Queens Chronicle South Edition 01-08-15 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

PHOTO COURTESY BUILD IT BACK

VOL. XXXVIII NO. 2

THURSDAY, JANUARY 8, 2015

QCHRON.COM

MAKING PROGRESS

Build illd iitt B Back ack k llooks ook ks tto o cont continue tin nue iits ts success iin n2 2015 015

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The Broad Channel home of John and Jayme Galimi before and after the Build it Back program repaired it. The Galimis’ house is one of 99 reportedly rebuilt by the program in 2014.

UPDATE ON WEST POND

MARIO CUOMO DIES AT 82

VALERIE’S VERSES

Park Service to hold open house Jan. 22

Queens pols remember ex-gov

MidVille poet lives the Queens literary life

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SEE qboro, PAGE 33

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 2

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Police stats show overall crime down Murder at record low, despite spike in recent weeks amid controversies by Matthew Ern

Murder rate up in Queens

Chronicle Contributor

he latest crime statistics indicate that in 2014 the city saw its lowest robbery and burglary rates of the past 10 years and the fewest murders since reliable records have been kept. Mayor de Blasio held a press conference Monday to announce the positive numbers, which come during a turbulent time for the city and police-mayoral relations. The stats boast a 4.6 percent drop in overall crime, with 2,600 fewer robberies than in 2013. Housing crime is down 6 percent and subway crime dropped 15 percent with only two deaths. Murder rates decreased to a record low, 332 for the year, despite a 55 percent spike in homicides during the final weeks of December. “Unquestionably, the city continues to get safer, year after year,” said Councilman Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows), a member of the Public Safety committee. “A lot of the naysayers who thought that progressive government couldn’t protect people’s rights, reduce stop-and-frisk and repair policecommunity relations without compromising public safety have been proven wrong.” “These are numbers that were once absolutely unimaginable,” the mayor said at Monday’s press conference. Although the Queens murder rate saw a slight uptick from 59 in 2013 to 63 this year,

Reported incidents to date through December 28 PRECINCT 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107

2013 2014 PRECINCT 2013 3 1 108 4 3 5 109 1 7 3 110 6 8 9 111 0 3 3 112 0 3 7 113 7 6 2 114 4 1 1 115 3 TOTAL: 59 MURDERS IN 2013 AND 63 MURDERS IN 2014

2014 2 6 8 0 0 8 2 6

While other crime statistics are mixed QUEENSWIDE RAPE SHOOTING (VIC.) SHOOTING (INC.)

2013 310 177 161

2014 286 193 160

QUEENSWIDE 2013 ROBBERY 3,984 CAR THEFT 2,401

2014 3,225 2,570

Source: NYPD / Image courtesy NYPD

other crimes such as rape and robber y enjoyed significant decreases. “People in this city appreciate our police. They appreciate how hard the work is and they see the progress we’re making,” de Blasio added Monday. Lancman attributes the success to the officers on the streets putting their lives on the

line for the city. He maintains that all parts of government, from the mayor to the Council to the police, are committed to making progress. “We can keep the city safe and at the same time we can protect people’s rights,” Lancman said. But despite the overall glowing numbers, shootings did increase citywide this year.

There were 102 shooting victims between Dec. 8 and Jan. 4, up 13 percent compared to 90 during that same period last year, according to a report in Monday’s New York Post. In Queens the number of shooting victims for the year jumped to 193 from 177 in 2013, while the number of shooting incidents remained virtually flat. Most shocking to retired NYPD Capt. Joe Concannon of Bellerose is the increase in grand larceny auto in Queens, what he described as a “bellwether crime” indicative of how much criminal activity is actually being committed. According to Concannon, GLA had been plummeting in recent years, but 2014 showed a marked increase in car theft. Also worth noting for him is the spike in shootings. “There is violence in the streets and I have grave concern,” Concannon, who has run for public office in the past, said. Protests over the past month have diverted police attention to Manhattan and away from the outer boroughs, according to some. “The recent events in the city have made it harder for our local precincts. When there are protests, officers are pulled out of the local communities and assigned to the bridges and tunnels in the city,” 112th Precinct Community Council President Heidi Chain said. However, the stats for her precinct, which includes parts of Forest Hills and Rego Park, continued on page 32

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How To Get Rid of Knee Pain Once and For All... Without Drugs, Shots or Surgery Now, in Howard Beach, NY, one doctor is helping local residents with knee pain live more active, pain-free lives. Living with knee pain can feel like a crippling experience. Let’s face it, your knees aren’t as young as you used to be, and playing with the kids or grandkids isn’t any easier either. Maybe your knee pain keeps you from walking short distances or playing golf like you used to. Nothing’s worse than feeling great mentally, but physically feeling held back from life because your knees hurt and the pain just won’t go away! My name is Dr. Robert F. Gucciardo, D.C., owner of Gucciardo Specific Chiropractic and Natural Health Center. Since we opened seventeen years ago, I’ve seen hundreds of people with knee problems leave the office pain free. If you’re suffering from these conditions, a new breakthrough in medical technology may completely eliminate your pain and help restore normal function to your knees.

Do You Have Any of the Following Conditions? • Arthritis • Knee pain • Cartilage damage • ‘Bone-on-bone’ • Tendonitis • Bursitis • Crunching and popping sounds

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Finally, You Have an Option Other Than Drugs or Surgery New research in a treatment called Class IV Laser Therapy is having a profound effect on patients suffering with knee pain. Unlike the cutting type of laser seen in movies and used in medical procedures, the Class IV therapeutic laser penetrates the surface of the skin with no heating effect or damage. Laser Therapy has been tested for 40 years, had over 2000 papers published on it, and has been shown to aid in damaged tissue regeneration, decrease inflammation, relieve pain and boost the immune system. This means that there is a good chance cold laser therapy could be your knee pain solution, allowing you to live a more active lifestyle. Professional athletes like The New York Yankees and team members of the New England Patriots rely upon cold laser therapy to treat their sports-related injuries. These guys use the cold laser for one reason only…

It Promotes Rapid Healing of the Injured Tissues. Before the FDA would clear the Class IV laser for human use, they wanted to see proof that it worked. This lead to two landmark studies. The fi rst study showed that patients who had laser therapy had 53 percent better improvement than those who had a placebo. The second study showed patients who used the laser therapy had less pain and more range of motion days after treatment. If the Class IV Laser can help these patients, it can help you too.

Could This Noninvasive, Natural Treatment Be the Answer to Your Knee Pain? For 10 days only, I’m running a very special offer where you can find out if you are a candidate for cold laser therapy. What does this offer include? Everything I normally do in my “Knee Pain Evaluation.” Just call before January 18, 2015 and here’s what you’ll get… • An in-depth consultation about your problem where I will listen … really listen … to the details of your case. • A complete neuromuscular examination. • A full set of specialized X-rays to determine if arthritis is contributing to your pain (if necessary). (If you have films please bring them for evaluation). • A thorough analysis of your exam and X-ray fi ndings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. • You’ll see everything firsthand and find out if this amazing treatment will be your pain solution, as it has been for so many other patients. Until January 18, you can get everything I’ve listed here for only $37. The normal price for this type of evaluation including X-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking me up on this offer. Remember what it was like before you had knee problems – when you were pain free and could enjoy everything life had to offer. It can be that way again. Don’t neglect your problem any longer – don’t wait until it’s too late.

A new treatment is helping patients with knee pain live a happier, more active lifestyle. Here’s what to do now: Due to the expected demand for this special offer, I urge you to call our office at once. The phone number is 718-845-2323. Call today and we can get started with your consultation, exam and X-rays (if necessary) as soon as there’s an opening in the schedule. Our office is called Gucciardo Specific Chiropractic and Natural Health Center and you can find us at 162-07 91st Street in Howard Beach. Tell the receptionist you’d like to come in for the Knee Evaluation before January 18. Sincerely, Dr. Robert F. Gucciardo, D.C. P.S. Now you might be wondering …

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City recovery program is making strides in bringing people back home by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

On Jan. 1, 2014 the city’s Build it Back program had started zero renovations on Sandy-ravaged houses and sent out zero reimbursement checks. More than a year later, construction has started on more than 331 homes across Queens, and finished 99, and borough residents have received more than $15.2 million in reimbursements for work they completed on their own house, according to Build it Back officials. “It’s very clear that people see progress,” Amy Peterson, director of the Mayor’s Office of Housing Recovery, said in an interview with the Queens Chronicle. “People are getting their questions answered.” But don’t take her word for it. Elected and civic officials praised the program’s drastic improvement that began shortly after Peterson took it over in March. “I have very high regards for Amy Peterson,” said Dan Mundy Jr., president of the Broad Channel Civic Association. “She has made a lot of significant changes to the program, and a lot of them have come out of Broad Channel.” One of the changes include the city agreeing to help homeowners rebuilding their house through the program with paying for rent in a temporary home. “One of the reasons people might not do

Renovations of Sandy-ravaged houses through the city’s Build it Back program have increased exponentially in the past 12 months, after a rocky start that saw very few homeowners able to FILE PHOTO get assistance. it is oh who will pay for my rent,” Mundy said, adding that scenario was seen frequently across the island. “That’s another effective change.” He also said officials within the program have been better at working with the community on recovery needs.

“Rudy S. Giuliani has been a huge asset,” Mundy said, referring to the borough director at the Mayor’s Office of Housing Recovery Operations. “He’s very quick at getting back to you via email. You need that type of person here.” Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rocka-

way Park) said he has seen “more progress in the last six to nine months than in the 18 months prior.” He also echoed Mundy’s remarks that program officials are communicative with the community. “They’ve been very aggressive about their community outreach,” he said. “Amy has done a great job of making every family understand the issues.” The Build it Back program started in June 2013 by then-Mayor Bloomberg. It got off to a rocky start, with many homeowners saying they were finding it difficult to get the assistance they needed. Peterson said the program was able to become better by working closer with the homeowners affected by Sandy. “I think it had more to do with how we were providing the services and how we were communicating with the homeowners,” she said. But Peterson says there’s more to be done. She said that in 2015, she seeks to tackle “the construction and design capacity” in neighborhoods throughout the city. Build it Back is also seeking to add a new borough construction manager, who will be selected through a bidding process and tasked with completing a bundle of houses at once rather than one at a time. continued on page 19

Page 5 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

Civics, electeds praise Build it Back

Update to be given on West Pond study Park Service to hold open house on Jan. 22 on possible remediation by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

“They’re still in the studying stage,” he said. Riepe is not alone in his push for a freshwater solution. Susan Elbin, director of conser vation and science for the Manhattan-based bird-watching and advocacy group New York City Audubon, said her organization also wants to see freshwater back in the pond. Her group’s comments to the Park Service also include proposals to create educational programs so people who wish to visit the bay do not disturb its wildlife. “An important part of such programs should be safety training and environmental orientation,” the group says in its comments to the Park Service. “It is important that kayakers and canoeists comport themselves with a sensitivity to wildlife and their habitat.” The upcoming open house will be the second time the federal agency has updated the communi-

The West Pond at Jamaica Bay has been damaged since Superstorm Sandy. The storm created a breach in the freshwater pond, turning it into a saltwater lagoon. The National Park Service will hold an open house on possible plans FILE PHOTO for the pond on Jan. 22. ty on the study of the West Pond. The agency held an open house in August. Both Riepe and Elbin said the previous one was well-attended and expect a similar audience in two weeks.

Elbin added that the Park Service met with a group of bay enthusiasts late last year near the pond to discuss the study. “I think they are very open and inclusive as possible,” Elbin said Q of the federal park agency.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

The National Park Service on Jan. 22 will update the community on its ongoing environmental assessment for the proposed remediation of Jamaica Bay’s West Pond, which became a saltwater lagoon after Superstorm Sandy. “The ongoing participation of the public is very important to the success of this project,” Jennifer Nersesian, superintendent of Gateway National Recreation Area, said in a statement on Monday. “We have already benef ited greatly from the knowledge and expertise of the many stakeholders and organizations with an interest in the Refuge,” she added. “We look forward to continue working with the public as this process moves forward.” The park service will update residents from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge Visitors Center, located on Cross Bay

Boulevard in Broad Channel. As a result of damage sustained from Superstorm Sandy, a breach opened in the West Pond that allowed for saltwater from the bay t o f low i nt o t he b o dy of freshwater. The Park Service, the federal agency that oversees the area, asked the public last year to submit comments on what should be done to about the breach and whether to return the pond to its former status. The pond is frequented by birdwatchers, who say freshwater is needed to attract animals back to the area. “We really need freshwater out there,” Don Riepe, president of the Nor theast Chapter of the American Littoral Society and a resident of Broad Channel, said. “Right now the breach is slowly widening and deepening.” He added that whatever step is taken, it will “take time.”

Evacuation signage to change: officials Outdated posts left some residents confused during Superstorm Sandy by Anthony O’Reilly

residents to Aqueduct Racetrack in the event of an emergency, even though the There are signs that South Queens will designated site was John Adams High School. soon be getting a safer evacuation route. The OEM also asked the DOT to update That is according to Assemblyman Phil Gold fede r ( D -Rock away Pa rk) , who the signage. The DOT is expected to comannounced on Monday that the city has plete the work by the end of the summer. “ Eve r y New Yo r ke r agreed to update its emershould know whether they gency evacuation signage live in a hurricane evacuathat will properly lead resithank OEM tion zone, and if so, have a dents of South Queens and plan for what to do if you are the Rockaways to the corCommissioner ordered to evacuate your rect routes in the event of home,” Esposito said in a an emergency. Joe Esposito statement. “Visit nyc.gov/ “T h is cha nge to ou r for his amazing KnowYourZone to find out emergency evacuation sigyou live in a hurrinage will properly inform dedication to our whether cane evacuation zone and to and ensure the safety of thousands of families in public safety ...” get preparedness information and directions to your souther n Queens and — Assemblyman nearest evacuation center.” Rockaway in the event of Phil Goldfeder The evacuation site for future emergencies,” GoldSouth Queens residents was feder said in a statement. Aqueduct Racetrack before “I thank [Office of Emergency Management] Commissioner Joe the construction of Resorts World Casino. Esposito for his amazing dedication to our After the casino was put up, residents were public safety and quick response to this instructed to go to the high school. The outdated signage caused mass conimportant request.” The change comes after Goldfeder in fusion during Superstorm Sandy, and some May requested the Department of Trans- residents fled to the racetrack to seek emerportation update the signs because it led gency shelter. Associate Editor

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EDITORIAL

AGE

Cops: Get back to work. Pols: Get off their backs.

his page has been a consistent supporter of the New York Police Department for a long time. When a federal judge saw intentional discrimination against minorities in stop and frisk, we criticized her and mostly defended the practice as a valid crimefighting tool. We’ve lost track of how many times we’ve touted the unbelievable reductions in violent crime the city has seen in the last generation, always crediting New York’s Finest. For the three weeks prior to this, we’ve discussed the rift between City Hall and the rank and file, laying most of the blame at the feet of Mayor de Blasio, his pal Al Sharpton and others who’ve painted the department as inherently biased. We pointed out that some protesters weren’t saying “Hands up, don’t shoot” but “What do we want? Dead cops.” We rightly described Eric Garner as a scofflaw, with his record of 30 arrests, rather than just a “Staten Island resident,” as many others in our profession have done. We said it’s understandable that some officers engaged in silent protest by turning their backs on the mayor after two of their number were assassinated. We have, at the same time, noted that some reform of stop and frisk was warranted, that Garner should have

received aid much quicker than he did and that some of the rhetoric coming from police supporters has not been helpful. And we recognize that minorities, blacks in particular, do have good historical reason to be more wary of armed government agents than some other people do. This week we again seek the middle ground. What differs this time is that our main criticism is levied against those who wear the uniform. It’s one thing to turn your back on the mayor or to make inflammatory comments to the media. It’s another thing altogether to engage in this work slowdown that police are obviously in the middle of, despite their union’s denials. Arrests have been made at half their normal rate in recent weeks, while traffic and parking summonses have been reduced by something like 90 percent. That’s ridiculous. The only people who could possibly benefit from this slowdown are criminals, reckless drivers and people who double park or block fire hydrants. If most police are the honorable, dedicated public servants we believe them to be, they should put a halt to this immediately. The numbers say’ve all but gone AWOL. On the other side, we’re glad to see the mayor has

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Dear Editor: The United Federation of Teachers has long been perceived as a powerful union in New York City. So why would so many of its members find themselves in need of legal representation when they find themselves unfairly targeted by an unethical principal when members pay so much in dues? This is the question many teachers are asking. So many of us are being harassed, abused and even brought up on false charges. In the age of “accountability,” the only accountable people seem to be teachers. Administrators do not need to account for anything, even abusing their employees. Teachers will call on their chapter leader and district reps only to be given false information. The UFT does not want members to know their rights. Why? When teachers find themselves unfairly targeted by their principal, even after an excellent career, there is very little they can do. Their only course of action is to get an attorney. Expensive veteran teachers are encouraged by their union representatives to retire. Whether they are financially able to or not is irrelevant. Untenured teachers are told to just resign and move on to other careers. It doesn’t matter if the accusations against the teacher are founded or not. If the principal decides you are the target, you have no chance. If that principal wants to lie, manipulate, use other teachers © Copyright 2015 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 responsible for 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., 62-33 Woodhaven Boulevard, Rego Park, N.Y.

changed his tune in public about the NYPD. No longer talking about systemic discrimination, he’s now touting the historic crime reductions and the great risk cops willingly face when they take the job. That’s what the city’s leader should be doing. Some bigwigs in the City Council also appear to get it now. Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito, who’s as liberal as de Blasio, joins him in opposing the latest bills designed to handcuff the police that are being cooked up. One would force them to get some kind of written or recorded position from suspects before searching them. That’s crazy. Another would make chokeholds, which already are against department policy, against the law. That’s too restrictive, given the dangers that can suddenly confront officers. (And the move used to take down Garner is described by many as not a chokehold but a headlock or a seatbelt hold. It’s not quite as simple as many think.) Crime is still down for the most part, but it’s been up for the last few weeks. The city is in a very dangerous position right now. Police must get back to work, and politicians must stop coming up with new ways to thwart that work, before things get worse. It’s time to move forward.

