Queens Chronicle South Edition 12-24-20 by Queens Chronicle

C M SQ page 1 Y K SOUTH QUEENS EDITION Serving Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Woodhaven, Richmond Hill, South Ozone Park, City Line and JFK Airport

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER VOL. XLIII

NO. 52

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 24, 2020

QCHRON.COM

SEWAGE SAGA CONTINUES

A SENIOR MOMENT

WE’RE ALMOST THERE

South Ozone residents list demands

Nursing homes receive vaccine priority

Tech offers safe ways to say ‘Happy New Year!’

PAGE 4

PAGES 10, 12 AND 14

SEE qboro, PAGE 23

MATT BINDER SCREENSHOT / TWITTER

N G O C A COVID

Maskless Queens GOP party faces backlash

PAGE 8

A video surfaced Tuesday of the Whitestone Republican Club’s holiday party where its members form a maskless conga line inside a restaurant. It subsequently went viral and earned national attention, prompting Gov. Cuomo, among many other commentators, to criticize the event. Mayor de Blasio said that the city will investigate the incident.

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Stimulus bill assigns $15B for arts, culture Queens groups call funding critical to borough’s, city’s economic recovery by Michael Gannon Editor

he arts and cultural community in Queens is greeting the $15 billion “Save Our Stages” package in the new federal stimulus bill with a combination of relief and frustration. The money, according to the language of the bill, is dedicated to museums, live performance venues and independent movie theaters. “The whole of New York City’s arts community has waited for months for this moment,” said Leonard Jacobs, interim executive director of the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning, in an email to the Chronicle on Tuesday. “The $15 billion set-aside is proof, finally and at long last, that if you really want economic recovery and jobs coming back and a truly thriving city, then you must support culture — and with real dollars, not pennies,” Jacobs said. “We at JCAL are thrilled about the $15 billion. But you know what else? It’s about time.” Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) announced the passage on Twitter. “For indie music venues, Broadway, comedy clubs, indie movie theaters, and more,” Schumer posted. “We secured #SaveOurStages. These are people’s jobs and the lifeblood of

Kambri Crews, founder of QED Astoria, lobbied for the federal stimulus money authorized by Congress to help independent arts and cultural venues. A total of $15 billion has been allocated FILE PHOTO BY KATHERINE DONLEVY in the bipartisan plan that was approved Monday night. communities. I fought for this side-by-side with @SenAmyKlobuchar (D-Minn.) and I won’t stop fighting for them.” QED Astoria was founded by Kambri Crews as a comedy club, a performance venue for theater, poetry and the arts, as well

as a venue for classes. While a number of high-profile venues in western Queens such as The Secret Theatre and The Creek and The Cave have closed due to the pandemic, Crews has been functioning more as a bookstore and gift shop.

“I’ve run a book shop before,” Crews told the Chronicle in a telephone interview. “It’s our lemonade from the lemons we were given.” Crews has been lobbying actively for the Save Our Stages money with the Independent Venues Association. “In Queens, what’s important to us is that the arts are an integral part of the economic ecosystem,” Crews said. “For every dollar you spend, $12 are spent at neighboring businesses. Shops, bars, restaurants, delivery men, Uber drivers win. All benefit. [The funding] is vital, especially in New York City.” Crews also was upbeat about the city’s new Open Arts legislation, introduced by Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) which allows registered venues to use designated outdoor city space for performances. It was passed by the City Council on Dec. 10. “Arts and culture are the lifeblood of our City,” Van Bramer said in a press release issued by the Council. “With the new Open Culture program, artists and art groups can start staging performances – and charge for them – starting March 1. There will be dancing, singing & comedy on the streets bringing joy and jobs to thousands. We need to use our City’s space in new and creative ways to make sure the cultural community can perQ form and create.”

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Sewage backup victims keep up the pressure Lawyers working with the South Ozone Park residents make demands by Max Parrott Associate Editor

The group of lawyers helping the residents of South Ozone Park whose houses were flooded with raw sewage last November are increasing pressure on city Comptroller Scott Stringer to fully reimburse the cost of the incident’s damages. The letter sent by New York Lawyers for the Public Interest, the organization that has been working w it h t he reside nt s pro bono, includes a concrete list of demands that would result in an equitable reimbursement for the disaster. “In particular, we are urging you to review the claim settlement process regarding this crisis, which, in our view, is at odds with both the legal obligations governing the Office of the Comptroller, as well as notions of fundamental fairness,” read the NYLPI letter. Over Thanksgiving in 2019, raw sewage flooded over 100 houses in South Ozone Park, destroying basements and belongings and displacing residents to hotels. In the aftermath, the Comptroller’s Office set up a site in the neighborhood to process residents’ claims. When many of the residents began receiving offers from the Comptroller’s Office in the year after the incident, they said its initial offers did

South Ozone Park residents criticized the comptroller’s claims process in a PHOTO BY MAX PARROTT rally at the end of November. not fully cover their expenses. Others still have not received one. According to a letter the comptroller sent Nov. 24, his office has offered settlements on 85 percent of filed claims, and has settled 60 percent of them. But in its letter NYLPI pointed out that an investigation found the city to be at fault when the cause of the backup was deemed to be a collapsed pipe in the sewer main. The letter argues that given this outcome

the city should be responsible for 100 percent of the damages incurred. One of the affected homeowners, Aracelia Cook, of the 129th Street Civic Association, put together a spreadsheet documenting the initial claims versus offers that over 100 of the residents received. She provided the Chronicle with figures showing that at least 11 residents received thousands of dollars less than they claim they paid in damages — nine of those residents received over

$10,000 less than their claim. NYLPI highlighted a case where a family submitted a claim for approximately $48,000, consisting of $38,000 to repair damages to their home and $10,000 in claims for lost personal items. The comptroller’s initial settlement offer was $11,000, according to the letter, with no explanation as to how that amount was reached. The lawyers said offers have generally been 30 to 50 percent of the amount claimed by residents. “From day one, our office has been working to help residents return to their homes and receive what they are owed. We strive to be as clear and transparent as possible, and we are committed to doing everything in our power to help impacted New Yorkers get back on their feet,” said Hazel CramptonHays, press secret ar y for the comptroller. The Comptroller’s Office claims that it made reasonable offers for damages that could be substantiated, and that it continues to work with claimants to make adjustments on the offer amounts should claimants come forward with additional proof of damages. The lawyers pointed out that a major problem with the settlement offers is that they do not include any explanation for why the comptroller

discounted each claim. Residents told the Chronicle at the end of November that the office did not make it clear they could appeal for more money. Many were confused as to why the Comptroller’s Office gave them a limited window to accept their offers, and felt pressured to accept low offers due to the constraint. Offer letters contained “ominous ‘take it or leave it’ language, putting residents in fear that if they do not accept the low offers within 30 days, they will receive nothing,” read the NYLPI letter. The NYLPI lawyers listed six demands to ameliorate the plight of the South Ozone Park residents, including extending the statute of limitations for claims, accepting late-filed and resubmitted claims, re-evaluating closed claims, settling claims promptly, improving transparency and allowing amendments when additional damages are found. The Comptroller’s Office told the Chronicle Municipal Law does not allow the agency to extend the 90-day time limitation on filing a notice of claim, but added that it will continue to work with homeowners on an ongoing basis to answer questions and address any Q concerns.

Easy as pie; stolen van reclaimed COPCP tracks down Russo Bakery’s delivery vehicle in Ozone Park by Max Parrott For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

When Russo’s Bakery in Maspeth found one of its vans stolen on Monday morning, the owner got in touch with the Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol to keep an eye out for the vehicle. By that evening the COPCP spotted the missing van on Arion Road and 88 Street by Pal Oval baseball field, and guarded it until the police and its owner, Rosanna Russo, were able to retrieve it. A piece of cake for the patrol. The business van was stolen while its driver was making bread deliveries in front of 86-35 Broadway in Elmhurst. Russo initially contacted the COPCP so the group could monitor its Facebook group for information But once they spotted the van on patrol, the COPCP members had to snap into action in order to prevent the perps from taking it again. They found the car running, with two male perps nearby, according to COPCP Vice President Sam Esposito.

The Cityline Ozone Park Civilian Patrol was able to secure a stolen delivery van and chase off the perpetrators until police and the owner could COPCP PHOTOS show up to the scene on Monday night. The patrol immediately called the 106th Precinct and the owner, who raced to the scene. At first the two men first approached the van to drive it away, so Esposito and the volunteers

turned on the lights in their patrol car and parked in front of the van to block it from leaving the scene. In response, the perps ran off. The two men f led before the NYPD

arrived, but Esposito said that he and the other volunteers gathered footage of them that they have given to 106th Precinct to aid them in Q their search.

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Middle school screens eliminated Carranza says the pandemic gave the DOE no other choice for next year by Max Parrott Associate Editor

Mayor de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Richard Carranza announced sweeping changes to the middle and high school admissions process last Friday, a decision they said goes beyond the racial impacts of the current health crisis to try to address longstanding inequities in the way schools are funded. De Blasio announced that starting now, middle schools will implement a one-year pause on admissions screens. The Department of Education will also roll out several changes to the high schools admissions process over the next two years. “I like to say very bluntly, our mission is to redistribute wealth. A lot of people bristle at that phrase – that is in fact the phrase we need to use. We have been doing this work for seven years to more equitably redistribute resources throughout our school system,” de Blasio said at a press event Monday. The move represents the latest attempt to address New York City’s widespread de facto school segregation through the admissions process following mounting calls to do so in recent years. A 2019 report by The New School found that 58 percent of the students in academically screened high schools were black or Hispanic in 2017-18, compared to 65

screened admissions propercent of high school stucess often relies on state dents citywide. exams, which were canAs part of the plan, de celed due to Covid, in Blasio will notably leave in addition to grades and place the Specialized High attendance that do not Schools Admissions Test, a compare to previous years. standardized test used by a According to the Maynumber of the city’s elite or’s Office, 196 middle high schools that became a schools use screens, or catlightning rod of controveregories by which applisy in recent years. He cants are sorted and selectannounced the test will be ed. Those include grades, administered beginning student interviews, assessJan. 27 at students’ middle ments, standardized tests schools, af ter bei ng and attendance. delayed from its usual For the coming year, schedule in the fall. students will list ranked Registration for the test choices on their middle will run from Dec. 21 to school application as they Jan. 15. The announcement drew Mayor de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Carranza announced last Friday that middle always have, and schools strong responses from both schools will eliminate middle school screens for the following year. They will remain that have more applications than seats available sides of the issue. in place for high schools. for their sixth-grade class Jean Hahn Choko, the administrator for the Queens Parents United SHSAT and other screens, called the middle will use a lottery-based system to choose group, which had previously campaigned to school change a “baby step toward integra- candidates. The mayor said that the DOE will evaluate keep screened admissions, encouraged mem- tion” in a statement. At the press event, Carranza explained this pause on middle school screened admisbers to write to their local representatives in that it was the circumstances of the pandemic sions and will make a decision about what to protest of the move. Teens Take Charge, an advocacy group that drove the DOE to alter the admissions do for the following year based on the outthat has called for the elimination of the process immediately for middle schools. The comes of the new approach. The plan also includes a district priority for middle schools that currently have it, as the result of families indicating they want their young children to stay closer to their neighborhood. “But the bottom line is we can never accept a broken status quo. We can never go back to a past that didn’t work,” de Blasio said Monday. High schools will begin to see changes this year too. School district priorities for high school admissions will be permanently eliminated this year, and all other geographic priorities will be eliminated next year. According to the Mayor’s Office, around 250 high schools have some type of district or geographic priority in place such as borough-based priority. But for high schools, academic screens may remain in place where they are currently in use. If a student lists a screened school on his or her high school application, it can use a combination of 2018-19 state tests, the previous years’ grades or other criteria of its choosing. Schools will be required to publicly publish their r ubr ic cr iter ia on MySchools and the ranking process will be cent ralized to ensu re equit y and transparency. Teens Take Charge warned that allowing high schools to continue to screen applicants of flooding on his block on Davenport Court. af ternoon, according to the PlowN YC using their previous year would result in “With a snow like this, compounded with database. “more intense discrimination.” the high tide, it causes a lot of issues,” said Luckily Gendron said the following day that The announcement also included support Gendron. he was able to work with the local Sanitation for five additional districts in securing a That afternoon, Gendron was concerned garage to get all the streets in the neighborgrant to develop a community-led District that the ice chunks, which in some cases were hood cleared and salted as soon as the tide Diversity Plan. District 28 is the sole district big enough to block the road, would freeze cleared in Queens that was set to develop such a overnight. As a result of the flooding, plows “Sanitation has treated us quite fairly in plan but was only engaged in the early staghad trouble accessing 163rd Road, 163rd Hamilton Beach,” he said. es last school year before the pandemic — Max Parrott Drive, 164th Avenue and 164th Road that Q delayed it. PHOTOS BY KELLI BEAUMONT BUTLER, LEFT; BRUCE STOCK / FACEBOOK

