Queens Chronicle South Edition 12-22-22

Queens Chronicle founder Susan Merzon passed last week, tackling her health issues head on like she did all challenges for decades. Seen here with her husband, Stanley, she is remembered as a wonderful boss, partner, mother and grandmother who built a community newspaper from the ground up following the fi scal crisis of 1975.

Pushback as utility costs only jump up

Heating costs

by Deirdre Bardolf Associate Editor

Utility costs are expected to be higher this month, with a typical New York City resident’s electric bill 43 percent higher and heating up 20 percent from this time last year, according to projections from Con Ed released last week, but that does not even account for a projected rate increase to come in the new year.

Con Ed requested an increase last year that would raise residential electricity and gas heating rates and it is up to the Public Service Commission to approve the request.

“I think we’re in for a painful two or three years,” said Tom Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce. “I think we’re in for a painful two or three years.”

“Unfortunately, former Gov. Cuomo shut down Indian Point way too early for the conversion to green and sustainable energy to catch up,” Grech added, referring to the nuclear power station that accounted for much of the city’s electricity.

“And so now we’re all paying the price, taking into account that plus the situation in Russia and the Ukraine, putting pressure on global fuel supplies, both gas and oil, just makes it for a very, very difficult situation.”

Con Edison noted in a press release that energy costs can change quickly due to international events, economic trends, weather and

Con Ed bills are only expected to increase.

PHOTO BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY / FILE

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani (D-Astoria) slammed the plan to raise rates at a recent press conference outside of Con Ed’s Manhattan headquarters.

“I think that any rate increase is just unacceptable for New Yorkers, hundreds of whom have testified through our office as to how the existing rates at this time are already forcing them to make impossible choices between food and medicine, between groceries and electricity,” Mamdani told the Chronicle.

A quarter of the constituent cases his office receives are related to Con Ed, he said.

other factors.

Grech said it puts consumers, both commercial and residential, as well as Con Ed itself, “between a rock and a hard place.”

In a press release, the energy company projected that a typical small-to-medium business can expect a 48 percent higher electric bill and a 19 percent higher gas heating bill than last December. A large business can expect a 63 percent higher electric bill and a 21 percent higher gas heating bill.

Last January, Con Ed submitted a request to increase its delivery revenues by 17.6 percent for electricity and 28.1 percent for natural gas, effective Jan. 1, 2023.

“It’s not just a pet issue of mine that I came into office with,” he said. “No, this is an accurate illustration of what Astorians are dealing with.” He worries that the hikes will eventually displace residents.

However, there’s a limited amount of impact that public officials can have over the privately controlled corporations, Mamdani said.

“There’s obviously the bully pulpit, which you can use to make clear what’s being done in the name of New Yorkers, inform and organize and agitate our neighbors around this issue,” Mamdani said.

He signed up to be a party to the rate case, in which he is echoing his lobbying to reject the increase, as negotiations are taking place between the PSC, Con Ed and other parties. Eventually, the PSC and Con Ed will have to

hikes

agree on a proposal, he said, and it will be voted on internally between all relevant parties.

“They’re doing this in the dead of winter when power is at its most expensive,” said Assemblymember Khaleel Anderson (D-South Ozone Park).

Freezing temperatures are expected to roll in this holiday weekend.

“What a lot of people are going to get for the holiday season is increased electric bills,” said Anderson. “Working-class people are really, really taking a hit.”

Anderson continued, “What we’re hearing is that, yes, the rates keep going up, everything is going up, except my paycheck and the quality of what we’re getting.”

A proponent of the Build Public Renewables Act, he said the fight for public over private power must continue.

“No longer should we have privatized power companies where on top of mind is satisfying investors and not truly investing in the upgrade of our power and energy grids and to ensure that they’re more resilient.”

He said his district is not seeing the necessary improvements on the ground that could necessitate 20 percent rate increases.

In his district, state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) points to a pilot project where power lines were buried in Middle Vil-

expected to rise 20 percent ahead of 2023 rate

Villa Russo, Walker Funeral Home honored for decades in community Historic businesses make state registry

by Deirdre Bardolf Associate Editor

A Richmond Hill restaurant and a Woodhaven funeral home have made it onto the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry.

Earlier this month, state Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) presented George Russo, owner of Villa Russo, and Annmarie and Paul Rudolph, of N. F. Walker Funeral Home of Queens, with Senate citations signifying their acceptance onto the registry.

The program is administered by the Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, and highlights businesses that have been in operation for at least 50 years and have contributed to their communities’ history, according to the Parks Department. It also provides educational and promotional assistance “to ensure their continued viability

and success.”

Nominations to the registry must be sponsored by an elected

official. A map of all the businesses can be viewed on the Parks website.

Pharmacy closure raises questions

by Deirdre Bardolf Associate Editor

The Linden Park Pharmacy closed earlier this week after 60 years in business.

Prescriptions were transferred to the Walgreens at 160-40 Cross Bay Blvd.

Comments flooded social media over the news as many wondered exactly where their prescriptions would end up and lamented the closure of the pharmacy.

Howard Plaza Realty, management company for the Lindenwood Shopping Center, issued a statement that was shared by the Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association.

“Linden Park Pharmacy has been a respected tenant in our shopping center for the past 60 years. Howard Plaza Realty has had an excellent working relationship with the pharmacy during its long tenancy. In addition, we value having a pharmacy located within the shopping center because it serves an important need of the Howard Beach community.”

However, the management company continued that it did not know of the pharmacy’s plan to “discontinue opera-

tion” and break the lease, which was set to expire in December of next year.

“Ownership feels that it is in the best interests of all parties to part ways at the end of the lease term. We will continue to search for tenants that best serve the needs of the Howard Beach community, which has always been the highest priority of Howard Plaza Realty.”

The civic posted on its Facebook page that a new pharmacy will be taking over the location.

Villa

Over the years, the Russo family built their business into a fullservice restaurant and catering business, building a banquet hall next to the restaurant in 1975.

Walker Funeral Home was founded in 1899 and run by the Walker family until 1983. Paul Rudolph Sr. and his family took over the business in 1983.

“These local, family-owned businesses, which I have known my whole life, have been serving their community for decades and deserve to be recognized for their longevity and commitment to their communities,” Addabbo said in a prepared statement.

“It was my privilege to present George Russo of Villa Russo and Annmarie and Paul Rudolph of N. F. Walker Funeral Home with their listing on the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry. I wish them much more success in the years to come!” Q

Sticky substance on area mailboxes

by Deirdre Bardolf Associate Editor

A glue-like material, likely to aid in illegal “mail fishing,” recently was found on several mailboxes in the Howard Beach area.

“Many of the retrofitted mailboxes in our District have some type of sticky, double sided tape placed inside the mail [chute],” Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) posted on Facebook over the weekend.

Her office notified the USPS, which said it will be inspecting the boxes.

“If you can, please mail items right at the post office or be sure that your mail has safely made it into the mailbox and not stuck to the opening when using a corner mailbox,” Ariola wrote, with a photo of one near 84th Street and 157th Avenue.

vice, said that his office was not aware of the specific box but said it does receive reports like this.

“The issue with something like this is that right now it’s just sticky stuff on a box — we don’t know if mail was actually taken,” McKechnie said. “Unfortunately, we have to wait for complaints,” he said. Then, inspectors can investigate.

In the meantime, he urges customers to look for the date and time of final pickup listed on each mailbox and not drop mail if it is past the collection time.

A mailbox in Howard Beach had a sticky substance on it.

PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

Glen McKechnie, acting public information officer for the US Postal Inspection Ser-

“We do not want mail in that box after hours because if there’s mail in those boxes after hours it is possible it can be fished,” he said.

Reports of sticky substances on boxes can be made at (212) 330-2400 and police should be called for suspicious activity near any receptacles.

Russo is a family-owned event venue that started out as a pizzeria more than 65 years ago.

George Russo of Villa Russo and Annmarie and Paul Rudolph of N.F. Walker Funeral Home of Queens were presented with citations from state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr., who sponsored their nomination onto the state Historic Business Preservation Registry.

PHOTO COURTESY NYS SENATE

The Linden Park Pharmacy closed ahead of its 2023 lease ending. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE

Chronicle founder Merzon dead at 78

A teacher laid off in the fiscal crisis of 1975 struck out on

by Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief

Susan Merzon, the fierce fighter who overcame lifelong health challenges and the mass city layoffs of 1975 to become a self-made success in the news business, died last Thursday, on her own terms. She was 78.

Merzon founded the weekly newspaper that was to become the Queens Chronicle in 1978, a year after starting her first paper as part of a partnership. She kept ownership of that second publication, called The Paper, for about a year before giving it up to become a partner in a printing business, Rockaway Copy Center. Four years later, in 1983, she bought The Paper back, expanded its reach beyond its home base of Ozone Park and Howard Beach and soon renamed it the Queens Chronicle.

“Susan Merzon was our fearless leader in the early days of the Queens Chronicle,” recalled Art Director Jan Schulman, who started working at the publication in 1986. “She had the vision and the business savvy to grow the paper into eight editions. Making carefully planned moves and expansions, she was always a guiding force for her son, Mark Weidler, to take Mark I Publications to even higher levels of success.”

Merzon was a hands-on, dynamic publisher who also served as sales manager and typesetter, just for starters. She ended up with a business that allowed her and her husband, Stanley, to maintain homes in both Howard Beach and Stuart, Fla., where they also operated a small antiques business, as they lived the snowbird lifestyle and enjoyed what became a total of five boats over the years, the last one a 42-foot cabin cruiser.

The Chronicle kept growing until it had editions covering every part of Queens except the Rockaways.

and found success

“Being an only child with divorced parents, my relationship with my mother was always special,” said Weidler, who bought the company from Merzon in 2000. “It only got closer when we worked together to build the Chronicle in the 1990s. She was a former teacher with no business experience, and she was always an inspiration to me having succeeded in business after overcoming so many illnesses. I often looked at her determination to succeed in awe.

“I learned so much from her in many ways — mental toughness yet treating people kindly are two examples.”

Susan Sperber was born on Sept. 28, 1944 in Brooklyn, the only child of Sam and Fay Sperber. She graduated from James Madison High School in 1962 and went on to Hunter College, which she graduated from in 1967 with a teaching degree in elementary education. She began teaching that same year.

She married Saul Weidler in 1968 and they moved to Howard Beach.

They had one child, Mark, in 1970. That same year, the Crohn’s disease that she had developed as a teenager flared up badly, and she spent three months in the hospital. She faced a lifetime of health challenges.

She earned her master’s degree in education from Brooklyn College in 1974. But the city’s financial crisis of 1975 forced thousands of teacher layoffs, and Susan Weidler was among them.

Her marriage also ended, in 1976.

The next year, Weidler went into the newspaper business as publisher of The Forum, a new venture owned

by The Wave, Rockaway’s longtime paper. She sold ads and delivered the paper, while a partner handled the news side. Her hands-on approach continued at the Chronicle. Schulman recalls her editing copy as she entered it on a Compugraphic keyboard with a 35-character display.

She began dating Stanley Merzon in 1982 and they married in 1985. He became co-publisher of the Chronicle.

She loved being on the water, and for a time she and Stanley had a cabin cruiser docked in New York and a pontoon boat in Florida.

Merzon also loved dogs, especially Yorkshire terriers, and had four of them over the years. Her favorite, Tootsie, was her companion for a decade. She also had two cats.

She knitted blankets and made elaborate needlepoint pictures. She loved watching crime shows such as “CSI,” “NCIS” and “Hawaii 5-O,” along with anything Tom Selleck was in.

She enjoyed decorating and shopping — TJ Maxx, Marshalls and Home Goods being her favorite stores — and was always glad to talk about any bargains she had found.

For a few years in the 2000s she and Stanley ran a flea market business in Florida, Nautiques, selling knickknacks and decor for homes and boats, most of it antique, as well as nautical supplies.

The Merzons moved from Howard Beach to Tarrytown, NY, in 2009 to be closer to Mark Weidler and his family. They kept snowbirding until Stanley’s death in 2016. Susan lived her last 10 months at Atria Senior

Living in Ardsley, NY.

Her health challenges never eased. In 1974 she had another flareup of Crohn’s that put her in the hospital for five months and nearly proved fatal as she lost half her body weight. She had uterine cancer in 2001 and a major heart attack in 2013, after which she had quadruple bypass surgery.

In 2019, with her heart failing, doctors installed the machine that kept her alive until last week, a left ventricular assistance device, or LVAD.