E DITOR

against a particular teacher, there is nothing the UFT will do about it. That’s the little secret the UFT doesn’t want to get out: It is powerless and doesn’t want members to know. My question is why pay union dues to a union that doesn’t support its members and only exists to pay fat salaries to union leaders who do absolutely nothing? New York City Teachers deserve better. They deserve new union leadership — one that will advocate for its members. Kim Janos Fresh Meadows The writer is a city teacher.

Quoting Cuomo Dear Editor: The death of Gov. Mario Cuomo made me go back and listen the keynote speech he gave at the 1984 National Democratic Convention. I watched that speech as a young college political science student and it shaped me

politically into the person I am today. In response to Ronald Reagan’s proclamation about America being a “shining city on a hill,” Cuomo worried about those in that shining city who were left behind by the American Dream. Cuomo mused: “But there’s another city; there’s another part to the shining city; the part where some people can’t pay their mortgages, and most young people can’t afford one; where students can’t afford the education they need, and middle-class parents watch the dreams they hold for their children evaporate. “In this part of the city there are more poor than ever, more families in trouble, more and more people who need help but can’t find it. Even worse: There are elderly people who tremble in the basements of the houses there. And there are people who sleep in the city streets, in the gutter, where the glitter doesn’t show. There are ghettos where thousands of young people, without a job or an education, give their lives away to drug dealers every day.”

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Governor Cuomo could give gressive platform including police reform, that speech today and it would still ring true. particularly, reducing stop and frisk, and After spending decades as an attorney at the won 75 percent of the vote. He cannot be Securities and Exchange Commission, as a expected to renege on his campaign promisWall Street attorney and as the Corporate es, or to turn his back on the base that got Counsel of a Fortune 500 company, I under- him elected. That is the political reality. So, now is not the time for intransigence or stand how important it is to have a vibrant economy with high corporate profits. Howev- inflammatory rhetoric because looming in er, I also understand that we as a nation are the next few months is the date when the better off when everyone participates in our NYPD will issue its internal investigative nation’s success. The conservative ideology report on the Eric Garner case. If no disciof “trickle-down” economics has repeatedly plinary action is recommended as a result, failed us. Making the rich richer and letting considering NYPD regulations, the video eviWall Street police itself does not lead to a bet- dence and the medical examiner’s report, we ter economy. It just makes the rich richer and, could have further problems here. Glenn Hayes sooner or later, it will lead to the type of Kew Gardens financial crisis we experienced under George W. Bush. The Great Depression, the Savings and Loan Crisis and the Great Recession Fox News: always wrong were all the end result of failed “trickledown” economic theories. Dear Editor: Thirty years later, Governor Cuomo’s “Fox & Friends” loves to boast that it’s speech can still teach us. Yes, we must “fair and balanced.” Really? Let me illustrate ensure that our capital markets are strong how Fox gives naïve viewers distorted news and investors are willing to put their capital … And you readers decide — is Pilla right? at risk. However, we must also make sure 1) Fox said, under Obama gas prices would that the largest amount of peosoar to $6 per gallon. Now ple can participate in the suc- ONLINE they’re $2.50 — notice the cess of our economy. The silence from Fox? Miss an editorial or working-class and middle-class 2) Remember when Fox article cited by a writer? must believe their children can said, every night, “Mr. PresiWant news from our other do better. Parents need to know dent: Where are the jobs? ” editions covering the rest that their children can get a With Obama’s leadership, of Queens? Find past good public education and that America created nearly 11 milr e p or t s , ne w s f r om their children will be prepared lion jobs! Again, total silence. across the borough and to compete in the global econo3) Under Bush-43, our debt more at qchron.com. my of the 21st century. Seniors grew at $1 trillion per year. In should not have to decide the first three years of Obama, whether to buy their prescriptions or pay for our annual federal budget deficit continued at the heat in their home. People should be able $1 trillion (due to Bush-43’s recession). Durto walk in the street and not have to worry ing Obama’s past three years the annual debt about being stopped by police simply rate has dropped to $300 billion. Fox … Why because of the color of their skin. We must no credit to Obama? keep working so that everyone believes in 4) During the 2012 campaign, Mitt Romthat shining city on the hill. ney boldly said, “At the end of four years as Rest in peace, Gov. Cuomo. You were an president, I will drop the unemployment inspiration to me and to many in my genera- rate to 6 percent.” Folks, under Obama’s tion. You made me proud to be a Democrat two years since his re-election – the rate and proud to be from Queens. fell to 5.8 percent. Did Fox recall Romney’s Steve Behar remark? Of course not. Bayside 5) When Obamacare launched its first enrollment, Fox & Friends laughed at the computer glitch, wh ich caused slow Don’t blame de Blasio growth. The hosts said forget Obama’s goal Dear Editor: of seven million, he’d be lucky if three milMayor de Blasio has never condemned lion signed up. Well, Fox News was “outall of the NYPD as Patrick Lynch wrongly foxed.” If you add both federal and state pu r por ts. He does, however, suppor t exchanges, Obamacare grew to 10 million! retraining and changing the culture that It would have been more, but some GOP fails to rein in the few abusive officers. His governors blocked state exchanges. consistent and reasonable position should 6) Remember when Fox & Friends howled be supported not only by the citizens of every night … Benghazi! Benghazi! BengNYC, but also by the rank-and-file officers, hazi! The GOP House conducted, at great since invariably, good cops suffer because expense, dozens of “witch hunts” on alleged of the actions of a few bad ones. scandals including the IRS and the VA. One hopes the mayor, the police commis7) On Christmas Day Fox News showed sioner, and the heads of the police unions portraits of presidents 41 and 43. “Being fair can have an honest dialogue to break the and balanced” or as I like to call Fox, “Spin & current impasse. Also, the parties involved Twist,” will they show a portrait of 42 and should remember that Mr. de Blasio was nei- 44? Folks, I think not. ther elected by the residents of Staten Island, Beware there is a sly fox in the media nor by those more conservative residents woods. who are criticizing him now and who probaAnthony G. Pilla bly did not vote for him. He ran on a proForest Hills

Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 10

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Ulrich leads the battle for veterans Councilman seeks to create new department to help city war heroes by Anthony O’Reilly

their families need all the help the city can provide. “Veterans need jobs, veterans need housInside Councilman Eric Ulrich’s (R-Ozone Park) district office desk are three medals ing, comprehensive healthcare and coverthat his great-grandfather earned for his ser- age,” he said. Some veterans said that while work is still vice in World War II. On top of the desk stands a small wooden paperweight that says needed to address these needs, Ulrich has worked hard to reach “Support Our out to the community. Troops.” Ryan Graham, the One of the first iving veterans the Queens County compeople to greet you for the Veterwhen you walk into respect and recognition mander ans of Foreign Wars his office is Redmond Haskins, the councilthey deserve starts with and an Ozone Park resident, added that ma n’s d i rector of creating a Department Ulrich has reached communications and out to many veterans a certified veterans of Veterans Services.” service organizations, service officer, who something that was is authorized to assist — Councilman Eric Ulrich not done by previous veterans with claims chairmen. for certain benefits. “He’s included VSOs, which is very Although it is evident in and around his office, Ulrich’s commitment to former ser- important,” Graham said. “He’s actually vice members spreads far beyond his district. reached out to all the VSOs that I know of For close to a year he has served as chair- and asked what the issues are and what can I man of the council’s Committee on Veterans, do to help.” Desert Storm veteran Marvin Jeffcoat a position he said he would not trade for praised Ulrich for having Haskins in his anything. “I find great meaning and purpose in help- office to help constituents with working with the VA for benefits — something he said is ing veterans,” he said. And according to Ulrich, veterans and not seen throughout the city. Associate Editor

“G

Councilman Eric Ulrich announced a food drive for veterans in November, one of the events he’s hosted as chairman of the Committee on Veterans. PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL “That was a good thing, I applaud him for that,” said Jeffcoat, of Woodside. “It shows he’s aware of what veterans need.” John Rowan, the national president of Vietnam Veterans of America, said the councilman “is very active and very aggressive in pushing issues.” “Which is more than some of his predecessors,” Rowan added. “There were no real

ideas coming out of them. No real push for anything. But Ulrich is really pushing on a lot of major issues.” In the past 12 months, Ulrich has held 11 hearings of the Veterans Committee and has gotten close to a dozen resolutions calling on the state Legislature and Congress to approve legislation ranging from suicide prevention to providing public housing for former service members. But to veterans, and Ulrich, the most important thing the committee has done is propose the idea of a separate city agency that would oversee veterans services. “Giving veterans the respect and recognition that they deserve starts with creating a Department of Veterans Services,” Ulrich said. “And that’s something we really want to do.” A hearing on possible legislation to create the agency was held by the committee in September. Ulrich says he will bring the proposal to the forefront to the mayor soon. “We should make this a priority,” he said. The Committee on Veterans works in conjunction with the Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs, which only receives $500,000 out of the city’s $73 billion budget. “We don’t spend enough money on veterans,” Ulrich said. “We spend too much continued on page 29

Expy. needs repair funds: pols Goldfeder, Schumer say highway can’t wait until 2023 by Anthony O’Reilly Design work on proposed repairs for the Nassau Expressway isn’t supposed to begin until 2023, but two politicians say that’s too long for a road that already has a litany of problems. Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park) and U.S. Sen Chuck Schumer (D-NY) are calling on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ju mp-star t repairs for a loop in the highway, which con nects South Queens to Long Island and is also used as an evacuation route, located in Nassau County. “The Rockaway peninsula has only three points of evacuation for residents and emergency personnel in the event of a disaster including the Nassau Expressway and waiting for another disaster like Superstorm Sandy to address our vital roadway infrastructure will only make the repairs more expensive and potentially put our families at risk during future emergencies,” Goldfeder said in a statement.

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder asks the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to repair the Nassau Expressway. He was joined by several politicians. PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY

The roadway, in addition to acting as an evacuation route for residents of both counties, is also used by police and fire officials in the event of an emergency. Work on the highway has been delayed in recent years, due to concerns over soil and nearby tidal wetlands, Schumer said.

Work is expected to begin in 2023 and be finished in 2025, the two politicians said. A second phase of the project is expected to begin in 2025 and be finished two years later. But the road already experiences frequent flooding during rainfall and has a large number of potholes, poor drainage and

exposed gravel, according to officials. Superstorm Sandy made the problems along the roadway worse, Schumer said. “I am urging the experts at Army Corps to step in and do everything possible to use federal funding to assess, design and conduct a storm-surge protection project for the dilapidated Nassau Expressway,” the senator said in a statement. He pinpointed three types of federal funding that could be used to repair the highway, including the Rockaway Reform at ion P roje ct , t he A r my Corps’ Continuing Authorities Program — for which Schumer has secured $50 million in Sandy recovery funding — and t he Sp e cia l I nve st igat ion s Funding. Schumer’s and Goldfeder’s pleas were echoed by Nassau Cou nt y L eg islator Howa rd Kopel. The U.S. Ar my Cor ps of Engineers did not respond to calls for comments on the politiQ cians’ pleas by press time.

PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY

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Associate Editor

‘Coldfeder’ Call him Assemblyman Phil Coldfeder. The Rockaway and South Queens representative took part in the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Plunge at Rockaway Beach. The annual tradition challenges people to run into the freezing cold ocean at noon, and either stay in the water or run back out to warm up. The polar bear plunge also took place at other beaches across the country on New Year’s Day, most notably on Coney Island.

C M SQ page 11 Y K

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 12

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DEP: Upgrades aid Jamaica Bay $83M to reduce nitrogen from wastewater plant The city’s Depar tment of Environmental Protection last week announced the completion of an $83 million upgrade to the Jamaica Wastewater Tr e at me nt Pla nt i n Sout h Ozone Park. L o c a t e d we s t of 13 4 t h St reet bet ween the Nassau Expressway and John F. Kennedy Inter national Air por t, t h e pl a nt d i s ch a r ge s i nt o Jamaica Bay with its numerous parks and a national wildlife refuge. In a statement issued by her office last week, DEP Commissioner Emily Lloyd said the upg rades to the plant will remove 6,500 pounds of nitrogen from the treated water entering the bay, and more than 2.5 million pounds per year. “Jamaica Bay is one of the cit y’s most diverse nat u ral resources, and protecting it is a top priority,” Lloyd said. With an additional $100 million dedicated to nitrogen reduction at three other plants along the bay, Lloyd said the city could reduce nitrogen levels in

Technological upgrades at the Jamaica Wastewater Treatment Plant are being touted by the city as a PHOTO COURTESY NYC DEP significant boost to the environmental health of Jamaica Bay. restore wetlands along the bay, already is paying dividends. “The high nitrogen loading has long been a cause of water quality problems, and we are extremely pleased to repor t that we are already noticing

the liquid waste by 50 percent in the next 10 years. D a n Mu n d y S r. of t h e Jamaica Bay Eco-Watchers said the effort to reduce nitrogen, along with nearly $20 million in city DEP funding to

[improvements],” Mundy said. He pointed to a reduction in the number of harmful algae blooms, as well as an increase in dissolved oxygen and water clarity since new technology Q started coming online.

E-recycling event is set Come to the annual After the Holidays Electronic Waste event at the Queens Botanical Garden in Flushing on Sunday, Jan. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents, nonprofits and small businesses of Queens are invited to bring their unwanted or broken electronics, to dispose of safely and free of charge. The event will take place in the QBG Parking Garden, located at 42-80 Crommelin St. and will take place rain or shine. Tangles of holiday lights, computers, fax machines, cell phones, tablets, e-readers, televisions, cameras, stereo equipment are welcome. Many are no longer legal to dispose of curbside. For a complete list of accepted materials, visit lesecologycenter.org/. Participants will get a free raffle to win a new MacBook Air and will get a coupon good for $25 off a $100 purchase at Tekserve, the sponsor of the e-waste collection event. After dropping off the discards, visit QBG’s Education Building from 1 to 3 p.m. for a free workshop that will demonstrate how to create crafts from Q recycled and repurposed items.

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Ban on phones in schools to be lifted Schools will be in charge of creating individual policies for mobile devices by Anthony Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly Associate Editor

Mayor de Blasio on Wednesday announced the imminent end of a decades-old ban on cell phones in public schools. Principals will now be tasked with creating their own policy for mobile devices, or have one given to them by the Department of Education. PHOTO COURTESY NYC

Public school students are now free to phone home. Mayor de Blasio and Schools Chancellor Carmen FariĂąa announced on Wednesday the city will be lifting a ban on cell phones in city public schools on March 2, reversing a policy that has been in place for more than a decade. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Parents should be able to call or text their kids,â&#x20AC;? de Blasio said in a written statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s something Chirlane and I felt ourselves when Chiara took the subway to high school in another borough each day, and we know itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a sentiment parents across this city share.â&#x20AC;? The new plan allows for principals to create a policy for the use of cell phones in school, which include the option for students to store their phones in their backpack or another designated area; allow devices to be used during lunch time or other designated time periods or allow mobile devices to be used only for instructional purposes. A default rule will be issued to schools that do not create their own. Students have been required to either leave their cell phones at home or pay a dollar a day at a storage facility located near their school. Many parents, however, complained that the policy did not allow children to have a form of communication in the event of an emergency. Many others also complained that metal detectors used to detect cell phones were being placed in low-income communities. De Blasio has been a verbal opponent of the ban for

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many months, adding that his son Dante violates the nophone policy while attending classes at Brooklyn Tech. But one retired public school teacher believes the ban was never properly implemented. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone ignored the rule,â&#x20AC;? Larry Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, who taught at Forest Hills High School, said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not going to be much of a difference. Everyone brought their phones in anyway.â&#x20AC;? Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, who was a film professor, believes that cell phones could have a useful purpose inside the classroom, and said he frequently asked students to look up information on their phones. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I would ask them to look up where the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Godfatherâ&#x20AC;? funeral scene takes place and they had it right there,â&#x20AC;? he said. Rob Battista, a Corona resident who has two children in elementary school, said he sees good and bad things in the new policy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Imagine a child losing a $400 phone,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the other hand, it is good to know where your child is at all times.â&#x20AC;? He said individual teachers should be in charge of taking childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s phones and storing them in a safe place as soon as they enter the classroom. He also disagreed with the dollar-a-day service that would hold phones during a school day. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I just paid for a $400 phone,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have that kind of money.â&#x20AC;? FariĂąa said in a statement, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Lifting the cell phone ban is about common sense, while ensuring student safety as Q well as high-level learning in our classrooms.â&#x20AC;?