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 6

C M SQ page 6 Y K

Snow is tip of the iceberg in Hamilton Beach For Hamilton Beach residents, last week’s snowstorm brought some unique hazards: icebergs. The storm surge combined with some of the highest tides of the month to create flooding with a layer of floating ice chunks in several streets of the neighborhood that lasted through Thursday afternoon. As of 2:30 p.m., New Hamilton Beach Civic Association President Roger Gendron still had about 6 inches

C M SQ page 7 Y K Page 7 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

“for thousands of essential NYC rides in 2020.”

“I’m very empathetic with people. So their pain is my pain.”

For requests, I got a lot of doctors, nurses, and sick people— they go to the hospital.” Riders have shared their stories with Maria throughout COVID-19’s grip on the city, each one experiencing changes to their life. Whether these changes were major or minor, she listened and offered some much-needed support.

Since March, Maria has seen her city like never before. “Manhattan was incredibly empty; nobody was in the street.

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Thank you to Maria and all drivers and delivery people. Read Maria’s story and more on Instagram @uber.

broken down. I told her she is a hero. She is a hero for these people, she does her best. And she is my hero because she gives me a job.” “I feel blessed that at least I can get connected with people. They see something in me, and they open up. It’s beautiful because it’s a connection between both of us.”

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Maria, a driver in New York City, has kept the city moving during the pandemic. Despite her own worries about COVID-19, she has brought positivity to the daily lives of riders. Maria tells us about her experiences during 2020.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 8

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‘Covid conga lines are not smart’ Whitestone Rep. Club’s maskless party attracts widespread attacks by Katherine Donlevy Associate Editor

“I saw the video. Covid conga lines are not smart. That is my official position. Why you would do an unmasked Covid conga line in the middle of a pandemic defies logical explanation,” Gov. Cuomo said Dec. 22 after he was asked about a viral video of the Whitestone Republican Club’s holiday party, which had plenty of dancing but not a lot of masks. The video, circulated on Twitter by journalist Matt Binder, depicts dozens of maskless Republicans dancing to the Bee Gees and ignoring social distancing regulations. Former Assembly District 26 candidate James Martinosky, wielding a hefty Trump flag, leads a conga line before City Council District 19 candidate Vickie Paladino jumps ahead. Only one person in the background of the video can be seen wearing a mask. The video of the Dec. 9 party quickly spread, mostly gaining negative comments. Even film director Judd Apatow, originally from Flushing, publicly addressed the video. “Say hi to Herman Cain,” he tweeted, referencing the former Republican 2012 presidential candidate who died from Covid-19 in July. The widespread interaction prompted an investigation by City Hall — a spokesperson told The New York Times that fines will be

A viral video captured former state Assembly candidate James Martinosky leading a conga line at a Whitestone Republican Club holiday party, which ignited a nationwide discussion and MATT BINDER SCREENSHOT / TWITTER sparked investigations by city and state agencies. distributed and there will be consequences for both the party attendees and Il Bacco, the restaurant that hosted the gala. The Italian establishment is also being investigated by the State Liquor Authority. The Little Neck restaurant made headlines twice this year already. First, in August its owner Joe Oppedisano filed a lawsuit against the city and state in an effort

to end the blanket ban on indoor dining in New York City. Then in October, Oppedisano crashed his seaplane into a Whitestone pier. The accident left him and one passenger injured and a third dead. Despite the online attacks, the GOP club is defending the decision of its members to forgo their masks and to touch one another on the dance floor.

“Yes, we held a holiday party. A good time was had by all,” a Dec. 22 Facebook post read. “We abided by all precautions. But we are not the mask police, nor are we the social distancing police. Adults have the absolute right to make their own decisions, and clearly many chose to interact like normal humans and not paranoid zombies in hazmat suits. This is for some reason controversial to the people who believe it’s their job to tell us all what to do.” In the post, the club asserted their First Amendment right to peacefully assemble, noting that there is no “pandemic clause in the Constitution.” New York State code introduced earlier this year does, however, require all persons to wear a face covering in public, especially when social distancing is not possible, with limited exceptions. Masks can only be removed while inside restaurants when customers are sitting at their table. The post alleged that the comments by “our idiot mayor” and “King Cuomo” were just a hypersensitive response to the “dictatorial authority they crave.” “Make your own calculated decisions, don’t give in to fear or blindly obey the media and politicians, and respect the decisions of others,” it read. Representatives from the Whitestone Republican Club did not respond Q to the Chronicle’s request for comment.

How does ranked-choice voting work? The new system will be in place for the Queens Feb. 2 special election by Max Parrott

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Associate Editor

After a lawsuit to delay ranked-choice voting was blocked in state court last week, the new voting system is on track to be implemented in Queens before anywhere else in the city. When former City Councilman Rory Lancman resigned in November to take a gig as state utilities watchdog, Mayor de Blasio designated Feb. 2 as the date for a special election to fill his 24th District seat. Now, barring any legal appeals, that election will be the first to implement New York City’s ranked choice voting system, which passed as a city charter referendum in 2019. The ruling means that voters will choose their top five choices to carry out Lancman’s term. Shortly after the Council District 24 election, Queens will have another special election to replace former Councilman Donovan Richards after he began his term as borough president. That special election will take place on Feb. 23. Critics, namely Councilwoman Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) and Councilman Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans), have argued that the city won’t be able to educate voters adequately in time for the two coming special elections. Proponents of the system argue that it pro-

motes majority support among winners and cuts down on negative campaigning. Regardless of whether one is in favor of or opposed to the new system, it is set to take effect very soon, so the Queens Chronicle has detailed how process works below. New York City’s ranked-choice system, often called instant runoff voting, permits voters to rank up to five candidates by order of preference. Instead of just choosing one candidate who you want to win, your ballot will indicate a second choice, a third choice and so on for the office sought. Say you feel very strongly about candidate X, so-so about candidate Y and dislike candidate Z. A ranked choice ballot will reflect that order of preference. For the voter, the only things they have to know going into Election Day are which candidates to choose and how to rank them. The system ensures that, except in very rare cases, candidates win by a majority instead of a mere plurality of the votes. A plurality vote or relative majority occurs when a candidate or proposition receives more votes than any other but does not receive more than half of all votes cast. A majority requires more than half of all votes. On election night, if a candidate wins a majority of first-choice votes, then that per-

Ranked choice voting, a process that allows voters to order their preference for up to five candidates, is on track to be implemented in the Feb. 2 special election in Central Queens FILE PHOTO son wins on the spot. But if no candidate gets a majority of first-choice votes, it triggers a counting process, wherein the candidate who received the lowest number of votes is eliminated. Then the candidate’s votes are redistributed to go to the second choice pick on each ballot. The process gets repeated in rounds. The person with the lowest number of votes gets eliminated and that candidate’s votes get redistributed to other candidates that have

been ranked on the ballot until only two candidates are left. At that point the candidate with the most votes between the two is declared the winner. Voters don’t have to rank all five candidates. They can, if they so choose, revert back to the old habit of choosing one candidate. But if a voter does just pick one candidate and it turns out to be the first eliminated, that voter’s preferences will not be reflected in the Q rest of the process.

C M SQ page 9 Y K Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 10

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P Get these miracle vaccines to everyone ASAP

EDITORIAL

AGE

ow fitting that in this season of miracles, we can celebrate the arrival of one that knows no religious or cultural boundaries: the Covid-19 vaccine. Make that vaccines. We so far have two miracle medicines inoculating people against the killer coronavirus, that once-in-a-century horror that has killed so many people we loved and destroyed so much of we had built. Our deepest thanks go to the scientists at Pfizer, BioNTech and Moderna who created the lifesaving elixirs that are just now starting to get to people. The speed with which they created these miracle vaccines is unparalleled in medical history. Now we just need for everyone to take them. There is, unfortunately, an ignorant, loud minority trying to denigrate the vaccines and make absurd assertions about them. It was false to claim 20 years ago that vaccines cause autism, and it’s false to claim today that they contain microchips enabling Bill Gates to keep track of you. Yet this is what some people actually are saying. Most recognize these kinds of outlandish claims for the nonsense they are. In an ABC News/Ipsos poll released last week, 84 percent of Americans said they would take the vaccine, with 40 percent saying they would do so as soon as

they could and 44 percent saying they would wait a while. That’s not too bad considering that only a couple months ago major media outlets and even some political figures were casting doubt on the idea that a safe, effective vaccine could be ready before the end of the year. Only 15 percent said they would not take the vaccine, but as more and more people do, and they show no signs of dropping dead, turning into zombies or following strange orders implanted by Gates directly into their minds, more people will come around. As they must. We don’t expect the government to make the vaccine mandatory, at least not for everyone, but we would hope that just about everyone gets it in the end. That’s what must be done to beat the virus down and keep it down. For some it should be mandatory, starting with healthcare workers. Whether a nurse in a long-term care facility or a doctor with a private office, every medical professional must be inoculated. Others who should be required to get the vaccine include police officers and firefighters. These are public employees who literally have to get in people’s faces on a moment’s notice, often in life or death situations, and we don’t want any further risk of death when that happens. As for the general public, once the vaccines are more

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Dear Editor: I live in your district. I am a parent of 2 children in District 28 at PS 144. I am writing to ask for your help to get the DOE to roll back the lottery admissions plan for middle school admissions. Lotteries are not fair – our education should not be based on luck. Lotteries do not attempt to match students with schools that meet their academic needs. This policy is bad for my family and all students in our district. The DOE got this decision backwards. They say they are making these changes because of Covid. But this is the last thing families need when we’ve already gone through so much with remote learning, delayed admissions information and our own family hardships. Telling children their academic future should be left up to a lottery is insulting. And this lottery is very poorly thought out. No more auditions for performing arts schools? Why? It just seems cruel. All schools should have rigorous academic programming. That is what needs to be fixed. I am asking my elected officials to demand the DOE roll back these changes. Jeffrey Herskovitz Forest Hills © Copyright 2020 by MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. All rights reserved. Neither this newspaper nor any part thereof may be reproduced, copied, or transmitted in any form, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, microfilming, recording or by any information retrieval system without the express written permission of the publishers. This copyright is extended to the design and text created for advertisements. Reproduction of said advertisement or any part thereof without the express written permission of MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC. is strictly prohibited. This publication will not be responsiblefor errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Bylined articles represent the sole opinion of the writer and are not necessarily in accordance with the views of the QUEENS CHRONICLE. This Publication reserves the right to limit or refuse advertising it deems objectionable. The Queens Chronicle is published weekly by Mark I Publications, Inc.at a subscription rate of $19 per year and out of state, $25 per year. Periodicals Postage Paid (USPS0013-572) at Flushing, N.Y. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Mark I Publications, Inc., 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-201, Glendale, NY 11385.

widely available, getting one should be required at least to fly on commercial aircraft. And immunizations must be mandatory for children. Just as measles, mumps and rubella shots are required for school, Covid shots should be. We don’t know how long it will be before anyone can just go and get a vaccine, or how that will look — whether you’ll have to go to a doctor’s office, just stop by Walgreens or go to some mass inoculation event in a venue like an arena — but it can’t come soon enough for us. And maybe it will be earlier than the experts predict, just as the development and approval of the vaccines themselves were. Already we’ve seen unexpected good news like the fact that vials of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine labeled as containing five doses actually have enough for six or seven. That’s as much as a 40 percent increase in the number who can be vaccinated. It also appears that just one shot is enough to offer strong protection against the virus, even without a booster weeks later, though it’s not definite yet. If that is the case, we could double the number of people inoculated in short order and speed up the time line for mass availability of the vaccine. It’s that kind of news that could turn this season of miracles into the truly happy new year we all so desperately crave.