Merzon left this life on her own terms. After suffering a fall and other recent setbacks, she decided it was time to turn the LVAD off. Her doctor and family discussed the situation with her and agreed. She died peacefully in her sleep 40 minutes after the device was shut off.

“I am deeply saddened by my mother’s passing but take comfort in knowing she is no longer suffering,” Mark Weidler said. “The last five years of her life were a constant struggle in and out of the hospital, especially after having the LVAD heart surgery in May 2019. Like many other times in her lifetime of health issues, she was determined to

overcome adversity and live with the machine.

“She was a wonderful mother, boss, partner and, in later life, grandmother. She was determined to live to see her grandson Matthew graduate high school and go off to college. She made that happen, and for that I will be forever grateful. I will miss her presence but she will be in my heart and mind forever.”

Merzon is survived by her son, Mark, and his wife, Kim; her two step-daughters, Celeste and Karen; and four grandchildren, Matthew, Samantha, Cydney and Erica. A fifth grandson, also Matthew, predeceased her, as did Stanley Merzon and Saul Weidler.

Her funeral was held at Sharon Gardens Cemetery in Valhalla, NY, where she was laid next to Stanley.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to the SPCA of Westchester County. It may be reached at (914) 941-2896 and is online at spcawestchester.org.

Merzon left her mark on the South Queens community.

“I knew Susan Merzon for over 35 years,” said Queens County Clerk Audrey Pheffer, formerly the area’s longtime assemblywoman. “It began when I was the assemblywoman. She and I had much in common, as single parents trying to move forward. We developed a strong friendship.

“She always wanted to have a community newspaper that she hoped would enable a community to flourish. She was committed to report the happenings in the community with honesty and clarity. It was quite an undertaking for a woman. Susan was proud of what she established and that her son was continuing and expanding her community newspaper.

“Susan will be missed but always remembered as a woman of vision who was not afraid to tackle her dream.”

her own

“A woman of vision who was not afraid to tackle her dream.”

— County Clerk Audrey Pheffer

Susan Merzon enjoys family time with her son, Mark Weidler, who bought the Queens Chronicle from her and became its president and publisher, his wife, Kim, and their children, Matthew and Samantha, at Matthew’s bar mitzvah in May 2017. COURTESY PHOTO

Susan Merzon protesting the noise created in Howard Beach by the supersonic Concorde, with her son, Mark, outside the White House in the late 1970s; keeping a close eye on the debate between state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. and his 2012 challenger, City Councilman Eric Ulrich, with her husband, Stanley Merzon; and dancing with Merzon at the Chronicle’s 25th anniversary celebration in 2003.

COURTESY PHOTOS EXCEPT CENTER, BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE / FILE

The annual Howard Beach Judea Chabad Menorah lighting took place at the Howard Beach welcome sign last Sunday night.

Councilwoman Joann Ariola lit the Shamash, the ninth candle that is lit before the others, and Michael Smith, president of the Howard Beach Judea Chabad, gave a

blessing and lit the candle for the first night of the holiday.

Rabbi Avrohom Richter and his wife, Zeldi, shared some words of inspiration with the crowd gathered.

Hot latkes and Chanukah donuts were enjoyed by all. — Deirdre Bardolf

Lighting the menorah in HB

The Rockwood Park Jewish Center in Howard Beach hosted its annual Chanukah celebration last Sunday with more than 100 of its congregants as well as area community leaders including Councilwoman Joann Ariola, second from right, and the 106th Precinct’s commanding officer, Capt. Jerome Bacchi, far right. They joined Rebbetzin Nechama, Rabbi Yehoshua Samuels

and Harold Rosenbaum, president of the synagogue. The first Chanukah candle was lit by Bacchi. The rabbi recited and sang the ritual Chanukah prayers.

Music filled the room and baked goods and latkes were enjoyed by all.

This annual festive event was planned and put together by Samuels and his family.

— Deirdre Bardolf

PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

PHOTO BY BLEMIE

RICHTER

Linguini

Penne Vodka

Chicken Francaise

Chicken Parmigiana

Chicken Scarpariello

Eggplant Parmigiana

Sausage & Peppers

EDITORIAL AGEP

Queens got some great news in 2022

“We don’t report the planes that land,” is an old reporter’s adage, betraying some of the jaded cynicism that also produced gems such as “If you’re mother says she loves you, check it out.”

But there are exceptions to just about every rule, and especially when your brand of reporting is community journalism, you do report the good along with the bad whenever you can. So while we had some awful things take place in Queens this year — murders, reckless fatal car crashes, deadly fires — there was also plenty to celebrate. Below is just some of what we were thrilled to see this year.

First off, the Kew Gardens Interchange redesign is complete! After more than a decade of detours and $740 million in funding, the junction of the Grand Central Parkway, Van Wyck Expressway, Jackie Robinson Parkway and Union Turnpike is safer and smoother than ever. It’ll never be a walk in the park, but it’s far better than it was before.

We’re also seeing major improvements at both Kennedy and LaGuardia Airports. At JFK, work has begun on the $9.5 billion New Terminal One project. At LGA, virtually the entire place has been transformed — no longer does it look like something out of the third world, as President

Biden famously said it did when he was veep.

While infrastructure is vital, and anything that improves transportation in Queens is to be celebrated, the good news of the year also had a human element.

The single US Men’s National Soccer Team player who scored in the 1-1 World Cup tie with Wales — is Rosedale’s own Tim Weah, bringing a bit of national pride home.

In one of the more creative charitable efforts we saw this year — and there were many — Aigner Chocolates and PS 101 in Forest Hills Gardens got together to have the children draw pictures that were then sent to two Queens hospitals to cheer up the kids being treated there.

An aid effort of another kind, one that was much more complex, saw various entities across Queens provide supplies necessary for daily life to Ukrainians after the Russian invasion began. The endlessly diverse list of organizers and donors runs from the Ozone Park Residents Block Association (and seemingly every volunteer and civic group in the community) to Keuka Kafe in Forest Hills to the Chazaq charity group in Kew Gardens Hills, and many more.

The Flushing Library, which reportedly drew more visitors in 2019 than any library in the country, finally reopened

after many fits and starts due to both the Covid pandemic and the need for major renovation.

Howard Beach received a rare sapling of the 9/11 Survivor Tree, a Callery pear rescued from Ground Zero.

The Queens Pride Parade and Festival returned after two years, bringing a colorful day of fun to Jackson Heights.

The Innovation QNS development was approved for Astoria, promising neighborhood revitalization and more affordable housing in a project that saw Councilwoman Julie Won stand her ground when many, including the borough president and this page, thought she was risking the endeavor.

Across the borough, the First Jamaica Community and Urban Development Corp. cut the ribbon on its Tree of Life building, with dozens of affordable housing units included.

Mayor Adams announced plans to build a soccer stadium and much more next to Citi Field in Willets Point, a location that needs revitalization more than any part of Queens.

Speaking of Citi Field, the Mets put up a fantastic statue of the most Amazin’ of all, ace pitcher Tom Seaver, on an opening day that kicked off a great season. Now about that postseason ... well, maybe next year we’ll have a new item for a list like this one, eh? There’s always next year.

LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Round ball vs. oblong

Dear Editor:

Fox is touting the World Cup and soccer as the reason the ball was invented.

WEIDLER

Raymond G. Sito General Manager

Senior

If you watched the Saturday football games they were more exciting and seat of the pants than soccer.

The building of a new soccer field in Willets Point will not create any new fan base for the non-roundball fans.

You are either born to love soccer or not.

Ray Hackinson Ozone Park

Anti-Semitic sportscasters

Dear Editor:

Two New York sportscasters who attempted to incite a pogrom in the aftermath of the World Trade Center attack may be coming back to the air. The dust had not settled at Ground Zero when these two anti-Semites blamed Israel for the attack. I was there, serving as an EMT before, during and after 9/11.

all we need to know about the enablers of hate. To bring these two back into the limelight tells us all we need to know about the real consequences of hate in the 21st century.

Barry Kahn Howard Beach

Healthier school food

Dear Editor:

It is appalling that kitchens in public schools cannot prepare nutritious foods from scratch for children. The mayor’s plan for plant-based Fridays and meatless Mondays will fail since the kitchens in public schools are not equipped to furnish wonderful nutritious meals and those kitchens have to be upgraded and modernized.

Nutrition for our children, our future, is

important since starting good, healthy foo d early will prevent major problems in life such as heart disease and hypertension and other chronic conditions such as diabetes.

Cynthia Groopman Little Nec k

Multiple transfers cost you

Dear Editor:

Regarding Larry Penner’s letter last week, “Fare hikes needed,” he mentions fare evasion, but says nothing about those paying double fares being hit twice as hard.

Anyone needing three or more buses or a bus to a train to a bus to make a trip must pay a double fare. Most no longer make trips five days a week and cannot benefit from fare capping.

Contributors:

Lloyd Carroll, Mark Lord, Ronald Marzlock

Photographers:

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They went on to say that Jews were not loyal Americans and that Israel was a “failed experiment.” They have gone on to have very successful careers on radio despite this blatant hate and have been inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame. Anti-Semitism once again gets a free pass and we wonder why. The cover-up of this by sports radio and the rest of the media tells us

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LETTERSTO THE EDITOR

Also, a plan to make buses free is too preliminary to take effect by the time the next fare hike takes effect.

That is why the fare structure must be changed to allow for unlimited rides within a 2 or 2 1/2 hour period, no matter the number of vehicles needed. This would encourage ridership, with minimal or no revenue loss since the bulk of riders would still pay two fares a day. It would also be fair.

Allan Rosen Brooklyn

MTA wastes $772M on OMNI

Dear Editor:

Re Michael Gannon’s Dec. 8 report “Transit fare hikes an option in 2023: MTA”: He noted that the MTA has a projected $600 million deficit for the next fiscal year. But the MTA might be enjoying a projected surplus instead if it had not wasted money to replace MetroCards with the OMNI fare payment system. According to MTA documents, OMNI’s total cost has swelled from $645 million to $772 million in five years (Silive.com, Jan. 25, 2022).

OMNI will replace MetroCards that were introduced in 1993 to replace tokens. MetroCards enabled free transfers between buses and subways, saving considerable cash for riders who didn’t live close to subway stations. OMNI offers no comparable advantage, but may impose a disadvantage for riders. It replaces MetroCards with credit cards and smartphones for fare payment. But will folks who don’t have either one, such as many low-income people and seniors, be excluded from mass transit, or will special provisions be made for them? If not, OMNI may become an OMIN-ous from of digital discrimination.

Before deciding to replace MetroCards, MTA execs should have heeded an old adage: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” Now they have a broken budget that may need a fare hike to fix it.

Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills

Change parties, lefties

Dear Editor:

Thanks to the far-left Democrats like Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Michael Gianaris and Tiffany Cabán, the final results show Republicans will control the House 222 to 213.

These far-lefties may represent their geographic areas well, but do not reflect average Democrats nationwide. They are out of touch with mainstream Democrats.

Republicans successfully ascribed their farleft beliefs like defunding the police to defeat their Democratic opponents. Republicans throughout the country used images and the rhetoric of AOC in their ads to scare moderate voters away from Democratic candidates. Local Democratic candidates like Max Rose, Robert Zimmerman and Sean Patrick Maloney particularly suffered.

I have a suggestion to these far-lefties. Why don’t you just run on the Working Families Party ticket? You will probably retain your office even if you only run as a WFP candidate. Let’s face it, keeping your office is really your objective. Your objective obviously is not to

help the Democratic Party. Your objective is to rip the Democratic Party apart.

Then Democrats across the country will not be burdened by the pronouncements of these far-lefties, who represent a small fraction of Democrats nationwide.

This will also benefit the WFP, as it will help it reach the minimum number of votes needed to keep its identity on the ballot.

Finally, I wish Gregory Meeks, the chair of Queens Democrats, would have the courage to find true Democrats to run against these far-left “Democrats” in future elections.

David Soukup Sunnyside

Happy holidays?

Dear Editor:

I’d like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas (Happy holidays). At this time of year it’s nice to look back and reminisce on days of yore when committing treason actually had ramifications. When sedition against our democracy was a criminal offense. When trying to force a state to change its election results was a serious crime and when transferring government documents to a personal location was defined as espionage. Punishable by death. The traitors who pled the Fifth Amendment hundreds of times to protect themselves and the Orange Man (who recently called for the termination of the Constitution in order to overturn the 2020 election) should all be prosecuted.

