to the confiscation of more than 1,000 illegally parked motorized scooters from the streets of Queens this year.

“The scourge of ghost cars and illegal twowheeled vehicles has become a pressing community concern and must be addressed,”

“We also pleaded to place restrictions on scooters that are creating unsafe conditions and public hazards,” said Wooden. “We are stumbling over them in front of our homes, curbs, sidewalks and find them in the bottom of our parks’ ponds.

“Residents had lost all hope to be able to park in front of their homes because the Police Department hands were tied to remove vehicles because the vehicle had out of state plates, were not coming up stolen or neighborhood mechanics placed covers over the vehicles that don’t have license plates on them at all.”

Wooden says people are fearful around ATVs that drive against traffic and it is dangerous when they pop wheelies.

“This urgent need to get the community streets back for safety and to be able to park without using cones to block a parking space on your block would be a wonderful thing,” said Wooden. Q

Coat drive through Dec. 23

GOOGLE MAPS SCREENSHOT

Veterinary Care Unlimited, at 84-09 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park, last week announced its sudden closure due to “ongoing challenges.”

and we wish you all the best,” the post said.

By Dec. 13, there were more than 40 comments lamenting the loss of the neighborhood veterinarian. Some said they had been going there for more than 25 years, and others were shocked at the last-minute closure.

“I have an appointment for my dog on the 27th,” one comment read. A response said, “My dog had an appointment for tomorrow!”

To help those in need combat the cold this holiday season, Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Woodhaven) and New York Cares, the largest volunteer organization in New York City, are again partnering for their annual coat drive through Dec. 23.

Community members can donate gently used coats to be distributed to local shelters and help keep families across New York warm.

“Every winter, countless New Yorkers face the harsh cold without proper clothing,” Addabbo said. “By partnering with New York Cares, we are taking a proac-

tive step to ensure that no one in our community must endure the winter without a warm coat. I encourage everyone to dig into their closets and donate what they can. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at either of Addabbo’s offices: 84-16 Jamica Ave. in Woodhaven, or 66-85 73 Place in Middle Village.

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

Mayor Adams reported on the “ghost cars” and other illegal vehicles that have been taken off city streets at a press conference in Staten Island on Dec. 11 with Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch, members of the NYPD Highway Patrol Unit and other officials. PHOTO BY ED REED / NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE

EDITORIAL AGEP Register e-bikes and scooters

Janet Schroeder, co-founder of the E-Vehicle Safety Alliance, made a good point at last week’s City Council committee hearing on e-bike safety and three measures before the lawmakers. Even though “more women die from heart disease than breast cancer, we still treat breast cancer,” Schroeder said. Similarly, she contends, even though cars and SUVs cause far more injuries and deaths than e-bikes, the vehicles can and should be regulated. We agree.

The city Department of Transportation and its vocal allies in the anti-car community do not, however. That leads Schroeder and many others, including this page, to wonder if the city just considers people hurt by lawless e-bikes, scooters and mopeds to be “collateral damage.”

Councilman Bob Holden of Maspeth gives their lives more weight. He is not a soldier in the War on Cars as the others are. Holden has proposed a bill called Priscilla’s Law, named for Priscilla Loke, who was killed by an electric Citi Bike in Manhattan last year, to require licensing and city registration for e-bikes, scooters and mopeds of the kind that cannot be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles. They have motors, they’re on the streets (and sidewalks!) and they should be regulated, he says.

Holden’s bill has 29 sponsors, a decent majority in the 51-member Council. But Council Speaker Adrienne Adams of Jamaica is not one of them. Without her support, the bill will not be brought up for a vote. Remember that the next time a scooter or moped with no plates zooms in front of you, against traffic, against the light, on the sidewalk. It won’t be long, unless you’re homebound.

The Council took testimony on two other bills during the hearing, but neither means much. Councilwoman Selvena Brooks-Powers of Southeast Queens wants to study how streets can be redesigned for safety given the rise in micromobility vehicles. We know what that means. The DOT has been redesigning streets for pedestrian safety for years. There’s no need for more study or the task force she would create. The bill has 10 sponsors. And Councilwoman Gale Brewer wants the Council to say it supports a bill in Albany that would require license and registration for e-bikes used for business purposes, such as food delivery. Her measure has six sponsors. It’s a real nowhere plan.

It would be great to see Holden’s bill passed. He’s a serious, independent lawmaker going after a legitimate public problem. Let’s see which of his colleagues also are.

Migration eases up

The influx of asylum seekers and economic migrants that has turned the city upside down the last couple of years is finally easing up. For example, the city says, 500 new immigrants who needed city help arrived the week of Dec. 2 to 8, but 1,600 left the system. So now the city is closing a number of the facilities it opened up to house the immigrants who came here outside of normal channels, including some hotels near Kennedy Airport.

Alas, the city is not closing the tent city at the Creedmoor Psychiatric Center campus in Queens Village, which has something like 1,300 beds for migrants. But hey, folks there will have to get used to higher population density anyway, whether it’s the state’s plan for new housing on the site or the mayor and Council’s new City of Yes zoning rules that target suburban-style neighborhoods like those on the edge of Nassau County. Sorry.

We’re glad the city will be able to go back to delivering city services primarily to city residents, people who didn’t just arrive from thousands of miles away to say, “Feed me, house me, school me.” Given the incoming president’s priorities, the timing could hardly be better.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

What are the drones?

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It’s truly amazing that with an “active investigation into the matter” (per NPR) and with our sophisticated technology, no one is able to explain the drones in New Jersey!

How are we to remain “calm” when more “drones are starting to pop up in New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland and Connecticut” ... and there are no explanations?!

Dorothy Gist Oakland Gardens

Label food better

Dear Editor:

We need healthier food labeling.

The majority of the food consumed in the USA is unhealthy, causing an increase in obesity and diabetes. To date, 32 related illnesses have been reported, leading to a Senate hearing on the subject. During the hearing, there was mention of the warnings used on the front label of food packaging as recommended by the Pan American and World health organizations, since they have been effectively implemented in many Caribbean and Latin-American countries. The warnings include highly visible black octagons with white letters mentioning “High in sugar,” “High in fats,” “High in saturated fat,” “High in trans fats” and “High in sodium,” some adding a transverse rectangle dedicated to

children. I suggest these warnings be used for baby/toddler food in pouches that indicate a product leads to “bad habit formation” since its overuse could produce food aversion and malnutrition. Some health advisors suggest adding “harmful chemicals” warnings.

The octagon warning is easy to understand and not as confusing as the per-serving information or nutrition facts used in the USA. The food and beverage lobby has been fighting the implementation of these types of warnings, using economic or First Amendment excuses. However, such cases in other countries either were lost or dismissed. All branches of the U.S. government must face the food and beverage lobby to protect our children and our health.

Daniel A. Tsin Whitestone

Let feds ICE Rikers migrants

Dear Editor:

Re your Dec. 12 editorial “Let the U.S. Court run Rikers”: Transferring control of the Rikers Island jail complex to federal receivership can benefit

Mayor Adams in two ways. Federal judges may try to block the closing of Rikers, which Adams opposes. They may also allow Immigration and Customs Enforcement to reopen its Rikers Island office, which closed in 2015 under a sanctuary city law signed by then-Mayor Bill de Blasio. Mayor Adams told incoming federal border czar Tom Homan that he embraces Queens City Councilman Robert Holden’s proposal to reactivate the ICE outpost on Rikers, so the feds can easily detain and deport “known offender” criminal illegal migrants.

Adams discussed using an executive action to return ICE to Rikers, which will meet fierce opposition from the City Council’s open-border boneheads and civil liberties lunatics, including Speaker Adrienne Adams (no relation). But if federally appointed judges run Rikers, it will no longer be under NYC’s jurisdiction and not subject to sanctuary city law.

Under current NYC rules, ICE can detain and deport illegal migrant criminals only after they have been convicted. Mayor Adams wants them deported after they are charged. “I’m going to use my executive power to go after the dangerous people who are committing violent

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

acts as migrants,” he told Homan. Our mayor is on target. The only “due process” that illegal migrant criminals are entitled to is a one-way ticket back to their home countries. Putting ICE back on Rikers will make that happen and protect the safety of all lawabiding New Yorkers.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Protecting abortion rights

Dear Editor:

(An open letter to the public)

Regarding the attorney general of Texas’ lawsuit against a New York doctor for providing telehealth abortion care, medication abortion has been used by millions of people since it was first approved by the FDA nearly 25 years ago. For years, we have seen unwarranted attempts to restrict access to these medications, with anti-choice actors even bringing the issue before the U.S. Supreme Court. Time and time again, these attempts have failed because the fact remains that medication abortion is safe, thoroughly tested, and effective. Restricting access to these pills doesn’t help Americans; it harms them. That’s why we enacted our shield law, establishing New York as a beacon of reproductive freedom and protecting our providers from out-of-state anti-choice attacks.

I will continue to protect people’s reproductive rights and access to life-saving health care.