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PS 60 SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT •

THE WOODHAVEN SCHOOL

any exciting things have been happening at PS 60, The Woodhaven School, since the start of the school year. PS 60 joined the Organics Collection Program in New York City, implemented by the Department of Education and the Department of Sanitation. In addition to recycling, the school is collecting organic waste in order to contribute to the reduction of the amount of trash that NYC sends to landfills. The students have learned how to dispose of all food waste properly after breakfast and lunch by separating food and compostable materials, recyclable items and trash into special bins in the cafeteria’s new waste-sorting stations. The food waste is turned into compost for local gardens and parks or converted into clean and renewable energy. Students were eager to join the school’s Green Team and have learned a lot about organics collection. They work hard every day and have done a fantastic job keeping our cafeteria clean and organized, right. PS 60 has also been working hard to support local communities by participating in the City Harvest Food Drive and worked with state Sen. Joe Addabbo to hold an annual toy drive at the school, which hopes to bring cheer to children who spent the holidays in Jamaica Hospital.

PHOTOS COURTESY PS 60

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The school participated in the JDRF Kids Walk to Cure Diabetes for the third consecutive year. Fifth-grade teacher Ms. Beckmann and Parent Coordinator Jeannette Gonzalez worked in conjunction with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation to organize the fundraiser. The students wore costumes and walked in a parade around the schoolyard to bring awareness to the cause, hoping to find a cure for type 1 diabetes, left. Families and members of the community showed their support by attending the parade. PS 60 is grateful to everyone who helped raise an impressive $7,714.40 this year, bringing the three-year total amount raised to $22,569.10! The school held its annual Fifth Grade Spelling Bee! Competitions were first held within each fifth-grade class. Two students per class were then chosen as representatives to participate in the school-wide spelling bee in the auditorium. Classmates, parents, and family members were all invited to support and cheer on the children. Nusrat Mim of class 5-318 out-spelled her competitors and won first place. She will be going on to represent PS 60 at the 2015 Queens Borough-Wide Spelling Bee. Congratulations also goes to Karime Yapor of Class 5-322, who came in second place, and to Marlon Pitamber, who won the third place prize. All of the class winners received medals and certificates for their accomplishment, and trophies were distributed to the grade-wide winners, below.

ATTENTION PUBLIC AND PRIVATE, ELEMENTARY AND HIGH SCHOOLS: IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE FEATURED ON A SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT PAGE, CALL LISA LICAUSI, EDUCATION COORDINATOR, AT (718) 205-8000, EXT. 110.

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continued from page 5 State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) said he believes one of the early challenges for Build it Back was its small workforce. “I think Build it Back was burdened by so many people who need assistance,” he said. Addabbo, whose district office hosts the program every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., added he hopes that “over time we’ll see more progress.” Mundy agreed with Addabbo. “I still do not think the program is at a point where we can rest,” he said. “It’s a lot more complicated than anyone in charge would’ve thought.” Mundy said one of the main problems facing Broad Channel residents is a lack of houses being elevated to prevent flooding. Despite its remaining challenges, Build it Back has succeeded in bringing one Broad Channel family back to their home. John and Jayme Galimi moved back into their home shortly before Christmas, according to a YouTube video uploaded by the Mayor’s Office. Mayor de Blasio visited the Galimis’ house in October to announce that the number of renovations started through Build it Back had drastically Q increased.

Weprin brings food to pantry Donated goods will help River Fund in Richmond Hill by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

In late November, Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows) began a food drive to benefit homeless and hungry residents of Queens. Weprin’s constituents delivered more than 350 pounds of canned and nonperishable foods to both offices throughout his district and on Monday the food was donated to the River Fund in Richmond Hill. “The city, overall, has been doing well, but there is still a large number of people living in poverty and are hungry,” Weprin said. “I sincerely thank the hardworking staff members and volunteers of the River Fund for their selfless dedication, as well as everyone who donated the proceeds.” The River Fund is a nonprofit organization that seeks to feed people in need. About 100,000 hungry people visit River Fund locations every year. “Our largest populations ser ved are children, their families, and the seniors who are struggling the most within our city,” Swami Durga Das, CEO and executive director of the River Fund New York, said in a statement. “We are thankful for Assembly Member Weprin for being here with us today, and for the support he and his office have shown through these wonderful donations.”

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 20

SQ page 20

EX-GOV. MARIO CUOMO Politicians remember Queens native, liberal icon by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

To many Queens elected officials, Mario Cuomo was more than a governor — he was a political inspiration. “A native of Queens, Governor Cuomo was an inspiration to me and to many borough residents who entered public service in the hope of following his example and building on his legacy of achievement,” Borough President Melinda Katz said in a statement. Q ueens Dist r ict At tor ney R icha rd Brown remembered Cuomo, father of Gov. Andrew Cuomo, as a “friend and advisor who greatly inf luenced my life and the lives of a generation of young lawyers.” The older Cuomo had appointed Brown as an appellate judge and in 1991 made him the Queens DA after the previous one had retired in the middle of his term. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) said “We’ve lost a legend in New York politics. “Mario Cuomo was a great leader of New York State, a political icon and a key figure on the national stage,” she added. “He was also a great son of Queens.” Cuomo, who served for three terms as a Democratic gover nor beginning at the height of the Reagan administration, was born and raised his family in Queens. He died on Jan. 1 just hours after his son, Andrew, took the oath of governor for the second time. He was 82. The cause of death was heart failure, published reports state. As Gov. Cuomo gave his inaugural address at 1 World Trade last Thursday, his father stayed at his Manhattan apartment with a serious heart condition. He died at about 5:15 p.m., published reports state. His son kept him in mind as he took the oath for governor for the second time. “He couldn’t be here physically today, but my father is in this room,” the governor told a crowd of supporters. “He’s in the heart and mind of every person who is here. His inspiration and his legacy and his spirit is what has brought this day to this point.” Several others said that the elder Cuomo took his last breath as he watched his son give a second inaugural address in Buffalo. Mayor de Blasio has ordered that flags throughout the city remain at half-staff for 30 days. The flags have been at that position since the assassinations of NYPD Detectives Rafael Ramos and Wenjian Liu on Dec. 20. Mario Cuomo was the third son of Italian immigrants and was born on June 15, 1932. His parents owned a grocery store in South Jamaica. He played baseball as a teenager and at the age of 19 was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates and played for their minor league team, the Brunswick Pirates, in the Georgia-Florida League. In 1952 he played in 82 games and had a

.244 batting average and only hit one home run, according to baseball-reference.com. His career ended when he was hit in the face by a pitch, which caused him to be blind for a week.

The project was ver y controversial, according to former Borough President Claire Shulman, a longtime friend of Cuomo’s. “The city wanted to put the housing near the Horace Harding Expressway and there was a big fuss over it,” she said. “There were demonst rations and it was ver y controversial.” The issue, Shulman said, was that residents did not want low-income families moving into the neighborhood. Cuomo stepped in and negotiated a settlement by making the project a lowincome co-op for veterans, seniors and area residents. The compromise also cut the size of the project in half. “It gave people pride in their apartments and was a huge success,” Shulman said. “And it was a monumental effort on his part because no one thought it could be settled.” Cuomo also had won a huge case years before in 1964, when he was hired by junkyard owners in Willets Point to prevent the city from seizing their property, according to several published reports. Robert Moses, president of the 1964-65 World’s Fair, wanted the land for expanded fair and later park usage. Cuomo won the lawsuit that prohibited the use of state funds for the 67-acre expansion project. Mario Cuomo FILE PHOTO The city eventually decided against condemning the property for parkland. Upon returning to Queens, he finished Shulman also remembered Cuomo as a his undergraduate classes at St. John’s Uni- good friend in addition to being a tenacious versity, which he enrolled in before being lawyer. drafted, and later graduated from its law “I always admired him,” she added. “He school in 1956. had a lot of drive and was smart.” A spokeswoman for the university said, It wasn’t until 1974 that Cuomo started “Governor Mario Cuomo dedicated his life his career in politics. That year he unsucto public service and embodied the same cessfully ran for lieutenant governor. The beliefs of St. Vincent de Paul, and on which next year he was appointed secretary of this university was founded.” state by then-Gov. Hugh Carey. It was also at St. In 1977, he ran Joh n’s that Ma r io for m ayor on t he would meet his wife, Liberal Party line. Matilda Raffa. They e have won, my friends, He lost the race to we r e m a r r i e d i n Democratic candia chance to prove that 195 4 a n d we r e date Ed Koch. together until year he the sons and daughters wonThethenext Mario’s death. election for The two had five of immigrants, of simple lieutenant governor children together — as Carey’s running people who came here A n d r e w, M a r i a , mate. Margaret, Madeline Four years later, with nothing can make and Chris, a news he narrowly defeated anchor at CNN. this state greater still.” bu si nessm a n L ew T he t wo r aised Lehrman to become — Mario Cuomo their family in the 52nd governor of Holliswood. New York. He practiced law Cuomo took 51 in Queens for many years before getting percent of the popular vote and Lehrman into politics. won 48. His biggest case came in 1972, when he He dubbed the win a victory for children acted as a mediator between a developer of immigrants everywhere. who sought to place a low-income housing “We have won, my friends, a chance to complex in Forest Hills and residents who prove that the sons and daughters of immiopposed it. grants, of simple people who came here

“W

with nothing can make this state greater still,” he said during his victory speech. He also said a win for a Democratic governor was a statement that people were rebelling against then-Republican President Ronald Reagan. And it was his strong presence as a Democratic politician during the time of Reaganomics that he will be remembered for, according to St. John’s University political science professor Brian Browne. “He was one of the progressive standouts and he was a voice for his party,” Browne said. “He was a consistent governor and Democrat.” Cuomo’s stance against the Reagan administration helped thrust him into the national spotlight during a keynote speech at the 1984 Democratic National Convention, where he gave a rebuttal to the president’s idea that America was a “shining city on a hill.” “This nation is more a ‘Tale of Two Cities,’” Cuomo said in that speech, a phrase that was frequently used by Bill de Blasio during his campaign for mayor. The “gifted orator” was known throughout the country after that speech, Browne said. As much as he shined behind the podium, he was unsuccesful as a governor solving financial problems. “He cer tainly str uggled with that,” Browne said. “The recession was going on. He was making cuts and raising fees.” It was the state’s fiduciary problems that prevented Cuomo from making a run for president in 1992. He missed the Dec. 20, 1991 registration deadline because he was not able to reach an agreement on the state budget with the Republican-controlled state Senate and Democratic-held Assembly. Browne said Cuomo did not sign any big bills while in Albany, but noted that he was in charge when the drinking age was raised to 21 and when New York passed the country’s first law mandating seat belts be worn while driving. And despite the budget issues, he was also one who worked well with people on the other side of the political aisle. “He was one of the better ones in terms of making deals,” Browne said of Cuomo’s bipartisanship. Former Republican state Sen. Frank Padavan — who served in the Legislature during Cuomo’s time as governor and in 2010 was defeated by now-Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) — also recalled Cuomo as a Democrat willing to reach over to the right when necessary. “I always found him to be open, available and easy to talk to and easy to express your views to,” Padavan said. The for mer legislator from Jamaica Estates recalled that Cuomo was originally against raising the drinking age from 18 to 21. But he changed his mind after meeting with Padavan and other Republican lawmakers.

C M SQ page 21 Y K

who governed NYS at the height of Reaganomics “After we met a lot and talked a lot, it became law,” Padavan said. Browne also said Cuomo, unlike his successors, lived in the governor’s mansion in Albany. Cuomo also ser ved at a time when Queens representatives ruled over New York politics. From Dec. 1991 to 1994, Cuomo served as governor while Saul Weprin — the father of Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows) and city Councilman Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gardens) — served as the speaker of the Assembly and Peter Vallone Sr. — father of city Councilman Paul Vallone (D-Bayside) and former Councilman Peter Vallone Jr., now special assistant to the commissioner of the state Department of Corrections — served as speaker of the City Council. “It was the height of Queens politics,” Browne said. David Weprin said Cuomo’s ties to Saul Weprin went back years before he stepped foot in Albany. The two were involved in a Queens Democratic Club. The two families also lived about a mile apart from each other. Saul Weprin told his son that Mario would one day be the first Italian-American

Mario Cuomo greets Walter Mondale at a presidential rally at Borough Hall. PHOTO BY WALTER KARLING president, the assemblyman recalled. “I was kind of disappointed when that didn’t happen,” he said. David Weprin also had his own ties to the former governor. He, along with his entire family, worked full-time on Cuomo’s failed attempt to run for mayor. “I remember Christopher, who was 7 years old at the time, was raising havoc during the campaign,” he said.

Cuomo would later appoi nt David Weprin the deputy superintendent of banking for the state. The two remained close f r iend s du r i ng Wepr i n’s st ay i n t he department. “He would ask for ideas for the State of the State and I’d send him suggestions,” Weprin said. “He then sent me a handwritten thank you note.” Cuomo’s popularity as a Democrat was not

enough to let him serve a fourth-consecutive term. As crime in New York became a bigger issue, he was defeated by Republican George Pataki, who pressed for the death penalty. His son’s inauguration last week took place 20 years after Mario Cuomo left Albany for the first time as a private citizen in 12 years. He and his wife moved to Manhattan, where they stayed until his death. He would occasionally come out for political events and was seen constantly during his son’s first and second campaigns. Elected officials remembered him as an unwavering force for all New Yorkers. City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said in a statement, “Mario Cuomo was an extraordinary public servant who devoted his life to the betterment of all New Yorkers.” Assemblyman Francisco Moya (D-Jackson Heights) said Cuomo “dedicated his life to making our great state better for all, from the new immigrant to the born-andbred New Yorker.” De Blasio called him a “man of unwavering principle who possessed a compassion for humankind that was without equal.” Q Liz Rhoades contributed to this report.

Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

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C M SQ page 22 Y K

Cuomo is laid to rest

ESSAY

The gracious governor ticularly because by Mark Lord When I heard of the passing of Mario later that evening Cuomo last week, I was immediately trans- the governor would ported back to a day in January — the 17th, be holding a recepI believe — of 1986, when my path briefly tion to honor us. Mr. Cuomo was intersected with that of the governor, then on hand to personentering his fourth year as head of our state. Meeting anyone in that position would ally present us with have been an honor, but the fact that he was our medallion. In a native of Queens — one of us — made the the time we had encounter all the more meaningful, as did with him, we found the circumstances under which the intro- him to be as down-to-earth as his humble beginnings would have indicated, just duction took place. I was an English and drama teacher at another guy from Queens ... who happened August Martin High School in South to be the governor of New York. He happily posed for photos with us — Jamaica, the same neighborhood where a young Mario often helped out in his fami- individually, in groups, in various combinations thereof. ly’s grocery store. He even signed a copy of the letter of It was the year that was to mark the first national holiday observance of the congratulations we received from the manufacturing company that Rev. Martin Luther King had sponsored the Jr.’s birth. competition. In honor of the occae honored my The theme of that inausion, the New York State award-winning gural contest — one that Martin Luther King, Jr. was to become an annual Arts & Sciences Contest August Martin event — was “Living the w a s e s t a bl i s h e d , t o Dream.” How appropriate encourage students to HS students that the man honoring us ref lect on the various personally. shared many of the same contributions King left to dreams as the man we had the nation and his hopes honored in our performance. and dreams for future generations. I think I can safely say that the eight stuAlong with a group of students and Rosemarie Castanza, chairwoman of the school’s dents from our school with whom I shared music department, I put together a perfor- this experience — Venus, James, Allecia, mance called “Martin Salutes King,” a com- Kevin, Jonathan, Tessa, William and David pilation of dramatic and musical sequences — saw a small part of their own dreams come true that day. Twenty-nine years later, that reflected King’s philosophies. Before we knew it, we found ourselves up I’m sure that they, like myself, are thinking in Albany, competing in the semifinal round back to the time they brought pride to themselves and their school and topped it all off against schools from across the state. Fortunate enough to be among six teams when they met the man whose loss is being Q invited to the finals, we made another trip felt so deeply today. Mark Lord is a Queens Chronicle upstate, where the winners were to receive contributing writer, retired teacher, their prize from the governor himself. When August Martin was announced in playwright and community theater actor first place, we were naturally thrilled, par- who lives in Forest Hills.

Prior to his being buried in a private service at St. John Cemetery in Middle Village on Tuesday, a funeral service was held for former Gov. Mario Cuomo at St. Ignatius Loyola Church on Park Avenue in Manhattan. The service was attended by numerous officials past and present, including many from Queens. At the top, Gov. Andrew Cuomo mourns his father’s death with his girlfriend, Sandra Lee and his mother, Matilda Raffa-Cuomo. Below them, state troopers march in formation to the church. Clockwise from above are Mayor de Blasio and his wife, Chirlane McCray; Rep. Grace Meng, former President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton; celebrites Phil Donohue and Marlo Thomas; state Sen. Leroy Comrie and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and state Sens. Mike Gianaris and Joe Addabbo Jr. Among the many others attending were former mayors Mike Bloomberg and Rudy Giuliani.