The Jan. 6 committee presented testimony from all these disgraceful despots and then last week for the first time we saw a video of Nancy Pelosi and calling everywhere for reinforcement while Republican Steve Scalise stood 3 feet away. When the riot ended, Scalise held a press conference claiming it was all Pelosi’s fault for not trying to find reinforcements. A blatant lie caught on video! Scalise and all the rest of the over 120 repugnantcans involved should be imprisoned. They don’t care about the Constitution or our democracy; they only care about turning our country into an autocracy. Don’t take my word for it. Do your own research.

And in keeping with the holiday spirit of giving I’d like to congratulate Con Ed. To help out New Yorkers who have amassed more than $700 million in utility debt because of the pandemic, Con Ed is giving $1.3 billion generated in 2021 to its shareholders. How? By increasing electricity rates by 13 percent and gas rates by 19 percent. After all, what’s more important this Christmas season than enriching Con Ed’s executives and shareholders while leaving many New Yorkers unable to pay their bills?

Happy Festivus to all, indeed.

Robert LaRosa Sr. Whitestone

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COPCP brings the cheer

The

Many supported the event, including state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr., Assemblywoman Jenifer Rajkumar, Councilwoman Joann Ariola, Community Board 9 and District Leader Richard David. Toys came from PS 108, PS 63, Toys for Tots and the 102nd Precinct. Leggings and jackets were given out as well and Shivram’s

“It was an absolute joy to see the children’s faces light up as they received their toys,” said COPCP

Thanks to holiday helpers

Once again, our readers and supporters made the Chronicle’s annual toy drive a success, and brightened the holidays for numerous children living in city shelters.

Above, Assemblyman Ed Braunstein, his Chief of Staff Suzanne Monteverdi and Community Relations Director Amber Yoon gather donations in Braunstein’s Bayside office.

At right, Greg Modina, owner of RPM Baseball in Maspeth, and Strength and Conditioning Director Frank Duffy brought their donations to a shelter personally.

Thanks also to Lynn Mera of Glendale and John Lynch of Middle Village for donating.

Photo contest!

The Queens Chronicle’s 15th annual Holiday Photo Contest is underway!

— Deirdre Bardolf

Take pictures of joyous children and families, lights, miniature villages, snowy landscapes — anything that reflects the season — and send them in. Our main requirement is that the photos be taken in Queens this season. Give us all the details you can, especially the location, the names of people in the picture, when possible, and when it was taken. Please tell us your correct name, where you live and whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer. The winner or winners may have to wait patiently for their prize, free passes to a family-friendly performance in or around the city, as they slowly become available again. Send your entries to peterm@qchron.com, saying “contest” somewhere 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 Monday, Jan. 2. Good luck!

Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol spread cheer to over 450 children last Sunday with a festive toy giveaway at the Deshi Senior Center.

Bakery and Trini Delite provided food. Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield and the Bangladeshi American Community Development & Youth Services also sponsored the event.

Executive Director Mohammad Khan, seen at center right with Communications Director Daniel Coffaro Hill, left, CB 9 Chair Sherry Algredo and Addabbo.

NYS ASSEMBLY

PHOTO, TOP, AND COURTESY PHOTO

Holly, jolly holiday with the 102nd Pct.

The 102nd Precinct transformed 118th Street into a winter wonderland last Thursday night as hundreds of kids on Santa’s nice list lined up for toys.

Nearly 1,000 toys were distributed as part of the precinct’s first-ever event.

Officer Darrell Glenn dressed up as Santa, seen at far right with Officer Justin Davis, left, Community Affairs Officer Scott Adelman, Lt. Kimberly Maldonado, Community Affairs Officer Nick Salamone and Officer Fernando Mayo.

Almost every officer at the Richmond Hill precinct donated to the drive, too, said Salamone.

The first annual drive, which was organized by the Community Affairs Unit, was a success and they plan to do it every year now, he said. Donations and support also came from Community Board 9, the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association, Servanthood International, the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol, the Ozone Park Howard Beach Woodhaven Lions Club and Councilwoman Joann Ariola’s office.

Season of giving for Kiwanis

Every season is one of giving for the Kiwanis Club of Howard Beach.

This holiday season, the group provided $6,000 worth of grocery store gift cards to families in need for Key Food, C-Town and Food Emporium.

The Kiwanis gave the cards to local churches and a synagogue to distribute in their communities, which it has been doing for the past 10 years.

They went to St. Helen, Howard Beach Assembly of God, Our Lady of Grace, Saint Barnabas Church and the Howard Beach Judea Center.

The religious organizations distribute cards to the families based on their size and need.

For Thanksgiving, the cards amounted to $2,500 and for Christmas and Chanukah, they totaled $3,500.

But the giving does not stop there. The Kiwanis also contributed to the stunning holiday light display down Cross Bay Boulevard, put on by the group Howard Beach Hope.

The group also contributed $250 to the Chronicle’s annual toy drive. Q — Deirdre Bardolf

Toys for Tots provided six boxes filled with presents.

Families enjoyed hot chocolate and cookies and took photos with Santa Claus.

Gifts were collected for all ages including teens, for whom officers dug through boxes in search of footballs and basketballs, and infants. They even included board games for families.

The other items that were collected will go to victims of domestic violence.

Con Ed rates

continued from page 2

lage and said, “If Con Ed can turn around and say, ‘Hey, we need this, not to pad the pockets of our executives, but for a direct impact or improvement to service for our residents,’ I think they should make that very clear.”

He continued, “You can’t hit our constituents with these immediate rate increases. People have to adapt, especially seniors on fixed incomes ... then we have to try to find programs that help those that are not able to meet the high cost of utility bills.”

Con Ed provides ways for customers to

manage their utility bills including a Level Payment Plan, a payment agreement to pay down outstanding balances, and other tools and rebate programs, which can be found on its website. Low-income New Yorkers can also apply for heating and cooling assistance under the Home Energy Assistance Program, or HEAP.

Anderson has set up a HEAP outreach center in his Rockaway office for any constituents in the district.

“All the downstate utilities and the ones that service Queens in particular ... have energy efficiency programs that consumers, both large and small, can participate in,” said Grech. “But that’s all about conservation. That’s not about actually reducing the rate.” Q

— Deirdre Bardolf

PHOTOS BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

Cohen opens 50 acres’ future for discussion

Possible development of parkland to west of Citi Field on table Jan.

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Queens residents are about to get a look behind the curtain into Mets owner Steve Cohen’s aspirations for the area surrounding his Amazin’s ballpark.

On Jan. 7, community members are invited to a “visioning session” to discuss what should become of the “50 acres of asphalt” to the west of Citi Field, currently the stadium’s parking lot.

Though a press release from Cohen does not explicitly lay out one plan for the site, it does say that the vision focuses on “putting community first,” “building dedicated open space for the public,” “connecting surrounding neighborhoods to the waterfront,” “bringing year-round entertainment to life” and “creating good paying local jobs and economic opportunity for local small businesses.” The concept is spelled out on Cohen’s newly launched website, queensfuture.com.

The announcement comes after years of discussion surrounding proposed development in the area, and, in the last year, talk of Cohen’s building a casino at Willets Point.

In November, Mayor Adams announced that some of Willets Point, the land to the east of Citi Field, will be home to a new soccer stadium for the New York City Football Club, in addition to 2,400 units of affordable housing, 1,100 of which, along with a 650-seat school, was already in the works.

Cohen’s bid for a casino comes as the moratorium on the issuance of New York’s three downstate commercial casino licenses nears its end. City and state lobbying records indicate that much of that push has been carried out by New Green Willets LLC, a company with significant ties to Cohen.

The copyright holder for queensfuture.com is listed as New Green Willets.

A spokesperson for Cohen did not dismiss the idea of a casino, noting a desire to add some form of year-round entertainment.

However, the 50 acres in question were previously dismissed as a viable location for a casino or any development, due to a 2017 decision by New York State Court of Appeals. After a push to build a shopping mall on the same land, the court ruled that development could not occur on that land because it is parkland, specifically, part of Flushing Meadows Corona Park. The Mets had been granted a

lease for the site in 1961.

Asked about that obstacle, Cohen’s spokesperson said in a statement, “We are committed to creating a space that better serves the community and will take the necessary steps required to make a strategic vision for the area around Citi Field possible.”

The spokesperson noted that, should the project proceed, Cohen would seek to expand the permitted use of the land in order to move ahead, and that doing so would be a legislative rather than a legal matter. He also said it does not bypass any required city permits.

The 2017 decision does say that “the legislature remains free to alienate all or part of the parkland for whatever purposes it sees fit, but it must do so through direct and specific legislation that expressly confers the desired alienation.”

Cohen emphasized the need for community engagement in his press release.

“For months, we have been listening to the local community who keeps telling us there is more they want from the area. Everyone agrees that the status quo isn’t acceptable,” Cohen said in a statement. “We are committed to putting forward a vision for the area that will create a shared space that people not only want to come to and enjoy, but can be proud of.”

Development in the area has not always been welcomed by members of the community, both due to the work itself and a lack of transparency surrounding it. The Chronicle reported in October that several area civic leaders, all of whom took part in a Request for Information on the possibility of a casino in Northeast Queens, denouncing the idea, sent a letter to Gov. Hochul demanding that the state Gaming Commission issue a report on the findings of the RFI, as it was legally required to have done by June 10.

Among those civic groups who participated in the RFI last year was the Queens Civic Congress. Warren Schreiber, who has since become the umbrella organization’s president, said its objection to a casino was largely due to the site being parkland,

though he was aware that the alienation agreement could be amended. Ultimately, his priority is that the space be used for “something that’s really going to benefit the community.”

Schreiber was glad to see that the public will have a chance to weigh in on what that might be.

“The workshops, that’s always a good thing

— people go in, they can voice their concerns,” he said. “But it’s only a good thing if both sides listen to each other. And that means that the New York Mets — they have to listen to the to the public. So if they are sincerely committed to that, I think that’s wonderful.”

But were the 50-acre parking lot developed, where would Mets fans — many of whom drive along the Van Wyck Expressway or the Grand Central Parkway to get to Citi Field — park?

The same spokesperson for Cohen said that improving transportation around Citi Field would be a significant piece of the project.

Relatedly, the Mets announced Monday afternoon that LJ Nassivera has been appointed vice president of transportation services. In that role, Nassivera — a longtime employee at an engineering and planning firm that has worked with the city’s Department of Transportation, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority and more — will “collaborate with internal and external groups to identify and implement new programs for an improved fan experience with a focus on increasing mass transit usage,” the Mets said in a press release.

The Jan. 7 session will occur in staggered, small groups; members of the public do not all need to come at once. Those interested in attending are asked to sign up at queensfuture.com. Q

Merry ChristMets!

The Mets certainly know how to deck the halls. The team opened the gates of Citi Field to 125 students from five different Queens Title I schools last Thursday for their annual Kids Holiday Party.

In addition to enjoying some lunch and holiday performances, guests received gifts from several members of the Mets organi-

zation. Those included centerfielder Brandon Nimmo, second from right, and his wife, Chelsea, right; designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach left; manager Buck Showalter, center left, and his wife, Angela, second from left. The students also had a chance to meet Santa, though it was really former Met Todd Zeile (Don’t tell the kids!).

NEW YORK METS / TWITTER

Mets owner Steve Cohen is opening up the future of the 50 acres of land to the west of Citi Field for public discussion on Jan. 7. MAP COURTESY QUEENS FUTURE

The Citi Field parking lot sits on 50 acres of parkland, which the Mets have leased since 1961.

PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BARCA / FILE

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PORT AUTHORITY OF NY & NJ

NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY and REQUEST FOR COMMENT

DRAFT SUPPLEMENTAL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

JFK Redevelopment Program

John F. Kennedy International Airport, Jamaica, New York

In accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), notice is hereby given that copies of a Draft Supplemental Environmental Assessment (EA) for the proposed John F. Kennedy International Airport Redevelopment Program at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) are available for public review and comment at the following locations:

The Port Authority of NY & NJ

The Port Authority of NY & NJ John F. Kennedy International Airport Aviation Department General Manager’s Office

4 World Trade Center, 18th Floor Building 14, 2nd Floor New York, NY 10007

Jamaica, NY 11430

Hours: 08:00 am to 04:00 pm

JFK Redevelopment Community Information Center

144-33 Jamaica Ave. Jamaica, NY 11435

Hours: 09:00 am to 04:00 pm

Attn: Kathryn Lamond

Hours: 09:00 am to 05:00 pm

The Draft Supplemental EA document for this project will be available at these locations until the close of the comment period, which is 5:00 PM on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023. If you intend to view the document at the locations above, please contact Kathryn Lamond at klamond@panynj.gov to schedule an appointment at least one day before your visit. A copy of the Draft Supplemental EA may also be viewed online at: https://www.panynj.gov/studies-reports.