Letitia James New York State Attorney General Albany

Black heroes of WWII

Dear Editor:

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge during World War II, a local TV station on Sunday covered the gallant efforts of the 101st Airborne soldiers who were surrounded by German troops in the town of Bastogne but refused to surrender. When offered terms to surrender, U.S. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe replied, “Nuts!”

However, the report had a glaring omission. Bastogne was liberated with the critical help of the 761st Tank Battalion, 4th Armored Division, a black unit, under the command of Lt. Gen. George Patton. Though serving in a segregated army, the 761st Tank Battalion fought bravely for this nation and contributed greatly to the victory in Europe. After the rescue of the 101st Airborne at Bastogne, the 761st Tank Battalion liberated 15,000 Jews from the Gunskirchen concentration camp.

Too often, historical praise of U.S. war victories excludes the contributions made by some within our diverse and great nation. We must never overlook or forget the sacrifices made by everyone who fought to keep this nation free.

Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

Fight hunger here

Dear Editor:

Christmas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa are less than a week away. The season of giving is coming to an end, as is the tax year, to be honest. It’s time to think about the less fortunate among us.

Think about local charity. There are dozens of good causes, but the existence of hunger in the USA, to me, is an infamia

Individually, we can’t do much about hunger in Africa or India. But a one-time donation of cash or groceries to a local food pantry goes a long way. A decision for sustained monthly donations goes farther, and a commitment to volunteer your time at a food pantry might be the greatest gift of all.

Happy holidays to one and all.

Neil C. Giannelli Woodhaven

Salute them at Christmas

Dear Editor:

Christmas is a time for caring, sharing and giving. It is a time to visit friends and relatives and exchange gifts. But I feel it is a time to recognize the members of our communities who do things for others and some who go the extra mile to help those in need. We also need to applaud our police, firefighters and EMS first responders who do their best to save lives and property, risking their lives all year round to protect all of us. If you see them, tell them thank you for a job well done. Also, let’s not forget our brave men and women in the military who are serving our country and protecting us all worldwide. Please say a prayer this Christmas for our heroes that God will keep them safe.

Frederick R. Bedell Jr. Bellerose

Don’t cut the government

Dear Editor:

Donald Trump is putting Elon Musk in charge of a new Department of Government Efficiency that will slash “wasteful” programs. Also on this commission is billionaire Vivek Ramaswamy. What qualifies these men to make such decisions? They aren’t economists, weren’t elected to any office, and have little knowledge about government programs. Musk is getting this position because he bought influence by donating over $200 million to get Trump reelected.

This commission will supposedly ensure government works more efficiently and uses tax revenue effectively. Musk said it means “looking at every line item, every expense and saying, is this necessary or not?” He plans to cut $2 trillion from the budget and reduce government agencies from 428 to 99. It’s impossible to cut this much without collapsing the social safety net and welfare system, etc. Musk admits it will cause hardship.

You can be sure Musk’s SpaceX won’t be eliminated, although space exploration isn’t necessary and benefits few Americans. However, since Republicans say climate change is a hoax, they will cut environmental programs that protect our air and water. Republicans will claim they are reducing the deficit and balancing the budget, but what are the standards for these decisions and who will suffer the consequences? Isn’t it enough that Trump’s tariffs will drive prices up?

Slashing government programs will cause more hardship for Americans, especially those who are struggling to get by.

Linda Imhauser Whitestone

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We should never get too disturbed by the conduct of earthly rulers because there is an Invisible Hand ruling all that they do. Many presidents, emperors, and kings have carried out God’s will without even realizing it.

The story of Christmas bears this out. Caesar Augustus issues a decree that all the world be taxed, forcing Joseph to travel to Bethlehem, the town of his birth. Unknown to Caesar, in eternitypast God had already decreed that His Son would be born in that place at that time. The emperor was merely echoing the divine decree.

Also according to divine plan, Mary brings forth her firstborn son, wraps Him in rough bandage-like strips of cloth, and, because the inn was overcrowded, places

the baby in a crude animalfeeding trough.

Humiliation accompanies Jesus’ entrance into the world, but His birth lays the foundation of a kingdom before which all the emperors of the world would one day go down. Even the rule of Rome is temporary. John describes it in the book of Revelation, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ.”

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More changes to Queens bus plan

MTA anticipates board vote in early 2025; not all happy with proposals

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority on Tuesday released an amended version of its proposals for the Queens Bus Network Redesign.

MTA officials, gathering at Borough Hall, said changes to the plan first published in December 2023 were influenced largely by rider and community feedback in the past year. A virtual Town Hall meeting will take place some time this coming winter after the first of the year, but before the MTA board votes the plan up or down.

“No borough relies on buses like Queens and riders deserve a system that’s actually designed to fit their needs today — not based on where shops and jobs were located 70 years ago,” said MTA Chair and CEO Janno Lieber in a statement on the MTA’s website.

system that is quick, efficient and comfortable — the Queens Bus Network Redesign is a massive step forward in delivering exactly that on behalf of our borough’s commuters.”

The modified report has detailed information on all individual bus routes, including new ones and proposed changes to existing ones, in numerical order. It can be found at new.mta.info/document/160201.

“No borough relies on buses like Queens ...”

— MTA

“Working with riders, elected officials and community stakeholders, we’ve come up with a plan that will take today’s customers where they want to go while increasing bus speeds and cutting wait times,” he added.

The agency said the proposal will increase the total number of Queens bus routes from 113 to 124. The difference will be seen among local routes, which are slated to increase from 83 to 94. The number of express routes would remain at 30, though some changes have been made.

Should the board approve the plan, the new bus network would be implemented in two phases on dates the MTA said have yet to be determined.

That would be followed by a “large-scale marketing and public education campaign to inform riders of the upcoming changes.”

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards was on board Tuesday, calling the plan a significant victory for riders here.

“More than 800,000 hard-working Queens residents of all ages ride the bus every day to work, school and beyond,” Richards said in the MTA’s press release. “They deserve a bus

MTA officials said the redesign fills gaps in the bus network and establishes new connections with other bus routes, subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road while improving accessibility throughout Queens by connecting to more Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible subway stations. It also is said to improve service to John F. Kennedy International Airport on the new Q80 Limited, and to LaGuardia Airport on the Q33 and the new Q90.

The proposal says 29 routes will provide 10 minutes or better bus arrivals from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays.

Another 20 routes will have either increased frequency or expanded hours of operation. Key streets throughout the borough would see frequency increases, including Union Turnpike, Merrick Boulevard, Guy R. Brewer Boulevard and the western section of Northern Boulevard.

Information on each route includes a map with the changes; locations of all future stops and which ones are targeted for elimination. Where applicable, it lists the train, subway and bus connections at or near each stop.

Not everyone was happy with the new draft at first glance. The group Passengers United issued a brief but succinct statement Tuesday afternoon.

“The Queens borough president and elected officials at the press conference do not ride the buses in Queens,” the group said in an emailed statement. “There are flaws in the plan which will destroy bus service for Queens residents. On many bus routes bus stop eliminations will make it harder for seniors to get to buses.”

The group also protested that no new route was created between from Southeast Queens and Far Rockaway to Bayside. Passengers United also said the Q110 bus would no longer serve the UBS Arena just over the border in Nassau County, though a check of the MTA’s plan found the modified Q2 would. There also was concern over a lack of overnight bus service from Manhattan to Queens.

City Transportation Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez, on the other hand, lauded the proposal.

“Redesigning the bus lane network in Queens will improve the quality of life for the majority of the borough’s residents who rely on public transportation for their commutes,” Rodriguez said. “Through simplified routes and improved access to important destinations, we can make residents’ commutes faster and more reliable.”

NYC Senior Vice President of Buses Frank Annicaro said Queens riders will now

get the bus service they deserve.

“The public’s feedback has been invaluable in developing a plan that better matches customers’ expectations for more efficient, reliable service, and meets the evolving needs of customers,” Annicaro said. “And with continuing rollout of automated camera enforcement technology on buses — capturing drivers who are violating parking rules and delaying bus trips — Queens residents can look forward to better, faster bus commutes.” Q

The Dec. 12 story “Most Queens groups are still against CoY” misstated how future projects will be treated under the Uniform Land Use Review Procedure. Most that would have to go through ULURP now still will have to under City of Yes, according to City Hall. We regret the error. Q

Metropolitan Transportation Authority President and CEO Janno Lieber, at podium, and New York City Transit President Demetrius Crichlow outline changes that will be considered for the Queens Bus Network Redesign.

PHOTO BY MARC A. HERMAN / MTA

Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber

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CEC 26 unanimously supports the SHSAT

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

Ahead of a vote by the Panel for Educational Policy on a contract for a computerized version of the Specialized High School Admissions Test, Community Education Council 26 in Oakland Gardens on Dec. 12 unanimously approved a resolution calling for no changes to the admissions process to specialized high schools.