PHOTOS BY WALTER KARLING

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Gov. Mario Cuomo with the author, left, his colleague Rosemarie Castanza and his award-winning students from August Martin High School, in 1986. PHOTO COURTESY MARK LORD

C M SQ page 23 Y K Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Van Bramer targets dangerous drivers

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 24

C M SQ page 24 Y K

New law imposes fines for hit-and-runs Beginning in 2015, a newly passed law will impose civil penalties and fines of up to $10,000 on reckless drivers. Introduced by Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside), The Justice for Hitand-Run Victims Act is designed to potentially save lives by discouraging drivers fleeing the scene of an accident. Local Law 50 passed in September and was co-sponsored by Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez (D-Manhattan), Transportation Committee chairman. “I was moved to introduce this bill in response to the death of three people who were killed in my district by drivers who fled the scene,” Van Bramer said in a prepared statement. “Luis Bravo, 19, Kumar Ragunath, 64, and Karen Pheras, 20, all lost their lives because of the unconscionable actions of reckless drivers who showed no concern for the lives of these three people.” Though the fines cannot bring back the lives lost from reckless driving, Van Bramer said, he hopes the new measure will encourage those in accidents to call 911 and not leave a victim to die in the street and

Hoops hero Reynaldo Walters of South Ozone Park, a junior with the men’s basketball team at SUNY-Old Westbury on Long Island, was named Skyline Conference Player of the Week for the period ending Jan. 3. Walters, who attended Cardozzo High School in Bayside, averaged 20.5 points and shot 50 percent from the field in the Panthers’ first two games of the season. Walters had eight points and two steals off the bench on Dec. 29 in his Old Westbury debut against St. John Fisher College. On Jan. 3 he had 33 points, including seven in overtime, in a win over Sage College.

further punish those who do flee. “I am confident these fines will not only decrease potential hit-and-runs but also increase the likelihood accident victims survive,” Rodriguez said in a prepared statement. The new civil penalties are being applied to pre-existing violations under the state’s Vehicle Traffic Law. Penalties will be imposed in accordance with the severity of the incident. Reckless drivers face a fine of up to $500 for a collision resulting in property damage, a $1,000 to $2,000 fine if a person is injured, a $2,000 to $10,000 fine if there is a serious injury and a $5,000 to $10,000 penalty if the accident causes a victim’s death. “This law gives parents the ability to trust that the authorities will hold drivers accountable for their actions and helps ensure no family ever has to suffer the pain of losing a loved one,” said Martha Puruncajas, mother of Luis Bravo, in a prepared statement. Bravo was killed on Q Broadway in Woodside in 2013.

More repairs on burnt apts. Cleanup of an Ozone Park apartment building that caught fire last month is on its way, a spokesman for Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said. The spokesman, Redmond Haskins, said the superintendent of the building is close to cleaning up the debris from the five-alarm fire that ripped through 103-45 97 St. on Dec. 18. The next phase of the cleanup, Haskins said, is filing applications with the Department of Buildings to repair the roof, replace windows and make the building “water tight,” which will complete the first phase of repairs to the structure. Residents are expected to move back into their homes in three to six months, Haskins said. More than 80 families were displaced when a f ire started in the cockloft of the building and spread to the roof, according to fire officials. Two weeks ago, the Department of Buildings partially lifted a vacate order on the building, allowing for preliminary repairs to the structure to Q start, according to city records.

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Judge to decide on driver’s license fate Hearing held for motorist who killed 3-year-old girl in Flushing by Liz Rhoades Managing Editor

The family of 3-year-old Allison Liao, who was mowed down by a motorist in 2013, is waiting to find out if the driver’s license will be suspended or revoked. A Department of Motor Vehichles hearing was held on Tuesday to determine if Ahmad Abu-Zayedeha, 44, of Flushing would retain his driver’s license. Two summonses for $150 each were previously voided by the DMV. The tickets were for failure to exercise due care and failure to yield to a pedestrian. The DMV voided the tickets following a July hearing in which the driver testified that he believed early news reports that said Allison had run into traffic, and he refused to watch an accident video. Police officers, who acquired the recording, argued in favor of the summonses. The accident occurred at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 6, 2013 when Allison and her grandmother were crossing Main Street at Cherry Avenue. They were in the crosswalk and had the right of way. A recording taken from a dashboard camera of a nearby car showed Abu-Zayedeha making a left-hand turn, striking the grandmother and then running over Allison. The girl died at New York Hospital Queens. According to her grieving mother, Amy Tan Liao, who attended Tuesday’s hearing, the video was shown to the judge by an NYPD detective, who testified, as did the little girl’s grandmother. “I wasn’t allowed to make a statement,” Tan Liao said. “And we were upset that the judge didn’t make a decision on the spot.”

The judge can decide to do nothing, suspend or revoke Abu-Zayedeha’s license. The mother said by phone on Wednesday that the DMV is the last governmental agency “that can right a wrong.” She and her husband, Hsi-Pei Liao, are also the parents of a 6-year-old son. A second son was born five months ago and Tan Liao said he is “therapeutic for a number of reasons.” On Tuesday evening, the parents participated in a vigil for Ally at the intersection where she was killed. Area elected officials and representatives from Transportation Alternatives participated. Candles were lit forming the number 250 for the number of traffic fatalities in the city last year. Among the speakers was Councilman Peter Koo (D-Flushing), who said that the tragedy has united them in action. “Our purpose is to make sure that reckless drivers are held accountable for their actions, and to push for necessary reforms in order to prevent the loss of precious life in the future,” Koo said. “It was lovely that they came out to support us,” Tan Liao said. “They said such kind words and I’m glad we can call on them in the future.” Other participants included state Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) and Assemblyman Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gardens). On hand were representatives from Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing), and Assembly members Nily Rozic (D-Fresh Meadows) and Ron Kim (D-Flushing). The Liao family is also proceeding with a civil case against the driver that is expected to go to court in the next Q few months.

The parents of Allison Liao, right, took part in a vigil Tuesday night in Flushing where their daughter was killed by a driver in 2013. Speaking is Assemblyman Mark Weprin. The number 250 spelled out in candles represents traffic fatalities in the city last year. PHOTO COURTESY NYC COUNCIL

New trial, new trouble for Tabone in court Malcolm Smith co-defendant now is accused of witness tampering by Michael Gannon

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Editor

Three years ago, the idea of Malcolm Smith and Vincent Tabone being linked in any sort of context might have elicited laughs in Queens political circles. But with the beginning of jury selection this past Monday in their federal corruption trial, the two stand accused of conspiring to bribe Republican Party officials in New York City so Smith, once one of the most powerful Democrats in the state, could run for mayor in 2013 as a Republican. The two had been on trial with former Republican Councilman Dan Halloran back in June when federal Judge Kenneth Karas declared a mistrial over taped conversations that the U.S. Attorney’s Office did not make available to the defense. Halloran elected to continue at trial and was convicted in July. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 21. Numerous publications quoted Smith’s and Tabone’s defense lawyers on Monday as saying they would pursue an entrapment defense. But along with a new trial at the federal courthouse in White Plains, Tabone picked up a new charge of witness tampering in a new superseding indictment naming both men. The 19-page document, along with

Former state Sen. Malcolm Smith, left, and former Queens Republican Party Vice Chairman Vincent Tabone began their new trial for corruption charges on Monday. But Tabone also has picked up a FILE PHOTOS new charge for alleged witness tampering. previously aired charges of bribery, wire fraud and, against Smith, extortion, now accuses Tabone of trying to influence the late Queens GOP Chairman Phil Ragusa to not cooperate with the investigation. The government alleges that Tabone went to the dying Ragusa’s home on May 23 last

year. Ragusa is referred to in the indictment only as “the Queens County Republican Chairman,” or “County Chairman #2.” “During that conversation, Tabone in part and substance, encouraged [Ragusa] not to testify” and allegedly told Ragusa that no one could force him to testify.

But prosecutors are very suspicious of Tabone’s timing, claiming the visit allegedly took place just more than hour before federal authorities were preparing to visit Ragusa’s home to depose him. “Prior to the deposition, the Government provided copies of notes and reports of its interviews with [Ragusa] to the lawyers representing [Smith and Tabone],” the new complaint states on page 13. “Those notes and reports contained, among other things, the substance of the testimony that the Government expected County Chairman #2 would give at the deposition.” Smith, Tabone and Halloran were among six people arrested in April 2013 in what the office of U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara alleges was a $200,000 scheme to secure Smith the slot on the Republican ballot that ultimately went to former Metropolitan Transportation Chairman Joe Lhota in a primary. Prosecutors asser t that the alleged scheme began in or about August 2011. The complaint outlines meetings in diners, steakhouses and even one time in Smith’s Albany office with a cooperating witness and an undercover FBI agent who was posing as a real estate developer. The case alleges that some of the meetings resulted in envelopes containing thousands continued on page 30

C M SQ page 27 Y K

Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

For the latest news visit qchron.com

CITC-065846

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 28

C M SQ page 28 Y K

Life is full of risks! Are you protected?

Author and Jackson Heights native Matt Burgess celebrated the release of his second novel, PHOTO BY CRISTINA SCHREIL which spotlights Queens, at the Astoria Bookshop Tuesday evening.

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Author pens novel celebrating Queens

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A Jackson Heights-raised author has returned to his roots. Matt Burgessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; second novel, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Uncle Janice,â&#x20AC;? which was published by Doubleday on Tuesday, chronicles a female undercover narcotics police officer as she faces the war on drugs in Jackson Heights. The author chose to kick off the release of his crime novel in his native borough at the Astoria Bookshop Tuesday evening. The independent bookstore, located on Broadway and 31st Avenue, is an example of the kind of intimate reading venue Burgess w ished had existed i n Jackson Heights when he released his first novel in 2011, he explained. Burgess lives in Minnesota but did most of his research in his old stomping grounds in Queens, a borough for which he said he is often homesick. He relayed stories of his first approaching NYPD undercover officers in an off-the-beatenpath building in Flushing and of walking around the Queensbridge Public Houses in Long Island City with a cop friend. In the first chapter of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Uncle Janice,â&#x20AC;? which Burgess read to a crowded venue, one character instructs heroine Janice Itwaru â&#x20AC;&#x201D; â&#x20AC;&#x153;uncleâ&#x20AC;? is a term for an undercover officer â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to pronounce Roosevelt Avenue as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Rooz-veltâ&#x20AC;? to â&#x20AC;&#x153;sound like one of the locals.â&#x20AC;? The book highlights the dangerous and morally challenging life of an undercover operative, as well as the diversity of neighborhoods like Jackson Heights, Richmond Hill, Woodside and Corona. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the audience I think of the most, the people in Queens,â&#x20AC;? Burgess said.

Bronx native and fellow author Richard Price spoke about the challenge of straddling both the literary world and those of their outerborough urban communities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is part of the stew here,â&#x20AC;? Price said of the neighborhoods Burgess spotlights, which both authors agreed arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t featured as much as they should be. The spotlight on Queens echoes the world of Bu rge ssâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; novel, wh ich he explained was inspired by a series of anecdotes from an NYPD undercover officer. Burgess dedicated the book to the anonymous cop, whom he contacted several ti mes a d ay du r i ng the w r iti ng process. Burgess also spoke of the trickiness of truthfully relaying the lives of city cops, who have been at the center of recent news. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I think this is such a complicated issue that has been made relentlessly less complicated by news narratives,â&#x20AC;? Burgess said. Richmond Hill was also a focus in the novel, with the protagonist being of Guyanese descent and from the neighborhood. Those passages resonated the most with Jackson Heights resident Stephanie Nechamkin, who said the Guyanese community is fascinating. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There are a whole bunch of people who a re not re a l ly w r it t e n ab out ,â&#x20AC;? Nechamkin, who attended the reading with her husband, Arthur, said. The couple lived in the same building as Bu rgessâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; parents and said theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re pleased their neighborhood is the setting of a novel. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jackson Heights is ethnically the most diverse area in the country,â&#x20AC;? Mr. Nechamkin said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve all noted how much Q Jackson Heights has changed.â&#x20AC;?

SQ page 29

PHOTO COURTESY VVA, CHAPTER 32

Two men were shot late Tuesday night while sitting in a car in front of a South Ozone Park house, leaving one of them dead and the other in the hospital in stable condition, according to police. Police said officers found the two victims in front of 150-22 130 St. at about 10:05 p.m. Police said the two were seated inside a parked car in front of the house when they were approached by an unk nown suspect who shot at them. One of the victims, an unidentified adult male, had a gunshot wound in the head and was pronounced dead at the scene of the crime, according to police. The name of the victim is being withheld pending family notification. The other victim, a 21-year-old male whose identity was also not released, was found with a gunshot wound in his right leg. He was taken via ambulance to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, where he remains in stable condition, police said. No arrests have been made and officers with the 106th Precinct are invesQ tigating the murder.

Holiday treat for veterans The Vietnam Veterans of America, Queens Chapter 32, and VFW Post 4787 of Whitestone recently held their first holiday dinner party for veterans. About 120 people attended, including residents of the New York State Veterans’ Home in St. Albans. There was music and games for children

and guests as well as a hot Italian dinner. Among the participants were Chapter 32 member Nick Cataldo, standing left, Paul Narson, Chapter 32 president, Joe Ingino, Chapter 82 president, and Chapter 32 members Tom Corbin, Mike Daughtry, Paul Feddern, Manfried Edenhoffer and Ray Orhablo.

continued from page 10 money on a lot of other things that I wou ld say is not ver y f iscal ly responsible.” Queens veterans praised the idea of a seperate veterans department. “We need to get away from the mayor’s office,” Graham said. “I think it would be a great idea to the extent that it would be actionable,” Jeffcoat said. “You need an actionable agency that can streamline veterans needs.” But a lack of funding has not stopped Ulrich from providing services to city veterans. In the past few months, he’s held a veterans town hall, a Council-wide food drive and a career fair at Russo’s on The Bay in Howard Beach. He hopes to make them all annual events. Ulrich also said he has the support of his fellow Councilmembers. “Veterans is not a partisan issue,” he said. “Veterans is not a Democrat or Republican issue. Helping veterans really is an American issue.” Ulrich also praised the other committee members, who include fellow Queens Councilman Paul Vallone (D-Bayside). “They’re proposing their own ideas, asking great questions,” Ulrich said. Q “They have been great.”

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

Ulrich on vets

Two shot, one dead: police

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SQ page 30

Hwy. agencies may review ramp plans Willets Point proposal has changed since Van Wyck project approved by Liz Rhoades Managing Editor

The state Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Administration are taking a second look at the Van Wyck Expressway ramp proposal for Willets Point and may decide to re-evaluate the plan in light of the mega mall project in the Citi Field parking lot. That’s the word from Willets Point United, the group of business and land owners in the Iron Triangle area who are trying to stop the city and developers from proceeding with plans to redevelop the site. WPU members were able to obtain emails through FOIL, the Freedom of Information Law, on the state and federal levels, on the possible re-evaluation. A WPU spokesman told the Queens Chronicle that the emails were sent in September by the state DOT to Tom McKnight, city Economic Development Corp. executive vice president. One says that the agency’s initial assessment “is that a re-evaluation of the 2012 environmental assessment would be required.” What has changed from the initial plan was the addition of the Willets West mall, which expands the project from 62 acres to 109. In 2011, before the city picked a developer for the $3 billion Willets Point project, the EDC pushed for new access ramps to

Plans for Willets Point have changed over the years, but the city and developers failed to tell state and federal officials, which could affect the future of proposed Van Wyck Expressway ramps that are PHOTO BY RICK MAIMAN part of the project. and from the Van Wyck Expressway to allow for better access to the development, which at the time primarily called for housing, shops, hotels, restaurants and offices. In April 2012, the FHWA said the ramps would have no significant impact on the surrounding area. When Queens Development Group was selected as developer in June 2012, it

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New charge against Tabone continued from page 26 of dollars changing hands. The government claims that Halloran alone received $15,000 in cash from the undercover agent in return for having set up meetings the day before with Tabone and former Bronx GOP Chairman Joseph Savino. Halloran was convicted of accepting tens of thousands of dollars in bribes to act as a middleman between Smith and Republican Party leaders in the city. Under state law, three of the city’s five county Republican leaders would have had to grant Smith permission to seek the nomination. Savino pleaded guilty in November 2013 to bribery, conspiracy and wire fraud. His agreement with Bharara’s office requires him to testify in related cases if asked to do so. Pages 10 and 11 of the new complaint list details of an alleged meeting in a Manhattan restaurant between the FBI agent and Tabone on Feb. 14 of 2013. The agent allegedly offered Tabone $40,000 for his help in securing the socalled Wilson Pakula certificate from Queens Republicans that Smith would need to r un on their line, offering $20,000 up front and $20,000 later, when the certificate had been secured. “I was thinking twenty-five now, twentyfive later,” Tabone allegedly replied. He

also a l lege d ly h a d a not he r r e a dy response when the undercover agent asked if the vice chairman could guarantee delivery. “I run the Queens Republican Party,” he said, according to the indictment. “Nobody else runs the party. I run the party.” It was during this meeting that the gover nment alleges Tabone frisked the undercover agent, or “UC,” to make sure he was not recording their conversation. “The UC was, in fact, recording the conversation,” the complaint says. Aside from his mayoral campaign interests, Smith is accused of agreeing to secure $500,000 in state money for an unspecified road project in the upstate Village of Spring Valley that the FBI agent was said to be interested in for a real estate project. The meeting, which allegedly took place in Smith’s Senate office in March 2013, also included an unidentified cooperating witness. Joseph Desmaret, the former deputy mayor of Spring Valley, pleaded guilty to reduced charges in January 2014. Noramie Jasmine, the former Spring Valley mayor who also was among the six arrested, has not yet gone to trial. Smith sought re-election this past year. He was defeated handily by now-Sen. Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) in a SepQ tember primary.

announced its plan to build the mall in the Citi Field parking lot and move parking across the street to the Willets Point side. The plan drew opposition from Corona merchants as well as park advocates and those who feared that the nearby and already busy Northern Boulevard and Roosevelt Avenue could not handle additional traffic. According to WPU, the state DOT and

FHWA never considered the traffic impacts of a large mall when evaluating the ramps. The WPU spokesman, in an email to the Chronicle, said “it is within the realm of possibility that a re-evaluation will determine that a full environmental impact statement is required and that a full review would establish once and for all that such a large traffic-generating project simply cannot be constructed at a location affecting travel to both of New York City’s airports.” WPU thinks there is more than just a project delay at stake. “We believe that anyone who relies on the Van Wyck or other roadways that pass by Willets Point should be glad that the FHWA and NYSDOT have finally recognized the obvious need to reevaluate the proposed ramps, but we must hold their feet to the fire and demand a legitimate, thorough review.” The EDC issued the following statement: “As we move forward with implementation of the ramp design, we will continue to actively work with our federal and state partners and look forward to providing all the information that they require.” Last summer, a judge threw out a case brought by state Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) and others that would have prevented construction on the Citi Field parking lot, which is parkland. The decision is being Q appealed.