The Draft Supplemental EA responds to all of the requirements of the Federal Aviation Administration for preparation of a Supplemental EA under NEPA. The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey (Port Authority) is inviting the public to submit, in writing, comments on the Draft Supplemental EA prepared for the JFK Redevelopment Program. The Port Authority is accepting comments on this Draft Supplemental EA document until the official comment period closes on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023. Comments must be received by 5:00 PM on Tuesday, January 17th, 2023, in order to be considered. Written comments on the Draft Supplemental EA can be sent directly to Kathryn Lamond of the Port Authority, 4 World Trade Center, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10007. Additionally, comments may be emailed to JFKEA@panynj.gov with the subject heading “JFK Redevelopment Program.” If you have any questions about this notice, please email Kathryn Lamond at klamond@panynj.gov

INFORMATION SESSIONS

Information regarding this program and an opportunity to ask questions about the program will be available through the following Information Sessions listed below. Two (2) of the Information Sessions will be conducted via the Zoom platform and one (1) of the Information Sessions will be in-person. The details of the dates, times, and format of the Information Sessions are listed below.

IN-PERSON INFORMATION SESSION FORMAT: One (1) in-person Information Session will be conducted at the Crown Plaza JFK Airport Hotel, as listed below:

DATE: Thursday, January 5th, 2023

TIME: 4:00PM – 7:00PM

LOCATION: Crown Plaza JFK Airport Hotel 138-10 135th Ave, Jamaica, NY 11436 Phone: (718) 530-1160

Sign language and translation services can be made available at the Information Sessions. If you are in need of assistance or require a reasonable accommodation, contact Kathryn Lamond at klamond@panynj.gov at least ten (10) days prior to the Information Sessions.

VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION FORMAT: The following two (2) Information Sessions will be conducted virtually via the Zoom platform and will be recorded for record keeping purposes.

DATE: Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023

TIME: 6:00PM – 9:00PM

LOCATION: Registration Link: https://bit.ly/JFKR_SEA

DATE: Wednesday, January 4th, 2023

TIME: 6:00PM – 9:00PM

LOCATION: Registration: https://bit.ly/JFKR_SEA

VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Advance registration is required to obtain Information Session log-in information. If you do not have internet access and wish to participate, please call Kathryn Lamond at (212) 435-3783 to register and to receive access information.

CONTENT OF VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSION: Each virtual Information Session will begin with a presentation that will include information regarding the Proposed Action’s potential impacts associated with design modifications and schedule changes to the JFK roadway network and Ground Transportation Center (GTC)/JFK Central since a Finding of No Significant Impact and Record of Decision (FONSI/ROD) was issued by the FAA for the JFK Redevelopment Program in April 2020. Information Session attendees will be able to ask questions and engage with the Project Team using the virtual Zoom chat.

Written comments on the Draft Supplemental EA can be sent directly to Kathryn Lamond of the Port Authority, 4 World Trade Center, 18th Floor, New York, NY 10007 or at the in-person Information Session at the Crown Plaza JFK Airport Hotel. Additionally, comments may be emailed to JFKEA@panynj.gov with the subject heading “JFK Redevelopment Program”.

Holiday spirit shines in HB

Behind every great Christmas decorator is a woman wanting to shine a light on the great work they do.

Ahead of the holidays, Donna Trapasso, top center with daughter Gianna and husband Carl, and Celeste Napolitano, whose house is seen below them, called the Chronicle to highlight the cheer Carl Trapasso and Louis Napolitano bring to 88th Street and 91st Street, respectively, in Howard Beach. Theirs are among the many intricately adorned houses in the area, not to mention the dozens that sign up for the Howard Beach Dads competition.

But Trapasso and Napolitano don’t neces-

sarily do it to compete.

“It’s the inner child in me,” said Trapasso, who commits a 14-hour day to the project each year and has been doing it for 20 years.

“It’s just nice to see the expressions on people’s faces,” he said.

“Every year, we’re so excited to see what he’s added,” said his wife, who, along with their daughter, will give their seal of approval.

On 91st Street, Napolitano’s display includes mostly handmade decorations.

Add these to your list of houses to see and check out the Howard Beach Dads running list for more. —

Deirdre Bardolf

Warrant searches curtailed

City police will no longer run warrant checks on people they have stopped but determined have not done anything wrong, following a new legal settlement.

The case, Terron Belle v. the City of New York, was brought by The Legal Aid Society and two law firms. Belle said police should not have run his ID to check for warrants after determining he was not carrying a gun as they first thought. Legal Aid said the practice is unconstitutional.

City Law Department spokesman Nick Paolucci downplayed the case’s importance. “This agreement was limited to

these individual plaintiffs and does not indicate a broad issue,” he said via email.

“The NYPD is committed to upholding the constitutional rights of individuals, and has agreed to clarify existing policy to make it clear when officers can run a warrant query during a detainment.”

Paolucci noted that the five plaintiffs received $36,000 between them, while the attorneys got $417,000 in fees and costs.

Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) tweeted that the agreement “empowers criminals” and hampers cops.

—

Q

Peter C. Mastrosimone

PHOTO BY DEIRDRE BARDOLF

Adams unveils her ‘Fair Housing Framework’ as shortage continues Speaker takes on city’s housing crisis

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) unveiled her vision for combatting the city’s housing crisis and navigating the land use process last Thursday.

“It’s no secret that New York City is facing a housing crisis that disproportionately burdens those who need affordable housing at the deepest levels,” Adams said. “To meet this crisis head-on, we must build more housing with a Fair Housing Framework, focus on deepening affordability, and prioritize preservation of our housing stock.”

The housing agenda represents more of a blueprint for Adams’ approach to the issues than a concrete plan. It focuses on “increasing housing production with a Fair Housing Framework,” “deepening housing affordability,” “preserving affordable housing” and “restoring capacity for housing agencies and staff.” It does not note any specific legislation Adams plans to introduce.

Asked about what legislation the speaker has in mind, a Council spokesperson said in a statement, “The Fair Housing Framework will be pursued by legislation. This is an unprecedented step for our city, so it is critical that legislative efforts include engagement with various stakeholders in the development of the legislation. The Council has a framework and is

prepared to engage in the efforts necessary to move it forward.”

Among several of the methods by which the agenda proposes equitable housing production be increased is by repealing the state’s cap on floor-area ratio, which is now limited to 12.

Adams also suggests that vouchers and tax abatement might be used to help expand affordability. Asked whether reinstating 421A,

the tax exemption previously given to developers who build multifamily dwellings in New York City, was on the table, the same Council spokesperson said, “It is critical to incentivize affordable housing development. Confronting this housing crisis will require our state partners, and the Council looks forward to working with them on solutions.”

Both agendas emphasize a need to increase

community engagement in approval processes, especially through civic groups and community boards. It is not clear how that will be ensured.

The speaker emphasized last week that creating additional housing throughout the city is not a burden that should be placed on a handfull of neighborhoods.

“Every district must participate in solving this crisis to ensure that affordable housing development is distributed equitably across our city,” she said.

Concerns surrounding that notion are not unlike the objections some have raised against legalizing accessory dwelling units, which has been a controversial topic throughout the borough; in parts of Queens, some worry a denser community would threaten their quality of life, in addition to concerns about safety. Proponents of ADUs and basement apartments argue, however, that legalizing them will present an opportunity to bring them up to code and for them to be regulated while creating more housing. Adams is in the latter camp, and proposed making basement apartments safer last week. “The Council is fully committed to making housing safer and more affordable for all New Yorkers, and we are considering all ideas to accomplish this, including the modernization of basement apartments,” a Council spokesperson said. Q

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Speaker Adrienne Adams unveiled her vision for combating the city’s housing crisis and a toolkit for navigating the land use process last week.

PHOTO BY WILLIAM ALATRISTE / NYC COUNCIL / FILE

Uber, drivers vowing battle over wage suit

Judge grants company a temporary delay; operators stage 24-hour boycott

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Days before city-mandated fare and pay increases for drivers of for-hire vehicles were set to go into effect on Dec. 19, Uber filed a 98-page lawsuit in Manhattan Supreme Court, getting at least a temporary delay for itself and similar companies.

Instead of getting their raises on Monday hundreds of drivers represented by the Independent Drivers Guild and the New York Taxi Workers Association participated in a 24-hour boycott of Uber, asking people to turn off their apps and not use the service.

Hundreds of drivers at one point brought the Brooklyn Bridge to a near standstill, while others protested by the company’s Manhattan offices.

Uber says its main contention is that the plan introduced by the Taxi and Limousine Commission in November used a radically different formula than in the past for calculating inflationary costs incurred by drivers, among other things locking in gasoline prices that now are nowhere near selected periods of review. The suit claims the TLC uses the Consumer Price Index-U, which includes the cost of retail gasoline, from the months of January 2019 and June 2022 to set a standard for a hike.

Drivers contend that is a smokescreen

being used in an effort to keep driver pay contained.

“More than 500 Uber drivers with the Independent Drivers Guild came out today in NYC to send a clear message to Uber: Drop your lawsuit and PAY UP NOW!” the IDG tweeted Monday.

“Thank you to all who stand with us,” the NYTWA tweeted on Tuesday. “The workers united will never be defeated. @Uber exploits and lies. But it cannot break us. This was just the beginning.

The group also questioned the company’s gasoline cost rationale.

“TLC did right by drivers,” the alliance said. “@Uber voluntarily enacted a gas surcharge in every city *except NYC* Uber would fight any raise for drivers.”

Uber spokeswoman Freddi Goldstein said the intent behind the suit is very clear, unlike Uber’s assessment of the TLC’s methodology.

“Drivers do critical work and deserve to be paid fairly, but rates should be calculated in a way that is transparent, consistent and predictable,” she wrote in an email. “Existing TLC rules continue to provide for an annual review tied to the rate of inflation; the forhire vehicle industry is the only industry in New York State with this mandate.”

Uber contends that the new per-mile rate

would represent a 16 percent increase, and that gasoline prices have dropped substantially since mid-year averages.

On page 93 of its complaint, Uber said the TLC’s selection of time periods of study were inconsistent “including periods too short to reliably measure inflation and those designed to exclude unfavorable data.”

They also accused the TLC of locking in artificially high gasoline prices from a very

select time frame.

Like the NYTWA, the IDC said Tuesday its members will not back down.

“We’re standing up for our pay raises and we aren’t going anywhere!” the organization tweeted. “Hundreds of @Uber drivers took to the streets yesterday to demand that the New York courts protect our pay raises that Uber is trying to take away! We demand our raises!” Q

W I S H I N G Y O U A N D Y O U R F A M I L Y A W I S H I N G Y O U A N D Y O U R F A M I L Y A WISHING YOU AND YOUR FAMILY A HAPPY HOLIDAY!

Uber drivers gather in Manhattan Tuesday outside the company’s office to protest a delay in the start of pay increases ordered by the Taxi and Limousine Commission. NYTWA PHOTO / TWITTER

New eye center for kids at Jamaica Hospital

2,900-sq.-ft. space will offer option for youngsters with complex issues

by Sean Okula Associate Editor

Borough parents will have a new option in treating complex eye problems that come up with their youngsters.

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center opened its new pediatric ophthalmology center last Thursday, named for its donor, Maspeth Federal Savings.

Maspeth Federal was the lone donor, contributing $1 million to the center’s construction in what President and CEO Thomas Rudzewick said was the largest donation in the organization’s history.

“We’re here to make sure that those who need help are able to receive help in the neighborhood that they live in,” Rudzewick said at last Thursday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“It wasn’t long ago patients were waiting up to three months to get an appointment here. Special pediatric procedures that were identified would then have to be outsourced to other locations. Parents were desperate; they needed help to understand where they could find the care. Well, those days are over,” he added.

The center is the only one of its kind in Queens. Jamaica Hospital Ophthalmology Chair Dr. Julia Shulman says the opening of such a center will make it easier for children in the borough to get the kind of care they need when a trip to the optometrist simply

isn’t enough.

“There are different levels of complexity in pediatrics,” she said. “There are certain things where you need a pediatric-trained, fellowship-trained surgeon to be able to manage, and there are other things that can be managed by general practitioners.