E DITOR

Homeowners hit again Dear Editor: In his letter to the editor (“Doing all I can on sewage,” Dec. 10) city Comptroller Scott Stringer points out that his office “is unable, as a legal matter, to become an adverse party to the city” in assisting those whose homes were impacted by sewage in South Ozone Park. It is nonetheless the case that these victimized working- and middle-class homeowners, who probably pay taxes at a much higher rate than Mr. Stringer and other elites, could not expect the sort of prompt, generous settlements this mayor eagerly granted to other claimants such as the black Fire Department applicants, the Exonerated Five, Jazmine Headley and Al Sharpton’s daughter. Checks and balances dictate that powerful officials like Stringer not hide behind legal niceties to excuse their failure

to lend their voice and prestige to correct this mayor’s selective stinginess. Rather than require these very busy working people of South Ozone Park to jump through all sorts of hoops, the city, lobbied by conscientious officials like Mr. Stringer, might start by refunding these homeowners their disproportionately high property taxes, which they might have expected would at least pay to have a reliable sewage system. Better, the comptroller could call for implementation of the recommendations of the property tax reform commission. No money? Demand defunding NYC Thrive and the first lady’s two speechwriters and staff. Or, if we must defund the police, give the proceeds back to those who pay for them, starting here. As he runs for mayor, Mr. Stringer should be aware NYC is ready for a change in priorities. Edwin Eppich Glendale

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Universal care for NYS Dear Editor: A family member of ours was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy several years ago when he was only in his 30s. He was receiving treatment for this condition when he lost his job and his health insurance. He went without medical care for five years until the VA began admitting veterans without service-related injuries but who have low incomes. By the time he received medical attention, his condition had greatly worsened and he required a pacemaker. He has received good care and is now doing well. He gets affordable medications through the VA pharmacy. He is among the fortunate as many others continue to fall through the

Biden by the numbers Dear Editor: Joe Biden has repeatedly said: 1) I am not a socialist. I beat the socialists in the Democratic primary. 2) I am not for Medicare for All. 3) I am not for the Green New Deal. 4) I will not ban fracking — except on federal lands. 5) I am not for defunding or abolishing the police. 6) Looters and rioters should be arrested and prosecuted. 7) I will be president of all Americans, not just the people who voted for me. And yet many Republicans, far-right journalists and all Fox News opinion hosts label Joe Biden a “far-left, radical socialist,” who will be controlled by socialist radicals like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (even though over the span of four nights of the Democratic Convention, AOC was accorded a total of 60 seconds in speaking time). They ignore that Joe Biden has made these statements over and over and that he has had a 48-year political career never indicating that he is a socialist. How do these far-right radicals live with themselves? Robert Vogel Bayside

Trump by the numbers Dear Editor: Here are five gems that will become the hallmarks of Donald Trump’s pathetic presidency! 1) Service men who gave their lives in combat were … losers. 2) Who the hell would ever want to live in Baltimore? 3) He stole 628 children from Latino parents seeking safety in America. 4) He withdrew the United States from the Paris Climate Accords because it was designed to destroy the United States. 5) Joe Biden is the Trojan horse to socialism — maybe communism. A final thought. When Mr. 45 vacates the White House, will court action send him to the big house? Anthony G. Pilla Forest Hills

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Dear Editor: Re: “It Was Bad Before, Now It’s Worse” (Nov. 12, p. 15), I was startled to encounter a public figure’s casual insult to the dignity, decency and innocence of people with a psychiatric condition — in a story on store owners’ complaint about being fined for not complying with “No Mask. No Service” recommendations. In the story Mark Gjonaj, chairman of the Council’s Commission on Small Business, reported that the “No Mask. No Entry” policy is hard for shopkeepers to enforce. I understand this. Mr. Gjonaj continued, “there have been attacks on people who are demanding masks be worn ... You tell someone with mental illness that they can’t enter because they don’t have a face mask. Let’s see how far that gets you.” What does this comment imply about mentally ill people? Doesn’t the comment about “someone with mental illness,” next to the mention of “attacks on people,” imply that store owners are at risk for an assault by a mentally ill person? As the sister of a wonderful, psychiatrically disabled brother, the implication that he is a menace to society is unacceptable to me and our family. Mr. Gjonaj’s comment reinforces the myth that people with mental illness are violence-prone. This myth stigmatizes mentally ill persons. Research shows that mentally ill people are no more violent than others, and are more likely to be targets of violence than perpetrators. Store owners are more at risk for unpleasantness from nonmentally ill people than from someone with mental illness. Consider Staten Islanders’ belligerence when protesting a bar’s closing due to the pandemic. Chances are those protesters in Staten Island were mostly nonmentally ill. Likewise, the reported attacks on Queens store owners may in fact have been perpetrated mostly by nonmentally ill people. Chairman Gojnaj, may I propose your leading a project to supply store owners with masks to give away to customers? Imagine store personnel greeting prospective customers with a smile and friendly offer of a FREE mask. Irresistible! A storefront mask giveaway campaign could prove to be a popular public health service that protects customers and promotes business at the same time. Nora Weinerth Co-founder and co-chair, National Stigma Clearinghouse Rego Park

cracks, with incomes too low to afford insurance and medical care, but not low enough to qualify for Medicaid. New York needs to lead the way with a universal healthcare system. The coronavirus pandemic has made this more important than ever. People have lost jobs, and with those jobs often goes their health insurance. If they become ill, they may delay seeking medical care, leading to a further spread of the virus. Even some of those who are insured may find themselves unable to afford the medications and potential hospital care needed to treat the virus due to high copayments and deductibles. We can expect high death rates, especially among those who already have serious health concerns. We need a plan that covers all New York residents, regardless of employment or immigration status. We need the New York Health Act now! Charles and Sandra Gowing Syracuse, NY

Now, it is worse...

E DITOR

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 12

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OPINION

A moment in time: Why I agreed to be vaccinated year. This vaccine by Dr. Yves Duroseau There are many moments that define a offers an opportuniperson’s life and career, and one of mine ty to end this long, came a mere two weeks ago, when I was painful journey. It’s asked if I could play a part in the first step our most powerful weapon yet in this to ending the deadly Covid-19 pandemic. Sure, as chief of emergency medicine fight, and provides a at Lenox Hill Hospital on Manhattan’s chance of returning Upper East Side, I’ve worked alongside to whatever “northose who have saved countless lives to mal” will be in the this devastating illness. But this was dif- months to come. We ferent. To receive the vaccine during a need to all participate in this final stage. press conference viewed by millions It’s paramount to our safety and to our across the United States would perhaps communities. So, I encourage you to do make even the strongest-willed a little your homework, research these vaccines skittish. Yet, it was an opportunity I like I did and trust the groundbreaking science behind them. couldn’t turn down. Pfizer’s and Moderna’s vaccines, which My answer was an immediate “yes.” And I joined Sandra Lindsay, an intensive both soon will be available to frontline care nurse at Long Island Jewish Medical caregivers and nursing home residents, Center in Queens, as the first in the nation work on technology that has been in develto receive Pfizer Inc.’s Covid-19 vaccine. opment for 10 years, when researchers The media captured the moment and was realized messenger RNA (mRNA) could quick to ask why we volunteered. Having advance medications and vaccines by been on the front lines of the pandemic, stimulating a protein response in your witnessing the worst this disease can immune system. To make it clear, it does offer, my decision was primarily for me, not inject Covid-19 into you. You will not my family and my colleagues who day in get the virus from getting inoculated. These vaccines have been tested rigorand day out worked feverishly to save ously and reviewed by lives and keep people some of the nation’s top safe. We’ve been waitscientists and doctors. ing for this moment for a very long time. y volunteering was In New York State, Gov. Cuomo formed his To me, this moment about more than own panel (on which a was about more than Nor thwell physician just being among the getting the shot; was seated) to also first people in the Unitreview the drug before ed States to get the vacit was sending a making it available. c i n e a f t e r fe d e r a l message of hope. As we administer approval — this was t he vacci ne t o ou r sending a message of f r o n t l i n e wo r k e r s , hope to our families and communities, who like me, lost so Northwell is also monitoring everyone much during the past 10 months. This receiving the vaccine to ensure its safety could end the sorrow and pain, a true as time progresses. So far, the health syschance to change the coronavirus’ over- tem has vaccinated 2,000 of our bravest healthcare heroes. There will be more, whelming course. Covid-19 has left an indelible mark on and your time will come soon. As encouraging as this latest developNew York, especially communities of color. I saw that at Lenox Hill, in my ment is, we must also know that the vachometown of Brooklyn and in Queens, cine alone is not our immediate savior where I now live with my wife and chil- from this awful pandemic. It is imperadren. We were hit the hardest by this cri- tive for us to remain vigilant in doing our sis. And as a father and husband, my first part to slow the spread of this deadly job is to keep them safe. As a clinician, virus. That means we need to continue to I’ve dedicated my career to laying it on the wash hands, wear our masks and maintain social distancing — a very difficult line and helping others. This is what I do. Covid-19 has shown it doesn’t care task for this time of year, I know. But as disappointing as this may be for about boundaries or professions. It attacks humanity. And my family — a the holiday season, we must remember generation of Haitian immigrants — is that we are ending the year with a true still mourning the loss of a dear uncle gift — a true shot of hope at ending this Q who passed away from the disease. pandemic for good. Dr. Yves Duroseau is Chair of EmerAnother relative is currently hospitalized gency Medicine at Lenox Hill Hospital and fighting the illness. We all have personal impacts of the last and a resident of Kew Gardens.

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The Howard Beach carolers gave out local business gift cards that residents had donated to HOWARD BEACH LINDENWOOD CIVIC ASSOCIATION PHOTOS help struggling restaurants.

Carolers spread cheer to local biz Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic sets up gift card drive for restaurants by Max Parrott Associate Editor

The Howard Beach Lindenwood Civic Association spread some cheer as well as some gift cards to local businesses Monday night when its members and their children hit the streets of the Howard Beach area singing Christmas carols. In order to help support local restaurants which are being affected by the pandemic restrictions, the civic organized a drive prior to

the caroling adventure, where residents donated a gift card to a local restaurant. They were able to raise $700 worth of cards. The civic then surprised some local residents by giving out the cards. In return, the members asked recipients to pay it forward by performing a random act of kindness. It didn’t have to be anything huge, just something to make someone smile. The civic divided up the gift cards for each section of the neighborhood: New Howard Beach, Lindenwood, Old Howard and Hamilton Beach. The carolers first met at the PS 207 schoolyard, and covered the neighborhood before ending back in Rockwood Park. The civic is also holding a series of winter activities during January. On Jan. 8, it will host a snowman virtual paint night. On Jan. 15, it will host a virtual scavenger night. On Jan. 22 it will host a virtual “Name That Tune,” night. On Jan. 29, it will host a fire and ice kickoff. For more information on the events, visit Q the civic association’s Facebook page.