WOODHAVEN EVELOPMENTS 2015 wish list for the Woodhaven GWDC by Maria A. Thomson Executive Director GWDC

The winter of 2015 has arrived and it is cold. Hopefully cold weather is all we will have and no snow. By this time last year, there were four snowstorms. So now, before the snow arrives, do some local shopping. Splurge on yourself, buy something nice or maybe buy an additional gift for a loved one. There are after-holiday bargains galore on Jamaica Avenue, your “Everything Avenue,” so take advantage of these many sales. Some important notes: As of Dec. 31, 2014 the minimum wage was raised from $8.00 an hour to $8.75. This increase will be a hardship on our small businesses and our mom and pop stores. It may lead to less hiring and a reduction in hours, but this is the law. I have job information regarding security positions available at our office. Please call our GWDC/WBID office at (718)805-0202 and we will mail you a job listing. Now more on our GWDC/WBID Wish List 2015: • Six more benches to be installed on Jamaica Avenue. This installation of new benches has been proposed to various locations along Jamaica Avenue. In 2013, two stores/businesses responded and had two benches installed free of charge from the city. Hopefully more locations will request these attractive and durable benches this year. • Securing an elevator for the elevated train

stations to be placed at the Woodhaven Boulevard Station. This elevator would assist the disabled, elderly and other train riders to easily access our J and Z train lines. • The return of the NYPD Mounted Troop G-Unit for the 102nd Precinct. This return of the Mounted was on our wish list since they were removed. We now join our elected officials in advocating for the return of this Mounted Troop G to be stabled within the 102nd Precinct to make it available to Forest Park. Lastly, this weekend again, a funeral and the interment at Cypress Hills Cemetery, which is very close to Woodhaven, of police officer Wenjian Liu took place. The honorary NYPD helicopters could be heard above our homes once more. Also, the tears flowed freely and the pain of his bride of two months, now his widow, was so visible and heart wrenching. Again, the family of blue from throughout the United States was there to support this family and cry with them. We grieve with them and as I stated last week, these assassinations cannot be repeated. We, the citizens of New York City will give our NYPD police officers the support and strength they need to do this difficult and dangerous job. This job that can maim them for life, or take their lives. May Officers Ramos and Liu RIP as our heroes. May God bless our armed forces and disabled veterans, may God bless our NYPD Q and may God bless our America.

SQ page 31

After two years and a lot of traffic delays, all lanes are open for business as the reconstruction FILE PHOTO of the Queens approach to the Whitestone bridges nears completion.

Whitestone bridge work winding down All lanes open during rush hours; remaining closures at night, off-peak by Michael Gannon Editor

If you commute across the Whitestone Bridge, your eyes are not deceiving you — after more than two years, all lanes on the span are open for rush hour as the $109 million project to reconstruct the Queens approach is winding down. “It’s on schedule and should be mostly completed this month,” said Christopher Saladino, a facilities engineer with the Metropolitan Transpor tation Authority on Monday. Saladino and MTA spokeswoman Judy Glave said full lane restoration has been in place since about Dec. 19. The road deck and all the heavy construction is finished. Saladino said there are still some socalled “punch-list” items, like milling, repaving and striping to do. “The portable divider we had is gone,” he said. “We’re putting in some temporary median barriers while we prepare to put in the permanent one. There will be some

things like ramp closures, but those will be done overnight and off-peak hours.” The northbound Third Avenue exit ramp should be open by late spring. Neighborhood residents who have dealt with delays, detours and other fallout from the project will come out of it with massive improvements to Francis Lewis Park. The work required the relocation of a playground adjacent to the bridge. The MTA and city moved it to the east. Its former site will be filled with new handball and basketball courts. Much at this point depends on Mother Nature’s cooperation. “A lot depends on weather,” Saladino said. “Winter isn’t always the best time to be doing some of these things.” Routine maintenance, he added, can never stop, including painting, washing and other cyclical work. “After all, this is a 1939 bridge,” he said. The MTA’s next five-year capital budget also includes inspection of cables and Q other structures.

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WE PROVIDE CASH LOANS FOR AUTOS AND MOTORCYCLES! they treat everything like it’s a one-shot deal and we don’t do that,” Elias said. In addition to buying gold, silver, diamonds, watches Recently, a woman and her boyfriend went into and coins, Ice Jewelry Buying also offers instant cash an unassuming gold buying and cash loan shop on loans for jewelry and eBay selling services. Queens Boulevard. She had a $35 offer on her ring Their cash loans program is straightforward and from another area shop, but was looking to get a simple. “It’s a perfect solution for someone who better deal. In what may be viewed as poor business has a bill due and a check on the way,” Goldberg acumen, she told her new prospective buyer what said. “But we make sure they have a game plan to her previous offer was. Still, after examining her buy their jewelry back before the end of the term. piece, he offered her $1,600. He did so, as he says, Sometimes these are people’s heirlooms we’re “...because that’s what it was worth.” talking about and we respect that.” The plight of the worker who’s hard-up for cash For those who are less Internet-savvy or just don’t in today’s economy is something that Arthur Elias have the time, Ice Jewelry Buying offers a convenient and Edward Goldberg can relate to firsthand, eBay sales service. If what a customer has isn’t an having been laid off from their jobs in jewelry item that Ice Jewelry Buying would purchase, like manufacturing. They understand that people get a handbag or antique furniture, they can help find into situations where they just need a little cash fast a buyer on their eBay store. Elias consults with the to make the bills and Ice Jewelry Buying Service customer to find a target price and hopes to help out in the most STORE HOURS let the Internet auctioneers handle honest way they can. the rest. “For this, I like to think we’re MON.-FRI. 11am - 7pm For anyone who has ever dealt doing the community a service,” SAT. 10am - 6pm SUN. by Appointment with the hassle of selling and Elias said. “We’re in the business of helping people who are in a tough icejewelrybuyingservice.com shipping an item on eBay — all the forms involved in setting up a user spot. They can come to our store and paypal account, the 10-15 percent fee that Ice and know that we can educate them on what they Jewelry Buying charges to do all the work is really a have and we’ll give them what their items are worth. bargain deal. When that woman told me her previous offer, it made “At the end of the day, I just want people to feel me wonder how many times this happens — how comfortable doing business with us. People have many people who really need that money get taken this conception of gold buying stores as these slimy advantage of?” places with slimy people, and they’re typically right. Elias opened his Rego Park shop with Goldberg But we want to be different. I don’t think it’s cool to in 2009, and already they’re seeing a lot of repeat see someone buy a ring for $200 and put it in their customers and referrals. This is a sign to them that counter for $800. We don’t do that.” they’re doing something right — the pawn business Ice Jewelr y Buying Ser vice is located at typically deals in one-time transactions but Elias is 98-30 Queens Blvd. in Rego Park. Hours of operation determined to break that mold, building a reputation are Monday-Friday from 11 am to 7:00 pm and on trust. Saturday 10 am to 6 pm; Sunday – private “Everyone around here is buying gold these days; appoinments are available. Call for more information you can go into the barber shop down the road and Q (718) 830-0030. sell your jewelry. The problem with all these places is

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Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

Ice Jewelry: where the owners can relate to their clients

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 32

SQ page 32

Flurry of filings ahead of new building rules City revises its construction codes for the first time in six years by Christopher Barca Associate Editor

A revision of the New York City building codes sent dozens of architects scurrying to file applications with the Department of Buildings just before the new regulations went into effect New Year’s Eve. In order to have permits and other construction plans reviewed under the 2008 Construction Codes, developers had to send in their applications by Dec. 30, with all filings submitted on or after Dec. 31 being scrutinized under the 2014 iteration of the city’s regulations. Hundreds of architects from across the city flooded the DOB with filings in the days leading up to the changeover, with many of the applications in Queens involving the construction and/or demolition of smaller structures, between one and four stories high. There were a few exceptions, as new building permits were filed for a 15-story, 88-unit mixed-use st r uct ure at 27- 01 Jackson Ave. and a 17-story, 243-room hotel at 41-08 Crescent St., both in Long Island City, as well as a seven-stor y, 46-unit residential building at 30-92 29 St. in Astoria and a six-story, 85-room hotel at 139-01 Archer Ave. in Jamaica, among other applications. Each plot of land is occupied by either a

New York City’s building codes were revised for the first time since 2008 at the end of last year, with the 2014 version replacing 2008’s requirements on New Year’s Eve. Filings with the Department PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BARCA of Buildings made after Dec. 30 are subject to the new codes. small warehouse or gas station, with the structures needing to be demolished to make way for construction. The change in building codes comes eight years after the previous edition was enacted, with many of the alterations having to do with safety inspections and stan-

dards, reorganizing and rearranging passages and new technology, Requirements in the new codes include the installation of temporary fire hydrants near large construction sites, professionally designed monitoring plans for excavation work, and the banning of scaffolding

work i n sust ai ned wi nds 30 mph or stronger. Steve Fisher, a Chronicle contributing photographer and a retired architect with 29 years of experience in the industry, said the most logical reason why so many architects filed last-minute applications is they are more familiar with the 2008 construction codes. “It’s incumbent on architects to know the codes. When you’re licensed by the state, it has nothing to do with pretty buildings. It has to do with public safety,” Fisher said. “It’s partially why architects would want to get in under the old codes. More than not, it’s because you’re familiar with what you can and can’t do.” Despite admittedly not being too familar with the new building code, Fisher added that there’s often a rush of submissions whenever there’s a change. Additionally, anti-f looding standards were also strengthened with the change in codes, with buildings such as hospitals and nursing homes now being required to have their generators sit above the designed flood elevation of the area where the property is located. All gypsum and cement boards being installed in the basement or cellar of any new or existing building must also be mold Q resistant, under the new codes.

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continued from page 2 are favorable, with overall crime down 10.87 percent from 2013. “We appreciate the efforts during these trying and difficult times to be able to bring down crime and improve our quality of life,” Chain added. Earl Roberts, president of the 113th Precinct Community Council in the Jamaica area, admits that their meetings hear more about traffic complaints than crime, but there is still work to be done. “There is still a job to do. There shouldn’t be a slowdown,” Roberts said, refer ring to recent massive drops in arrests. “There is still a fear of crime in the streets. We’re not the enemy, we need to work together.” Police Commissioner Bill Bratton dismissed the idea of a slowdown at Monday’s press conference saying, “The calls coming in reporting crime are down fairly dramatically during this last couple-week period of time.” He also maintained that while stop and frisks have been reduced, they are not going away any time soon. Roberts said relations between the police and the mayor must to repaired before the streets can truly be called safe. “The police who turn their back on the mayor should be accounted for because they are probably the same ones who are turning their back on the community. Many are doing their job; however, there are those

who are letting their prejudice and dislikes for the mayor get in the way,” Roberts said. “We support the police and call on them when in need but we must be honest with the realities of criminal action in our world and treat everyone with respect.” Concannon, a Republican, said de Blasio, a Democrat, is not a law-and-order mayor and suggested that “he’s got quite a bridge to build” before relations with the NYPD are back on track. “When we look at crime, we have to look at the politics as well,” Concannon said. “The mayor is not using his police department to fully protect the city. The numbers don’t lie.” Donna Clopton, president of the 103rd Precinct Community Council in Jamaica, says she’s praying for the mayor and NYPD to make amends. “I’m hopeful they’ll work it out. We have to have law and order,” Clopton said. She added that good numbers at the end of the year don’t fully make up for the bad moral and controversial times. “It’s hard on the cops. You can’t blame the whole force for the mistakes of the few,” Clopton said. “I think when you get down to the police officers that are out there, patrolling the streets, I think they’re doing the best they can.” She stressed the gratitude members of the force she has spoken with have felt Q when thanked by the public.

C M SQ page 33 Y K

January 8, 2015

Page 33 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

ARTS, CULTURE & LIVING

Verses

alerie’s by Mark Lord

MidVille poet lives the Queens literary life

For the latest news visit qchron.com

She gave up medicine in favor of the poetic word, and Middle Village resident Valerie G. Keane seemingly could not be happier with the decision, though she still refers to the about-face she made around the age of 30 as “the death of an identity.” As her increasingly widespread followers would likely say, it’s a case of the medical world’s loss becoming the literary world’s gain ... thanks to Keane’s varied contributions to the local literary scene, as poet, open mic presenter and editor and facilitator of her own recently formed group for devotees of great works of poetry. Fellow aficionados can join in at several venues in Queens. “I’ve always been passionate about holistic healing,” Keane said, and she was well on her way to a career as a chiropractor, already working as an assistant in the field, when she realized she was meant to take a different path in life. As a medical student she “gave up everything,” she said. All her time was devoted to passing classes and “I was still struggling. There was nothing creative left in my life. “I had been interested in poetry since I was in high school or before. I read really awful, cheesy poetry,” she said, apologetically adding, “That’s what appealed to me as a teenager. I came to poetry seriously late in life.” While involved in her medical studies she enrolled in a poetry class being offered at the University of Bridgeport by Dick Allen, now the poet laureate of Connecticut. “I was completely ruined by poetry and gave up being a doctor,” she said. She credits Allen with being “the one who really showed me my way into a poem.” Keane’s poetry covers a wide range of topics, many of them drawn from events in her life. In response to Sept. 11, she wrote: Today the poets will not document. continued on page 37

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 34

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W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G

EXHIBITS

KIDS

“Isamu Noguchi, Patent Holder,” featuring inventions and designs created by the sculptor in the years leading up to the 1939 World’s Fair, Dr. M. T. Geoffrey Yeh Art Gallery, St. John’s University, 8000 Utopia Pkwy., Fresh Meadows, Jan. 15-Mar. 19. Info: stjohns.edu/about/events/isamunoguchi-patent-holder-designing-world-tomorrow.

Creating PowerPoint presentations: Children are taught how to create a presentation using Microsoft PowerPoint software. 2-3 p.m., Fri., Jan. 2, South Hollis Library, 204-01 Hollis Ave. Free. Info: (718) 465-6779, queenslibrary.org/events. Games galore: Children and teens age 8 and up play console and board games. 3:30-5 p.m., every Friday, Queensboro Hill Library, 60-05 Main St., Flushing. Info: (718) 359-8332.

The Daghlian Collection of Chinese Art, highlights of the collection of over 1,600 objects spanning 5,000 years, Queens College, Klapper Hall, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, thru Fri., Jan. 10. Info: daghlian.qc.cuny.edu.

Free art classes: Latin American Cultural Center of Queens at ARROW Community Center, for ages 8-16, 35-30 35 St., Astoria, every Tue. & Thurs., 4:30-6 p.m. and Sat., 10-11:30 a.m. Info: (718) 261-7664, laccq@aol.com.

THEATER

COMMUNITY

A Night of Comedy, Music and Spoken Word, featuring music from various genres. 21 and over. Sat., Jan. 10, 8:30 p.m., Vibes Cafe and Bar, 143-06 Liberty Ave., Jamaica. Info: (347) 969-4661. Queens Secret Improv Club, Queens’ only all-improv comedy theater, Indie teams: Wed. & Thurs. 7, 8 & 9 p.m., $5. House teams: Fri., 7:30, 8:30 & 9:30 p.m., $7 for the whole night. Secret Theatre, 44-02 23 St., Long Island City. Info: secrettheatre.com.

MUSIC Twilight concert, Con Brio Ensemble, The Churchin-the-Gardens, 50 Ascan Ave., Forest Hills, Sun., Jan. 11, 4:30 p.m., performing works by Bach, Beethoven, Schumann, Dvorak, Kreisler, Dukas and Sarasate. $12 pp, $10 students & seniors. Info: (718) 459-1277.

FILM

For the latest news visit qchron.com

First Look Festival, a series of screenings including over 40 international films, Jan. 9-18, Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 Ave., Astoria. Info: (718) 777-6888, movingimage.us. Classic Movie Mondays, “The Manchurian Candidate” (1962), 3-5 p.m., Jan. 12. Free. Sunnyside Library, 43-06 Greenpoint Ave. Info: (718) 7843033, queenslibrary.org/events.