“Often in Queens County, patients go to

the local optometrist who sees their 6-yearold, and that person says, ‘Your 6-year-old actually has a very complicated problem, you need a pediatric ophthalmologist,’ and they’re stuck. They don’t have access to this expertise.”

The center consists of a waiting room, four examination rooms, two testing rooms, three

consultation offices and two charting workspaces, encompassing 2,900 sq. ft. in total. Jamaica Hospital President and CEO Bruce Flanz says its creation would not have been possible were it not for the donation from Maspeth Federal.

“We are a safety-net hospital,” he said. “A safety-net hospital is a hospital that serves socioeconomically challenged communities. So we don’t have the financial resources that many of the big hospitals, like in Manhattan, have in access to capital.

“What you’re seeing today would never have happened if we had to wait until we had the financial resources to do it. Having the relationship with the bank, having the generosity of the bank absolutely made this possible.”

According to a release from the hospital citing statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in four preschoolaged and approximately 6.8 percent of children under the age of 18 suffer from undiagnosed or untreated vision problems, with those issues exacerbated in communities receiving disparate healthcare conditions.

Shulman said signs to look out for in youngsters include sitting too close to the TV, difficulty reading or keeping up with schoolwork, and rubbing of the eyes or squinting.

“It can run the gamut,” she said. Q

Jamaica Hospital Medical Center President and CEO Bruce Flanz, second from left, and Maspeth Federal Savings President and CEO Thomas Rudzewick celebrated the opening of the Jamaica Hospital Pediatric Ophthalmology Center on Thursday.

PHOTO BY SEAN OKULA

Santos under fire after NYT exposé

by Sophie Krichevsky Associate Editor

Just over 24 hours after The New York Times on Monday published an extensive report documenting alleged falsehoods and omissions from the resume of Congressmanelect George Santos (R-Nassau, Queens), constituents of New York’s 3rd Congressional District and Nassau County Legislator Josh Lafazan (D-Syosset) held a protest outside Santos’ Whitestone home, calling on the congressman-elect to resign.

In addition to uncovering that Santos was charged in Brazil for stealing a checkbook — a case that remains unresolved — and that he has had more than one eviction case brought against him, in its reporting, The Times was unable to confirm his previous employment at a number of Wall Street financial firms and matriculation from Baruch College, as he has claimed. The Times also investigated Santos’ previous claim that some of his colleagues died at the June 2016 Pulse nightclub shooting in Orlando, and found that none of the 49 victims at the nightclub appear to have worked at any of the companies at which Santos claims to have been employed.

The story also raises questions about Santos’ business ventures and his campaign disclosures. His company, the Devolder Organization, reportedly dissolved for failing to file an annual report, at which point, he moved to Harbor City Capital in Florida, which the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission accused of running a $17 million Ponzi scheme.

Though Santos and his colleagues were not named in the lawsuit, and Santos denied having knowledge of the scheme, The Times said that two weeks later, executives from Harbor City formed a consulting group known as Red Strategies. Devolder was listed as a partial owner, though paperwork registering the company as such was not filed for another week. Before it too dissolved for failing to file an annual report, the article said Red Strategies consulted for Tina Forte, the Republican nominee for New York’s 14th Congressional District.

Lafazan told the Chronicle constituents of his “have been calling his office left and right.”

“They’re angry and upset, and [Santos] should be held to account,” he added.

Lafazan was not shy about denouncing Santos himself. “Con-

gressman elect George Santos has told some fantastic lies,” he said at the protest. “Lying about where you live, lying about where you went to college, lying about your employees dying in a mass shooting, lying about where you worked — these are disqualifications for office.”

Santos did not respond to the Chronicle’s inquiry on Monday morning, and a later statement from his attorney failed to address any of the specific allegations The Times made.

Floral Park resident Sheila Harmon, one of fewer than 10 attendees of Tuesday’s protest, called Santos’ behavior “abhorrent.”

“It’s totally appalling that somebody could even run for office [and] he wasn’t investigated,” she told the Chronicle. Asked whether she thought Santos should resign, she said, “Absolutely.”

The article comes mere weeks before Santos is set to be sworn into

media fell short in reporting on Santos’ “shady financial dealings.”

“This story is not a shock and the New York Times’ in-depth and critical investigative reporting adds many important dimensions to the story. My campaign has been calling out George Santos’ scams and lies about himself for several months,” he wrote. Later, he added, “The reality is Santos flat-out lied to the voters of NY-03. He’s violated the public trust in order to win office and does not deserve to represent Long Island and Queens.”

political operatives and consultants for failing to do sufficient opposition research on Santos. State Democratic Party Chair Jay Jacobs told The Times in a subsequent story published Tuesday that the party’s opposition research “wasn’t as complete as the Times investigation.”

generation American and Republican who won a Biden district in overwhelming fashion by showing everyday voters that there is a better option than the broken promises of the Democratic Party,” it reads.

office. In November, the congressman-elect narrowly beat Democratic businessman Robert Zimmerman in the race to represent much of Nassau and parts of Queens, including Whitestone, Bay Terrace, Bayside, Douglaston, Little Neck, Glen Oaks and Queens Village. The seat was vacated when Rep. Tom Suozzi (D-Nassau, Suffolk, Queens) ran for governor.

As such, in addition to calling for Santos to resign, Lafazan called on the U.S. attorney general and the House Ethics Committee to investigate Santos for his “potential wrongdoings” in regards to his campaign finance filings. On Wednesday, he took it a step further, announcing his intent to send a letter to the U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of New York, asking for Santos to be investigated.

Zimmerman, too, called for Santos to resign and to be investigated in a statement, but argued that local

Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) tweeted Monday night that both Zimmerman and the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee “tried to raise these red flags during [the] campaign but few if any were interested. The people of #NY3 deserve some answers.”

The DCCC, meanwhile, has received mounting criticism from

DCCC spokesperson Nebeyatt Betre said in a statement Monday, “George Santos is a serial liar who has managed to prove week after week just how completely undeserving he is of representing Long Island. His consistent deceit and blatant lies show us exactly the type of failure he’ll be in Congress.”

That evening, Santos tweeted a statement attributed to his lawyer, Joseph Murray. The statement fails to directly address any accusation directly.

“George Santos represents the kind of progress that the Left is so threatened by — a gay, Latino, first

“After four years of being in the public eye, and on the verge of being sworn in as a member of a Republican-led Congress, The New York Times launches this shotgun blast of attacks.

“It is no surprise that Congressman-elect Santos has enemies at the New York Times who are attempting to smear his good name with these defamatory allegations. As Winston Churchill famously said, ‘You have enemies? Good. It means that you’ve stood up for something, sometime in your life.’”

The quote at the end of the statement is not, in fact, by Churchill; it is a modernized translation of a pas-

continued on next page

Calls to resign, protest held at GOP congressman-elect’s home

The candidate whose narrow, upset victory was crucial in the GOP’s regaining control of the House is now the subject of national scrutiny.

Allegations made against Congressman-elect George Santos, seen above at an event in October, in an article by The New York Times published Monday have sparked protests as well as calls for his resignation and for him to be investigated by the U.S. House Ethics Committee, the U.S. attorney general and more. PHOTOS BY SOPHIE KRICHEVSKY

Questions about whether Santos still lives at his Whitestone address, above, have been raised in recent days. Though the landlord said he had moved out in August, the Chronicle found sitting at the top of the home’s open recycling bin an open envelope, left, addressed to Santos from the state Board of Elections, postmarked Dec. 15.

Santos called on to resign

sage from an 1845 essay by Victor Hugo.

Lafazan noted that the statement did not address the allegations, and said that, in addition to it being from Santos’ lawyer, that was “very telling.”

“Everyone in the United States of America is innocent until proven guilty and has a right to defend themselves,” he said. “But what they cannot do is just dodge legitimate questions that people are asking and call this a witch hunt.”

Questions have also been raised as to whether Santos lives at the Whitestone address registered with the state Board of Elections. The landlord, Nancy Pothos, told reporters Tuesday morning that Santos had lived there until the end of August. However, the Chronicle found at the top of the home’s open recycling bin an opened envelope from the Board of Elections, addressed to Santos, containing an official notification that he had won the election. It was postmarked Dec. 15.

At the federal level, House Republicans have been fairly silent on the allegations against Santos, whose election was crucial in the party securing its narrow House majority.

Closer to home, Councilmember Vickie Paladino (R-Whitestone), who had supported Santos during his campaign, offered no comment on the matter beyond saying, “There’s going to be an investigation — let

them do their investigation.”

Paladino had quote-tweeted a tweet from Santos Sunday evening, prior to The Times’ publishing of its story, saying that the congressman-elect would “be a breath of fresh air in Congress.” By Monday night, her tweet had been deleted.

The Queens Village Republican Club had supported Santos in his bid for the House seat; as of writing, the club’s website homepage still features a photo congratulating Santos on the victory. Asked for comment on the allegations against Santos, President Phil Orenstein said the allegations are “very concerning.”

“We want people of integrity to represent us,” he said. “We don’t appreciate people who lie.” Orenstein did express concern that Democrats have not always been investigated to the extent that Santos and other Republicans have been.

But to Warren Schreiber, president of the Queens Civic Congress, the allegations against Santos transcend party affiliation.

“We all want to protect the integrity of our elections,” he told the Chronicle. “I think that if the allegations against Santos are true — and The Times seems to have done a thoroughly researched, accurate report — then [he] should probably step aside.

“There’s just no place for fraud in our elections, no matter what party you’re affiliated with. That just shouldn’t happen.” Q

Sharing his wealth

When a homeowner relied on the Halloween honor system, leaving a bowl of candy so each child could take one piece, a couple of grinches practicing for Christmas took the whole bowl.

Seeing children younger than himself upset, Maksymilian Zysk, a fifth-grader at PS/IS 49 in Middle Village stepped in.

He dug into his own bag of candy so other children wouldn’t miss out and go away disappointed.

On Dec. 15, Councilman Bob Holden right, joined by PS/IS 49 Principal Tom Carty, presented Maksymilian with a certificate of recognition from the City Council honoring him for his selfless good deed.

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NYC COUNCIL PHOTO

Public weighs in on charter conversation

SEQ school proponents cite space concerns; Success says no worries

by Sean Okula Associate Editor

Southeast Queens residents had their chance to sound off on proposed alterations to two area schools this week.

The city Department of Education held joint public hearings on Monday and Tuesday on the proposed co-locations of Success Academy charter schools at the MS 72 building and the Springfield Gardens Educational Complex.

First on Monday, administration and parents from the three schools at the MS 72 building — Catherine and Count Basie Middle School 72, Redwood Middle School and PS Q993 — and representatives from and supporting Success Academy had their say, with much of the conversation focused around concerns about co-locating middle school students with the K-4 students Success would serve, along with concerns from the MS 72 side about fitting a fourth school into a complex that the DOE’s educational impact statement says currently has a 46 percent building utilization rate.

After school District 28 Superintendent Tammy Pate disclosed her discontent with the building utilization figure, citing concerns with the DOE methodology, MS 72 Principal Ativia Sandusky and Redwood Principal Tammy Katan-Brown expressed concerns about the schools’ ability to grow in accordance with their respective magnet grants, which require recipients to increase enrollment by 5 percent each year for a period of five years.

“With the $2.5 million that we are to receive over the five years [in accordance with the magnet grant], this will allow our schools the opportunity to receive resources we would not normally receive,” Katan-Brown said. “We would like everyone, especially the [Panel for Educational Policy] council, to please take into consideration that our schools need to grow.”

Countering their testimony were a number of parents from other Success schools, who touted the virtues of the charter network.

MS 72 currently has an enrollment of 278 students, per the educational impact statement included with the co-location proposal, and Redwood has an enrollment of 261 students. The document projects MS 72 to enroll between 255 and 285 students by the time the Success charter is serving students in grades K-4 in the 2025-26 school year, and it projects an enrollment of 285 to 315 students for Redwood, for an estimated building utilization rate of 70 to 79 percent.

Rob Roszkowski, the chapter leader of District 75 school PS Q993, and Adam Breier, deputy superintendent for District 75, expressed concerns that the needs of D75 students were not being taken into account when considering available space at the school. Roszowski shared testimony from former D75 students at the MS 72 building.

“When you were at 72, one of the things I

noticed is it wasn’t very crowded there,” he commented to one student who uses a cane due to vision problems. “You were able to get around with your stick, right?”