New bill to add voter turnout Gov. Cuomo signed the New York Automatic Voter Registration Act of 2020 Tuesday, allowing New Yorkers to automatically apply to become voters when they fill out forms for other services. Agencies such as the State University of New York, Department of Motor Vehicles and the Labor and Health departments will be able to send information provided on applications for government licenses and services to the state Board of Elections for voter registration. The legislation was sponsored by state Sen. Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria) and

A s s e m b l y wo m a n L a t r i c e Wa l k e r (D-Brooklyn). “Access to the ballot box should be easy and fair, and enacting Automatic Voter Registration will go a long way towards improving voter participation,” Gianaris said in a statement. The DMV will come online in 2023, followed by the Department of Health, Department of Labor and the Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance in 2024. The State University of New York will Q come online in 2025.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 14

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MTA gets $4 billion in DC stimulus bill MTA’s Foye says draconian service cuts, layoffs are averted — for now by Michael Gannon Editor

New York State and people and agencies residing here will receive more than $54 billion from the new stimulus package that passed in the House of Representatives and U.S. Senate Monday night. But none was being sought more vociferously by elected officials as the $4 billion that now is slated for the Metropolitan Transportation Authority. MTA Chairman Patrick Foye was nothing if not direct Monday in the transcript of an interview with WCBS Radio provided by the agency. “The MTA will get for 2021 deficit over $4 billion ... and that will put us in a position where we won’t have to dramatically drastically cut back service on subways and buses, the Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North, and lay off 10,000 of our colleagues,” Foye said. “It’s really great news. Foye in all interviews since Sunday has been quick to praise the work of Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY). But Schumer, in a statement from his office, said the overall $900 billion package must represent only a beginning. “Clearly there is more to be done — this is not a stimulus — this is a SURVIVAL bill, and we will fight for more relief under President Biden, because the crisis is not over.”

Foye, speaking with WCBS, agreed, $4 billion to keep buses, subways, comat least when it comes to the MTA, which muter rail and paratransit running,” Plum he said will need another $8 billion to said. cover projected losses due to still-lack“Riders organized all across the luster ridership numbers. region and nation and won a reprieve “We will need an additional $8 billion from devastating cuts. Our federal reprein federal support in ’22, ’23, ’24 for the sentatives now know that there is no aggregate deficits in those years and in recovery without transit.” Plum also said those years, everything has to be on the there is a need for long-term funding table in terms of being able to solve that once the Biden administration is in place. deficit,” Foye said. “But for next year In regard to the borough’s two airgreat news for MTA customers and ports, Kyle Bragg, president of 32BJ employees: There’ll be no drastic service SEIU, said in an emailed statement that cuts and no layoffs of 10,000 people.” he was pleased that the aviation compoFoye said ridership decline still nent contains $1 billion to keep contractremains worse than during the Great ed airport workers — such as airplane Depression. cabin cleaners, terminal wheelchair oper“So we’re carrying nearly 3 million Congress has tossed the Metropolitan Transportation Author- ators and others — from being displaced. passengers between subways and buses ity a temporary $4 billion lifeline. FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON But he too, said more needs to be but that compares to 7.5, 7.6 million in done, particularly given the billions given the pre-pandemic time,” he said. “We’ve to the airlines. cuts and fare hikes would leave our transit syscome a long way but we’ve got a long way to go tem a hollow shell of itself. Transit as we know it “Essential workers, including frontline conin ridership.” tracted airport workers, need both health and will cease to exist.” Nick Sifuentes, executive director of Tri-State Riders Alliance Executive Director Betsy safety provisions and job protection in any stimTransportation Campaign, also was sounding Plum said the effort to save mas transit took a ulus package that moves through Congress,” hopeful in a statement from the organization. Bragg said. huge step forward. “The MTA has been decimated by the panHe also said the new extended unemployment “In a harsh political climate, our transit demic and the resulting drop in ridership as New champions Sen. Schumer, Rep. [Hakeem] Jef- benefits “are crucial but they should have been York City shut down,” Sifuentes said. “Unless fries (D-Brooklyn and Queens), and their col- larger and made available sooner to deal with the agency receives billions in stimulus funds, leagues in the New York delegation held strong the widespread suffering so many Americans Q our subways and buses are at risk — massive and delivered real relief for riders — more than are experiencing during this crisis.”

Hope on the horizon for nursing homes Six-weeks-long vaccination process for New York seniors began Dec. 21 by Katherine Donlevy

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Associate Editor

For Parker Jewish Institute for Health Care and Rehab, which suffered the second-highest nursing home Covid-19 death rate in the state, there’s finally a light at the end of the tunnel. The adult care facility, along with hundreds of others throughout New York, began administering the coronavirus vaccine Dec. 21 to its residents and staff. “We are extremely optimistic about the vaccine,” President and CEO Michael Rosenblut said in a statement. “We are confident that the vaccine, with its efficacy rate of 95 percent, will mitigate the spread of COVID19 and ensure the safety and well-being of our most vulnerable population. The COVID-19 vaccine offers a ray of hope in that it may enable families to finally reunite in-person.” The facility is one of 170 in New York City and 618 across the state to begin its vaccination journey. A state Department of Health representative confirmed that all currently operating nursing homes in New York are enrolled in the federal Pharmacy Partnership for Long-Term Care Program, through which CVS, Walgreens and other select pharmacies will vaccinate residents and staff in nursing homes, similarly to how they administer flu shots. Each individual will receive two doses

of the vaccine and all shots within each facility are expected to be administered within six weeks of its first dose. The virus hit nursing homes hard, killing as many as 7,500 state residents as of Dec. 20, which accounts for about 20 percent of New York’s total virus death toll. Queens has seen as many as 968 of its residents succumb to the novel virus since March. Because of their vulnerability, seniors in nursing home facilities and their staff have been included in the phase one vaccine rollout. High-risk hospital workers, such as emergency room workers, ICU staff and Pulmonary Department staff, will also be among the first to receive the vaccine, as followed by all long-term and congregate care residents and staff, EMS workers, other healthcare workers, coroners and medical examiners. “We’re now talking about who’s getting vaccinated, and let me be clear: There is no politics in the vaccination process,” Cuomo said Monday, promising that the priority guidelines will be strictly enforced and that the wealthy and celebrities will not be entitled to cut the line. At a press conference Dec. 15, city Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dave Chokshi confirmed Mayor de Blasio’s statement that phase one, or vaccinating nursing home residents and

Michael Rosenblut, Parker Jewish Institute of Heath Care and Rehab president and CEO, received the Covid-19 vaccine Monday, Dec. 21, the first day vaccinations for nursing home resiPHOTO COURTESY PARKER JEWISH INSTITUTE dents and staff across the state were rolled out. staff and frontline workers, will take up the remainder of December and most likely the entirety of January. “And then we’ll start expanding the circle out after that,” Chokshi said, adding that the timeline for when the vaccine will reach the general public depends on its supply and

availability. “We’re hoping by mid-2021 is when we would be able to vaccinate everyone in New York who wants it.” As of Dec. 22, over 22,300 doses have been administered to city residents with as many as 274,200 being federally reserved Q and more on the way.

C M SQ page 15 Y K Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

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Council races in ’21 — and ’23 — and ’25 The winners of next year’s elections will serve two-year terms, not four by David Russell

of the 1989 New York City Charter Revision Commission. He said if the elections were only in 2021 Dozens of candidates in the borough are campaigning for City Council runs in 2021, but and 2025, it would mean two extra years of peobecause of a section in the City Charter the ple living in districts “out of proportion.” The revision isn’t done every 10 years winners will only serve a two-year term. “I think this is going to be a surprise to a lot because 2033 elections, for example, don’t have of voters as well as candidates,” said Brian the same redistricting issues as an election closer to the start of a decade. This won’t Browne, executive director for university occur again until 2041. relations, assistant vice president for “We didn’t do this for the legislagovernment relations and a political tors, we did this for the public, to science professor at St. John’s make sure that one person, one University. vote would matter with respect to More elections will be held in these council districts,” Lane said, 2023 for two-year terms before adding, “It costs more money but returning to four-year terms in the there’s a principle behind it, a demo2025 elections. Citywide election 2021 cratic principle.” winners including mayor, public advoOnly 16 of the 51 councilmembers are up for cate and comptroller will still operate with fourre-election. Browne said something political year terms. In the late 1980s, a charter revision commis- insiders will be watching for is who the next sion decided that every 20 years the winners of speaker of the Council will be. “I don’t think there’s any real indicator of City Council seats would serve two-year terms as a result of redistricting that takes place fol- that because you’re going to have such a whole new crop of members,” he said. lowing census counts every 10 years. There are similarities between the 2001 and New district lines would be put into place in 2021 election years. Nearly twenty years ago, 2022 or 2023. “The whole goal of this was to try to have the city saw a new mayor, comptroller, public the best way for the new redrawn one person, advocate, four borough presidents and twoone vote lines to square up with the elections,” thirds of the City Council take office, in part said Eric Lane, executive director and counsel because of recently enacted term limits. Associate Editor

eens votes u Q

See what phase you are in for the vaccine by David Russell

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Associate Editor

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released recommendations last Sunday for who should be included in phases 1B and 1C of Covid vaccine distribution. Phase 1B would be for people ages 75 and older and frontline essential workers, including firefighters, police, teachers, food and agriculture workers, corrections workers, U.S. Postal Service workers, public transit workers and grocery store workers, among others. Phase 1C includes people ages 65 to 74, people ages 16 to 64 with high-risk medical conditions and other essential workers, including transportation workers, food service, finance and media, among others. Long-term care facility residents and healthcare personnel were included in Phase 1A. Gov. Cuomo said Monday “we follow federal advice” on the phases. Cuomo said 38,000 people in New York State have been vaccinated. “We have already distributed more

Phase 1B of Covid vaccine distribution would include people ages 75 and older and frontline essential workers. FILE PHOTO vaccines and our hospitals have vaccinated more people than any state in the nation,” he said. Cuomo said the state expects to have received 630,000 doses by this week. He said priority populations will expand, including federally qualified health center workers, EMTs, coroners, medical examiners, miners, funeral home workers, and other congregate care workers Q and residents.

