Queens Chronicle South Edition 12-15-16 by Queens Chronicle

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

YOUR COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER VOL. XXXIX

NO. 50

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2016

QCHRON.COM

STILL FIGHTING Ozone Park residents talk shelter

PAGE 6

HEALTH & FITNESS Section

SPIRITS OF THE SEASON ‘A Christmas Carol’ swings into Queens Theatre

SEE qboro, PAGE 37

FILE PHOTOS

PAGES 32-35

Queens DA, Phil Vetrano and others push for state to OK familial DNA testing PAGES 6 AND 12 Although investigators have DNA samples left at the scene of Karina Vetrano’s Aug. 2 murder, they have yet to catch the perpetrator. Queens District Attorney Richard Brown, Vetrano’s father and others are now pushing the state to authorize a method known as familial DNA testing in an effort to catch the killer.

EVERYWHERE BLUE LANE HOWARD CROSSBAY CAR SERVICE

718

CAR SERVICE

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

658-2233 718 641-1111 718 835-3500 718 835-6900

DOWNLOAD EVERYWHERE CAR APP GET 10% OFF

www.everywherecars.com

SPECIAL DISCOUNT ALL MAJOR AIRPORTS EVEC-070800

New school policy for reporting incidents Some say shift hides the truth; issue will be examined next year by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

he Board of Regents on Tuesday unanimously voted to decrease the number of categories of violent incidents the state reports on from 20 to nine, a shift Albany says simplifies the process but critics claim hides the truth from the public. “This just serves to make a bad system worse,” said Maria Kaufer, of Community Education Council 28. “You blur the lines. I just don’t see justice being served.” The change to the Violent and Disruptive Incident Reporting System — known as VADIR — will take effect in July. According to the state Education Department, the policy was “revised to provide clarity to schools for ease of categorizing incidents to improve accuracy in reporting.” Although the number of categories is decreased — for example, cases formerly classified under assault with serious physical injury or assault with physical injury will simply be grouped together under physical injury — educators will still be required to make a “report of each incident within the category to provide additional information on the circumstances surrounding the incident and the resulting disciplinary actions, if any.” The SED added that codes will be provided to allow the state to know the severity of any given incident.

The state has voted to change the way it reports violent and other incidents in schools, a move it says simplifies the policy but has irked some educational advocates. “The proposed changes are intended to make the process of reporting violent and disruptive acts less complicated and to place a greater emphasis on violent offenses,” spokeswoman Jeanne Beattie said in an emailed statement to the Chronicle. Some chose not to buy that argument. “Today the Board of Regents chose to give parents *less* information about violence in

SALE: Dec. 15th - Dec. 21st HOURS: Mon.- Fri. 8 am - 7 pm Sat. 8 am - 6 pm • Sun. 9 am - 5 pm

We Accept All Major Credit Cards

MEAT MARKET 164-44 Cross Bay Blvd. 718-843-9800 HOWARD BEACH Plenty of FREE PARKING FREE DELIVERY!

We Customize Any Items To Order! We Can Create Anything To Your Liking! Just Ask!

LISENA GARDEN CENTER & NURSERY

HOLIDAY TREES and MORE! Live & Fresh Cut

CHRISTMAS TREES Wreaths, Garlands, Xmas Decor & Gifts Poinsettias Tree Delivery Available

For the latest news visit qchron.com

PLACE YOUR ORDER FOR CHRISTMAS NOW!!!