City Schools Deputy Chancellor Dan Weisberg, at the November PEP meeting, said there would be no SHSAT next year should the contract not be approved. The PEP’s vote was set for the evening of Dec. 18, after the Chronicle’s publication time.

The CEC’s resolution, aptly titled “Resolution Demanding NO Changes to Specialized High School Admissions Criteria,” shows support for the Hecht-Calandra Act, enacted in 1972, which required students to take the SHSAT for admission to the three specialized high schools that existed then, and any subsequently established.

“The lack of diversity in specialized high schools has spawned numerous knee-jerk reaction bills in the NYS legislature over the years to repeal or weaken the Hecht-

Calandra Act,” the resolution states. “Opponents of the Specialized High School Admissions Test claim the lack of diversity in specialized high schools is directly caused by an unfair test, but provide no evidence that the content (test questions) is biased against Black and Hispanic students.”

The CEC argued that low SHSAT scores amongst Black and Hispanic students is “just a symptom of the underlying factors completely ignored by opponents of the SHSAT,” and that eliminating or diluting the weight of the exam will not address the root cause of the issue.

“Community Education Council 26 demands legislators and others to cease their misguided rhetoric against the ills of the SHSAT and to instead work with the NYC Department of Education to perform root cause analysis and identify actionable methods to mitigate the persistent achievement gap that has plagued Black and Hispanic students,” the resolution read.

The CEC recommended other methods, such as the Ishikawa fishbone diagram, fault tree analysis and failure mode and effect analysis, to identify the root cause of the inequities. Q

Devil went down to Elmhurst

Italian Charities of America gave people a Christmas present straight from Naples Sunday night, hosting a performance of “La Cantata di Natale,” starring Alessandra Belloni and Peter DiGeronimo, top. Featuring songs in Italian, Neapolitan and Sicilian, with narration in English, the show dates to the 17th century and is still performed around Naples. It sees the Devil, DiGeronimo, trying to deceive and tempt Mary before the birth of her baby, Jesus. At least some in the audience at the ICA center in Elm-

hurst seemed to pray for Mary to resist, inset. Taking a break after the show were the performers from the I Giuliari di Piazza troupe and ICA officials: flautist Steve Gorn, left, ICA Vice President Alan Hartman, ICA President Domenic Giampino, artistic director Belloni, ICA Board Chair Josephine Manzella, ICA Secretary Marie Carella, ICA Board Member Anthony Lofaso, guitarist and composer John LoBarbera, violinist Mara Gerety, dancer DiGeronimo and guitarist Sebastian LoBarbera. — Peter C. Mastrosimone and Walter Karling

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Mayor, border czar talk cracking down on migrants involved in crime Adams ‘the cop’ meets Tom Homan

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

“We will not be a safe haven for those who commit violent acts,” Mayor Adams said at a press conference Thursday after a meeting with incoming border czar Tom Homan.

According to ICE data cited in several published news reports, there are about 60,000 undocumented immigrants convicted of or charged with crimes in the city.

Adams told reporters that he and Homan have the same goal of promoting public safety by going after violent offenders.

Homan says the Trump administration’s repatriation efforts will prioritize threats to national security. The president-elect, however, has suggested that he may go beyond deporting criminals, telling NBC’s Kristen Welker, “I think you have to do it,” when asked if he intends to deport every person who came to the United States illegally.

Asked what he said to Homan about deporting unauthorized immigrants who have not committed crimes, Adams reiterated their mutual desire to target criminals.

“I think that what has been reported is totally distorted from what our face-to-face, eyeball-to-eyeball conversation [was],” he said. “His goal is the same goal I have. We cannot allow dangerous individuals to commit repeated violent acts of violence in our cities across America.”

Homan spoke positively about the meeting in a Fox News interview Friday, saying he “saw the cop” in Adams during their meeting.

“He’s promised partnership. He promised that he’s going to write some EOs to get some of this stuff done and overturn some of the damage that Bill de Blasio did,” he said, referring to executive orders

and the previous mayor.

Asked whether New York will remain a sanctuary city under de Blasio-era policies that limit police officers’ interactions with ICE, Adams deferred to the City Council.

“They told you what their position is,” he said, adding that he will “try” to use his power of executive orders to “go after dangerous people” who commit crimes.

Adams called to “unravel” current rules for “clarity” on city officials’ authority.

“You could have one of these dangerous Venezuelan gangs that are here. They could be in real active investigation into some of the criminality that they’re doing,” Adams said. “There’s a lack of clarity that, can we assist in preventing the act from taking place? That just makes no sense to me.”

“I said, look, I’m not looking for NYPD to become immigration officers. Leave that to me,” Homan told Fox News about the meeting. “But when it comes to public safety threats, we should be on the same side.”

After his meeting with Homan, Adams announced a set of proposals to promote public safety, such as exploring “lawful processes” to remove undocumented immigrants convicted of a major felony from the city. He called also for legal pathways for asylum seekers already in cities and establishing a “Safe Communities Working Group” of elected officials, stakeholders, legal experts and others to recommend new safety policies.

His other proposals included work authorizations for immigrants, restrictions at the southern border and federal funding for response efforts, a press release from his office states.

“He’s putting public safety over politics,” Homan said of Adams. Q

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Incoming border czar Tom Homan, left, and the head of ICE’s NYC field office, Kenneth Genalo, met with Mayor Adams Dec. 12. PHOTO BY MICHAEL APPLETON / MAYORAL PHOTOGRAPHY OFFICE / FLICKR

A gift of Christmas magic

A pair of siblings had a memorable day in Manhattan recently thanks to some generous folks in Howard Beach.

Esam Ahmed, left, and his sister, Raida, in February suffered the loss of their parents in a car crash in Woodbury, LI. As a result, Esam, at just 18, became Raida’s legal guardian.

A fundraiser started by Esam to cover the family’s expenses and Raida’s future education has raised more than $70,000. It can be found at tinyurl.com/ahmedfamilygofundme.

“Your support, in any form, is a testament to the power of community in the face of adversity — a reminder that even in the darkest times, we are not alone,” Esam wrote on the GoFundMe page.

To make the holidays special for the siblings, on Dec. 12 the Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach sent the duo, along with Esam’s fianceé, to see the Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular with all expenses paid.

The siblings arrived to the city via a limousine provided by Jarrad of All Star Limo service, which waited on them throughout the day. They saw the Christmas tree at Rockefeller Center, had dinner and took the limo back home. Frank Russo, of Russo’s on the Bay, took care of the gratuities for the driver. — Kristen Guglielmo

Battle of the Boroughs e-sports comp kicks off

Deadline for the first round is March 7

by Kristen Guglielmo Editor

School-age gamers, get ready: the 2025 Battle of the Boroughs Minecraft Build Challenge, an e-sports competition for students in grades K to 12, has officially kicked off.

Hosted by the Department of Education in partnership with Minecraft Education and C40’s Reinventing Cities initiative, the competition is designed to engage public school students in shaping the future of NYC. Student teams will compete to create the most inclusive future-ready city spaces.

By participating in the challenge, students will be able to explore the five boroughs, interact with area officials and learn more about the city’s improvement plans. Using fun, immersive computer science and gaming experiences, they will have the opportunity to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Those ready to represent the World’s Borough must meet the minimum requirements by having the full names of

up to five student team members; a student team name; a team advisor or coach; access to the latest Minecraft Education through one’s nycstudents.net account; and confirmation of media consent for each participating student.

The round one prompt asks participants to reinvent an area surrounding their school or neighborhood to improve food equity, provide space for nature to flourish and create opportunities for the community to thrive. The deadline is March 7.

“The annual Battle of the Boroughs competition allows our city’s kids to step up as advocates, creators, and leaders, shaping the future of New York in their own way,” said Schools Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos in a statement. “In learning valuable and in-demand skills like coding, as well as leadership, teamwork, and problem solving, our kids will be set up for rewarding careers and lifelong success.”

For more information go online to tinyurl.com/minecraftbotb2025. Q

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More than a crash a day as cops keep pedal to metal

Police car chases, crashes spiked after Adams promoted two allies in NYPD

by Haidee Chu and Yoav Gonen THE CITY

This article was originally published on Dec. 16 at 5:00 a.m. EDT by THE CITY.

The number of car crashes following police chases has skyrocketed under Mayor Adams, with more than one collision per day recorded on average this year, according to an analysis of NYPD data by THE CITY.

In the first 11 months of 2024, an unprecedented 398 vehicle crashes were preceded by police pursuits, resulting in at least 315 people injured — up 47 percent from the 215 people injured over the same period last year — according to motor vehicle collision data made public by the Police Department.

These new findings follow THE CITY’s reporting last year on the unparalleled number of police car pursuits — a record on track to be broken this year.

The nearly 400 crashes through the end of November of this year — an average of more than nine a week — is an increase of 47 percent from the then-record 270 crashes over the same period last year and vastly up from an average of just 84 such crashes a year under the previous mayoral administration.

The NYPD did not respond to THE CITY’s request for comment.