Because of census-related redistricting, voters will cast ballots for City Council candidates in FILE PHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN 2021, 2023 and 2025. Some seats will see a special election, a priThe Council had to work on the city recovering months after 9/11. The Council coming into mary and a general election. “It gets crazier when you have to run three office in 2022 will be working with a new times in one year,” Weprin said. mayor and comptroller on Covid recovery. There are more than 300 City Council candi“I give them a lot of credit because I know what they’re up against,” said state Sen. Joe dates running in 2021. Amy Loprest, executive director of the city’s Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach), who was elected to the Council in 2001. “They have to hit the Campaign Finance Board, said the 2023 redisground running. It’s no ‘one toe into the pool.’ tricting election will give voters an opportunity to elect leadership that reflects the city’s evolvThey’re getting thrown in.” Addabbo won re-election in 2003 and again ing demographics. “The improvements to the public campaign in 2005, serving a four-year term. “I was much more focused when you have financing program have drawn many new canthat four-year term because you can really just didates into city politics for the 2021 elections,” she said in a statement to focus on work and watchthe Chronicle. “We anticiing your projects move pate there will be similar along as opposed to always hey have to hit the enthusiasm in 2023 and the thinking about the next ground running. CFB will be ready to help campaign or fundraising,” prepare.” he said. It’s no ‘one toe into candidates Addabbo and Weprin Ad d a b b o g r e w u p said there will be a lot of watching his father, who the pool.’” learning on the fly. “You served two-year terms in have to find out where the Congress. — State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. bathroom is, where things “I always, as a kid, would wonder why we only went on vacation in go, how do you call commissioners? And you odd years,” he said, later realizing that in the learn real quick knowing it’s a two-year term,” Addabbo said. even years, he was running for re-election. Weprin has advice for the winners who will “It’s the same thing I do now with my famiserve two-year terms. ly,” Addabbo said. “Try to hit the ground running,” he said. Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows) was another member elected to the “Try to do good constituency service from the beginning and the sooner you accomplish Council for the first time in 2001. Q “The hard one is always the first one,” he things, the better it is for running again.” said. “The second one is always easier. If you get elected in ’21, there’s a good chance you’ll get elected in ’23. You’re an incumbent, you served for two years. It’s that much easier than if you were running for the first time.” Weprin said there is more pressure because incoming members won’t have four years to The city’s Department of Transportation build a record before running for re-election. has announced that alternate side of the “Sometimes that’s the nature of the beast,” street parking regulations for street cleaning he said, adding, “You deal with the hand that’s have been suspended through Saturday, dealt to you.” Dec. 26 because of ongoing snow removal Addabbo said social media means constitu- operations. ents want answers quicker than ever. All other regulations, including parking “You can’t be inaccessible at this point,” he meters, remain in effect with the exception said, adding, “It’s a roller coaster. They better of Christmas Day, Friday, Dec. 25, when Q be prepared. Strap yourself in.” meter requirements are suspended.

“T

Alternate side regs suspended thru Sat.

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Adams says new regs support essential employees; business community differs by Michael Gannon Editor

The City Council last week passed two measures aimed at protecting the jobs of fastfood workers. A measure sponsored by Councilwoman Adrienne Adams (D-Jamaica) prohibits fastfood restaurants from terminating employees or reducing their hours absent economic reasons, such as the full or partial closing of the restaurant, or technological or organizational changes brought on by a reduction in sales or profits. The Adams measure also requires layoffs to take place based on seniority, with the last hired being the first fired. Councilman Brad Lander (D-Brooklyn) sponsored the bill that would require just cause for termination in writing, such as failure to perform the job’s duties or misconduct. The bills are aimed at chains with 30 or more locations. Both had the backing of Mayor de Blasio and Speaker Corey Johnson (D-Manhattan), and will take effect 180 days after they are signed into law. Adams, writing on Twitter, said fast-food workers, who performed physically demanding work before the Covid-19 outbreak now are essential workers who are putting their health at risk. “Getting fired without just cause should

Councilwoman Adrienne Adams sponsored one of two bills aimed at protecting fast-food FILE PHOTO BY MAX PARROTT workers’ jobs. not be something any New Yorker has to be afraid of, let alone those who have been deemed essential workers during the pandemic,” Adams said in a statement issued by the Council. “The majority black, brown and immigrant fast-food workers have been forgotten about for far too long,” she added. “I’m proud to have championed just cause legislation and

Teaching students to be endent independent ers thinkers felong and lifelong ers. learners.

I’m proud to celebrate our victory today in creating a workplace solution that will address the systemic racism and economic injustice.” While Adams’ statement did include a reference to jobs being impacted by technological advances, her office did not respond prior to the Chronicle’s deadline when asked if the councilwoman is concerned that the bills might cause restaurant owners to introduce more automation. BJ32 SEIU, a union which represents some fast-food workers, applauded the bills’ passage on Twitter. “These bills are life changing for our fellow 67,000 fast-food workers, primarily Black and Brown workers, from unfair firings & hour reductions. Thank you @NYCCouncil for passing #JustCause protections!” Lander, too, emphasized the greater importance and burdens that have been placed on fast-food workers since Covid-19 struck. “Fast-food workers have been on the frontlines of this pandemic, serving their neighbors, working in tight quarters, taking on new responsibilities for sanitizing, and yet often unable to speak up about health and safety issues for fear of losing their jobs,” he said in the Council’s statement. “These workers, the majority of whom are women and young people of color, have

fought hard for years to raise wages and demand workplace protections,” Lander added. In press releases issued by the Save NYC Business Coalition, a number of business leaders from throughout the city voiced their objections. Melissa Fleischut, president and CEO of the New York State Restaurant Association, called the laws outrageous and unacceptable, calling them “completely out of touch with the grim reality for restaurants right now. “How can a City Council that recognizes restaurants as ‘COVID-impacted businesses’ turn around and subject them to fines, costly arbitration, or lawsuits any time they have to let an employee go?” Fleischut asked. “We are not talking about wrongful termination, which is already illegal. We’re talking about singling out a sector and trampling on their atwill employment rights under state law.” Tom Grech, president and CEO of the Queens Chamber of Commerce, was similarly disenchanted with the legislation. “A trifecta of bad decisions and illinformed reasoning: indoor dining shutdowns, no Federal aid via the long-promised RESTAURANTS Act of 2020 and now punitive measures by those who have neither missed a paycheck nor worried about medical Q benefits,” Grech said.

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Page 17 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Council passes fast-food job protections

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 18

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Unauthorized pit crew charged with theft: DA Allegedly stole $42K in rims, tires by Katherine Donlevy Associate Editor

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T h ree men have been busted after allegedly stripping cars of their tires and rims in the dead of night for six months, Queens District At t or ney Mel i nd a K at z announced. “Under the cover of darkness, and armed with car jacks and lug wrenches, these defendants allegedly stole tires and rims from more than a dozen cars. This kind of thievery costs car owners Tire and rim thefts plagued Queens over the past year. Three thousands of dollars, but this alleged perpetrators were charged by the Queens district attorcrew is now officially out of ney for the crime Dec. 17. FILE PHOTO BY PETER MASTROSIMONE business,” she said in a Dec. Another officer later reviewed Pacheco’s 17 statement. Jonathan Pacheco of Corona was identi- cell phone location information, which fied as the main defendant, and had fled to placed him at the scene of one of his thefts Pennsylvania when it became known that he during the hours surveillance cameras was wanted by police. He was apprehended caught an individual taking four tires and and extradited to Queens earlier in the week. rims from a 2019 Honda Civic Sport on Pacheco worked alongside Fabian Rodri- Dec. 12, 2019 in Floral Park. Katz said Pacheco participated in at least guez of Corona and Jacob Martinez of Brooklyn to rob car owners of approximately 14 thefts. He was arraigned Dec. 17 and $42,000 worth of tires and rims between charged on three complaints charging him with auto stripping in the first degree, crimiNovember 2019 and May 2020. The alleged crimes began Nov. 7, 2019 nal possession of stolen property in the when Pacheco stole all four tires and rims fourth degree and grand larceny in the from a 2019 Honda Civic near 233rd Street fourth degree. He’ll return to court Feb. 11. in Oakland Gardens just past midnight. He If convicted, he faces up to 7 years in prison. Rodriguez was also charged with the then propped up the car on milk crates for the owner to find the next morning, all of same crimes, while Martinez with the latter two. They’re set to return to court Feb. 18 which was caught on video surveillance. Katz said the ring of thieves continued and 4, respectively, and face up to 7 and 4 the crimes in a variety of neighborhoods years in prison. Thefts of entire cars have increased 68 over the six-month stretch, striking Bellerose, Hollis, Forest Hills, Middle Village, percent in the last year — there have been Fresh Meadows, Flushing, Ozone Park, 8,635 reported grand larceny auto cases in Richmond Hill, Glendale, Jamaica Hills, the city thus far in 2020, compared to 5,430 in 2019. About 28 percent have occurred in Bayside, Maspeth and Rego Park. According to the complaint, an undercov- Queens. An officer from the 107th Precinct er officer met with and purchased Honda said that all three men were released without Q bail pending their next court date. rims from Pacheco in early 2020.

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Elmhurst site was constantly cited by the DOB, according to records by Michael Shain Chronicle Contributor

Fire marshals are investigating a blaze that killed three men in Elmhurst early last Saturday morning, including reports that several men were trapped inside by locked gates. The fire department believes there were eight people in the house at 90-31 48 Ave., a property that had been illegally subdivided, according to Department of Buildings records. Two died on the second floor and one was on the third. A body had to be slid out the window onto an FDNY cherry picker because the staircases were no longer passable after the roof collapsed. One fireman was injured when he fell through the floor. The New York Post reported that FDNY investigators believe it was an electrical fire. Gustavo Escubero, a former super of the building, said a new landlord showed up in January and tried to force people out, cutting gas and water. He said most of the tenants left but around 10 stayed. Escubero lived in a studio apartment on the first floor, while the rest of the space was divided into 10 rooms. When the utilities were turned off, he moved two doors down. He said one victim probably couldn’t get out because the previous landlord put bars up in front of the sliding doors that led to the second floor balcony.

A body is taken down in an FDNY cherry picker after a fire in Elmhurst killed three people on SatPHOTO BY MICHAEL SHAIN urday morning. “The previous landlord, he divided up all the rooms, very very small rooms,” Escubero said. “No windows, very narrow, he broke apartment building rules. The basement and the floors had 10 people on each one.” The site was hit with more than 20 viola-

tions in the last decade. Two years ago, there was a fine for converting the building from a one- to two-family house into one that would accommodate four or more families, DOB records show. Escubero said one of the men who died lived

Dave A. Chokshi, MD, MSc Commissioner

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right next to the window but the previous owner didn’t give him the key to the sliding door. “They would just sit there and look out the window when they needed fresh air ... I would ask him, doesn’t it give you claustrophobia to not be able to leave and he said yes, of course,” he said. “Someone died because of that window.” He added, “The situation got bad but the truth is these people just didn’t want to leave.” Councilman Danny Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) said his heart goes out to the residents of the building. “It is outrageous that the property owner raked up $217,000 in fines for illegally subdividing most of the property and reportedly ignored a partial vacate order,” he said in a statement. “Elmhurst has been plagued by unscrupulous landlords who habitually flout the law to fatten their wallets.” Dromm said he will meet with city agencies and colleagues to address the issue. “I will do all that is in my power to ensure that the property owner is held accountable for his malfeasance,” Dromm said. “Slumlords, you have been put on notice.” A neighbor, who wouldn’t give a name, said the bank had foreclosed on the property and that it’d been sold to a new owner last January. City records show the building was sold to Q an LLC for $1.2 million.

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Troubled building burns, killing three

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 20

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The year in pictures

Early voting for president in October brought out huge crowds, above. At York College in Jamaica, voters scrambled for room to fill out their ballots.

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL SHAIN

Just after schools reopened in September, Gov. Cuomo ordered a shutdown in Forest Hills following a neighborhood spike in Covid rates, above left. In June, young protesters gathered at the shuttered Queens Center mall. Several windows were broken and trash cans tossed around.

YEAR IN REVIEW

2020 For the latest news visit qchron.com

See the stories starting next week.

When air travel shut down last March, it cleared the way for the $8-billion rebuilding of LaGuardia Airport to finish without interruption. A new Departures and Arrivals Hall opened in early June, followed by a new Terminal B Concourse in late July. Only a handful of travelers, though, have seen the results, due to the length of the pandemic. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Michael Shain

The pandemic pushed thousands of families in Queens into food insecurity. Crowds stood in line at a food pantry in Ozone Park last October, above.