“‘Yes,” the student replied.

“How difficult do you think it would be if you were in 72 now and they added 200 extra kids there? Do you think it would be harder to get from room to room?” Roszowski asked.

“Yes, because you need space to go,” the student answered.

Breier expressed concerns over whether or not the District 75 minimums of one teacher and one paraprofessional educator to every six students was being taken into account when determining how much of the building space was being utilized.

“Unless those ratios of student to teacher to para, minimum numbers for each of the classrooms at a District 75 site, have been accounted into the algorithm, or however you determine that only 46 percent of the building is being used, it is likely, not based on feelings, not based on some sort of emotional response, but very logistically speaking, that number cannot be correct,” he said. “It worries me that we would be moving forward without at least having a concerted effort to determine the usage of the building, taking all of those issues into account.”

The Chronicle previously reported PS Q993 students have to use a girl’s locker room as a gymnasium.

Jennifer Barnett, a former Success Academy principal and teacher, said the community owes it to the hundreds on the charter’s waiting list to allow them the chance to take advantage of what Success offers.

She also said when she had worked in co-located spaces between older and elementary school students, none of the kids involved ever felt unsafe, a sentiment supported by Success parents on the meeting, who far outnumbered the parents from the MS 72 complex who had signed up to speak.

Approximately 140 speakers, including students from the MS 72 building and Success Academies citywide, signed up for Monday night’s meeting, with some dropping out before they had the chance to offer testimony as the early evening stretched toward the wee hours of the morning. More than 300 speakers signed up for Tuesday’s hearing on the proposed co-location at the Springfield Gardens Educational Complex, with the discrepancy between SGEC parents and Success parents much closer.

Principals from all four schools at the complex — Queens Preparatory Academy, Excelsior Preparatory High School, George Washington Carver High School for the Sciences and Preparatory Academy for Writers — spoke, expressing concerns about their schools’ expanding enrollment and how the addition of another school might limit their capacity to serve students who want to

attend classes at the facility.

“This year, we projected for 417 students,” Excelsior Prep Principal Rodney Orji said. “Currently, we’re at 458 students. Excelsior is expanding, and I think that’s happening across the board with all of our schools. There are parents who believe in our instructional model, and they’re sending their children here, they’re recommending us, and the building utilization plan will cap that.”

Janice Sutton, principal of George Washington Carver High, said her school was projected to have 317 students this year, and instead has 369. The educational impact statement included with the proposal projects Excelsior Prep to have 445 to 485 students by the time Success has phased in all of its grade levels by the 2025-26 school year, and George Washington Carver to have 360 to 400 students.

Charles Anderson, principal at Preparatory Academy for Writers, said the news of a proposed co-location could be unsettling for Southeast Queens parents who thought the school was thriving, and assured them that the co-location does not reflect on the performance of the students at the campus.

Community Education Council Preisdent for School District 29 Nicole Hammond said Success has not always been welcoming as neighbors in their co-locations, while other charters in the area have behaved as partners with their traditional public school counterparts.

State Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) and Community Board 12 Chairperson the Rev. Carlene Throbs also spoke at the hearing, opposing the co-location, along with parents and students from both SGEC and Success Academy.

Dan Rojas, a principal at Success Academy, refuted the notions that co-locating high school students with elementary school students could prove dangerous and that the complex lacked the space needed for an elementary school.

“My decade of experience in this exact arena, elementary students with high school students, has given me an entirely different perspective,” he said. “High school students understand their responsibility to be role models to young students and can, and

should, be trusted.”

“Today’s hearing is about facts. This narrative that the current building is not underutilized is not only damaging, because it pits New Yorkers against New Yorkers, but it is false,” he added.

The Jan. 5 PEP meeting at which the colocations were to be voted on is now listed on the PEP website as postponed. The panel did not immediately reply for comment on why the meeting was postponed or when it would occur. Q

Patriot aims

Kristina Raevsky, 12, of Forest Hills has been awarded a $2,500 Young Patriot scholarship from the Rush and Kathryn Limbaugh Family Foundation for a five-minute video she submitted to a contest run by the group.

In the video she discussed her views on patriotism and how they were shaped; as well as her hopes of running for office some day. She learned of her selection in a phone call from Kathryn Limbaugh, widow of the pioneering conservative radio talk show host.

Kristina already has written two paperback books, including a novel that runs through American history.

Proposed co-locations of Success Academy charter schools at the Springfield Gardens Educational Complex, left, and the MS 72 building were brought to public hearings this week ahead of a vote by the Panel for Educational Policy on a date to be determined. GOOGLE MAPS IMAGE, LEFT; PHOTO BY SEAN OKULA

“T

oday’s hearing is about facts.”

— Dan Rojas, Success Academy principal

Challenging times for borough’s hungry

Emergency food providers not immune to inflation, pandemics, financial crunch

by Michael Gannon Senior News Editor

Janis Robinson, vice president of institutions and partnerships at Food Bank for New York City, planned on visiting two of the food pantries that the group supports in the Bronx late Tuesday morning.

“People will be standing on long lines out in the cold,” she said as the morning temperature had barely broken the freezing mark.

Make a random check with operators of a food pantry or soup kitchen or other emergency food providers in Queens and they’ll tell you that they are short of a lot of things this holiday season, including donations of food and funding; and that more volunteers are always needed.

About the only thing none of them are running short of is people who desperately need their help.

Food Bank for NYC operates and supports food banks and soup kitchens; and provides many nonfood social service assistance programs.

“The need for food has definitely increased,” Robinson said. “A recent report from Hunger Free America says there has been a increase — a 34 percent increase — in the number of New Yorkers who don’t have enough food to eat as compared to October 2021. Within our lines, the lines for our food pantries and soup kitchens, there has been at least a 10 percent increase in the number of people.

“What we’re seeing is that there are a lot of New Yorkers having to navigate this whole emergency food sector and use food pantries for the very first time.”

The Masbia Soup Kitchen network, based in Brooklyn, also has a very busy food pantry and soup kitchen in Forest Hills.

Masbia Executive Director Alexander Rappaport told the Chronicle in a recent interview that inflation, the public health situation and other economic factors that are slamming their clients are hurting the organization as well.

He said the food pantry that served 500

families per day during the height of the Covid pandemic is only able to serve about 300 right now.

“It’s scary,” he said.

Rappaport spoke of a statement a few days earlier in which President Biden was cheering a drop in inflation.

“Now the thing is, I support President Biden,” Rappaport said. “What was missing is that poor people’s food is still on the way up. You talk about oil, potatoes, eggs, flour, rice, basic food staples, it is at crazy high levels.” He cited the typical grocery list in preparation for Chanukah.

“For Chanukah, there is a tradition of making latkes, which is basically potatoes and eggs fried in oil,” he said. “It’s not like this last Thanksgiving meal, which they said was up 26 percent. We’re talking about last year you could buy a five-pound bag of potatoes, some eggs and a big jug of oil — seven bucks. Now for the same things you pay 25 bucks.

“The fancy steaks are coming down. The

organic strawberries are coming down. That’s rich people’s food.”

Rappaport said there are some independent pressures on many grocery items. He said a large amount of the world’s cooking oil supplies depends on things like sunflower seeds from Ukraine. A bird flu pandemic has required putting down many chickens that has helped create shortages of eggs.

“Things like that helped create this phenomenon. But at the end of the day, people going to the grocery store pay for that,” Rappaport said. “I remember negotiating with a farmer a little over a year ago to buy eggs. He wanted 70 cents per dozen. I said, ‘OK, but the shipping is on you.’ Now if I can get $5 per dozen I pay for the shipping and come out and pick them up ... Now if you pay over $6, that’s 50 cents apiece. For an egg.”

Masbia even received a state grant back in the spring to buy New York produce and agricultural products.

“But we’re now eight months into the fiscal year — the state’s budget begins in April — and we’ve spent down our own budget, because the price of food in April was very different from what it is now.”

Citymeals on Wheels is somewhat more focused than many food-relief organizations. It serves mostly homebound senior citizens who for any number of reasons cannot get out on their own to shop for food.

The organization also provides balanced meals on weekends and holidays when regular city food services don’t operate.

Since the Covid pandemic, it also has served people who formerly relied on senior centers for one hot meal a day, but now either can’t get to their regular center or are worried about going.

Rachel Sherrow, the group’s associate executive director and chief program officer, said it has more than 20,000 clients in the five boroughs.

“What we’re seeing now is more isolation because of this trifecta of flu, Covid and RSV,” Sherrow said last week. “That has peo-

ple fearful of even going out to their local bodega to get some bread and milk.”

The isolation can lead to other worries, Sherrow said.

“What concerns us is that they’re eating,” she said. “If they get depressed and they’re not eating, that can lead to worse medical issues for them and for our healthcare system.”

The group’s recent focus, Sherrow said, is holiday meals.

“Which is certainly very important anytime for folks who are not able to leave their homes, who are going to be alone for Christmas, New Year’s, times that maybe they would be spending with their families,” she said.

“Obviously, we’re all dealing with inflation. So for people who are living on fixed incomes, their dollar doesn’t stretch nearly as far as maybe this time last year, and they have to make some tough choices. And knowing a meal is coming for them every day is some sort of relief for many of them.”

Like Robinson, Sherrow said mission one is to make sure the group is able to connect people in need with food.

“We’re very concerned for the people who have not been returning to the older adult centers since Covid,” Sherrow said. “We’re seeing that the numbers have not been increasing as they should. Where are they? Why are they missing? And where are the gaps? These are people who are on the edge.”

Robinson said Goya Foods, which specializes in Latin cuisine, recently gave Food Bank for New York City a very generous donation; important, she said, in a diverse city where they try and keep people connected with their favorite foods.

The New York Jets, she said, also are among their big boosters. But all three agencies reached by the Chronicle said that naturally, they can always use more financial support in terms of donations. All need volunteers, with Citymeals in particular needing people with cars who can serve as delivery drivers.

Masbia and Food Bank for New York City also are always looking for donors who can link them directly with food supplies.

Rappaport said a link on his website, masbia.org/wishlist, allows donors to purchase reasonably priced food for the group’s clients and even equipment for its soup kitchen through Amazon. The main masbia.org site also has donation and volunteer information.

Robinson said they are in the midst of their 40 Million Meal Challenge, an effort to raise money through the end of December. She said they also could use volunteers for things like their Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program, which she said has gotten $35 million in tax refunds for people who might have had trouble filing in the past.

Volunteers, donors and those who need food are asked to go to foodbanknyc.org or call them at (212) 566-7855 to find the right person to speak with.

Those seeking help from Citymeals on Wheels or who are looking to donate or volunteer can go to citymeals.org.

Alexander Rappaport, right, with staffers at the Masbia soup kitchen in Forest Hills. He and representatives of other emergency food providers say they are getting hit hard by the same forces hurting the people they are trying to help.

PHOTO COURTESY MASBIA

A driver for Citymeals on Wheels makes one final check before setting out to deliver food to homebound seniors who sometimes may need the interaction of a visit almost as much as they need food.

PHOTO COURTESY CITYMEALS ON WHEELS

It takes a true theatrical Renaissance man to be able to perform duties as varied as leading actor, director, producer, script adaptor, scenic designer and lighting designer. And when one person assumes these many different roles in a single production, he or she can most assuredly be held responsible for the outcome.

In the case of Richard Mazda, who took on each of those challenges in a production of Charles Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol,” playing through Dec. 31 at The Secret Theatre in Woodside, he has nothing to worry about.

The production, a 75-minute, tightly woven ghost story brought to imaginative life, holds the attention throughout despite being one of the best-known pieces in all of literature, while capturing the spirit of the holiday season.

Could Dickens possibly have imagined when he wrote the novella upon which the play is based back in 1843 that more than a century and a half later people would still enjoy visiting with Ebenezer Scrooge and the many other memorable characters with whom he interacts?

Scrooge, of course, is an elderly miser whose favorite phrase might just be “Bah! Humbug!” He uses it whenever he wishes to show his dislike for anything joyous or much-loved by others, which happens quite frequently.

But through visits from the ghost of his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and the spirits of Christmases Past, Present and Yet-toCome, he is transformed into a kinder, more receptive man who begins to understand the meaning of the holiday.

The production, seen at a late rehearsal via Vimeo, features a multigenerational, multiethnic cast, with some actors playing multiple characters, including those of the opposite sex. Their level of experience varies just as widely, from professionals to those making their first appearance on a stage. They blend into a cohesive whole and play off each other like family.