their child’s school,” pro-charter advocacy group Families for Excellent Schools said in a statement. “These changes, which fail to distinguish between bruises and horrifying assaults, will sweep violent acts under the rug and keep parents in the dark about their children’s safety.” State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach), a member of the Education Committee,

said the issue is one that the panel will examine when legislators return to Albany next year. “Whenever there’s a change in policy, we have to see how it’s going to be implemented,” Addabbo said, declining to say outright whether he supported the shift or not. Kaufer was more resolute in her objection. “The numbers are always being covered up,” she said, citing incidents in which abuse of students by teachers were not properly reported. The VADIR system has often come under criticism from educational advocates, including U.S. Secretary of Education John King Jr., former state education commissioner, who once said it “rarely reflects the realities of school health and safety.” Families for Excellent Schools often relies on the system, however, to issue statements blasting Mayor de Blasio and Chancellor Carmen Fariña’s handling of school discipline. The city Department of Education relies on NYPD data to examine school safety, a method that shows a reduction in crime while VADIR, which relies on self-reporting by eduactors in the classroom and administrative offices, shows an increase. It was VADIR statistics the group used to justify a lawsuit against the city, alleging schools are too violent and demanding an independent monitor be assigned to the DOE to ensure it complies with the ruling, should the Q court side with the plaintiffs.

The Best

QUALITY MEATS At The

LOWEST PRICES!

We Wish Our Friends, Family and Customers A Joyous Holiday Season!

Fresh Cut XMAS TREES $38 and up HOLIDAY HOURS: Monday - Saturday 10 am - 8 pm • Sunday 10 am - 7 pm

125 Crossbay Blvd., Broad Channel, NY 11693

718-607-5413 Landscape Design and Installation Available

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 2

C M SQ page 2 Y K

C M SQ page 3 Y K

Adrian & Rocky’s Caterers Presents A

Christmas Eve Special Package Antipasto or Fresh Mozzarella & Tomatoes Penne Marinara or Linguini & Clam Sauce Choice of: “SEAFOOD DELIGHT”

329

plus tax & gratuities

Mussels, Clams, Shrimp, Calamari & Scungilli

OPEN Y CHRISTMAS DA

Serves 15 people

or “FRIED FISH ROYALE”

Page 3 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

“The Original”

Fried Filet, Fried Shrimp, Fried Scallops & Fried Calamari, Broccoli Sauté and Roasted Potatoes, Fresh Semolina Bread

Christmas Eve Menu PASTA

Half Tray

SEAFOOD

Half Tray

Linguini Clam Sauce............... $40.00 Fried Calamari ........................ $45.00 Penne Marinara ...................... $40.00 Fried Filet ............................... $50.00 Penne Vodka........................... $40.00 Shrimp Marinara .................... $45.00 Seafood Combo Fra Diavolo ... $50.00 Fettuccini w/Shrimp Sauce ... $50.00 Mussels .................................. $30.00 Linguini Garlic & Oil ................ $40.00 Fried Scallops..................$16.00 doz. Shrimp Scampi (2 doz.) ........... $45.00 Lobster Tails (per tail).............. $20.00

APPETIZERS

MEATS

VEGETABLES

Baked Clams ...................$16.00 doz. Stuffed Mushrooms.........$12.00 doz. Seafood Salad (regular tray) .... $39.00 Shrimp Cocktail (XL) .......$22.00 doz. Mini Rice Balls .................$15.00 doz. Potato Croquettes ...........$15.00 doz. Sm. Tuscany Antipasto........... $49.00 Fried Smelts (regular tray) ....... $35.00

Chicken Francese ................... $45.00 Broccoli Rabe ......................... $40.00

Half Tray

Chicken Marsala..................... $45.00 Broccoli Sauté or Salad...........$15.00 Chicken Parmigiana ............... $45.00 Roasted Potatoes ................... $20.00 Eggplant Parmigiana .............. $35.00 Gorgonzola Salad (10” Bowl) ... $20.00 Eggplant Rollatini ................... $40.00 Tossed Salad (10” Bowl) ...........$15.00 Sausage & Peppers ................ $35.00

Christmas Day Menu PASTA - Half Tray

ENTRÉES - Half Tray

Stuffed Shells........................................................................ $45.00 Lasagna ................................................................................. $45.00 Penne Vodka ......................................................................... $40.00 Rigatoni Filetto ..................................................................... $40.00