In Middle Village, above, progressive protesters went face-to-face with demonstrators at a pro-cop rally in Juniper Valley Park. A summer rain shower broke up the confrontation. Beloved Queens character Luke Gasparre, far left, a World War II vet who moonlighted as an usher for the Mets for 55 years, died in February. He was 95. In Woodhaven, Mayor de Blasio, near left, helped save Neirâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tavern, the oldest saloon in the city, from closing last January.

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Winners of HB Dads Light Fight announced by Max Parrott Associate Editor

The Howard Beach Dads Facebook group made its first year organizing the Christmas Light Fight contest a sparkling success, with dozens of houses across the neighborhood signing up to participate. But sadly not everyone can be a grand prize winner. In this context there can only be two — both of which attracted much attention on social media for their extravagant, but very different, approaches to light displays. Those two winners are Mike Giglio at 102-24 Rau Court and Tony Modafferi at 9703 165 Ave. Both families will win $250 in Lindenwood Food Emporium gift cards.

That’s not to say they were the only winners. The most original award went to the Saputo family at 163-18 91 St. for its “Christmas Story” mannequin display. They will receive $100 to Lavilla and $50 to Stacks by Shell. There were 13 other award winners in the contest, not to mention the residents and visitors who won the gift of Christmas spirit as offered by the neighborhood’s decorations. The winners include Destefano family, who won $100 to House of Holidays; the Strelnick family who won a $100 Stella Dot gift card; the Conter family who won $50 to Battaglia Skin Clinic and $50 to Mist Kiss Air Brush; the Magliulo family who won $100 to House of Holidays; the Gianuzzi family who won $100 to House of Holidays; the Caputo fami-

THIS HOLIDAY,

pay it forward

Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

During the inaugural year of the Christmas Light Fight, the Howard Beach Dads awarded three main prizes. Michael Giglio’s display, left, and Tony Modafferi’s, right, both won the grand prize. PHOTOS COURTESY HOWARD BEACH DADS The Saputo family won the most original award.

ly who won $100 to Gino’s; the Spedaleri family who won $100 to Amazon; the Schmidt family who won $50 Visa from the Hilton; the Janowitz family who won a $100 Party and Play gift card; the Kurz family who won a $50 Mia Bella Laser gift certificate; the Siano family who won a $50 Bae gift card; the Dinapoli family who won a $75 Bougies gift card; and Ilise Reilly and the block who won a Bagel Barista gift card. In addition to the main event, the Dads held pop-up contests during the week as well, in which winners were also given prizes donated by local establishments, including Health Bay, Marlowe Jewelers, Empanadas on the Rise, J&M Chocolate Q Shop, Josie and Jade Boutique and Divino Pizzeria.

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Nominate a non-profit in our community. Five winners will each receive a $1,500 award! Then, each winner will select another local charity and MFS will award those charities with $500 each.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 22

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Defense has struggled but Johnnies snap skid Mike Anderson-coached teams are often defensive-minded, and he was obviously displeased when he watched his Johnnies give up 90 points in consecutive losses. “We are still trying to get the ‘blue collar’ out of our basketball team,” he said following a 94-76 loss to Creighton last Thursday. “Our guys last year, they took pride in their defense. Truth be told, we have got some of the same guys and we just need to get them all connected. But we also have a few new guys and all it takes is one weak link, and in our case tonight it was more than one.” Through nine games, St. John’s was 111th in the nation in defensive efficiency after finishing 53rd last season. But after three straight losses to begin conference play, the Red Storm defeated Georgetown 94-83 last Sunday. “I thought we were connected defensively,” Anderson said after the triumph. “We didn’t come out with the understanding that we were going to beat people with our offense, and I thought that was the difference in the game.”

If defensive pressure is a staple of Anderson’s teams, another is his use of a deep roster. Five players scored in double-digits against Georgetown. Greg Williams Jr. scored 26 and Julian Champagnie added 20. “I think we learned a little bit about our basketball team as Coach Mike likes to say,” Williams Jr. said after the win. “I think that we responded to adversity, but they made a run, they came back, but then we went on our run and kept it going.” St. John’s players will have their work cut out for them this season. In addition to the unusual circumstances, three Big East teams — Villanova, Creighton and Xavier — are ranked in the Top 25. The Red Storm were selected to finish ninth in the conference at the start of the season but the Johnnies are hoping to surprise some teams. But the early three-game losing streak was reminiscent of last season when the team had four separate three-game losing streaks in conference play. Fans can expect the unexpected this season. Kentucky is 1-5, its worst start since the

St. John’s guard Posh Alexander was named the Big East Freshman of the Week, averaging 11.5 PHOTO COURTESY ST. JOHN’S ATHLETICS points, three assists and two steals in his last two games. 1926-27 season. Duke has lost twice at home in nonconference play, something they went 147 straight games without doing from 2000 to November 2019. In August, Blue Devils head coach Mike Krzyzewski said the NCAA could not go two years without having the tournament. But after losing to Illinois, the five-time championship coach said it’s time to “reassess” playing during the pandemic. On a positive note for St. John’s, Posh Alexander was named Big East Freshman of the Week, averaging 11.5 points, three

assists and two steals in two games. The guard leads all conference freshman with 30.5 minutes played per game. Champagnie, Williams Jr., Alexander, Vince Cole and Isaih Moore are all averaging double-digits in scoring. The Red Storm will be back in action on Jan. 2 at Carnesecca Arena against DePaul. A Dec. 30 matchup at Villanova was postponed and will be made up later in the season. The decision was reached with the intention of allowing the players to briefly return home for a well-deserved break Q should they choose to do so.

Be part of ’20 time capsule FILE PHOTO

The holidays are here and so is the Queens Chronicle’s 13th annual Holiday Photo Contest! Take pictures of lights, miniature villages, snowy landscapes, children and families — anything that reflects the season — and send them on 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 any people in the picture, when possible, and when it was taken. Also tell us your correct name, where you live and whether you’re an amateur or professional photographer. The winner or winners will, like us, have to wait patiently for their prize — free passes to a family-friendly performance in or around the city — to 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. 4. Good luck!

COURTESY PHOTO

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Photo contest!

Carpenters are Santa’s helpers Throughout December, the New York City & Vicinity District Council of Carpenters and the Carpenter Contractor Alliance of Metropolitan New York delivered 300 toys to children and families throughout Queens. The organizations teamed up with officials such as Assemblyman Khaleel Anderson, above, second from left, City Councilmembers Adrienne Adams and Francisco

Moya and the NYPD’s 103rd Precinct in Jamaica. “This year, with this pandemic, it’s so important for organizations like ours to give back to the families across New York City who have been hit hard and hopefully makes things a little brighter around the holidays,” said Joseph Geiger, executive secretary-treasurer for the union.

To commemorate the tumultuous year, the Poppenhusen Institute is inviting Queens residents to submit materials for a 2020 time capsule that will remain sealed for a century from now. Physical contributions can range from personal items from relatives who passed away, such as mementos, obituaries and photographs, to small items that represent your experience during the year, such as a takeout menu from your favorite restaurant, an unusual, unused handmade face mask or a piece or name of a game that helped distract you from the stresses. The Poppenhusen Institute is also accepting written statements that will be copied onto acid-free paper for longevity. The deadline for submissions is March 31, 2021. The institute asks to receive submissions ahead of the burial, though contributions also can be brought to the event on April 17 at 11 a.m. Contributors will have the opportunity to share the reasons why they chose their items. The capsule will be sealed until 2120 and its items will assist anthropologists, historians and the general population to better understand the 2020 experience. Q

ARTS, CULTURE ARTS C & LIVING

by Anthony O’Reilly Your New Year’s Eve bash doesn’t have to be a bore b o re just because there’s no indoor dining and health h eealth officials warn against large group gatheriings. in ngs. The technology readily available in the 21st ccentury entury makes it easy to ring in 2021 in style. Although A lthough there will be no crowds at the Times SSquare q uare New Year’s Eve ball drop, that doesn’t mean m ean you can only watch the action from your TV tthis his year. Organizers of the world-famous ball drop aare re offering a virtual, “gameified” version of the eevent vent that you can witness through your smartphone p h one or laptop p p called VNYE,, or Virtual New Year’s Y ear’s Eve.

Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

December 24, 2020

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ys a w e f a s s r e Tech off y New Year!’ to say ‘Happ

continued on page 25

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Users U sers will create an avatar — a virtual body so to sspeak p eak — that can visit the 2020 Remembrance Hall, H all, play games, look out over a virtual observattion i o n deck to watch concerts from some of this year’s yye ear’s hottest artists, and at the end of the night ccollect ollect virtual confetti that earns them points to ccustomize cu ustomize their avatars. Another A nother cool feature will be the ability to tune iinto in nto 11 different camera feeds of New Year’s Eve celebrations cce elebrations around the world, including one on tthe th he International Space Station. At midnight, virtual ffireworks ireworks will explode on your device’s screen. To T o take part in the virtual festivities, download tthe he app by visiting nye2021.com on your smartp hone or laptop. Check the website for a schedule phone o off events. Y ouTube will also be featuring its own NYE bash YouTube o n its website with prerecorded performances by on aartists r tists across every genre, and appearances from po p op culture icons. The free event starts at 10:30 pop p .m. EST at YouTube.com. p.m. If you’re looking for something a little more p pe ersonal, it’s easy enough to set up your own virpersonal, ttual tu ua l NYE extravaganza. Here’s a quick guide on h ow to organize a virtual party for all your family how aand nd friends. O nce you’ve created your guest list, find Once a tteleconference eleconference app that works for everyone. Z Zo oom has become popular in workplace culture, Zoom b u t unless you have an account with the but ccompany ompany your time on the app can be limited.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 24

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I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

King Crossword Puzzle Ernest Kehr placed his stamp on Queens, collecting

ACROSS

1 Doctrine 4 Commotions 8 Mid-May honorees 12 Cattle call 13 “Arrivederci” 14 “So be it” 15 Wordplay specialists 17 Hindu royal 18 Locate 19 Piece of cheesecake? 20 Subsequently 22 Reedy 24 Concoct 25 Good news for bargain hunters 29 Bard’s “always” 30 Unrefined 31 Id counterpart 32 Ruins 34 Touch 35 Cincinnati team 36 Gets up 37 -- Valley (Calif. ski resort) 40 Family member 41 Cather’s “One of --” 42 Expensive seafood 46 Platter 47 Between jobs 48 Carnival city 49 Remain 50 Ball-bearing items 51 Agent

DOWN 1 Mischievous tyke 2 Old French coin

by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

3 2001 movie, “--, Inc.” 4 Thespian 5 Regimen 6 Scull tool 7 “Mayday!” 8 Leatherneck 9 Mideast nation 10 Options list 11 Use scissors 16 Gush forth

19 Snapshots 20 Sleeping, perhaps 21 Release 22 Cafeteria stack 23 Greet the villain 25 Motivate 26 “-- Dictionary” 27 Chills and fever 28 Deteriorates 30 Staff 33 In poor taste

34 “-- She Sweet?” 36 Strategic tricks 37 Turfs 38 Resign 39 -- Major 40 Competent 42 Illuminated 43 Rhyming tribute 44 Tear 45 Tofu base

Ernest Anthony Kehr Jr. was born in Davos, Switzerland on Sept. 10, 1911, the son of Ernest Sr. and Martha. They immigrated to the United States in 1913 settling in Astoria. His father was successful as a pastry chef who became a caterer, allowing them to purchase a new home at 127-10 103 Ave. in South Richmond Hill in The home of Ernest A. Kehr at 127-10 103 Ave. in South Rich1921. Tragedy str uck the mond Hill, as it appeared in the 1940s. INSET COURTESY STAMPS.ORG family in July 1926, when his nine-year-old sister, Martha, was struck the personal philatelic stamp advisor to Franand killed by a car while playing out front in cis Cardinal Spellman Archbishop of New York, who had his own stamp museum. the street. Ernest originally worked for the New York Ernest was appointed a Knight of the Holy Telephone Co., but his love of stamp collect- Sepulcher. A lifelong heavy smoker and bicyclist, he ing took him to a new career in newspapers, radio, television and books. He became stamp passed away in his easy chair at home at the age of 75 on November 13, 1986 of a heart collecting’s most distinguished spokesman. Q Active in the Catholic Church, he became attack.