“That’s horrifying,” Alexa Sledge, a spokesperson for the traffic safety advocacy nonprofit Transportation Alternatives, said when

Every other police chase crash in the Bronx so far this year, in blue, resulted in at least one injury — the highest rate of any borough. Injuries also more than tripled in Brooklyn this year through November compared to the same time last year, in yellow, while injuries in Queens more than doubled.

THE CITY shared its findings.

“When so many people think of police activities and police chases, people think about officers doing that to keep New Yorkers safe. But at the end of the day, nothing can really keep us safe if it’s ... leading to completely preventable losses, crashes and serious injuries.”

While the death count in the NYPD’s public collision data lists none since 2014, a review of media reports over the past two years shows at least 13 people were killed, or sustained serious injuries that eventually killed them, in the course of police pursuits, including seven so far this year — most often by the fleeing driver.

In May, for example, a driver fleeing from the NYPD in Bushwick slammed into a Honda Pilot, sending a 29-year-old passenger in its backseat, Micah Dukes, flying and to the hospital in critical condition. Dukes died from those injuries about a week later.

Last December, Tiana Rodriguez, a 21-year-old passenger of a Lamborghini fleeing from the police for a red-light violation, was also killed after the car struck a pillar supporting an above-ground train track in Inwood, Manhattan.

Neither incident was documented in public NYPD data on crashes after police pursuits.

A former NYPD official with knowledge of the data said the mismatch can be largely attributed to discrepancies between internal data and what’s made available publicly.

“Internally, they would update the crash count to register a fatality or an injury,” the former official said. “So that just means they’re probably not updating the open data feed.”

Sledge noted that these inconsistencies and inaccuracies often make policy reform work for people like herself more challenging, and that advocates like herself have had to compile their own databases to better understand the consequences of these police pursuits.

“It’s completely unfair and unacceptable,” Sledge added.

‘Over and over again’

The number of chases and crashes began spiking in late 2022, when John Chell was promoted to chief of patrol and Jeffrey Maddrey to chief of department. While crash numbers have begun to drop since June and chase numbers, in January, so far they’ve remained overall up from the same time periods last year.

“People thinking they can take off on us, those days are over,” Chell declared last July, responding to

reporting by THE CITY showing that the 625 chases in the first six months of that year exceeded the count for the previous five years combined.

An internal memo issued last August by Maddrey, the department’s top uniformed official, reiterated department policy that “a vehicle pursuit must be terminated whenever the risks to members of the service and the public outweigh the danger to the community if the suspect is not immediately apprehended.”

The number of crashes peaked at a record 53 this June. To put that in perspective, there were never more than 11 crashes in a month between 2017 and 2021.

“The rank incompetence — you can’t call Internal Affairs for that,” said a former NYPD official critical of what they called the current leadership’s “reckless” approach. “The pursuits are a great example. It’s a terrible policy decision that’s going to kill people, but it’s not illegal.”

The NYPD recorded 1,523 chases from January to September of 2024 — up 47 percent from the 1,035 incidents over the same period last year. Nearly one in four of those pursuits, accounting for 345 incidents, resulted in a collision, according to the department’s public data.

The same data shows 315 people, including 19 pedestrians and a cyclist, were injured in chases by November this year.

Adams, who served for 22 years as a NYPD officer, has largely defended the chases when asked about them, saying last month that “you don’t want an innocent person being hit or killed or seriously injured based on a chase but I have to trust that supervisor that’s on the ground to do that evaluation and make that call.”

According to NYPD public data, about 42 percent of crashes citywide

Altogether, the data, which goes back to May 2014, shows 799 crashes following police chases in the less than three years under Adams — which exceeds the 690 such crashes in the seven and a half years before he became mayor.

In Queens, the number of chases nearly doubled to 546 from January to September this year from 278 in the same period last year — the most of any borough and the sharpest rise.

through November this year resulted in injuries. That number is higher in the Bronx, where every other crash resulted in at least one injury, adding to a total of 112 injuries so far this year — the most of any borough.

Drivers, passengers and pedestrians in the vicinity of these pursuits often end up as victims of the crashes that result from them — as was the case in a police chase this August that started in Eltingville, Staten Island, after a 46-year old driver drove through a red light.

The driver, who allegedly sped up to triple-digit velocity upon hearing the police sirens, eventually crashed head-on into an SUV in Gowanus, Brooklyn, causing a laceration and contusion to the SUV driver.

In another police pursuit in Astoria in October, 37-year-old cyclist Amanda Servedio was fatally struck by a pickup truck driver fleeing the police.

That death was one of a handful that were reported in the press but not reflected in the NYPD’s publicly available data — which also don’t distinguish between injuries to civilians and to police officers, or specify whether police cars were involved in the collisions stemming from their pursuits.

Crashes went up, too, rising 68 percent to 126 in the first 11 months this year from 75 over the same period last year, including 21 so far this year in the Queens VillageBellrose-Rosedale area — the most of any community district.

Other Southeast Queens neighborhoods like Jamaica, Ozone Park and Rockaway were also hit hard with crashes, as were Bedford Park and Bronx Park in the Bronx.

The most recent Mayor’s Management Report, covering the fiscal year that ended in June, showed a steep rise in “collisions per 100,000 miles involving city vehicles,” up to 6.4 from 3.7 the previous fiscal year.

“They repeatedly happen over and over again, and obviously the police know that they’re happening — so what’s the point of having the policy if we’re not following it, we’re not enforcing it, and we’re not showing that it’s actually a priority for us?” Sledge said, referring to the NYPD’s guidelines for terminating pursuits.

“We need the new police commissioner to recommit to this policy,” she added, referring to Jessica Tisch, who started last month as Adams’ fourth police commissioner in less than three years. Q Suhail Bhat contributed reporting.

THE CITY (www.thecity.nyc) is an independent, nonprofit news organization dedicated to hard-hitting reporting that serves the people of New York.

Crashes, in blue, following police pursuits, in yellow, shot up after key police appointments under Eric Adams’ administration. The toll began to slow down this year — but both numbers are still up overall notably so far this year compared to the same time periods last year. CHARTS: HAIDEE CHU / THE CITY

An NYPD officer zooms past Federal Court in Lower Manhattan, Nov. 7, 2024.

PHOTO BY BEN FRACTENBERG / THE CITY

JFK and Voyage hotels among the 25 migrant facilites to close by ’25 Creedmoor not in shelter wind down

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Enough is enough,” said four lawmakers representing Eastern Queens in a joint statement on Dec. 10.

U.S. Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Nassau, Queens), state Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky (D-College Point), Assemblyman Ed Braunstein (D-Bayside) and Councilwoman Linda Lee (D-Oakland Gardens) said they were disappointed to learn that the Creedmoor Humanitarian Emergency Response and Relief Center in Queens Village, located on the grounds of the Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, is not among the 25 shelters Mayor Adams plans to close down by March 2025 as the migrant population declines.

Migrant arrivals are down. According to a City Hall source, from Nov. 25 to Dec. 1, more than 400 new migrants entered the city’s care and over 1,000 left its care, hence the scaling down of emergency shelter efforts. Then from Dec. 2 to 8, 500 more entered the city’s care as 1,600 left.

As of Dec. 8, there are 113,700 people in its shelter system, more than 54,900 of them migrants, said the source. More than 225,700 migrants have been through the city’s intake system since spring 2022. There were 199 sites housing them citywide, including 14 HERRCs.

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The shelters in Queens that will close are three JFK-area hotels and Voyage Hotel in Long Island City.

“We have said — from day one — that the Creedmoor campus was an inappropriate place for a 1,300-plus-bed tent shelter for single male migrants, and that if opened, it should be the first taken offline,” said the officials’ joint statement. “As we have predicted, this shelter has had a negative impact on the surrounding community, particularly

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Councilwoman Linda Lee speaks after an Oct. 4 press conference across the street from the Creedmoor HERRC facility after a gunman was discovered there. One neighborhood concern is migrants congregating at an area bus stop, above. PHOTOS BY NAEISHA ROSE / FILE

for students and teachers at the public school across the street, and seniors who attend the center adjacent to the site.”

As previously reported, some of the migrants have utilized a playground meant for students at PS 18, which is across the street from the shelter. The Services Now for Adult Persons senior center is also on the Creedmoor complex.

“With the number of migrant arrivals steadily decreasing, we have long urged the

Mayor’s Office and the Governor to shutter this site,” said the lawmakers. “To hear that Creedmoor is not included in the Administration’s lengthy list of migrant shelter closures released today is absolutely unacceptable. The eastern Queens community has shouldered a host of quality-of-life issues stemming from this site for far too long.”

Some residents have complained about garbage being left outside the HERCC tent shelter and migrants loitering at the Q43 bus stop on Hillside Avenue, around the corner from PS 18, and not being inside the site at curfew.

“Further, the alarming security inadequacies of the shelter were laid bare in October, when our offices and the community heard — through news reporting — that armed fugitives were discovered residing at the shelter,” continued the lawmakers. “The Creedmoor shelter site should be long-shuttered. The Mayor’s Office must add this site to its list of planned closures.”