A still from the film “Mad Love,” by Austrian filmmaker Jessica Hausner, which will be shown at the First Look Festival at the Museum of the Moving Image on Jan. 9. PHOTO COURTESY MUSEUM OF THE MOVING IMAGE

LECTURES “Perspectives: Jamaica Bay Wildlife,” by Gateway National Recreation Area biologist and naturalist Hanem Abouelezz, describing wildlife that live in the bay and efforts to monitor and protect it. 2 p.m., Sun., Jan. 11. Free. Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, Cross Bay Blvd., Broad Channel. Info: (718) 318-4340, “plan your visit” button at nps.gov/gate. “Birders: The Next Generation,” by Richard Santangelo, Queens County Bird Club, describing the NY Audubon Society's program to introduce schoolchildren to birding. 8 p.m., Wed., Jan. 21, Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston. Free. Light refreshments served. Contact: Nancy Tognan at (718) 225-8064 or nancy.tognan@gmail.com. Info: qcbirdclub.org.

CLASSES

Bayside Glee Club is looking for new members to prepare for Spring Concert in May. No prior music training required. Rehearsals, 7:30 p.m., Tue., All Saints Church, 214-33 40 Ave., entrance on 215 St. 7:30 p.m. rehearsals, Info: (718) 961-6852.

Winter classes, Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston, contact: (718) 229-4000, alleypond.com; Yoga in the Elements, Sat., Jan. 10, 9:15-10:15 a.m. $16 adults, pre-registration required; Star Searchers, “Exploring the Night Sky,” professor/astronomer Mark Freilich leads an interactive Q&A session, Sat., Jan. 17, 7 p.m. $15 adults, ages 9 and up, pre-registration required.

Community Singers of Queens is looking for new members for rehearsals for Spring Concert, especially tenors and basses, every Mon., starting Jan. 19, 8 p.m., Messiah Lutheran Church, 42-15 165 St., Flushing. Call: Ruth Amsterdam (718) 658-1021.

Hawkins-based modern technique dance with Valerie Green, every Tue., 6:30-8 p.m. $18 pp; $15 dancers/students. Green Space Studio, 37-24 24 St., #301, Long Island City. Contact: (718) 956-3037, greenspacestudio.org/classes.html.

AUDITIONS

Italian for Beginners, every Tues., 7-9 p.m., 10-week course. $60 pp. Dance with Instruction, every Mon. and Fri., 7:15-8:15 p.m. $10. Italian Charities of America, 83-20 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst. Contact: (718) 478-3100. Free English classes for Spanish speakers every Sat., South Asian Center, 72-26 Roosevelt Ave., Jackson Heights. All levels available, must call (646) 727-7821 to register. Central Queens YM & YWHA classes, 67-09 108 St., Forest Hills, contact: Robin Budnetz (718) 2685011, ext. 504, rbudnetz@cgy.org: yoga, registration ongoing for winter series, Mondays (open level), 10:20-11:20 a.m.; Wednesdays (beginners/seniors), 10:10-11:10 a.m.; Fridays (intermediate/advanced), 11:30 a.m.-12:40 p.m.; $144 CQY members, $180 general; seniors, $56 CQY members, $102 general; balance training, registration ongoing for winter series of 12 classes; Section 1 – 11:20 a.m.-12:20 p.m., Section 2 – 12:30-1:30 p.m., Section 3 – 1:402:40 p.m; $70 CQY members, $102 general. Spanish for beginners, Bayside Jewish Center, 203-05 32 Ave., free. Info: (347) 771-9132. Watercolor classes, National Art League, 44-21 Douglaston Pkwy., Douglaston, Wed., 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. All techniques, beginner to advanced, with demonstration. Call: (718) 969-1128. Turkish Erbu/water marbling art classes, every second Sat., 7-9 p.m., Turkish Cultural Center, 43-49 45 St., Sunnyside. $35 pp, space limited. Contact: Anne (718) 482-8263, info@tccqueens.org.

English Conversation Club: Improve your grammar and pronunciation talking about holidays, cooking, shopping, art, music, family and other topics of interest with Lucette and Arline. 1:30-3:30 p.m., Mondays, Jan. 12, 26; Feb. 2, 9, 23. Free. Schoolage children welcome in Reading Room during club meeting. Douglaston/Little Neck Library, 249-01 Northern Blvd., Little Neck. Info: (718) 225-8414, queenslibrary.org/events. Saturday night dance, Italian Charities of America, 83-20 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst, Sat., Jan. 10, 24; Feb. 14, 28; 8 p.m.-12 a.m. Call: (718) 478-3100. Ballroom dancing lessons, by instructor Jing Chen. Beginner to advanced. 6:30-7:30 p.m., every Monday (except Jan. 19). Free. Forest Hills Library, 108-19 71 Ave. Info: (718) 268-7934, queenslibrary.org/events. State of the Borough Address, by Queens Borough President Melinda Katz. Open to public. 10 a.m., Jan. 22, Colden Auditorium at Queens College, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing. Info: (718) 286-3000. RSVP: queensbp.org. Free immigration services, first and third Wed. of each month, City Councilmember Elizabeth Crowley’s district office, 71-19 80 St., Glendale. Make appt. for help with naturalization and deferred action for childhood arrivals. All services are confidential and open to the public. Info: (718) 366-3900. Atlantic City bus trip, Tropicana Casino, Kiwanis Club of Lefferts-Liberty, Sun., Jan. 18. $45 pp, $35 give back. Refreshments served on bus. Call Marie (347) 255-2450 or John (347) 730-9638. Wednesday Night Singles Group, SFY Adult Center, 58-20 Little Neck Pkwy., Little Neck, second and fourth Wed. of each month, 7-9 p.m. $7 members, $9 nonmembers. Free lung cancer screenings, Forest Hills Hospital, Weds., 10 a.m.-1 p.m., 102-01 66 Road. Scan takes about five minutes and uses low-dose radiation. App’t req’d. Info: (855) 375-5864.

Send theater, music, art or event items to What’s Happening via artslistingqchron@gmail.com

C M SQ page 35 Y K

Reviewers, readers boost repâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first book by Peter C. Mastrosimone qboro editor

Jus t in c a se you thought Edward Snowden hadnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t done enough to drive the debate over freedom and security, or that the Senate Democratsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; report on CIA activities alleged enough abuses under the Bush administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prosecution of the war on terrorism, thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a new work out that keeps such issues at the fore. Like Snowdenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s revelations of government surveillance and the reportâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allegations of torture, this one comes from within the government. Unlike those, however, it takes a comedic look at the issues â&#x20AC;&#x201D; though it still skewers the likes of former Vice President Dick Cheney, his advisor Scooter Libby and Republican establishment

Book talk, signing When: 2 p.m., Jan. 11 Where: Walt Whitman Birthplace, 246 Old Walt Whitman Road, Huntington Station, NY

political operative Karl Rove. That may come as no surprise, given that the author is Rep. Steve Israel (D-Suffolk, Nassau, Queens), a congressman who until recently was also chairman of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. He quit that post after the beating the party took at the polls in November. The lawmaker, whose Long Island district picked up a large swath of Northeastern Queens in 2011, did not, however, quit being someone with a sense of humor. And the reviewers say that comes across in spades in his first novel, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Global War on Morris.â&#x20AC;? In The Washington Post, Ron Charles writes that â&#x20AC;&#x153;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an unexpected delight to find â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Global War on Morris,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; a political satire by Rep. Steve Israel (D-NY), so spirited and funny. Yes, as head of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee, Israel presided over his partyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drubbing last month, but if the new Republican majority dismantles Obamacare, at least he can remind us that laughter is the bes t medicine.â&#x20AC;? The bookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s title character is Morris Feldstein, a mild-mannered Long Islander who

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Rep. Steve Israel satirizes the Bush administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s war on terror in his debut novel, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Global War on Morris.â&#x20AC;? PHOTO BY PETER C. MASTROSIMONE; IMAGE COURTESY SIMON & SCHUSTER

sells pharamaceuticals and believes in living a dull, plain life â&#x20AC;&#x201D; his biggest excitement coming from watching the Mets on television. Until, that is, he makes one unwise

move and gets himself on the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s radar, with Cheney et al. convinced Morris must be in league with the terrorists. continued continued on page 39 00

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This hearty black-eyed pea soup will warm your insides, is nutritious and supposed to PHOTO BY JEFFREYW / FLICKR provide good luck for the new year.

Winter recipes sure to warm your insides by Liz Rhoades managing editor

Winter is here. The holidays are over and the Super Bowl pig-outs are three weeks away. How to cope? Eating healthier meals is one way to reduce the waistline and with cold weather at the door, what could be better than heartier fare? Here are a few recipes that will keep you going this month and add a a little comfort to the dog days of winter.

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1 cup diced ham 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 medium onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 15-ounce cans black-eyed peas 2 14-ounce cans low-sodium chicken broth 2 14-ounce cans unsalted stewed tomatoes, undrained 1 14-ounce can unsalted diced tomatoes, undrained 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce 1 1/2 cups chopped fresh spinach 1/2 cup chopped parsley 1/2 teaspoon pepper Saute first five ingredients over medium heat in a Dutch oven until vegetables are tender. Stir in peas and next four ingredients; bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour and 30 minutes. Before serving, stir in spinach, parsley and pepper.

Black Bean Chili 1 cup chopped onion 3/4 cup finely chopped celery 4 garlic cloves, minced 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 15-ounce cans black beans, not drained 2 16-ounce cans diced tomatoes 4-ounce can diced chilies 10 3/4-ounce can beef broth Saute raw vegetables in olive oil until soft, about three minutes. Stir in beans, tomatoes, chilies and broth. Simmer 20 minutes. Season to taste. Serve with shredded cheddar cheese, tortilla chips, sour cream or any chili topping.

Cranberry Chicken 6-8 deboned chicken breasts 16-ounce can whole cranberries 1 package dry onion soup mix 8-ounce jar Russian dressing Arrange chicken in a greased baking pan. Mix together remaining ingredients. Pour over chicken and bake at 350 degrees for one hour.

Avocado Pudding 2 ripe avocados juice from 1/2 lemon 1/4 cup sugar 1/2 to 3/4 cup heavy cream or yogurt Mash avocados with lemon juice, slowly adding sugar. Blend in cream, taste and adjust cream if necessary. Refrigerate 2-4 hours. Serve cold. [Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: In Brazil the avocado is considered a fruit. This recipe reflects that Q usage.]

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When poetry truly is life-changing continued from from page page 00 33 continued People walk with combs in search of reclaiming wholeness â&#x20AC;&#x201D; pieces, even. And in the brilliant sun, the birds go on pecking at gravel on the sidewalk. That piece, entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ontologism,â&#x20AC;? speaks not only about that specific day, Keane explained, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;to how we retain faith and go on after any horrific event.â&#x20AC;? In another piece, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Untitled Room,â&#x20AC;? she considers â&#x20AC;&#x153;how we wrestle with what happens after death and perhaps how our religious concepts influence our thinking on that.â&#x20AC;? In part, the poem, which is printed in its entirety in the Newtown Literary Journal, the boroughâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own literary publication, says: There is a room that is bigger than the world And it is not the only one. It tells the patient the truth and soothes his brow. In some rooms, a father sits at a table and blesses the meal. In another room, a lotus is placed in a hand.

The rooms have different sections: In one, a dragon is breathing. In one, a young boy prepares for combat. In the last, a woman respires on a couch and knows. As if her many other activities were not enough to keep her busy, Keane was recently named to the editorial board for poetry for the journal, which is accepting submissions of original works through Jan. 10. Originally from Westchester, Keane moved to Rochester for a spin and ultimately settled in Queens. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was the first time I really felt like I was home,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybe itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in my DNA.â&#x20AC;? The borough was, after all, the place where her maternal great-grandparents settled when they arrived in this country from their native Czechoslovakia. Keane decided to pursue a degree as an English major at Queens College, where she found herself attending many poetry workshops, but â&#x20AC;&#x153;life got in the way,â&#x20AC;? and she was forced to leave school for full-time employment. But, she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I realized there was so much great poetry around me.â&#x20AC;? She continued to attend readings around the borough,

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The get-togethers happen one Sunday each month at Omonia Cafe (32-20 Broadway in Astoria), the next being on Jan. 11 at 6 p.m. Tickets are free and may be obtained, along with further information, at brownpapertickets.com/event/1075669. Keane also will be featured at Nature of the Muse, a fireside reading/live-writing show in which writers read from their works and then write live from random prompts written by the audience. The event, on Jan. 29 at Long Island City Bar (45-58 Vernon Blvd.), runs from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. More information on this event may be found at Q audreydimola.com. !"#$%&' () !*+#'+'

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;to absorb, and listen, and learn.â&#x20AC;? Today, at the age of 44, Keane supports herself as a freelancing business consultant. But, she is quick to point out, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a constant love of poetry.â&#x20AC;? It was on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day in 2013 that Keane put together a list of things she wanted to do in life. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not a bucket list,â&#x20AC;? she said, but one that consisted of â&#x20AC;&#x153;little things and big things.â&#x20AC;? By June of that year she began to get involved in earnest in the poetry scene. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I still canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wrap my head around it,â&#x20AC;? she said, of the demand placed on her poetic talents. Now, she attends poetry readings at least once or twice every week. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It could be four or five events,â&#x20AC;? she said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enough going on in Queens so you can absolutely do that. There are so many venues. Each has its own flavor.â&#x20AC;? She is particularly proud of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Poetry & Coffee,â&#x20AC;? an event she started about a year ago that brings together lovers of verses in a discussion of great poems. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyone brings a poem that they love from a great poet. You cannot read your own work. The inspiration that comes out is unbelievable,â&#x20AC;? Keane said.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 38

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boro FLEA MARKETS St. Benedict the Moor Church, Merrick Blvd. at 110th Ave., Jamaica, every Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Vendors welcome. Call: (718) 332-0026. Richmond Hill, 117-09 Hillside Ave., every Sun., 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Largest flea market in Queens.

MEETINGS GMO Labeling in New York, information on the campaign to pass state legislation for genetically modified organism labels, Sunnyside Public Library, 43-06 Greenpoint Ave., Long Island City, Thurs., Jan. 22, 6:15-7:15 p.m. Info: Allison Barnwell (907) 362-7739. AARP meetings, open to the general public: Chapter 1405, Flushing, Bowne Street Community Church, 143-11 Roosevelt Ave., 1st and 3rd Mon. each month, 1 p.m; Chapter 2889, Maspeth, American Legion Hall, 66-28 Grand Ave., meets 1st and 3rd Wed. each month, noon; contact: (718) 672-9890; Chapter 4163, Ozone Park, Christ Lutheran Community Center, 85-15 101 Ave., meets last Tue. each month, noon. North Shore Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America, LIJ Hearing & Speech Center, 270-05 76 Ave., New Hyde Park, every third Wed. of month, 6:30 p.m.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES Medicare enrollment/Rx drug plan advice, open enrollment and advocacy, with trained expert, Bayside Senior Center, 221-15 Horace Harding Expwy., Wed., 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Call for app’t: (718) 225-1144, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Senior Theater Acting Repertory group, Queens Village Library, 94-11 217 St. Fridays, 11 a.m. Older adults invited to join STAR and perform theater at the library. Info: queenslibrary.org, (718) 776-0800. Pomonok Senior Center, 67-09 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, men’s exercise group, Tue. & Thurs., 10:30 a.m., all men 60+ with doctor’s note. Free SNAP screenings for all seniors 60+. Eligibility check and application help. Info: (718) 591-3377, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Howard Beach Senior Center, 155-55 Crossbay Blvd., across from Waldbaum’s, info: (718) 738-8100. Healthy aging workshop, Wed., Jan. 7, 14 & 21 with Cal Sutliff, master trainer. All seniors invited. Classes – Mon.: 9:30-10:30 a.m.; Tai Chi, Mon., 9:30-10:30 a.m., chair aerobics; Tue.: 9:30-10 a.m., learn to tap dance; 9:15-10:15, Calypso-cardio class (also Thurs., same time); Wed.: 10:15-11:15 a.m., project staywell exercise; Thurs., 9:30-11:30 & 12:302:30 art class; Fri.: 10:30-11:30 a.m., Yoga, 1:15-2:15, stretching, balance and aerobics. Daily lunch for all seniors over 60, catered by Russo’s On The Bay, $2 requested donation.

Jamaica Service Program for Older Adults, 92-47 165 St., Jamaica, details its safety program about rent, Medicaid and food stamps. Call (718) 657-6500 for appointment. Free. Computer basics, an 8-week course for seniors, Selfhelp Innovative Senior Center (Benjamin Rosenthal-Prince Street Senior Center), 45-25 Kissena Blvd., Flushing, Mon., 10 a.m., Call: John (718) 559-4329.