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Spectrum Internet required. Auto-pay required. Visit spectrummobile.com/plans for details. Taxes and fees included. Based on Q3 2020 subscriber data. Savings based on comparison of single line comparable unlimited plans amongst major national carriers as of 06/09/2020. Data usage limits vary by carrier. “Fastest Overall Speed” claim based on Nielsen Mobile Performance cellular and WiFi speed test results for Spectrum, Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile and Sprint mobile customers in Spectrum service area from 7/1/2019 to 3/31/2020. “Most reliable” claim based on the latest FCC Measuring Broadband America report and RootMetrics® by IHS Markit’s RootScore® Reports: 1H 2020. RootMetrics® test used best commercially available smartphones on 4 national mobile networks across all available network types. Experiences may vary. To access 5G, 5G compatible phone and 5G service required. Not all 5G capable phones compatible with all 5G service. Speeds may vary. Unlimited: Reduced speeds after 20 GB of usage per line. Unlimited plans include up to 5 GB mobile hotspot use per line during a billing cycle, with speeds reduced down to a maximum of 600 Kbps for mobile hotspot use after 5 GB for the rest of the billing cycle for that line. 5G device needed to access 5G service. By the Gig: $14 advanced monthly charge for each line of service. Each line gets one gigabyte (GB) of data that can be shared among all By the Gig lines on the same account. If all By the Gig lines on the account collectively exceed the initial 1 GB allocated to each line, an additional GB of shared data is automatically added to the account and you’ll pay an additional $14.00 per GB, whether you use the entire gigabyte or not. After 5 GB per line, you will experience reduced speeds for the rest of the bill cycle. Service not available in all areas. Restrictions apply. ©2020 Charter Communications.

C M SQ page 25 Y K

by David Russell associate editor

The life and career of Frank Zappa is covered in the documentary “Zappa,” a film available through the Museum of the Moving Image’s online series. Filmmaker Alex Winter, best known for his role in “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure,” and his team went through more than a thousand hours of unseen archival footage found in Zappa’s personal vault. The film features appearances from Zappa’s widow and several musical collaborators, to explore the rock, pop and jazz artist. Winter discovered Zappa when the musician performed on Saturday Night Live. “It was clear he was not only a great musical artist but also a humorist and a political figure,” Winter said in an email. “Zappa had a towering cultural presence for my generation.” The filmmaker spent six years of the documentary, including two years just preserving work to save endangered material in the vault. “Crafting a film almost entirely out of archival material is difficult and in this case we had an enormous amount of media,” Winter said. “The upside is that we spent years poring over an embarrassment of riches in terms of gorgeous film and video archival footage. Every day was

Alex Winter went through archival footage of Frank Zappa for years in making his docMAGNOLIA PICTURES PHOTO VIA MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE umentary about the musician. like striking gold.” Following the feature, audiences will watch previously unseen footage from the vault, including backstage footage of the band and a live performance from 1974. Viewers can visit bit.ly/3mCEOhL. Tickets are $12 or $10 for MoMI members. After unlocking the video, viewers will have 30 days to start watching. Once started, the viewer will have 72 hours to finish.

In Alexander Nanau’s “Collective” journalists uncover healthcare fraud in the wake of a deadly nightclub fire in Romania. Twenty-seven people were killed in the 2015 fire, with 180 more injured. Officials reassured the public that surviving victims would receive the best treatment from health facilities but 37 burn victims died over the following months. Investigative journalists uncover corruption and fraud in

the political and medical spheres. Viewers can visit bit.ly/38s7yF9. Tickets are $12 or $10 for MoMi members. David Osit’s “Mayor,” takes a look at Musa Hadid, the Christian mayor of Ramallah, Palestine, whose goal is to end the occupation of the Palestinian territories. A pre-recorded conversation with Osit and filmmaker Steve James in included. Viewers can visit bit.ly/2KuweVh. Tickets are $10 or $8 for MoMI members. “Finding Yingying” follows the loved ones of Yingying Zhang trying to unravel the mystery of her disappearance and seek justice in unfamiliar land. A young scholar, she came to the United States to conduct scientific research before disappearing, the victim of a kidnapping and murder. A prerecorded Q&A with director Jiayan Shi is included as part of the ticket. Viewers can visit bit.ly/38sUn6L. Tickets are $12 or $10 for MoMI members. “Yalda, A Night for Forgiveness,” is a satire about a condemned woman, Maryam, seeking forgiveness from her victim’s wife, Mona, on a live television show. Granting forgiveness will save Maryam and the show’s sponsors will reward Mona. If the plea is denied, Maryam will be executed. Viewers can visit bit.ly/3mLqjZ4. Tickets Q are $10 or $8 for MoMI members.

Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

Zappa documentary among MoMI online releases

Say ‘Good riddance’ to 2020 with a virtual party

Crossword Answers

cook a meal together. There are also tons of virtual games that can be played by multiple users available online, which can be viewed by everyone simply by having one person click “share screen.” [This will be somewhere at the bottom of your screen]. Most of these games will require the use of a smartphone as a controller, but they provide hours of fun. If you’re still itching to get out of the house Dec. 31, EliteFeats — a running-centric events company — will be hosting a 5K run in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. To comply with social distancing guidelines, there will only be two waves of runners capped at 50 per wave. The first wave, which kicks off at 6:30 p.m., has already sold out but there are still tickets left for the 7

One way to celebrate New Year’s Eve is by visiting a virtual Times Square for the ball drop, above. Another is by connecting with friends on Google Hangouts, left. On the NY2021 SCREENSHOT, ABOVE; GOOGLE IMAGE, LEFT cover: Who won’t be glad to see 2021 arrive? p.m. one. Or you could do the 5K virtually and on your own time — you’ll still get a runner’s bib, finisher medal and NYE swag (yes, including a mask). The fee to participate is $40, and all proceeds will benefit the Never

Stop Running Foundation, which supports various charities that foster community involvement. Visit events.elitefeats.com/ nye20 for more information or to register. However you celebrate New Year’s Eve, Q be sure to be safe and responsible.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 23 Google Hangouts are free and accessible to anyone with a webcam. Whichever app you choose, copy the invitation link and send it to everyone on your list. Like any party you’ll also need some fun and games. Think outside the box with this one — have everyone pick up a few bottles of wine or champagne and do a virtual tasting event; host a scavenger hunt where the winner receives a prize; play charades; or

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 26

C M SQ page 26 Y K

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VALER ESTATE GROUP LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/04/2020. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, PO Box 312385, Jamaica, NY 11431, NY 11431. Reg Agent: U.S. Corp. Agents, Inc. 7014 13th Ave., Ste 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

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MY WAY CONSTRUCTION

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 28

C M SQ page 28 Y K To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

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COLLECTION TRUCK DRIVERS SPECIALIST WANTED Routes available at: WANTED!!! CALLAHEAD CORP. is seeking a collection agent to make outgoing calls to collect past due payments. Must have the following skills: MUST HAVE COMPUTER KNOWLEDGE MUST HAVE A GOOD OUTGOING PERSONALITY MUST HAVE GOOD WORK ETHIC MUST LIKE TO BE ON THE PHONE MUST BE ORGANIZED We offer 2 weeks vacation paid, Medical, Dental, 401K, $15.00 per hour plus overtime. If this sounds like the job for you please apply in person Monday - Friday 9am- 7pm. at 304 Crossbay Blvd.,

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C M SQ page 29 Y K To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

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Notice of Formation of A Visit from HOPE LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/19/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: SALISHA HOPE, PO BOX 130332, SPRINGFIELD GARDENS, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

ASTORIA PARKING LOT LLC,

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with the Secretary of State of New

loc: Queens County. SSNY has

York (SSNY) on 10/19/2020. Office

Legal Notices Notice is hereby given that a Liquor License, serial number TBA for beer, wine, and liquor has been applied for by the undersigned Danubius Corporation Viorca Stanila, president to permit the sale of beer, wine, and liquor at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 4757 41 Street Sunnyside, NY 11104 for on-premise consumption.

Notice of Formation of 398 Manhattan Ave Realty LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/6/20. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 136-20 Roosevelt Ave., Room 288, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful activity.

been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail

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: FORDHAM, 537 BEACH

Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101.

68 STREET, ARVERNE, NY 11692.

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

AB CURATED TRAVEL LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/24/20. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 25-15 Crescent Street, Apartment 5A, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of C.S.N Consulting & Events LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/17/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: CAMERON NADLER, 41-18 CRESCENT ST., APT 5F, LONG ISLAND CITY, NY 11101. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Malave Consulting Group LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/04/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: MALAVE CONSULTING GROUP LLC, 6615 WETHEROLE ST., APT C7, REGO PARK, NY 11374. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Ada + Ida Group LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/30/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: DONNA DAVIS, 2936 MARTIN COURT, FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11691. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Culture 4 Freedom LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/25/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: CULTURE 4 FREEDOM LLC, 14515 224TH STREET, LAURELTON, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Prism Outdoor Furniture LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/03/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: ANDREW SESKUNAS, 41-15 44TH STREET, APT 3K, SUNNYSIDE, NY 11104. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of Advance Media Spend Group LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/2/20. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 43-01 22nd St, Ste 503, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of G Mobile Mechanical LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/14/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: GERARD ROETHEL, 831 LIBERTY LANE, BREEZY POINT, NY 11697. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of RED HOUSE HOLDINGS LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/03/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: JING J CAI, 7305 168TH STREET, FRESH MEADOWS, NY 11366. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

ASTORIA PARK WAREHOUSE

GAG TAXI LLC. Arts. of Org. filed

LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the

with the SSNY on 01/28/20.

SSNY on 11/06/2020. Office loc:

Office: Queens County. SSNY

Queens County. SSNY has been

designated as agent of the LLC

designated as agent upon whom

upon whom process against

process against the LLC may be

it may be served. SSNY shall

served. SSNY shall mail process

mail copy of process to the LLC,

to: The LLC, 2191 21st Street,

32-56 49th Street, Long Island

Long Island City, NY 11101.

City, NY 11103. Purpose: Any

Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of STUNNER POLISH LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/24/2020. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: BRANDEE LIGON, 1420 GATEWAY BLVD., APT 2D, FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11691. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Real Estate Misc.

ESTATE SALE - LOG HOMES PAY THE BALANCE OWED ONLY!!!

AMERICAN LOG HOMES IS ASSISTING JUST RELEASED OF ESTATE & ACCOUNT SETTLEMENT ON HOUSES.

4 Log Home kits selling for BALANCE OWED, FREE DELIVERY 1) Model # 101 Carolina 2) Model # 203 Georgia 3) Model # 305 Biloxi 4) Model # 403 Augusta

$40,840â&#x20AC;¦BALANCE OWED $17,000 $49,500...BALANCE OWED $19,950 $36,825...BALANCE OWED $14,500 $42,450...BALANCE OWED $16,500

BEFORE CALLING: VIEW at www.loghomedream.com Click on House Plans

NEW - HOMES HAVE NOT BEEN MANUFACTURED

SERIOUS ONLY REPLY. Call (704) 602-3035 ask for Accounting Dept.