At a press conference held across the street from the facility on Oct. 4, Lee told the Chronicle that she discovered that three days prior two migrant Cuban fugitive brothers, one of whom had a gun, were found at the tent city. By Oct. 28, her spokesman announced at a Community Board 13 meeting that metal detectors and X-rays would be at the facility moving forward. Q

Yes to high-rise on Queens Blvd.: CB 6

Board approves proposed 17-story development with three conditions

by Stephanie G. Meditz Associate Editor

Community Board 6 last Wednesday voted 23-6 in favor of a rezoning that would enable a 17-story development by QBM Properties LLC at 102-51 Queens Blvd. in Forest Hills.

The 175-foot high-rise would span the entire north block between 68th Avenue and 68th Road, the current home of businesses such as Sapeda Restaurant and Da Mikelle II. Land use attorney Eric Palatnik said they all have been invited to return after construction is completed.

The building would have 216 residential units, with 54 of them deemed permanently affordable to those at 60 percent annual median income. The breakdown consists of 85 studios, 85 one-bedroom apartments, 23 twobedroom and 23 three-bedroom units.

It also would include 87 residential parking spaces in the cellar and on the second floor. Since the City of Yes for Housing Opportunity passed in the City Council earlier this month, Palatnik said, the developers are not required to provide parking.

The board’s approval came with conditions to reduce parking spots to enable more affordable units, modify the rear facade to add more visual appeal as well as increase setback distances along the rear property line and add a carve-out for 15 percent supportive

MTA fares could hit $3

Congestion pricing won’t be the only cost increase socking New York City travelers in 2025.

Bus and subway fares could be headed toward $3 in 2025 after the board of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority on Wednesday approved a financial plan calling for a 4 percent revenue increase.

Multiple published and broadcast sources said that could mean a fare increase from the present $2.90 by August 2025.

Bridge and tunnel tolls also would increase by an as-yet-unspecified amount.

Congestion pricing, a toll on car and truck trips into Manhattan at or below 60th Street, is set to kick in on Jan. 5 absent any federal court ruling that delays it. Come Jan. 20 it might also run foul of President-elect Donald Trump.

The fare hike would be the first since August 2023. Back in September at a press roundtable in Jamaica, Lieber acknowledged that while he would prefer to avoid fare hikes, he would rather return to the pre-Covid practice of modest increases every other year than hold out and slam riders with a massive hit down the road. Q

— Michael Gannon

Community Board 6 voted in favor of a proposed 17-story building at 102-51

with several recommendations, including a carve-out for supportive housing.

housing units, which would include on-site services for folks with special needs within the building.

“We’ve been asking for supportive housing in this district for as long as I’ve been on this board and we get nothing,” CB 6 Chair Heather Beers-Dimitriadis said when she made that motion.

On the first condition, made during the board’s most recent Land Use, Housing and

Landmark Committee meeting, Palatnik said the space allocated toward parking does not count as floor area and would not allow for additional units.

Twenty-three board members voted to include the condition anyway, with some saying they want to send a message that they would like to see more affordable housing as the project moves through the city’s Uniform Land Use Review Procedure.

Drought status improves for city

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Recent rain showers on upstate New York reservoirs have led the Mayor’s Office and the city’s Department of Environmental Protection to downgrade the Big Apple’s drought warning back to a drought watch.

City officials still are asking residents and businesses to conserve water whenever possible. The relaxed status was posted on the DEP’s X feed just before 3 p.m. on Monday.

The initial drought watch was issued on Nov. 1 after an unseasonably warm and dry summer, including the driest October since the city began keeping records in 1869.

A lack of rain upstate depleted reservoirs that supply the city’s drinking water well below normal seasonal levels.

Mayor Adams elevated the status to a drought alert on Nov. 18.

A number of subsequent rainy days in the five boroughs did not result in the desired water levels upstate, but did prompt Adams on Dec. 9 to lift the citywide bans on building open fires and setting off fireworks.

Some simple tips include:

• Report open fire hydrants and street leaks to 311. An open hydrant can release more than 1,000 gallons per minute, which wastes 1.4 million gallons of drinking water in a 24-hour cycle.

• Don’t flush the toilet unnecessarily. According to the EPA, toilets are by far the main source of water use in a home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home’s indoor water consumption. Each flush can use 1.6 gallons, with older models using as much as 6 gallons.

• Take shorter showers, saving 5 to 7 gallons a minute. When taking a bath, fill the tub only halfway and save 10 to 15 gallons.

• Don’t run the tap while shaving, washing hands or brushing teeth. Faucets use two to three gallons per minute.

• Run the dishwasher and washing machine only when full. Use short cycles if available. Turn off the water while washing dishes.

• Install water-saving fixtures, including low-flow toilets and showerheads, as well as faucet aerators.

More information is available on the DEP’s website at tinyurl.com/37ee2mcj. Q

Some, too, cited heavy traffic congestion and supported adding an incentive for people without cars to move into the neighborhood.

Asked by board member Pat Morgan why the project does not designate more affordable units, Palatnik said there is no government funding behind it and the developers are providing as many as they can.

During the meeting’s public forum, several residents expressed opposition to the development, many of them citing high population density and overcrowded schools.

“The people are here already. You’re not bringing new people here by building buildings,” Palatnik said before beginning his presentation, prompting strong reactions in the crowd.

Queens Borough President Donovan Richards’ public hearing on the proposed development was set for today, Dec. 19.

In other board business, members voted 17-14 in favor of a retail cannabis dispensary application by Soho Dispensary Corp at 10729A 71 Ave. in Forest Hills.

The new business would require the state Office of Cannabis Management to make an exception to a rule, as it would be situated within 1,000 feet of another dispensary, namely Curaleaf at 107-18 70 Road. Whether it will do so is still unknown, Beers-Dimitriadis said. Q

Be like Tim! Tim Rasmussen, that is, one of two winners of the Queens Chronicle’s last Summer in the Borough Photo Contest. Now the Chronicle’s 17th annual Holiday Photo Contest is underway, and it’s your turn. Send us pictures that celebrate the season — joyous children and families, snowy landscapes, whatever it might be. Our main rule is that the photos be taken in the borough this season. We also ask for details, especially the location, the names of any people in a photo, when possible, and when it was taken. And please limit your entries to five. The winner will get a $50 gift card good anywhere, as Rasmussen did. All winning photographs, and many others, will get published. Send digital photos to peterm@qchron.com, saying “contest” in the subject line, or mail prints to Queens Chronicle Photo Contest, 71-19 80 St., suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385. The deadline is Friday, Jan. 3. Good luck!

Queens Blvd.

YOUTUBE SCREENSHOT / CB 6

PHOTO

Spread holiday joy to those in shelters ’Tis the season of cheer and giving giving

by Naeisha Rose Editor

Let’s make magic happen by donating to the Queens Chronicle’s 28th annual Holiday Toy Drive. The Chronicle, acting on behalf of the North Pole, is calling on all of Santa’s helpers to bring joy to children, teens and families in homeless shelters throughout Queens in the spirit of giving.

Santa’s elves are seeking donations of new, unused and unwrapped art supplies, games, puzzles, toys and other gifts for boys and girls, from babies to teens.

as well as DC and Marvel heroes, are always a hit. Young girls wrote to Santa requesting skates and child-safe makeup and nail polish, while some boys have asked for train sets, electronics and toy trucks.

Donations will be delivered to homeless shelters, including one for domestic abuse survivors, bringing holiday cheer to children and families experiencing dark times.

QueensChronicle’s

Old Saint Nick also needs his helpers to collect essentials such as clothing, hats, gloves and scarves for all age groups as temperatures plummet this winter to help people stay warm as if they were sitting by a fire with a Yule log burning. Mrs. Claus said that ageappropriate cosmetics, personal care items and gift cards will also be accepted.

28th Annual

In the past, contributors donated more than 1,500 games, toys and cold weather essentials to Santa’s workshop. This week’s new contributors to whom we give our heartfelt thanks are Vicki, Maureen Chan of Forest Hills and Linda Yorio and John Lynch, both of Middle Village. The deadline for donations is Thursday, Dec. 19.

Stumped for gift ideas? We’ve got you covered. In previous years children have requested items themed after their favorite movies and TV shows, such as Disney’s “Frozen,” “Paw Patrol,” Power Rangers, Pokémon and black Barbie dolls. Toys and clothing themed after characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse,

“I am proud to be able to put on this toy drive once again. Seeing those less fortunate being able to enjoy the holidays makes all of us at the Chronicle feel good that we can take part in this endeavor,” Queens Chronicle Publisher Mark Weidler said. “Thank you to all who make donations.”

All items can be brought to the Queens Chronicle office at 71-19 80 St., Suite 8-201, at The Shops at Atlas Park in Glendale during business hours: Monday through Friday from 9

a.m. to 5 p.m.