Some of the strongest moments come near the end. One such scene, centered

by Mark Lord

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Though a Long Islander, Hannity has roots in Queens

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

Hugh Hannity Sr. immigrated from Ireland to New York in 1901 and petitioned immediately for citizenship, which was granted. He married Margaret McConville in 1924. They had one child, Hugh Jr. Hugh Sr., with an eighthgrade education, worked in a shipyard doing repairs. During World War II, likely with plenty of work and overtime, they saved up and purchased a house at 97-13 125 St. in South Richmond Hill.

Hugh Jr. originally worked in a restaurant but then became a court officer. He married Lillian Flynn in January 1951. They bought a 1,768-square-foot home on Oaks Drive in Franklin Square, LI. They had three daughters: Therese, Mary-Jo and Coleen, the last of whom died in infancy. Then on Dec. 30, 1961, a boy, Sean Patrick, arrived in the family.

After high school, Hannity dropped out of college and worked as a house painter and general contractor. At 27, he volun-

INSET VIA WIKIPEDIA / THE WHITE HOUSE

teered at a college radio station, KCSB-FM, and was hooked. He had found his calling. In 1993 he married Jill Rhodes, a talk show host at WGST in Georgia. In 1996 “Hannity and Colmes” began, and in 2009 “Hannity” replaced it. He’s also on radio.

Hannity never forgot his humble roots and refers to them often. Q

Sean Hannity’s father’s and grandfather’s house at 97-13 125 St. in South Richmond Hill, in its original condition in the 1950s.

by Peter C. Mastrosimone editor-in-chief

From Disney hit to routine romcom, from nonfiction to nonstop action, the Queens Public Library is taking its seat along with theaters, TV and streaming services when it comes to movies over the holidays.

Today, Dec. 22, the QPL is showing “The Nightmare Before Christmas” at the Maspeth Library from 3 to 4:15 p.m. The film is an animated musical dark fantasy by Tim Burton. In it, Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas and decides his people will take it over.

“Nightmare” got high scores from audiences and critics, with Roger Ebert saying its visual effects rival those of “Star Wars.”

Next up, on Dec. 23, is Disney’s “A Christmas Carol,” a computer-animated take on the timeless tale of Scrooge, his miserly ways, his time with the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future, and his redemption. It got mixed reviews from the critics. It’s set for 2 to 3:45 p.m. at the Bayside Library.

Meanwhile, at the Howard Beach branch that same day, a screening of “Moonfall” will begin at 3 p.m. The 2022 sci-fi disaster film has the Moon leaving its orbit and heading toward Earth, putting humanity on the brink. Reviews were ... mixed.

At 3:30 p.m. Rochdale Village will show

“The Grinch” — that’s the 2018 computeranimated version, not the original TV cartoon classic or the Jim Carrey-led live-action film of 2000. As always, the bitter titular character wants to mess with Christmas in Whoville. He’ll do it at again at the Bayside Library at 2 p.m. Dec. 27.

Then at 2:30 p.m. Dec. 27, the Glen Oaks branch will screen “Home Alone,” the holiday favorite about a neglected but resourceful youngster defending his family’s house against a pair of bird-brained burglars.

Glen Oaks will follow that up on Dec. 28

with “DC League of Super-Pets,” a computer-animated comic-book flick, and on Dec. 29 with “Sonic the Hedgehog 2,” an actionadventure comedy based on a video game, both also at 2:30 p.m.

The library system shows films yearround, with details at queenslibrary.org. Click on the calendar and search for “movie” or “film,” or check by branch to be sure not to miss any. Only some are listed here.

“People come to our libraries to access free resources, learn, and get inspired, but also to be entertained and spend time with

their friends and neighbors,” QPL spokeswoman Ewa Kern Jedrychowska said via email. “Our free movie screenings — handpicked by our librarians and featuring various film genres for all ages — provide an opportunity for our customers to unwind while also connecting with their communities over the holidays.”

Back in Bayside, the Disney computer-animated musical fantasy hit “Frozen” will be screened at 2 p.m. Dec. 29, with everyone enjoying the adventures of Anna and her cohort as they seek out the Snow Queen Elsa. At the same time the next day, Bayside will show “Frozen II,” with the major beloved characters off on a new adventure.

Also at 2 p.m. on Dec. 30, the Long Island City branch will screen “Minions: the Rise of Gru,” aka “Minions II,” another entry in the computer-animated “Despicable Me” series. In it, a young Gru plans to become a supervillain with the help of his Minions.

Nothing is listed for New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day, but the stars are back out Jan. 2, when the East Flushing Library will be screening “Marry Me,” a 2022 romantic comedy starring Jennifer Lopez and Owen Wilson. She’s a pop star with a cheating fiance, he’s a math teacher, and they exchange vows in front of the world. What happens next? Go to the library and see. Q

Crossword Answers continued from page 27

around sickly Tiny Tim (he of the famous “God bless us, everyone” saying), a role played at alternate performances by three different youngsters, tugs at the heartstrings. Immediately following is another highlight, an encounter between Scrooge and the spirit of Christmas Yet-to-Come (a wordless larger-than-life specter played by Joe Staton), during which old Ebenezer realizes he has a path to salvation.

The opening is also memorable, as the entire company makes its way across the stage by way of introduction, as the lighting provides an appropriate dreamlike quality.

To help tie things together, Mazda utilizes the novelist himself as a narrator (portrayed with authority by Christopher Romero Wilson) at various points throughout. Among the noteworthy performances are those of Christopher Simcox as Marley and Mia Soleil Jacquez as the spirit of Christmas Present.

There’s lots to enjoy visually in the production, including evocative lighting throughout, including some special effects, and lots of puffy smoke each time an apparition appears. The costumes (uncredited) are colorful and appropriate.

The simple set utilizes the playing area to good effect. Small set pieces are carried on and off unobtrusively by cast members.

Also adding to the merriment are the simple dance steps choreographed by Rosie Dean, and some fine choral singing and live musical accompaniment. An audience singalong at the end leaves everyone in the Christmas spirit.

The Cratchit family celebrates in “A Christmas Carol.” At right, the ethereal Ghost of Christmas Past. On the cover: Scrooge observes a party with the Ghost of Christmas Present.

02 61 St. in Woodside) continue Dec. 22 to 23 and 27 to 30 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 24 and 31 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $30; or $15 for kids. For more, visit secrettheatre.com.

Long before the Grinch, there was Scrooge

PHOTOS BY REIKO YOO YANAGI

Library can be your daytime family movie theater

NYS BOARD OF REGENTS VACANCY

Board of Regents of the University of the State of New York, effective April 1, 2023, for one representative from Bronx County and one representative from Queens County. Five-year term. Positions are non-paid. A public interview process is required. The applicant must be a resident of New York State and one of the above-listed counties. Resumes must be submitted by January 23. Applicant must submit a resume to BOTH:

NYS Assembly Room 513, Capitol Albany, NY 12248 boardofregents@nyassembly.gov

and

NYS Senate Room 433, Capitol Albany, NY 12248 boardofregents@nysenate.gov

Administrative Opening Monticello Central School

Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction

The successful candidate should have a minimum of five (5) yrs. professional exp. in school administration or comparable teaching leadership.

This individual will provide leadership and vision in ongoing planning, implementation, development, direction, review, and evaluation of the district’s curriculum and instructional services. They would be responsible for ensuring that the district’s educational objectives align with state frameworks and to instructional practices that yield the highest standards for student achievement and instruction excellence.

NYS SDL or SDA Certification Required

Please apply online by Jan 9th at https://mon icelloschools.tedk12.com/hire

EOE

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TRAIN ONLINE TO DO MEDICAL

BILLING! Become a Medical Office Professional online at CTI! Get Trained, Certified & ready to work in months! Call 855-543-6440. (M-F 8am-6pm ET). Computer with internet is required.

Howard Beach, Sun 12/25 & 01/01. BR set, treadmill, futon, office, TVs, loveseat, ottoman. 917-613-9220

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

Legal Notices

NOTICE TO BOHUMIL FIALA. SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF NEW YORK. Index No. 500359/2016. In the Matter of the Final Account of SELFHELP COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC., COMMUNITY GUARDIAN PROGRAM, Guardian of the Person and Property of BOHUMIL FIALA, An Incapacitated Person. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that SELFHELP COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC., COMMUNITY GUARDIAN PROGRAM is seeking to settle its fi nal account as to be discharged as guardian of BOHUMIL FIALA. The sum of $14,640.14 is due and owning to BOHUMIL FIALA, formerly or currently of New York City. If the said funds are not claimed by BOHUMIL FIALA on or before November 16, 2022, the said funds will be paid into court pursuant to CPLR § 2601. BOHUMIL FIALA should contact SELFHELP COMMUNITY SERVICES, INC., COMMUNITY GUARDIAN PROGRAM at (212) 971-7752 or his court-appointed counsel, Matthew Milford, Esq., at matthewmilford@yahoo.com, in order to claim the funds owed.

Public Notice

In accordance with their traditional policy on nondiscrimination and applicable Federal and State statutory provisions, the New Franklin Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, 142-27 Franklin Avenue, Flushing, New York 11355, declares that this institution declares that this institution operates to serve all persons without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual preference, handicap or source of payment.

Notice is hereby given that an On-Premises Restaurant Wine license, Serial #TBA has been applied for by Ditmars Boulevard KX LLC d/b/a KX Burger & Beyond to sell beer, wine and cider at retail in an Restaurant. For on-premises consumption under the ABC Law at 29-04 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria, NY 11105.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Legal Notices

149-05 NORTHERN CHICKEN LLC, Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 11/21/2022. Offi ce loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 149-05 Northern Blvd, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

2371 BAYVIEW LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 09/30/19. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon swhom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 46-05 Northern Boulevard, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

4 LALLS, LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 07/27/18. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 122-15 150th Avenue, South Ozone Park, NY 11420. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

4705 LLC. Arts. of Org. fi led with the SSNY on 10/20/22. Offi ce: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 4705 28th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11103. Registered agent address c/o NHP Business Management Services Inc., 229 Jericho Turnpike, New Hyde Park, NY 11040. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

61-76 56th Street LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/14/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Janusz Grabinski, 58-23 61st St., Maspeth, NY 11378. General Purpose

Legal Notices Legal Notices

HEARING NOTICE

The New York City Board of Standards and Appeals has scheduled a virtual or hybrid public hearing on the following application on January 9th or January 10th, 2023: BSA Cal. No. 2021-71-BZ Premises: 105-31 76th Street, Queens - Block 9124, Lot 106(tent) Variance (§72-21) to permit the construction of a House of Worship (UG 4) (Al Furqan Mosque) contrary to underlying bulk requirements. R4A zoning district. Applicant: Eric Palatnik, P.C. An agenda listing the specific session (including the final date and time) with call-in details will be posted as an announcement on the front page of the Board’s website (www.nyc.gov/bsa) the Friday before. The public hearing will be livestreamed on the Board’s website and on YouTube. Interested persons or associations may watch online and call in to present testimony during the public hearing. Please see the Board’s Virtual Hearing Guides located at https://www1.nyc.gov/site/bsa/public-hearings/ public-hearings.page

However, the Board may determine that it must conduct the public hearing as a “hybrid,” during which the Commissioners will meet in person at the Board’s office in Manhattan and also appear virtually on live-streamed YouTube and on an interactive Zoom Webinar. In the event of a “hybrid” hearing, applicants and the public may attend in person or participate remotely by calling into the Zoom Webinar and watching the YouTube livestream. Details for the hearing and whether it will be conducted as a hybrid will be posted on the Board’s website the Friday before the hearing. If the hearing is announced as a hybrid, in the interest of accommodating social distancing with limited seating capacity and to address ongoing health concerns, members of the public are strongly encouraged to participate in the hearing remotely. You may submit a written statement by using the “Public Comment form” on the Board’s website located at

https://www1.nyc.gov/site/bsa/contact-bsa/ public-comments.page

For any communication, please include or refer to BSA Calendar No. 2021-71-BZ and the property address: 105-31 76th Street, Queens - Block 9124, Lot 106(tent). To coordinate review of the application materials, inquire about continued hearing dates and/or assistance, please contact the Board office at (212) 386-0009.