SUPPORT GROUPS Job placement assistance, ANIBIC, 61-35 220 St., Bayside, a nonprofit organization serving children and young disabled adults in the community with job & apartment placement. Overeaters Anonymous, for weight loss and other issues. Long Island Consultation Center, 97-29 64 Road, Rego Park, Sun., 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Call: (718) 937-0163. Rego Park Library, Thurs. at 11:15 a.m., 91-41 63 Drive. Holy Child Jesus Outreach Center, 112-06 86 Ave., Richmond Hill, Tue., 7:30-9 p.m. Call: (718) 564-7027. Alcoholics Anonymous, daily meetings around Queens for those with a drinking problem. Info: queensaa.org, (718) 520-5021. Al-anon, self-help group for anyone affected by another’s drinking: St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 82nd St. & 34th Ave., Parish house, 1st floor, Jackson Heights, every Tue. Contact: (718) 457-1511. Resurrection Ascension Pastoral Center basement, 85-18 61 Road, Rego Park, every Sun. 12 p.m. Bereavement groups for loss of a spouse, facilitated by a licensed social worker. Central Queens YM & YWHA, 67-09 108 St., Forest Hills. Call: Lisa Elhanyi, (718) 268-5011, ext. 621. Services Now for Adult Persons, Inc., SNAP, 80-45 Winchester Blvd., Bldg. 4, CBU 29, Queens Village, eight-session group, Mon., 2:15 p.m. Contact: Marion (718) 454-2100 Gam-Anon is a 12-step program for families of someone with a gambling problem. Call hot line (212) 606-8177. Narcotics Anonymous Drug problem? Call Helpline at (718) 962-6244 or visit westernqueensna.com. Meeting 7 days a week. Caregiver support groups, Queens Community House, 108-25 62 Drive, Forest Hills & Kew Gardens Community Center, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road. Do you provide help to a family member, friend or neighbor? Could you use some help yourself? Free support services. Contact: Ilana Wexler, LMSW, (718) 268-5960, ext. 226. Women’s Support Group, Center for the Women of New York, Queens Borough Hall, 120-55 Queens Blvd., Kew Gardens, Rm. 325. Thurs. (weekly) 6:30-8 p.m. Registration req’d. Free. Contact: CWNY (718) 793-0672, centerwny@yahoo.com. Co-Dependents Anonymous (women only) meetings every Fri., 10 to 11:45 a.m., Resurrection Ascension Pastoral Center, Father Freely Hall, 85-18 61 Rd., Rego Park.

C M SQ page 39 Y K

“War on Morris”

King Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS 1 Birthright barterer 5 Shade provider 8 Agree 12 Money 13 “The Raven” writer 14 Quite some time 15 Desire for success 17 Break suddenly 18 Actors’ lines 19 Patterned cotton fabric 21 Corn spike 22 Skirt feature 23 Klutzy sort 26 Light touch 28 Insinuating 31 Old Italian bread 33 Kitten’s comment 35 Quite some time 36 Intoxicated 38 Pitching stat 40 Siesta 41 Mid-month date 43 Conclusion 45 Electricity problem 47 Begins 51 Not “fer” 52 Document with many signatures, maybe 54 Coin aperture 55 Ailing 56 Beige 57 Actress Daly 58 Hearty brew 59 Melody

DOWN 1 “Zounds!” 2 Big rig 3 Goya’s “Duchess of -” 4 Functional 5 Pithy piece of wit 6 Privy 7 Repairs 8 Flower used to flavor tea 9 Car starter 10 Throb

11 Catch sight of 16 Frog’s cousin 20 They (Fr.) 23 Antiquated 24 Football fill 25 Realization 27 Spelling contest 29 “CSI” evidence 30 Kreskin’s skill 32 Slowish in music 34 Emulate Gorgeous George

37 Small barrel 39 Con 42 Bygone photo hue 44 Goes out with 45 Brewery kiln 46 Unsightly 48 Puerto 49 Ripped 50 Tightly fitting 53 Right angle

Answers at right

continued from from page page 00 35 “Poor Feldstein,” reviewer Molly Lundquist writes at litlovers.com. “A chain of perfectly ordinary incidents sets off alarms and brings the entire U.S. antiterrorist machinery down on his unsuspecting head. Really, it was just a lunch (and not a very fancy one at that), but it was enough to trip the wire. The Feds are hyper-vigilant these days, and so they’re all over this one.” It just gets zanier from there. Israel also takes aim at Washington’s penchant for alphabet-soup agencies, something those on either side of the aisle might appreciate. Lundquist cites a discussion between two characters as to whom to invite to a meeting: “Yes to DNI, No to DCI.” “How about the OIC?” “Well, you can’t invite the OIC and not include the OIA at DHS.” “But I just can’t see the JTFF without ONSI. And how do you have a JTFF with ONSI but no OTFI?” “OK, but no EPA.” Oh, brother. Journalists who read press releases every day know where Israel’s coming from here. The reviewers seem to largely agree that

“Morris” is funny stuff, even if it doesn’t rise to the level of satire such as “Catch 22” (to which liberal political operative Paul Begala compares it in a dust jacket promo). “Who knew U.S. Congressmen could be so funny?” Lundquist asks, clarifying, “On purpose.” “Morris,” rated as the top bestseller in political fiction, is available in bookstores and online, and anyone who wants to head east to meet the author can go to a book talk and signing he’ll do in Huntington, LI this Sunday. Q It should be a hoot.

Crossword Answers

Page 39 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

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Page 41 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

ROOFING

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 42

SQ page 42

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Legal Notices

JOSEPH B. MAIRA

31-53 ASTORIA HOLDINGS, LLC App. for Auth. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/12/14. LLC was organized in DE on 11/7/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to 22-60 46th St., Astoria, NY 11105. Required office at 28 Old Rudnick Ln., Dover, DE. Cert. of Org. filed with SSDE, 401 Federal St., Ste. 4, Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

4-HORN LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/11/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 85-11 Union Tpke., Glendale, NY 11385. General Purposes.

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Balkan Sewer & Drain Cleaning LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/7/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 130-01 Jamaica Ave, Richmond Hill, NY 11418. Purpose: General.

Notice is hereby given that a license, number “Pending” for beer, liquor and wine has been applied for by El Típico Dominicano Inc. to sell beer, liquor and wine at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 107-02 Corona Avenue, New York, NY 11368 for on-premises consumption. El Típico Dominicano Inc.

Notice of formation of KC HOSPITALITY II, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/23/2013. Office location, County of Queens. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 87-23 144th St., Jamaica, NY 11435. Purpose: any lawful act.

Notice of Formation, 61 Lexington, LLC, Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 03/14/2014. Office location: County of Kings, SSNY designated for service of process, SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to c/o: THE LLC, 187-20 Brinkerhoff Ave., St. Albans, NY 11412. Purpose: For any lawful purpose or activity.

Notice of Formation of BRH Properties LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/3/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 6861 Yellowstone Blvd., #615, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Excel Us Enterprise LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/27/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to Xiaochen Wang, 144-30 Sanford Ave., #2C, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: General.

Articles of Organization Filed with Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on April 17, 2014. NOTICE OF FORMATION Keisha’s Gemz LLC. Office location: Queens. SSNY shall mail copies of any process served against the LLC to SSNY designated for service of process. c/o: THE LLC, 114-52 Francis Lewis Blvd., Cambria Heights, NY 11411. Purpose: any lawful purpose or activity.

Notice of Formation of 66-76 FRESH POND ROAD, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/22/14. 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, 3 Timber Dr., N. Caldwell, NJ 07006. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: CITIWIDE FUNDING, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/05/2014. 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 CITIWIDE FUNDING, LLC, 66-24 FRESH POND ROAD, 2ND FLOOR, RIDGEWOOD, NY 11385. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: GNK PROPERTIES LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/09/2013. 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 SUKHWINDER SINGH, 115-06 95TH AVENUE, SOUTH RICHMOND HILL, NY 11419. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

LAKEVIEW GROUP, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/07/2014. 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, 147-46 Delaware Avenue, Flushing, NY 11355. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

9039 MK Realty Group LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/11/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to 1393 N Jerusalem Rd, East Meadow, NY 11554. Purpose: General.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: DIANE CHANG CONSULTING LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/20/2014. 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 DIANE CHANG CONSULTING LLC, 34-20 74TH STREET, #3C, JACKSON HEIGHTS, NY 11372. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: HABER COUNSELING GROUP, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 12/17/2014. 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 CARLOS GUSTAVO HABER, 6708 JUNO ST., FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

LASTCO 28-28/30 STEINWAY LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/20/14. 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, 30-32 Steinway Street, Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILIT Y COMPANY. NAME: AMERICAN DREAMS PAWN, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/21/2014. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 10611 37TH AVENUE, APT. 3R, CORONA, NY 11368. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

DOSOS Clothing LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/24/14. Off. Loc.: Queens Co. SSNY desig. as agt. upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Danreb Soriano, 7829 88th Ave, Woodhaven, NY 11421. General Purposes.

J-5 REALTY LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 09/07/14. Off Loc.: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 57-32 255th St., Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

LEGACY INSULATION LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 12/5/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 83-40 72nd Dr., Glendale, NY 11385. General Purposes.

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Notice of Formation of 45-34 Pearson Street LIC, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/19/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 64-34 184th Street, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Page 43 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

LEGAL NOTICES

SUMMONS INDEX NO. 705035/2014 D/O/F: July 21, 2014 Premises Address: 164-48 109th Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11433 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC DBA CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY, Plaintiff, -againstADRIANNA ALICE PAGE AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSON; LATOYA CYNTHIA ATKINSON-SMITH AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSON; MILDRED ATKINSONWILLIAMS AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSTON; NICOLE RUBY ATKINSON AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSON; RONALD KEVIN ATKINSON AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSON; THAMAR LEE HARPER AS HEIR AT LAW AND NEXT OF KIN OF RUBY ATKINSON; JOHN DOE 1 THROUGH 50; JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS, DISTRIBUTES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, AND ASSIGNEES OF THE ESTATE OF RUBY ATKINSON WHO WAS BORN ON FEBRUARY 20, 1941 AND DIED ON JUNE 1, 2012, A RESIDENT OF THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; CRIMINAL COURT OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK; MIDLAND FUNDING NCC-2 CORP; MIDLAND FUNDING, LLC; MRC RECEIVABLES CORP; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; QUEENS SUPREME COURT (KEW GARDENS); RAB PERFORMANCE RECOVERIES LLC; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA O/B/O SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; “JOHN DOES” and “JANE DOES”, said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of premises and corporations, other entities or persons who have, claim, or may claim, a lien against, or other interest in, the premises, Defendant(s), TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff’s Attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this Summons and Complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the Attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the Summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The following notice is intended only for those defendants who are owners of the premises sought to be foreclosed or who are liable upon the debt for which the mortgage stands as security. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. The present amount of the debt as of the date of this Summons: $277,729.39, consisting of principal balance of $215,153.88 plus unpaid accrued interest of $33,251.53, escrow/impound shortages or credits of $7,824.33, MIP charges of $15,775.23; Servicing Fees of $3,115.00; late charges of $0.00; Broker’s Price Opinion/ Appraisal of $425.00; Property Inspection and miscellaneous charges of $425.00; attorney fee $1,200.00, surrogates search $21.73, and title search $537.69. Because of interest and other charges that may vary from day to day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. Hence, if you pay the amount shown above, an adjustment may be necessary after we receive the check, in which event we will inform you. The name of the Creditor to whom the debt is owed: NATIONSTAR MORTGAGE LLC DBA CHAMPION MORTGAGE COMPANY. Unless you dispute the validity of the debt, or any portion thereof, within thirty (30) days after receipt hereof, the debt will be assumed to be valid by the herein debt collector. If you notify the herein debt collector in writing within thirty (30) days after your receipt hereof that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, we will obtain verification of the debt or a copy of any judgment against you representing the debt and a copy of such verification or judgment will be mailed to you by the herein debt collector. Upon your written request within 30 days after receipt of this notice, the herein debt collector will provide you with the name and address of the original creditor if different from the current creditor. Note: Your time to respond to the Summons and Complaint differs from your time to dispute the validity of the debt or to request the name and address of the original creditor. Although you have as few as 20 days to respond to the Summons and Complaint, depending on the manner of service, you still have 30 days from receipt of this Summons to dispute the validity of the debt and to request the name and address of the original creditor. TO THE DEFENDANTS: The Plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. TO THE DEFENDANTS: If you have obtained an order of discharge from the Bankruptcy court, which includes this debt, and you have not reaffirmed your liability for this debt, this law firm is not alleging that you have any personal liability for this debt and does not seek a money judgment against you. Even if a discharge has been obtained, this lawsuit to foreclose the mortgage will continue and we will seek a judgment authorizing the sale of the mortgaged premises. Dated: July 21, 2014 Joshua P. Smolow, Esq. Rosicki, Rosicki & Associates, P.C. Attorneys For Plaintiff Main Office: 51 E Bethpage Road, Plainview, NY 11803 516-741-2585 Help For Homeowners In Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home. You should be extremely careful about any such promises. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-BANKNYS (1-877-226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www. banking.state.ny.us. The State does not guarantee the advice of these agencies.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 44

SQ page 44

Chronicle

LEGAL NOTICES

REAL ESTATE

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

NEW FALLS INTERNATIONAL LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 11/6/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC, 136-18 39th Ave., Ste. 1104, Flushing, New York, 11354. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: PINTHA LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/16/2014. 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 PHIMWALAN INTHAWONG, 70-64 YELLOWSTONE BLVD., 3B, FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Poppy Cube, LLC Arts of Org filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 12/2/14. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served & shall mail process to C/O United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Ave., Ste. 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: General.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: NOURISH PULSE, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/19/2014. 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 EMILY MOORE, 75 ASCAN AVE., FOREST HILLS, NY 11375. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

PROVENANT ENTERPRISE, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/12/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 35-15 223rd St., Bayside, NY 11361. General Purposes.

NOVI CONCEPTS, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 10/29/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Donald A. Tela, Esq., 21337 39th Ave., #189, Bayside, NY 11361. General Purposes.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: ROOPNARINE3 LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/17/2014. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to THE LLC, 196-07 MCLAUGHLIN AVENUE, HOLLIS, NY 11423. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

ONERO REALTY LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/24/14. 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, 21-22 28th Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

S &R PROFESSIONAL CLEANING LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/20/14. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to The LLC, 251-16 Cullman Ave., Little Neck, NY 11362. General Purposes.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Real Estate EQUAL HOUSING. Federal, New York State and local laws prohibit discrimination because of race, color, sex, religion, age, national origin, marital status, familial status or disability in connection with the sale or rental of residential real estate. Queens Chronicle does not knowingly accept advertising in violation of these laws. When you suspect housing discrimination call the Open Housing Center (the Fair Housing Agency for the five boroughs of New York) at 212-941-6101, or the New York City Commission of Human Rights Hotline at 212306-7500. The Queens Chronicle reserves the right to alter wording in ads to conform with Federal Fair Housing regulations.

Furn. Apt. For Rent Howard Beach, walk-in furn apt. $1,350/mo, 1 mo sec, G&E incl, ref’s req. No pets/smoking. Owner 718-848-2127

Houses For Sale New Lots, Brooklyn, totally renov 2 family, owner’s apart has 3 BR, 1 1/2 baths, duplex style w/ terr. Tenant’s apart is a 1 BR duplex w/ full fin bsmnt, full bath, brand new S/S appli, H/W fls throughout, pvt dvwy. A must see! Jerry Fink RE, 718-766-9175 Woodhaven, spacious 1 family, 3 lg BR, 2 1/2 baths, 3rd fl attic space, full fin bsmnt, 2 car gar & 2 parking spaces, tremendous yard space, garage w/ attic storage, above ground pool, close to all. Jerry Fink RE, 718-766-9175

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Old Howard Beach

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HOWARD BEACH BEAUTIFULLY RENOVATED 1-Family Brick with 2 Units ASKING PRICE $549K 4 Bedrooms, Private Driveway, Terrace, Backyard & Basement with Separate Entrance. PLEASE CALL JANE COSTAGLIOLA

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6 Rooms, 3 BRs. Excel. Cond. $1,750/mo. ---

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718-757-2394 Jerry Fink R.E.

Howard Beach, exclusive agent for studios & 1 BR apts, absentee L/L. Call Joe Trotta, Broker, 718-843-3333 Howard Beach/Lindenwod, 3 BR, 1 bath duplex apt, 2nd fl, incls lg deck, pvt dvwy, 1 car gar, $2,200/ mo. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136

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Old Howard Beach Sunday, 1/11 • 12 - 2pm 98-01 165th Avenue Colonial on 50x100, complete renovation, custom design your kitchen cabinets, colors, layout and design. ASKING $599K

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Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat Ozone Park, 3rd fl, 1 BR, 1 bath, 1/10, 1-2:30pm, 91-12 163 Ave. LR, kit, near all, $1,200/mo. Det Hi-Ranch, 10 rooms, 4 BR, 2 917-658-1964 kitchens, huge 50x100 lot, pvt gar & 2 dvwys. A must see! Howard Beach Realty, 718-641-6800

Co-ops For Sale

HOWARD BEACH LINDENWOOD 2 Bedrooms, 2 remodeled full baths, one with a Jacuzzi. New kitchen, terrace.

Asking $189,999 Owner

347-561-6779 NO BROKERS! Howard Beach, Hi-Rise Co-op, 5 rms, 2 BR, all updated, new kit w/granite, new bath, HW fls. Mint condition, call NOW! Howard Beach Realty, 718-641-6800

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sun 1/11, 2:30-5:00 pm, 163-32 90 St. Hi-Ranch on 38x100, 3 BR, 2 baths. A must see! Asking $610/K. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat 1/10, 12-2pm, 159-15 90 St. All stucco split level on 40x100, 3 BR, 1 1/2 baths, CAC, IGS, 1 car gar, security system, Anderson w indows, new HW heater, new electric. A must see! Asking $655K. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136

Office For Rent Ozone Park, 1st fl. Fully equipped w/ computer internet, desks, chairs. Credit ck & ref’s req. Owner 212-203-1330

Store For Rent

Legal Notices

OZONE PARK

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS

Corner of Woodhaven Blvd. & Atlantic Ave. 800 square feet. Central Air Cond. & Heat. Ideal for Office Space or Restaurant.