The office is above HomeGoods, and the entrance to the building is where the sign says The Offices at Market Plaza.

Donations also can be dropped off at the following locations during their regular business hours:

• State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. at 84-16 Jamaica Ave. in Woodhaven;

NEED HEALTH INSURANCE

Barbu at (718) 205-8000. Q

Assemblyman Ed Braunstein and his Chief of Staff Suzanne Monteverdi, left, Constituent Services Manager Jess Mueller and Community Relations Director Amber Yoon, surrounded by toys collected so far this holiday season.

PHOTO BY MARK WEIDLER

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

by Kristen Guglielmo

What if you could spend an evening with ghosts, not in some haunted house, but in a cozy theater tucked away in Woodside? This holiday season, The Secret Theatre invites all to do just that with its enchanting annual production of “A Christmas Carol.”

At 38-02 61 St., Charles Dickens’ timeless tale transforms the stage into Victorian London, where the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge confronts his past, his choices and the spirit of Christmas. The timeless classic story of redemption wrapped in mystery and holiday cheer is a theatrical gift that’s equal parts spooky and heartwarming.

“Traditionally, we used to do ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas,’ which was very popular,” said Richard Mazda, the artistic director of The Secret. After a change in the rights to that play, the theater pivoted to the Dickens classic, but added its own flair.

“I switched my attention to ‘A Christmas Carol’ because it is so traditional, but I do actually like the underlying social justice messages in the play, and so I took a shot at adapting it,” Mazda said. “I wrote some extra dialogue and included some things which are maybe not directly by Dickens — but Dickens is in the play.”

Mazda is on double duty for the production, taking on the lead role of Scrooge while also producing the show. He is joined onstage by a robust group of actors, including Matt Biagini as Charles Dickens; Adam Kee as Marley’s ghost and Bob Cratchit; Christian Barker as Fred and the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come; Carla Mongado as the Ghost of Christmas Past and Lily; and Mia Soleil Jacquez as the Ghost of Christmas Present and Mrs. Dilber.

The group is directed by Jordan Schneider, whose directorial credits include “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” “Urinetown: The Musical,” “Heathers: The Musical,” and “Spring Awakening.”

“I am really doing my best to portray Scrooge to the best of my acting ability, and I’ve been working pretty hard on it,” Mazda said.

continued on page 29

King Crossword Puzzle

Lee Konitz jazzed it up at a pair of spots in Elmhurst

by Ron Marzlock

Chronicle Contributor

Leon “Lee” Konitz was born in Chicago on Oct. 13, 1927, the third child of Abraham and Anna. They operated a laundry service.

At age 11, Lee got his first musical instrument, a clarinet. A year later he dropped it in favor of the tenor saxophone before moving on to alto sax. He was into big band jazz.

He went professional in 1945 and played with Gerry Mulligan and Miles Davis. A nonobservant Jew, at age 21 he married Ruth Hamalainen, the daughter of a ordained minister from Finland. They purchased a home at 57-22 78 St. in Elmhurst. They had five children in rapid succession: Rebecca, Joshua, Paul, Stephanie and Karen. Konitz wasn’t home much as he was on tour with the Stan Kenton orchestra.

By the 1960s, they had divorced. Ruth

took the kids and moved to Huntington, LI, and Lee moved into a brand-new, six-story, 76-unit apartment building at 51-25 Van Kleeck St. in Elmhurst. He found love and married again in 1976, to Tavia Mladinich. Konitz continued to perform into his 90s. Pneumonia brought on by Covid-19 killed him at age 92, on April 15, 2020. His music still lives on. Q

The home of of jazz saxophonist Lee Konitz was in 51-25 Van Kleeck St. in Elmhurst, seen as it looks today.

GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE; INSET PHOTO BY BRIAN MCMILLEN VIA WIKIPEDIA

Hanukkah meets Christmas on Dec. 25 this year

by Mark Lord qboro contributor

You can spell it Hanukkah. Or Chanukah. Or Hanukah. Or Hannukah. Or, according to the Oxford English Dictionary, any of some two dozen different ways.

But no matter how you spell it, there are just as many ways to enjoy it.

Sometimes called the Festival of Lights, Hanukkah is an eight-day Jewish celebration that commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. This year it runs from Dec. 25, Christmas Day, to Jan. 2.

Among the traditional ways to celebrate are the nightly lighting of the menorah, a candelabrum, the recitation of special prayers, eating fried foods, and, perhaps most popular of all, playing Dreidel, a game that employs a four-sided spinning top.

Maybe you’d like to learn how to press and purify oil from olives just like the Maccabees did. A workshop is being offered by JCC Chabad LIC (10-29 48 Ave., Long Island City) on Dec. 22 at 10 a.m. The cost is $50 per family and RSVP is required. For more information, visit jewishlic.com.

Or maybe the youngsters in your family (ages 6 to 11) would enjoy HanukkahChristmas Storytime at the Rosedale Library (144-20 243 St.) on Dec. 30 at 3:30 p.m. It’s free! To learn more, call (718) 528-8490.

At home or at an event, one thing is clear: The holiday is especially fun for the kiddies.

Liat Zalait, a mother of two teenagers, and a native of Israel who has called Forest Hills home for the past 13 years, explained that when her children were younger, they used to go to parties to play games and eat donuts and latkes, or fried potato pancakes.

Now, she said, “We light the menorah and have a family party.”

This year, she will also escort an elderly family friend to the Young Israel of Forest Hills Senior League at 68-07 Burns St., Forest Hills, on Dec. 26 at 1 p.m., when Zalait will entertain by singing a selection of mostly Hebrew holiday songs. For more informa-

tion, call (718) 520-2305.

Judy Vincent, a longtime resident of Whitestone, grew up as a Jewish girl whose friends were mostly not of the faith.

“I went to their homes,” usually on Christmas Eve, she recalled, “and I guess I was jealous. It was Santa, Santa, Santa. And the trees. And the eggnog.”

While she used to receive presents each night, “In my teens, the Hanukkah gifts slowed down,” she said.

She has seen the same thing happen with her own college-age daughter.

“Every now and then I’ll get her a Hanukkah present. She watches me light the candles, but she participates more with her friends,” Vincent said.

But she still gets to spread holiday cheer by babysitting young children. “They’re not Jewish, but we play Dreidel and I teach them about Hanukkah. They love it.”

Rego Park resident Evan Ross has his own special way of marking the holiday season — with what he calls a Chrismukkah tree. Truth be told, it’s a Christmas tree with a light-up Star of David on the top. The Ross family has been celebrating both holidays since he was a child. He now has an adult daughter.

“As we’ve gotten older, we say this will be the last year,” he said. But for now, the tradition lives on. Q

A frighteningly festive tale comes to Woodside

continued from page 27

“I’ve got some really great colleagues in the cast as well; one of my ex students, Mia Jacquez, has been the assistant director on this and has been playing Christmas Present for the last three years,” Mazda said. “It’s such a joy to work alongside somebody that I have some hand in training, and she’s really good. ... And Adam Kee plays Marley and also Bob Cratchit, and he does such a great job.”

Crossword Answers

The remaining performances are on Dec. 19 and 20 at 7 p.m., Dec. 21 at 3 and 7 p.m. and Dec. 22 at 3 p.m. For tickets or more information, visit secrettheatre.com.

For those unfamiliar with the story, first published in 1843, it follows the elderly miser Scrooge, who is visited on Christmas Eve by the ghost of his late business partner, Jacob Marley, who is suffering in death due to his selfishness while he was alive.

The ghosts of Christmas’ past, present and future then take Scrooge on a journey.

Mazda said this version of the classic is different from a traditional production.

“You don’t usually have Dickens coming out talking to you at the beginning,” he said. “But, we discussed, as a company, what the play really means. And at the time, it’s alleged that Dickens wanted to make money and needed something quick, so he banged out a ghost story. And that might be true, but it’s also true to say that there are representations within the script of the terrible conditions that existed for poor people in those days.”

He added, “So if you care to pay attention when you’re watching ‘A Christmas Carol,’ there are some really important

things in there at the end.”

Mazda said Scrooge’s epiphany at the end of the show is important, because the character was a victim of his own greed.

“The message for people is it’s far more important to value your family, your relationships, your health and your attitude,”

Mazda said. “Scrooge is sort of saying that self care starts with you, and then once you’re looking after yourself and thinking about others, you can spread the love around. ... The message there is that it’s not too late, that whenever you can turn away from negativity is always the right time.” Q

Elements of the blended holiday celebrated by Evan Ross and his family, and Judy Vincent with her menorah.