917 Clintonville LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 12/9/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to Debra B. Dunham, 151-16 9th Ave., Whitestone, NY 11357. General Purpose

Notice of Formation of Andre Vilarinho LMFT LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/21/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ANDRE VILARINHO, 56-20 CLOVERDALE BLVD, #2, BAYSIDE, NY 11364. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of BETTER BEATS LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/15/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: BETTER BEATS LLC, 2945 215TH PL BAYSIDE, NY 11360. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of DEEN SWEET TREATS, LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/30/2021. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: DEEN SWEET TREATS, LLC, 226-46 77TH AVE, BAYSIDE, NY, 11364. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Real Estate

EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718-722-3131. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

Apts.For Rent

Greenpoint, 203 Engert Ave, #2. 1 BR/1 bath w/office. $2,600/mo. Avail NOW. Heat & hot water inc. Office space, updated kit countertops, new flrs, queen-sized BR. Call Francesco Belviso, 718-570-4564. Capri Jet Realty.

Greenpoint, 3 Russell St, #2R. 1 BR/1 bath.$2,700. Brand new kit w/SS appli, dishwasher, HWF, large LR, Pergo laminate fl. Heat & hot water incl. Avail Jan 1. Call Francesco Belviso, 718-570-4564. Capri Jet Realty

Greenpoint, 738 Humbolt St, #2. 4 BR/2 bath apt—$4,900/mo. Fully renov, new & modern kit w/SS appli & dishwasher, W/D, Central AC. Heat & water incl. Avail Jan 15. Call Agnes Siedlik, 917-288-0660. Capri Jet Realty

Furn.Rm.For Rent

Howard Beach Furnished Room for rent: $250 per week. Males only. Gas and electric, Wi-Fi all included. Close to shopping, trans & JFK airport. Contact 347-447-1336. Call or text.

Houses For Sale

Glendale, Beautiful section of Liberty Park. 1 fam, 3 BR, 1 full bath. Updated kit, SS appli. 1 car gar. Pvt dvwy, high ceilings, laminate fls, beaut front bay window. Full fin bsmnt, storage attic, new roof. Reduced to $770,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Lindenwood, Brick attached 2 fam, great investment property. Walk-in fin bsmnt w/door to yard. 1st fl has 2 BR, 1 bath apt w/terr. 2nd fl has 1 BR, 1 bath apt w/terr. A must see! Reduced $1,148,000. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Crossbay Blvd, Avail NOW, new construction. 6,100 sqft, 240x85, 2 parking lots, zoning K1, R3-1, C2-2, overlay parking space -43 spaces. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Houses For Sale

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, 40x100, Hi-Ranch, unique 5 BRs, 2 full baths, 3 BRs, 1 bath, top flr & 2 BRs on walk-in level, new kit, HW flrs & new baths. Cement & pavers front & back. Full 1 car gar, sep ent to walk-in. Asking $982K. Connexion Real Estate, 718-845-1136

Classified Ad Special. Pay for 3 weeks and the 4th week is FREE! Call 718-205-8000

Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON MORTGAGE SECURITIES CORP., CSMC MORTGAGE-BACKED PASSTHROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1, V. ELAINE WILSON, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated August 10, 2022, and entered in the Offi ce of the Clerk of the County of Queens, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR CREDIT SUISSE FIRST BOSTON MORTGAGE SECURITIES CORP., CSMC MORTGAGE-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-1 is the Plaintiff and ELAINE WILSON, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on January 13, 2023 at 12:00PM, premises known as 144-59 176TH ST, JAMAICA, NY 11434: Block 13288, Lot 49: 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 Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index # 704555/2022. Frank Bruno, Jr., Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/ CLERK DIRECTIVES.

SHERIFF’S SALE

Legal Notices Legal Notices Legal Notices Legal Notices

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF QUEENS, HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2006-1, V. HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF LETA WEBB, ET AL. NOTICE OF SALE. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated June 29, 2022, and entered in the Offi ce of the Clerk of the County of Queens, wherein HSBC BANK USA, N.A., AS TRUSTEE FOR THE REGISTERED HOLDERS OF RENAISSANCE HOME EQUITY LOAN TRUST 2006-1 is the Plaintiff and HEIRS AND DISTRIBUTEES OF THE ESTATE OF LETA WEBB, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction RAIN OR SHINE on the COURTHOUSE STEPS OF THE QUEENS COUNTY COURTHOUSE, 88-11 SUTPHIN BLVD., JAMAICA, NY 11435, on January 20, 2023 at 11:30AM, premises known as 152-22 119TH AVENUE, JAMAICA, NY 11434: Block 12210, Lot 51: 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. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of fi led Judgment Index # 711176/2015. Joseph F. DeFelice, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

Notice of Formation of HANLEY SUNGLASSES LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/19/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: Nate Strand, 18 W 18th St, New York, NY 10075. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of JUPITER SOCIETY BOOKS, LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/18/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: AQUILAH JOURDAIN, 144-24 VILLAGE RD, 67C, JAMAICA, NY 11435. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

KSR Real Estate LLC, Arts of Org. fi led with Sec. of State of NY (SSNY) 11/19/2022. Cty: Queens. SSNY desig. as agent upon whom process against may be served & shall mail process to 260 Beach 116th St., Rockaway Park, NY 11694.

General Purpose

Notice of Formation of MAMA LUNA LLC Articles of Organization were fi led with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/10/2022. Offi ce location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: JACKLYN ZOPPI, 71-38 66TH PLACE, 2ND FLOOR, FLUSHING, NY 11385. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No.711975/2022 Date fi led: 6/7/2022 SUMMONS ACTION FOR QUIET TITLE TO PROPERTY SITUATED IN QUEENS COUNTY SUSAN CLEMENT, Plaintiff, -against- All the heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, devisees, grantees, trustees, lienors, creditors, assignees and successors in interest and the creditors, assignees and successors in interest thereof of the aforesaid classes of persons, if they or any of them be dead, all of whom and whose names and places of residence are unknown to the plaintiff of BLANCHE VELEZ; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, Defendant(s). TO THE ABOVE DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer, or if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of the 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. In case of your failure to appear, or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in this Complaint. Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place for trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the premises is situated. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Phillip Horn, a Justice of the Supreme Court, Queens County, entered Nov. 17, 2022 and fi led with the complaint and other papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Offi ce. THE OBJECT OF THE ACTION is to quiet title to premises known as 153-06 111th Road, Jamaica, NY 11433 a/k/a Block 12167, Lot 28. Dated: June 1, 2022, Westbury, New York, Edward Wiener, Esq., Stein, Wiener & Roth, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff, 1400 Old Country Road, Suite 315, Westbury, New York 11590 (516)-742-1212 File no. 78991 #99939

QUEENS all the right, title and interest which VAMEERSHALA DAVIS, the judgment debtor(s), had on the 3rd day of JANUARY, 2017, or at any time thereafter, of, in and to the following properties:

Address: 163-12 122nd Avenue, Jamaica, New York 11434 Block: 12380 Part of Lot: 30

ALL that certain plot, place or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the ALL that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situated, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, shown and belonging to Edgar Whitlock, surveyed June, 1899 by E.W. Conklin and Sons, C.E. & C.S. and filed in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, July 5, 1899, as Map Number 446, being more particularly bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at the point on the southerly side of 122nd Avenue, formerly called Elwyn Place, distant 93 feet easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the southerly side of 122nd Avenue, with the easterly side of New York Boulevard, as widened (80 feet wide), formerly known as New York Avenue;

RUNNING THENCE southerly at right angles to 122nd Avenue, 100 feet:

THENCE easterly parallel with 122nd Avenue, 30 feet;

THENCE northerly at right angles to 122nd Avenue, 100 feet to the southerly side of 122nd Avenue; and

THENCE westerly long the southerly side of 122nd Avenue, 30 feet to the point or place of BEGINNING

Said premises also being known as 163-12 122ND Avenue, New York 11434 (Block: 12380, Part of Lot: 30).

ANTHONY

MIRANDA Sheriff of the City of New York DEPUTY C. SKINNER (646) 784-0274 (718) 707-2070 CASE# 22033555

NYC Department of Finance-Office of the Sheriff -nyc.gov/finance

TO: Dmitry A. Shelchkov, MD, 9527 67th Avenue, Rego Park, NY 11374-5135 The State Medical Board of Ohio, 30 E. Broad Street, 3rd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215-6127 In the Matter of: Dmitry A. Shelchkov, MD, 22-CRF-0214 On November 10, 2022, the State Medical Board of Ohio mailed a Notice of Opportunity for Hearing to Dmitry A. Shelchov, MD via certifi ed mail, return receipt requested, at his last known address of record, 9527 67th Avenue, Rego Park, NY 11374-5135. The Notice was returned to the Board from the postal service marked “return to sender, attempted-not known, unable to forward”. A copy of the Notice is available on the Board’s website at www.elicense.ohio.gov. The notice states that the State Medical Board of Ohio intends to determine whether or not to take action against his license to practice medicine and surgery in Ohio based on the New York Medical Board’s order which revoked his license to practice in that state. Dr. Shelchkov is entitled to a hearing in this matter if such hearing is requested within thirty (30) days of the last date of publication of this notice. Dr. Shelchkov may appear at such hearing in person, by his attorney, or by such other representative permitted to practice before this agency, or he may present his position, arguments or contentions in writing. At the hearing, Dr. Shelchkov may present evidence and examine witnesses appearing for or against him. Please contact the undersigned to ascertain the last date of publication. Any questions or correspondence should be addressed to: Jackie Moore, Case Control Offi ce, 30 E. Broad Street, 3rd Floor, Columbus, OH 43215-6127 Jackie.moore@med.ohio.gov

BY VIRTUE OF AN EXECUTION ISSUED OUT OF THE SUPREME COURT, COUNTY OF QUEENS, in favor of JUDGMENT CREDITOR LESTER KORINMAN KAMRAN & MASINI, P.C. f/k/a LESTER & ASSOCIATES, P.C ., and ROY J. LESTER, and against JUDGMENT DEBTOR VAMEERSHALA DAVIS, to me directed and delivered, I WILL SELL AT PUBLIC AUCTION, by Dennis Alestra DCA# 0840217., auctioneer, as the law directs, FOR CASH ONLY, on the 8th day of FEBRUARY, 2023, at 2:30PM, at the QUEENS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE, 30-10 STARR AVENUE, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101 in the county of

by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Sports Video Group, curator of the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame, held its 2022 induction ceremonies at the New York Hilton last week. As always, the movers and shakers in the sports media were in attendance. The emcee was NBC Sports lead voice and Bayside High School alum Mike Tirico.

Inductee Joe Buck, in his first year doing playby-play on ESPN’s “Monday Night Football,” thanked everyone at his longtime former home, Fox Sports. “I enjoyed calling baseball and the NFL for 28 years. My only regret was hosting ‘Super Bass Fishing.’ That sucked!” The audience, especially his old boss, David Hill, laughed loudly. “It’s going to be the next NASCAR!”

Buck added, doing a spot-on impression of Hill and his inimitable Australian accent

Buck called fellow inductee Terry Bradshaw the heart and soul of Fox Sports. I asked Bradshaw if he was planning to be in more films. He co-starred with Matthew McConaughey, Bradley Cooper and Zooey Deschanel in 2006’s “Failure to Launch.” “I am retired from acting!” he said with his trademark chuckle.

Former HBO Sports President Ross Greenburg received the long-deserved honor. He spent 33 years at HBO and built its sports division into the gold standard. Under his aegis, boxing flourished and Emmys were won, thanks to a slate of

documentaries narrated by Liev Schreiber. He also approved studio shows that appealed to thinking sports fans such as “Inside the NFL” and “Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel.” One “Real Sports” correspondent is former tennis pro an d Douglaston native Mary Carillo, who was in attendance. Other notables on hand were Cris Collinsworth, Troy Aikman and Chris Berman.

I asked Collinsworth if he had to do much preparation for last Sunday’s Giants-Commanders game which had playoff implications. After all, neither team gets many national telecasts. “I have had to get up in the middle of the night and cram three hours in order to become knowledgeable about them,” he admitted.

In a similar vein, I asked Aikman if he is prepared to call Jets and Giants games in 2023 since they have long been banished to the NFL’s Sunday 1 p.m. window. “I’m absolutely looking forward to returning to New York!” he replied.

I talked to Berman about his Car Shield ads. “They’re OK. The good news is the checks haven’t bounced yet!” he said. I then added I missed him calling baseball games because of the sobriquets he gave players. Former Baltimore Orioles John Lowenstein, a pedestrian outfielder, owed him a debt of gratitude. “Tonight, let it be Lowenstein!” he exclaimed. It was a fun nod to the tag line of those 1980s Lowenbrau ads. Q

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