H & R Block Bank, a Federal Savings Bank, Plaintiff, against Jesus Guevara; et al., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated February 5, 2014 I, the undersigned Referee, will sell at public auction at the Queens County Courthouse, Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on January 23, 2015 at 10:00AM, premises known as 84-12 108th Avenue, Ozone Park, NY 11417 All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block: 9143 Lot: 6. Approximate amount of judgment $447,206.67 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 17858/2012. Nicole Katsorhis, Esq., Referee, Shapiro, DiCaro & Barak, LLC Attorney(s) for the Plaintiff, 175 Mile Crossing Boulevard, Rochester, NY 14624 (877) 759-1835 Dated: December 16, 2014 1123988 12/25, 1/1, 1/8, 01/15/2015

Asking $2,000/mo Includes Gas and Electric Owner

917-270-6627

Store for Rent Ozone Park - Crossbay Blvd. and Sutter Ave.

Pizzeria with Partial Equipment. Full Dining Room, High-Traffic Area! $22,000 Key Money Rent $3,200/mo. Landlord

646-996-4235 Great Business Opportunity!

Classified Ad Special Pay for 3 weeks and the 4th week is

FREE! Call 718-205-8000

C M SQ page 45 Y K Page 45 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

This is what it’s all about. Self-serving politicians and cynical pundits think that New York City police officers are more worried about settling a contract than mourning our fallen brothers. Real New Yorkers know better. You’ve stood with us. You’ve grieved with us. You’ll work with us to protect our city and hold accountable all those who have stirred up hatred and violence against police officers.

Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association of the City of New York 125 Broad Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10004 • 212-233-5531

Patrick J. Lynch, President

www.nycpba.org PATB-066049

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Thank you for your support.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 46

C M SQ page 46 Y K

SPORTS

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Falafel arrives at good ol’ Pizza Drive by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

As America’s taste for pizza exploded in the 1950s, Puerto Rican immigrant Ismael “Diego” Santiago (1929-2008) seized an opportunity of a lifetime. With a loan from the widow of the owner of the Waverly apartment building in Rego Park, he took over a closed butcher shop across the street, on the corner of 63rd Drive and Wetherole Street, in 1958. He turned it into a pizzeria named Pizza Bowl, and it was an immediate success. A year later, Diego changed its name to Pizza Drive. Many teenagers got their first afterschool job working for the colorful Diego, who generously always fed his employees on the house. When the price of mozzarella cheese was set to rise sharply in the summer of 1966, he stockpiled loaves of it to put off raising prices as long as he could. After the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, a large block of Israeli immigrants came to Rego Park. A group of them offered Diego almost double what his business was worth, and he accepted. By 1968 the spot had become Pizza Falafel of Queens

HB y t l a e R

Pizza Drive, at 93-01 63 Dr. in Rego Park, summer 1967. Inc. A common meatless dish of the Middle Eastern world had arrived, made of deepfried balls of ground chickpeas or fava beans in pita bread. It was high in protein and fiber. Seen here in the marketplace of North America for the first time, falafel was a huge hit, and Pizza Falafel had lines out the door all day long. It was a “gold mine” business copied all over Queens within a few years. After decades of success, falafel is now commonplace in New York. The old pizzeria is now a peaceful and serene flower store. But Diego was not ready to retire when he sold his business, next opening up another pizzeria on Sutphin Bouelvard in Jamaica. Q

Woody and the Jets by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Jets owner Woody Johnson did not waste time cleaning house. Even before the dreary 2014 season ended he made it clear there would be a shakeup, hiring longtime NFL insiders Charley Casserly and Ron Wolf to head a search committee. Once Jets head coach Rex Ryan learned of their hiring he started cleaning out his office and more or less admitted to the media that he knew that he was a goner. To his immense credit, Rex remained upbeat to the end and, as had been the case throughout his six-year tenure with Gang Green, refused to criticize either his players or the front office that did not give him a lot of talent to work with the last four years. My guess is that Atlanta Falcons owner and Flushing native Arthur Blank will make Rex an offer he can’t refuse. Woody showed that he wasn’t an out-oftouch rich owner at his year-end press conference. He basically admitted that he made a big mistake hiring John Idzik to be the Jets general manager two years ago but denied that the large group of fans who took out billboards and hired planes to fly over the Jets’ Florham Park, NJ practice facility affected his decision. I have a feeling that Woody is not being entirely truthful about that. He conceded that Idzik didn’t do the Jets any favors by keeping the team some $20 million

JERRY FINK REAL ESTATE, INC.

Thomas J. LaVecchia, Licensed Real Estate Broker

160-10 Cross Bay Blvd, Howard Beach, NY

137-05 Cross Bay Blvd.

718-641-6800

Call 718-766-9175 or 917-774-6121

Ozone Park, NY 11417 www.howardbeachrealty.com

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5 Rooms. 2 BRs, Garden Co-op, pet-friendly, small dog OK, in a courtyard. MUST SELL! CALL NOW! Asking Only $139,900

NEW LISTING! Spacious 1 Family with 2 Parking Spots in front of House, 2-Car Garage, and tremendous Yard Space behind garage with Above Ground Pool, Garage also has Attic Storage, Huge LR/DR Combo, 2.5 Baths, 3 Large BRs & 3rd flr Attic Space, Full Fin. Bsmnt, House has been upgraded to forced Air Heating. Buyer can upgrade to Central Air. Walk to J train & buses on Woodhaven Blvd.

HOWARD BEACH Rockwood Park Det Hi-Ranch. 10 rooms, 4 BRs, 2 kits, huge 50x100 lot, pvt gar and 2 dvwys. A MUST SEE!

OLD HOWARD BEACH

HOWARD BEACH

Hi-Rise Co-op. 5 Rms, 2 BRs, New Kit. & Bath, Granite Kit. Countertops, Hardwood Flrs, Rec Rm./Gym. CALL NOW!

Hi-Rise Co-op. 3.5 rooms, 1 king bedroom. MAINTENANCE INCLUDES ALL UTILITIES! Asking Only $89,900

LINDENWOOD HOWARD BEACH

LISTING SPECIAL 2.75% CALL FOR DETAILS

NEW HOWARD BEACH

New Low Price Change! Beautiful, one-ofa-kind Stucco Colonial, Full Fin Bsmnt, 1st floor - EIK with Commercial Grade S.S. appl, LR, FDR, 3 BRs, 1 Full Bath; 2nd floor- 2 BRs (including Master), Master Bath/Suite, Walk-up Attic, New Electric and Plumbing, Vaulted Ceilings, Fireplace, IGP, Pool House, Pvt Dvwy. MUST SEE!

LINDENWOOD HOWARD BEACH

HOWARD BEACH Howard Beach L-shaped Studio. Hi-Rise co-op, new kit & updated bath. Mint condition. Great buy. MUST SELL! CALL NOW! Asking Only $58,500

List with Us, Howard Beach Realty -Professionals for Over 38 Years-

For the latest news visit qchron.com

under the NFL team salary cap for 2014, though he did say the GM’s thinking was to have some money in reserve in case something unforeseen happened during the season. Idzik was able to use some of those rainy-day funds to acquire wide receiver Perry Harvin from the Seattle Seahawks, but by that time the Jets were 1-7 and a playoff berth was a pipe dream. Buffalo Bills head coach and Bronx native Doug Marrone opted out of his contract on New Year’s Eve. He may not have been happy in Buffalo but no one leaves a $4 million a year job unless he’s guaranteed to land elsewhere. My guess is that Marrone’s agents made it clear to friends of Charley Casserly and Ron Wolf that their client would be amenable to changing teams. The Jets did not want to be accused of tampering, so it’s safe to assume that proxies were used in a manner similar to how they’re employed for sensitive international diplomacy initiatives. I am also going to guess that an agency such as IMG, which is to sports what the William Morris Agency is to entertainment, will put together a general manager/head coach package for the Jets so that it doesn’t matter whether the Jets hire a head coach before a general manager or vice versa because everyone will be on the same page, unlike during the IdzikQ Ryan debacle. See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

FREE MARKET APPRAISALS

Sat. , Jan. 10th, 1:00 - 2:30 pm 91-12 163 Avenue

TOO N

BEAT

Lovely 1 Family Colonial, LR/DR, EIK w/S.S. Appliances, 3 Bedrooms, 1 Full Bath, Private Driveway, 3 Air Conditioners, Crawl Space, Attic, Mint Condition, Close to Public Transportation. MUST SEE! ASKING $399K

• 3 Story Building • Good Rent Roll • Great Investment Property

Totally Renovated Triplex. Located in the Bayberry,with S.S. Appliances in EIK, Living Rm, Dining Rm on 1st Flr, Updated Bath & 2 Bedrooms on 2nd Flr, 3rd Floor has Large Master Suite w. Updated Bath & Terrace. MUST SEE!

C M SQ page 47 Y K

SOLD!

Connexion I

OPEN 7 DAYS!

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

Get Your House

Open House • Sat, Jan 10 • Howard Beach Open House • Sun, Jan 11 • Howard Beach 12:00-2:00 PM • 159-15 90th Street 2:30-5:00 PM • 163-32 90th Street

REAL ESTATE SERVICES INC.

718-845-1136

ARLENE PACCHIANO

LAJJA P. MARFATIA

Broker/Owner

Rockwood Park. “All Stucco Split-Level.” 3 BRs, 1.5 Baths. On 40x100. 4 year-old roof, CAC 1 year, new hot water heater, new electric, new concrete floor in bsmnt. Security system, brick patio, IGS, electric gar door, Andersen windows, newly sanded HW floors. ASKING $655K

FREE MARKET APPRAISALS!

Rockwood Park. Hi-Ranch on 38x100, 3 BRs, 2 baths. Clean, large, on beautiful block. Move-in condition. ASKING $610K

NESPONSIT Waterview, 60x100. BUILDABLE LOT Already Demolished

MIDDLE VILLAGE One-of-a-kind 8 Family home, all updated throughout. Garages and separate parking lot. Great income potential. Call for more details.

WOODHAVEN Detached, charming Colonial, possible 6 BRs,2.5 baths, parquet floors throughout, HOWARD BEACH 2 stainedGreentree Condo glass windows, modern kitchen w/ 3 BRs, 2 Full Baths, with 2 Terraces, granite. ASKING $449K front and back. $319K

HOWARD BEACH Hamilton Beach D Detached CE DU 2 Family, RE 2 BRs per floor. Home all redone, includes 25x80 attached lot. $359K

Mint All Brick Split-Level Colonial, 40x110 lot, 4 large Bedrooms, 3 new full baths. Custom kit w/island, Formal Dining Room. Totally redone 4 years ago.

READY TO SELL YOUR GREATEST ASSET? LIST WITH US! 718-845-1136

Old Side All brick Colonial, 3 BRs, 2 full baths, full-fin. bsmnt w/radiaheat, kit. w/ HOWARD BEACH nt S.S. appl, comRockwood Park mercial stove, Mint large corner Brookfield (27x53) on 47x110 oversized lot. Brick/Stucco, fireplace, slid4/5BRs, 3 full baths, garage, large den, ing doors to rear deck, built-in with access to paved backyard. Outdoor BBQ, IGP, boat dock. REDUCED $899K BBQ, IGP, PVC fencing.

Lis

t in

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK One-of-a-kind home in the heart of Howard Beach. 4 Bedrooms, 3 Baths, full finished basement. 3-car driveway. New boiler and heating system.

D RE

HOWARD BEACH

Greentree Condo

Updated 3 BR/2 Bath Condo w/vaulted Hi-Ranch on 40x100. 3 bedrooms/ ceilings, 2 terraces, kitchen w/tilestone 1½ baths with formal dining room countertops, stainless steel appliances, & eat-in-kitchen, hardwood floors washer/dryer, storage attic, low taxes. throughout. 1½ car garage & 2 car

$320K private driveway.

ASKING $599K

CONR-065974

New Listing! Amazing location! Perfect for investors. R4 office building. Features a dental office, lab on ground floor, 2 BR/1 bath apt. on first floor, 2 BR/1 bath apt. on second floor. ASKING $779K

S CLO

OZONE PARK

Centreville Legal 2 Family, 3 BRs/2 Baths per floor. Full unfinished basement, hardwood floors. Each One Family S/D, 3 Bedrooms, floor has separate boiler/hot water heater. 1.5 baths, full basement, private $350K $509K driveway, garage.

HOWARD BEACH

BAY RIDGE Rockwood Park Brooklyn Charming 3 BR Colonial on great corner lot 100x40. 3 BR, 1.5 baths. AAA Mint Jr. 4 renovated co-op Large sideyard. 7 blocks to Crossbay in beautiful, pre-war building. Courtyard/gym & storage. Blvd. In-ground sprinklers. ASKING $369K REDUCED ! $619K D RE

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK High Ranch on 40x100 lot. 4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths. Mint One Bedroom walk-in, newly renovated first floor. Close to all! A SKING $599K

/ CL

SE D

Rockwood Park

OZONE PARK/ CENTREVILLE

All new Hi-Ranch 3 BRs/2 baths, fireplace, stainless-steel appliances. ASKING $649K

Detached legal 2-Family, 2 Bedrooms, over 2 Bedrooms, private driveway, garage, finished basemet. $468K

U ED

• Mint L-Shaped Studio....................... .......................... IN CONTRACT $76K • L-Shaped Studio.......................$79K • Mint 1 BR Garden, 1st fl ........$123K • 1 BR w/Terrace, 2nd fl ..........$139K • 1 BR w/Terrace ................................. .........................IN CONTRACT $139K • Hi-Rise - Mint 1 BR w/Terrace, new kit & bath. ....................... Ask $139K • Largest 3 bedroom/2 bath co-op, 1st fl., HW flrs, pets OK.................... ........................ IN CONTRACT $175K • Mint 2 BR, w/terrace, granite kit, SS appl, wood cabinets. ....................... IN CONTRACT $179K • Mint AAA 3 BRs, 1 bath, Garden. ...... ..........................IN CONTRACT $219K • Hi-Rise 2 bedroom, 2 baths, mint, all renovated with terrace. .......................IN CONTRACT $227K • Mint AAA Garden, 2BR, DR, 2nd fl.... ....................................................$249K • STORE FOR RENT. 1,365 sq. ft. Howard Beach/Crossbay. Parking Available. ..................$4,500 per mo.

HOWARD BEACH Lindenwood Condos

• Heritage House. One bedroom. Ultra-mint condo. ................. $216K • Heritage North. Two bedrooms. 2 / D L Full Baths, updated baths w/Jacuzzi SO tub, new appliances, pet-friendly. .................................................$289K • Greentree Condo (3rd HOWARD BEACH cathedral ceilings floor), Rockwood Park 3 BRs/2 baths, 2 terraces..$320K Oversized 50x100 lot on amazing block. • Greentree Condo. 2nd fl., mint Dormered Cape featuring 5 BRs, 3 full 3 BRs/2 baths, 2 terraces. ........... .... baths, full unfinished basement. .................................................$319K ASKING $599K R

HOWARD BEACH

Rockwood Park Mint Hi-Ranch, 3/4 BRs, new kit, 2 new full baths, crown molding, new roof, skylights, pvt dvwy, new cond. Simply Mint! ASKING $719K

HOWARD BEACH Lindenwood Co-ops

RIDGEWOOD CONDO One-of-a-kind 1 Bedroom Condo Duplex with basement, hardwood floors, ceramic tiled bath, low taxes. A SKING $328K

S CLO

HOWARD BEACH

S CLO

For the latest news visit qchron.com

OZONE PARK/CROSSBAY BLVD

HAMILTON BEACH

HOWARD BEACH/ ROCKWOOD PARK

HOWARD BEACH

HOWARD BEACH Lindenwood Large All Brick corner 2 Family with walk-in & fin bsmnt. 6 over 6. Pvt dvwyz & attached 1-car gar & additional legal parking on side of house. ASKING $649K

PLANS AVAILABLE

UPPER GLENDALE Charming detached corner Colonial, 4 BRs with 1 1/2 Baths EIK, Large LR and DR. Oversized 2-car garage, walk-up attic room and full basement. Terra-Cotta roof, lots of closets. Close to all! ASKING $569K

Page 47 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015

Happy New Year!

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, January 8, 2015 Page 48

C M SQ page 48 Y K

BODY TRANSFORMATION CONTEST 12 WEEKS IS NOTHING TRANSFORMATION IS EVERYTHING Enroll in our 12-Week Challenge now for a

Chance to win

$1,000! Enrollment dates from Today until Feb. 23rd! Male & Female Categories! Call today to schedule your weigh-in!

ALSO

KIDS’ FITNESS

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Tuesdays & Thursdays From 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm

$70 Monthly Unlimited Classes or $20 per class STARTS JANUARY 20th, 2015

718-845-GOLD (4653)

JMP Physical Therapy, PC

157-05 Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach

718-641-8700

www.goldsgym.com