PHOTOS BY EVAN ROSS, LEFT, AND CRAIG CUSANELLI

Performances of a “A Christmas Carol” are ongoing at the Secret Theatre in Woodside. Richard Mazda, left, portrays Ebenezer Scrooge, and Mia Soleil Jacquez is the Ghost of Christmas Present. On the cover: Mazda’s Scrooge faces the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come, played by Christian Barker. PHOTOS

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16417 75 AVE LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/18/2024. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 7611 171st St, Fresh Meadows, NY 11366. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

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Legal Notices

NOTICE

OF

SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, ATLANTICA, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. MINCIA AGARD, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 10, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 3, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 149-63 Weller Lane, Rosedale, NY 11422. 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 13676 and Lot 24. Approximate amount of judgment is $722,827.98 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #726578/2022. Scott H. Siller, Esq., Referee, Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice is hereby given that an On Premises Tavern Full Liquor License, Application ID NA-0370-24-145734 has been applied for by JKL Bar Corp d/b/a Paradise Alley serving beer, wine, cider and liquor to be sold at retail for on premises consumption in a tavern for the premises located at 41-09 150th Street, Flushing, NY 11355.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises Restaurant-Liquor License, NYS Application ID NA-0340-24-140951 has been applied for by Pizza on the Point LLC d/b/a Pizza on the Point to sell beer, wine, cider and liquor at retail in an on-premises Restaurant-Liquor establishment. For on premise consumption under the ABC law at 202-20 Rockaway Point Blvd., Suite A, Rockaway Point, NY 11697.

C M SQ page 32 Y K

NOTICE OF SALE

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that in accordance with applicable provisions of the Uniform Commercial Code as enacted in New York, by virtue of certain Event(s) of Default under that certain Pledge and Security Agreement dated as of April 25, 2022 (the “Pledge Agreement”), executed and delivered by Ali Keivanjah (the “Pledgor”), and in accordance with it rights as holder of the security, FRC VTX Assets LLC (the “Secured Party”), by virtue of possession of that certain Share Certificate held in accordance with Article 8 of the Uniform Commercial Code of the State of New York (the “Code”) and by virtue of those certain UCC-1 Filing Statement made in favor of Secured Party, all in accordance with Article 9 of the Code, Secured Party will offer for sale, at public auction, (i) all of Pledgor’s right, title, and interest in and to the following: Keivanjah LLC (the “Pledged Entity”), and (ii) certain related rights and property relating thereto (collectively, (i) and (ii) are the “Collateral”). Secured Party’s understanding is that the principal asset of the Pledged Entity is that certain fee interest in real property commonly known as 103-18 103rd Street, Ozone Park, New York 11417 (the “Property”). Maltz Auctions (“Maltz”), under the direction of Richard B. Maltz or David A. Constantino (the “Auctioneer”), will conduct a public sale consisting of the Collateral (as set forth in Schedule A below), via virtual bidding, on January 9, 2025 at 12:00pm, in satisfaction of an indebtedness in the approximate amount of $430,000.00, including principal plus interest, and reasonable fees and costs, plus default interest through January 9, 2025, subject to open charges and all additional costs, fees and disbursements permitted by law.

The Secured Party reserves the right to credit bid. Online bidding will be made available for pre-registered bidders via Maltz's online bidding App available for download in the App Store or on Google play and via desktop bidding at remotebidding.maltzauctions.com.

Bidder Qualification Deadline: January 8, 2025 by 4:00 pm. Executed Terms & Conditions of Sale along with ten (10%) of Bidders intended bid amount (to be submitted via wire transfer) are required for consideration by any interested party and submitted directly to Maltz. Requests for wiring instructions should be sent to rmaltz@maltzauctions.com.

SCHEDULE A

Pledged Interest

PLEDGOR Ali Keivanjah ISSUER Keivanjah LLC, a New York limited liability company INTERESTS PLEDGED 100% membership interest

The UCC1 was filed on May 10, 2022 with the Secretary of State of the State of New York under the Filing No. # 202205100197915. VALLELY LAW PLLC

Attn: Erick R. Vallely, Esq. Attorneys for Secured Party 851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165 Syosset, New York 11791 (516) 386-3900

Notice of formation of Lily Tung Psychiatry, LLC, a foreign Limited Liability Company (LLC). Application for Authority was filed with the NY Secretary of State (SSNY) on 09/05/2024. The LLC was organized in New Jersey on 08/19/2024. Office in Queens County. SSNY designated as agent for service of process and shall mail copies to: 209-34 Northern Blvd #1058, Bayside, NY 11361. Principal office: 6 Kilmer Rd #1216, Edison, NJ 08817. Certificate of Organization filed with the NJ Division of Revenue. Copies available upon request from: Lily Tung, 6 Kilmer Rd #1216, Edison, NJ 08817. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, BANTAM FUNDING II, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. UNITED ASSETS CORPORATION USA, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on June 7, 2023, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 11-42 Welling Court a/k/a 1142 Welling Court, Astoria a/k/a Long Island City, NY 11102. 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 506 and Lot 60. Approximate amount of judgment is $854,910.06 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #712227/2020. Richard M. Gutierrez, Esq., Referee Friedman Vartolo LLP, 85 Broad Street, Suite 501, New York, New York 10004, Attorneys for Plaintiff Firm File No.: 233152-2

Notice is hereby given that a License, number NA-0240-24129021, for beer, wine and cider has been applied for by the undersigned* to sell beer, wine and cider at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 18-01 26th Rd, Long Island City, New York 11101 for on premises consumption.(*Sophistian Inc DBA Sophistian Pizzeria Restaurant) (18-01 26th Rd, Long Island City, New York 11101).

Notice of Formation of KEISHA CHRISTIAN ENTERPRISES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/02/2024. 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: KEISHA CHRISTIAN, 218-10 MERRICK BLVD., UNIT 130474, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR VELOCITY COMMERCIAL CAPITAL LOAN TRUST 20182, Plaintiff against BRENDA LANCLOS, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) McMichael Taylor Gray, LLC, 28 Corporate Drive, Suite 104, Halfmoon, NY 12065. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 18, 2024, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 10, 2025 at 11:00 AM. Premises known as 11726 204th Street, St. Albans, NY 11412. Block 12633 Lot 18. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $502,457.75 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 715570/2020. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Kristen Jean Dubowski, Esq., Referee File # 21-001540-01

Notice of Formation of LB Knickerbocker Newco LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State (SSNY) on 11/5/24. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail/ email process to: The LLC, 22111 Kingsbury Ave., Oakland Gardens, NY 11364, laundrybeeinc@gmail.com. Purpose: any lawful act or activity.

Notice of Formation of GOLDEN HORN DEVELOPERS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/22/2024 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: BRITTANY MORLEY, 146-01 17TH AVE., WHITESTONE, NY 11357. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718722-3131.

The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, NYCTL 19982 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiff, vs. ELDER AVE REALTY CORP., ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale dated October 8, 2024 and entered on October 18, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on January 10, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., all that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 5137 and Lot 1130. Said premises may also be known as 138-35 Elder Avenue, Parking Garage Unit No. 130, Queens, NY. Approximate amount of judgment is $159,112.55 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale. Index #712076/2019.

Valerie Katsorhis, Esq., Referee The Law Office of Thomas P. Malone, PLLC, 60 East 42nd Street, Suite 553, New York, New York 10165, Attorneys for Plaintiff

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Notice of Formation of HEAVENLY HOMES CLEANING SERVICES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/08/24 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, 228 PARK AVE S #601636, NEW YORK, NY 10003. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of NEW HORIZON - IMMIGRATION FORMS PREPARATION & INCOME TAX SERVICES LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/19/2024. 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: YADIRA A JARQUIN, 8420 AUSTIN STREET, 6E, KEW GARDENS, NY 11415. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, SC PARK LANE II, LLC, Plaintiff, vs. WALI AHMED, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to an Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on November 22, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, on the second floor in Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 10, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 35-20 Leverich Street Unit B226 a/k/a Unit 226, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 1270 and Lot 1111 together with an undivided 0.6091 percent interest in the Common Elements. Approximate amount of judgment is $647,245.66 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index #724727/2020. Austin I. Idehen, Esq., Referee Vallely Law PLLC, 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 165, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

QUEENS LUBE LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 10/29/24. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 93-25 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park, NY 11416, which is also the principal business location. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

& Information,

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS

Selene Finance LP, Plaintiff AGAINST Nancy Mathieu; et al., Defendant(s) Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered October 28, 2024 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Courthouse, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, on the second floor in Courtroom 25 on January 17, 2025 at 11:00AM, premises known as 145-92 179th Street, Jamaica, NY 11434. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of NY, Block 13342 Lot 9. Approximate amount of judgment $594,762.19 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 717934/2018. The auction will be conducted pursuant to the COVID-19 Policies Concerning Public Auctions of Foreclosed Property established by the 11th Judicial District. Martha Taylor, Esq., Referee LOGS Legal Group LLP f/k/a Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard Rochester, New York 14624 (877) 430-4792 Dated: November 7, 2024 83288

Notice of Formation of RANDY’S HOME REMODEL LLC

Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/05/2024. 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: RANDY TEJADA, 10530 66TH AVENUE, APT 1F, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, DOING BUSINESS AS CHRISTIANA TRUST, NOT IN ITS INDIVIDUAL CAPACITY, BUT SOLELY AS TRUSTEE FOR BCAT 201513BTT, Plaintiff against RASEL PETTER, et al Defendant(s) Attorney for Plaintiff(s) Knuckles & Manfro, LLP, 120 White Plains Road, Suite 215, Tarrytown, NY 10591. Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered October 31, 2019, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder at the Queens County Supreme Court, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 17, 2025 at 10:00 AM. Premises known as 99-23 215th Street, Queens Village, NY 11429. Block 11089 Lot 7. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, situate, lying and being in the Fourth Ward of the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York. Approximate Amount of Judgment is $512,495.47 plus interest, fees, and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index No 710013/2018. Cash will not be accepted at the sale. The foreclosure sale will be conducted in accordance with 11th Judicial District’s Covid-19 Policies and foreclosure auction rules. The Referee shall enforce any rules in place regarding facial coverings and social distancing. Referee will only accept a certified bank check made payable to the referee. Janet L. Brown, Esq., Referee File # 2296-001049

Notice of Formation of NORMAN COURIER LINKUP LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/21/2024. 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: NORMAN BARNES, 165-26 144TH DRIVE, JAMAICA, NY 11434. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC). Name: PATOKILO LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/14/24. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process to LLC at: 2 Bay Club Drive 6Z1, Bayside, NY 11360 US. Purpose: Any lawful activity or purpose.