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 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 718722-3131. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

Apts. For Rent Williamsburg, 905 Metropolitan Ave, Apt 3R. NO FEE. 1 Month FREE on a 13-Mo Lease. Net Price $2,206/mo. Brand New Renov Luxury 2 BR. Ex-lg apt. HWF, high ceilings. New SS appli. Avail Jan 1. Call Agata Landa 914-255-7284 Capri Jet Realty

Co-ops For Sale Howard Beach, Hi-rise, 2 BR, 2 baths. Top fl. Asking $229K. Connexion RE, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Lindenwood, HiRise 1 BR unit converted from a studio. Low maint, updated kit & bath, top fl. Asking $168K. Connexion RE, 718-845-1136

Houses For Sale

Middle Village, Mint det Colonial, pvt dvwy, 2 car gar, 3 BR, 2 full baths, completely renov thruout within 7 yrs. HW fls upstairs, lg LR, lg FDR, lg kit w/cherry cabiBushwick, 6 Stanhope St, #3R. nets, SS appl, island, beautiful. NO FEE. 1 BR/1.5 bath. $1,900/ Asking $968K. Connexion RE, mo. Beautiful renov apt. HWF, SS. 718-845-1136 Small pets OK. New construction bldg. Avail Now. Call Tiana Williams, 917-982-8507. Capri Jet Realty Howard Beach, 450 sq.ft., 2nd fl. Howard Beach/Lindenwood, 3 BR 1 Cross Bay Blvd. $1,500/mo. 1/2 baths. Newly renov bath. Connexion RE, 718-845-1136 Walking distance to PS 232. Leave a message. By owner. 917-855-7390. Need an apartment?

Apts. For Rent

Comm. Space For Rent

Williamsburg, 302 Ainslie St, Apt 3. True Renovated 3Br/1Bath. NO FEE. $ 2,499/mo. Rest of Dec is FREE. Heat & Hot Water incl. Shared Yard. Laminate Floors. Windows in Every Room. Call Robert 347-450-3577. Capri Jet Realty

See our Queens Real Estate or place your own Apartment Wanted ad

Call 718-205-8000

For the latest news visit qchron.com

process to: The LLC, 2116 24th

Real Estate Misc.

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 30

C M SQ page 30 Y K

Located in WILLIAMSBURG, Brooklyn’s hottest neighborhood. We have Qualified International Buyers.

18-73 Greene Ave., Ridgewood 4 Family w/ Backyard & Full Basement! $1,349,000

391 Graham Ave., Williamsburg Renovated Single Family + Store in Williamsburg! $1,775,000

78-57 81st St., Glendale Gorgeously Renovated 3 Fam., 5 Levels w/Backyard & Pvt Dwy! $1,125,000

97-06 161st Ave., Howard Beach Luxurious New Construction House 3 Levels + Attic $1,375,000

• OPEN HOUSE (By Appt.) • Sunday, Dec. 27th 12:30 - 2 pm

• OPEN HOUSE (By Appt.) • Sunday, Dec. 27th 12-3 pm 261 St. Nicholas Ave., Ridgewood Corner 2 Family + Store & Full Basement! Projec. CAP Rate 8% $1,699,00

13 Stuyvesant Ave., Bed-Stuy VACANT! Renovated 2 Family Brick Building in Bedford Stuyvesant! $1,150,000

180 Russell St., Greenpoint Charming 2 Family (3 Levels) w/Backyard! Delivered Vacant! $1,439,000

12 Broome St., Greenpoint Vacant Corner Lot! Approved DOB Plans! $1,499,000

337 Leonard St., Williamsburg 2 Family (4 Levels) w/ Backyard & Basement! $1,699,000

16 Devoe St., Williamsburg Vacant 2 Family (4 Levels) w/Backyard! $1,799,000

124 Freeman St., Unit 2D, Greenpoint Gorgeous & Bright 2BR/1BA Condo! $899,000

47-08 59th Pl., Woodside Gorgeous Brick Tudor 1 Family w/Garage & Backyard! $935,000

WE ARE HIRING LICENSED REAL ESTATE AGENTS!

756 Grand St., Williamsburg Brick 6 Family + Store w/Backyard & Full Basement! $2,500,000

420 64th St., Apt PH2, Bay Ridge Stunning 1 BR/1 Bath Penthouse Condo w/Balcony in Bay Ridge! $527,000

FREE Tax Liability (if any) analysis of the sale of your Home, by our in-house accountant, Mario Saggese, CPA, specializing in 1031 Exchanges and saving you money. The consultation is FREE and you are under no obligation to use his services For more listings, please visit our website

www.CapriJetRealty.com CAPJ-078316

For the latest news visit qchron.com

• OPEN HOUSE (By Appt.) • Sunday, Dec. 27th 2:30-4 pm

533 Metropolitan Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11211

Do you know why the average sales agent at Capri Jet Realty earns $75,000 per year? Hint: Extensive training, superior inside support, new leads everyday and more...

Ask about our “Earn while You Learn” Program

RECRUITING/CAREER ZOOM SEMINAR: January 8, 2021 (11:30 - 2:3O PM) CALL TODAY TO JOIN THE WINNING TEAM!

Thinking of Listing, call anyone. Thinking of Selling, Call Us! Call Today for a FREE over the phone CMA (Comparative Market Analysis) O: 347-450-3577 info@CapriJetRealty.com

C M SQ page 31 Y K

BEAT

Mets go to Jared by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Mets President Sandy Alderson finally got around to hiring a general manager last week when he chose Arizona Diamondbacks assistant general manager Jared Porter to fill the vacancy created by the dismissal of Brodie Van Wagenen. The 41-year-old Porter also served stints in the Red Sox and Cubs organizations. Based on his resume he certainly has earned the right to be an MLB general manager. That was clearly not the case with Van Wagenen. At the November press conference which formally introduced Steve Cohen as the Mets owner, Alderson stated his desire to hire both a president of baseball operations and a general manager. A couple of weeks later Alderson said he would be tabling his search for a baseball operations czar until 2021. Alderson is not a fan of needless bureaucracy so my guess is Porter will have that role as well albeit without the fancy title. It will be interesting to see whether Alderson allows Porter to take the lead when it comes to negotiating with top-tier free agents as centerfielder George Springer and Cy Young Award-winning pitcher Trevor Bauer. Newly acquired Mets catcher James McCann met the media via a Zoom conference last Thursday. He casually mentioned he has worked out in the past with his Nashville neighbor, beleaguered Mets pitcher Steven Matz, who was

abysmal last year and really hasn’t been any great shakes since his 2015 rookie season. McCann recalled how his first big league team, the Tigers, did not tender him a contract two years ago after having spent four seasons with them. That unsettling experience motivated him to up both his offensive and defensive game with his next team, the White Sox. Matz was lucky the Mets tendered him a contract for 2021 as I wrote two weeks ago. Although it did not come up at McCann’s press confab, it’s clear that his relationship with Matz was a factor, besides price, as to why the Mets were willing to pass on the more accomplished JT Realmuto. McCann knows that a key job for any catcher is to be a psychologist to his pitchers. Given Matz’s propensity to fall apart when an error is made or if an umpire doesn’t give a strike call, McCann will be earning his Ph.D. this season. Mets manager Luis Rojas also Zoomed with the media last week. He wouldn’t guarantee the inconsistent Amed Rosario would be the Mets starting shortstop but he also ended speculation he’ll be moved to the outfield in 2021. He said he spoke to pitcher Seth Lugo who has made it clear he wants to be a starter and not a reliever. “Most pitchers want to start,” Rojas replied, adding he made no assurances to him. Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

Connexion REAL ESTATE

Get Your House SOLD!

161-14A Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach (Brother’s Shopping Ctr.)

ARLENE PACCHIANO Broker/Owner

718-845-1136 FREE MARKET EVALUATION

CONNEXIONREALESTATE.COM OZONE PARK

Reduced $798K Owner Mortgage

LIST YOUR HOME HERE!

HOWARD BEACH/ LINDENWOOD

82-17 153 RD Ave., Suite 202, Howard Beach, NY 11414

718-835-4700 69-39 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385

718-628-4700

Wishing all of our Customers, Clients, Family and Friends a very Merry Christmas!! Thank you for your continued support and loyalty during the past year!! We look forward to serving all your Real Estate needs in the new year!!

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK Pristine/Stucco unique contemporary Colonial, 3/4 BRs, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, open floor concept on first floor & winding S.S staircase to second floor master bedroom en suite w/Jacuzzi and bidet, 2 other BRs & full bath, fin. bsmnt, storage rm., den, ping, pong rm or 4th BR, fences front & backyard has I.G. saltwater heated pool, Jacuzzi (seats 8) Cabana, full bath, storage rm, S.S. gates, 2nd flr balcony granite & awning.

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and Happy Chanukah from our Family to yours!

OZONE PARK

MIDDLE VILLAGE

Det. 1 Family, 3 BRs, 2 baths, basement, pty driveway and 1 car garage

Mint Detached Colonial, pvt dvwy & 2 car garage, 3 BRs, 2 full baths, completely renovated throughout within 7 years, windows, roof, gas boiler, hotwater heater, stoop, wood doors, porcelain tiles on 1st flr, hardwood flrs upstairs, lg living rm, lg formal dining rm. lg kitchen with cherry cabinets, S.S. appl, island, Beautiful.

CO-OPS FOR SALE Hi-Rise 2 BRs, 2 Baths, Top Floor Asking $229K Hi-Rise 1 BR Unit Converted from a Studio, Low Maint, Updated Kit & Bath, Top Floor

Asking $168K

We are Hiring Licensed Real Estate Agents! Call for a Confidential Interview!

Mint Hi-Ranch on 40x100 lot, 4 BRs/3 full baths, Vinyl siding with brick front, Andersen windows, Hi-Hats, tiled floors, new carpeting in BRs, security cameras, alarm system, freshly painted, mechanics all updated, heated spa & in-ground pool, brick patio, CAC, rollout awning Asking $889K

RICHMOND HILL SOUTH

$610K

COMING SOON!

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK Lovely Colonial in heart of Richmond Hill South. Updated Kitchen, 3 BR’s, 2 Full Baths, Full Finished Basement, Garage.

Asking $575K

Hi-Ranch, 4 BRs, 3 Baths, 40X100

Asking $849K

Asking $968K

FREE Market Evaluation 718-845-1136

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Commercial Building (101st Ave.) 2 blocks off Cross Bay Blvd./25x100 lot, 25x46 building/ 2nd flr., Dental Office $2,200 per mo./ 1st floor gutted to studs & vacant / basement clean with new furnace / zoning R6B / building K2

CENTURY 21 AMIABLE II

Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020

SPORTS

FREE DELIVERY For All SENIOR CITIZENS

Your neighborhood market since 1937 FRI. SAT. SUN. MON. TUES. WED. THURS.

Sale Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dates 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

PHONE ORDERS GLADLY ACCEPTED

Wishing All Our Friends and Customers Happy Holidays!

FREE GALLON OF MILK with $30 purchase

With this coupon. Expires 12/31/2020

“It’s not our intention to please a customer or to satisfy them, our intention is to amaze them”

102-02 101st AVE, OZONE PARK • 718-849-8200 FREE CUSTOMER PARKING (Across The Street)

We Accept All Major Credit Cards WIC - EBT

STORE HOURS: Mon.-Sun. 8 am to 9 pm

KEYF-078510

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 24, 2020 Page 32

C M SQ page 32 Y K

We reserve the right to limit quantities to one can or package on sale items. Items offered for sale are not available in case lots. Alcoholic beverages may not be available in all locations. We are not responsible for typographical errors. Some Items Not Available in all Locations.