NOTICE OF SALE

SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, WILMINGTON SAVINGS FUND SOCIETY, FSB, AS TRUSTEE OF QUERCUS MORTGAGE INVESTMENT

TRUST, PLAINTIFF, vs. RONALD SHAW, ET AL., Defendant (s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 10, 2024, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction on the second floor in Courtroom 25 Queens County Supreme Courthouse located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435 on January 17, 2025, at 10:00 AM, premises known as 192-11 116TH ROAD, SAINT ALBANS, NY 11412. 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: 11061, Lot: 46. Approximate amount of judgment is $489,246.08 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 721276/2022. If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee, the Mortgagee’s attorney, or the Referee. All parties shall comply with the Eleventh Judicial District’s COVID-19 Policies concerning Public Auctions of foreclosed properties. These policies, along with the Queens County Foreclosure Auction Rules, can be found on the Queens Supreme Court - Civil Term Website (https://www. nycourts.gov/LegacyPDFS/ COURTS/11jd/supreme/civilterm/partrules/Foreclosure_ Auction_Rules.pdf) DOMINIC CHIARIELLO, Esq., Referee Roach & Lin, P.C., 6851 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 185, Syosset, New York 11791, Attorneys for Plaintiff

Notice of Formation of SHIRLEY’S LIFESTYLE LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/11/2024 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, 8309 BREVOORT ST, SUITE 2E, KEW GARDENS, NY 11415. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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

Drone sightings

continued from page 2

unauthorized drones in restricted air space, including near airports.

Dela Cruz later said there was a drone show scheduled for 10 p.m. Thursday expected to launch from New Jersey involving approximately 1,000 craft not under the city’s jurisdiction.

Asked for comment about the drone sightings, the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey referred the Chronicle to the FBI and FAA.

An FBI official said on a background press call last Saturday that the agency had opened an investigation last month after multiple suspicious activity reports of unmanned aircraft were made in New Jersey. Out of the 5,000 leads it received, fewer than 100 have been actionable, the representative said.

The FBI and DHS said in a joint statement last Friday that no malicious intent or activity has been detected.

“We’re confident that many of the reported drone sightings are, in fact, manned aircraft being misidentified as drones,” a DHS official said.

Councilwoman Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) agreed. She said most videos on social media are “pretty obviously either legally operating aircraft, mistaken identity or outright hoaxes.”

In a joint statement issued Tuesday, the DHS, FBI, FAA and Department of

Defense said the sightings to date include “a combination of lawful commercial drones, hobbyist drones and law enforcement drones, as well as manned fixedwing aircraft, helicopters and stars mistakenly reported as drones.”

“We have not identified anything anomalous and do not assess the activity to date to present a national security or public safety risk over the civilian airspace in New Jersey or other states in the northeast,” the agencies said.

They said also that there have been a “limited number” of sightings over military facilities in New Jersey and elsewhere that are being taken seriously, but those near DoD installations are “not new.”

Drones can be used nefariously, Alkalay said, but they have positive uses and can be flown legally at night, with certain rules. She said also that there are systems in place to mitigate potential threats.

President-elect Trump mentioned the drones on social media Friday, saying authorities should “Let the public know, and now. Otherwise, shoot them down!!!”

Alkalay said shooting at drones is dangerous, since they could fall and hurt someone or start a fire.

Some residents remain uneasy, though government agencies have not yet detected any threats.

“It is totally surprising that with our technology, no one can determine what’s flying above us, but we’re told to be calm!!!!!!!!!!!!” Oakland Gardens resident Dorothy Gist said via email. Q

Holden, DOT argue e-bikes

continued from page 4

and not emphasize speed over safety, which he and his staff said leads to delivery drivers cutting corners on safety to take shortcuts and shave a few minutes of their delivery times.

Rodriguez also said in terms of enforcement that the police this year have confiscated more than 20,000 illegal two-wheeled vehicles from the streets, and also are writing summonses.

“The NYPD already has the authority to enforce traffic laws,” Rodriguez said. “You don’t need license plates to do that.”

than breast cancer, but we still treat breast cancer,” she said.

Public Advocate Jumaane Williams, speaking in the early part of the hearing, said Brooks-Powers’ bill for an in-depth study has his full support.

“It is about accountability.”

—

He is reserving judgment on Holden’s bill though he admitted he has concerns he would like to see addressed, particularly how Intro. 606 would impact immigrants and people of color. Both Holden and Paladino during the hearing called racial arguments in this case a diversion.

Councilman Bob Holden on his bill to license and register e-bikes

But when Holden, Councilmembers Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) and Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone) or others brought up that they might come in handy in identifying hit-and-run riders who might be recorded on video cameras, the DOT contingent did not answer directly other than to reiterate that those are such a small number of cases when compared to cars and trucks.

Janet Schroeder, co-founder of the E-Vehicle Safety Alliance, asked during her two minutes if the city just considers those cases to be “collateral damage,” accusing the city of playing the “but this” card.

“More women die from heart disease

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“Registration might make fewer people ride bikes, which is not the desired effect,” Williams said. “It would also have disparate impact on communities of color, where he said more summonses for things like riding the sidewalk already are written up.”

Williams also said the money spent on a licensing and registration program might be better spent addressing other safetyrelated issues.

Lastly, he said filing requirements might make undocumented workers with dangerous bikes and batteries wary of trading them in for safer models under a city program, or risk fires by charging their bikes indoors rather than outside. Q

B SPORTS EAT

A sobering Soto take

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Mets fans celebrated the signing of Juan Soto as if it were V-E Day. WFAN and SNY air personality Sal Licata, who had been beseeching Mets owner Steve Cohen to sign Soto as soon as he became available, claimed the day the news broke that Soto would be a Met was the happiest day of his life, even surpassing his wedding day and the day his daughter was born. Granted, that was entertainment shtick, but he did crystallize the exuberance of the Flushing faithful.

I get the schadenfreude Mets fans feel over having a key Yankees player leave the Bronx to come to Queens on his own volition. For too many years, Mets fans had to quietly stew while watching Yankees owner George Steinbrenner sign the top-tier free agents while the Mets settled for scraps. When the Yankees were signing Catfish Hunter and Reggie Jackson, the Mets were selecting Tom Hausman and Dyar Miller. Yes, the Yankees had higher payrolls than the Mets until Cohen bought the team from the Wilpon family. It is time, however, to end this puerile nonsense about how the Yankees are “the big brother” while the Mets are “the little brother.” Both teams have long been multibillion-dollar corporations, so enough with these infantile terms.

At the risk of being a killjoy, while Soto is a talented ballplayer, he is not a modern-day Willie

Mays or Roberto Clemente. He is not a Gold Glove outfielder; his arm is average at best; he does not possess speed; and he is not known for hustle.

I am old enough to remember when the Mets signed Pirates outfielder Bobby Bonilla, who was the Juan Soto of his day, as a free agent in 1991. Bonilla was in his prime having completed six stellar seasons in Pittsburgh, and the Bronx native seemed on his way to Cooperstown. Things did not work out for Bobby Bo in Queens.

At his Thursday introductory press conference, Juan Soto said he had not been in touch with any of his now ex-teammates, nor did he thank the Yankees fans or management. His lack of graciousness was not a good look.

Both Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, spoke glowingly about how the Mets went out of their way to show concern not only for Soto, but also for his large family. Cohen’s wife, and his Mets co-owner, Alex Cohen, was particularly praised by Boras.

In retrospect, the Yankees should have used Dominican native and former Mets General Manager Omar Minaya, who grew up in Corona, to serve as their liaison to Soto and his family. Minaya is now a Yankees executive, and he has plenty of charm and charisma. He could have swayed Soto to stay in the Bronx. Q

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