• • • • • • •

Tuscany Antipasto ............................................................... $49.00 Baked Clams (Doz) ................................................................$16.00 Stuffed Mushrooms (Doz) .....................................................$12.00 Mini Rice Balls (Doz) .............................................................$15.00 Potato Croquettes (Doz) ........................................................$15.00 Mozzarella & Tomato ........................................................... $35.00 Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail (XLG) (Doz)................................... $22.00

APPETIZERS

DESSERT • Fresh Fruit Bowl ................................................................... $45.00 • Cheesecake ........................................................................... $35.00 • Mini Cannoli (Doz) ................................................................$15.00

All Major Credit Cards Accepted We Can Customize Our Menu To Any Theme!

• • • • • • • • • •

Chicken Francese ................................................................. $50.00 Chicken Marsala ................................................................... $50.00 Filet Mignon (Serves 16) .....................................................$175.00 Bracciole, Meatballs & Sausages ......................................... $65.00 Spiral Ham ............................................................................ $89.00 Roast Beef ............................................................................. $50.00 Whole Turkey (18-20 Lbs.) ................................................... $89.00 Roasted Chicken w/Potatoes................................................ $50.00 Veal Francese or Marsala ..................................................... $75.00 Grilled Lamb Chops (Doz) ......................................................... M/P ALL ENTRÉES SERVED WITH BREAD

SIDES - Half-Size Trays • • • • •

Eggplant Parmigiana ............................................................ $45.00 Roasted Potatoes .................................................................. $25.00 String Beans Almondine ...................................................... $25.00 Broccoli Rabe ........................................................................ $45.00 Broccoli ................................................................................. $25.00

Adrians1@verizon.net Call 718-845-5525

132-08 CROSS BAY BLVD., OZONE PARK

Visit our website: www.AdriansCaterers.com

For the latest news visit qchron.com

• • • •

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 4

C M SQ page 4 Y K

Manufacturing jobs coming to Ozone Pk. Now-vacant 100th Street building to hold 24 businesses, 80 jobs by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

In an effort to bring more manufacturing jobs to the city, the Economic Development Cor p. has provided $13.7 million to a developer that will retrofit a now-vacant Ozone Park building to accommodate 24 businesses and 80 skilled workers, the agency announced last Thursday. The 90,000-square-foot building, located at 94-15 100 St., will be redeveloped by Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center thanks in part to a $10 million grant and $3.7 million loan from the EDC. The 24 businesses that will work out of the space are expected to employ woodworkers, set builders, metal workers, home goods manufacturers and more at an average rate of $51,500 per year, according to a release from the EDC. The grant is the first to be awarded as part of the city’s Industrial Developer Fund, an initiative created by Mayor de Blasio and Council Speaker Melissa MarkViverito (D-Manhattan, Bronx) to bring manufact u r ing businesses to the f ive boroughs. Q u e e n s of f i c i a l s c e l e b r a t e d t h e announcement. “GMDC is a great model for how to better assist smaller manufacturing companies and keep those jobs in New York,” Borough President Melinda Katz said in a prepared statement. “GMDC’s f irst-class industrial work space in Ozone Park will create dozens of living wage jobs right here

The building at 94-15 100 St. is not much to look at now, but once redeveloped will hold 24 manufacturing businesses and 80 employees as part of an initiative created by the mayor and PHOTO BY ANTHONY O’REILLY speaker of the City Council. in Queens. Congratulations to GMDC for winning the EDC’s Industrial Developer Fund package, which will help enable the ambitious project get off the ground.”

Greenpoint Manufacturing and Design Center has a goal of dedicating 20 percent of construction costs and 5 percent of soft costs — engineering, legal, accounting and

other fees — to minority, women and disadva nt aged bu si ness ent er pr ises, a n an nouncement that pleased state Sen. James Sanders Jr. (D-South Ozone Park), who has been a leading advocate for M W DBEs since his days in the Cit y Council. “I am pleased that a percentage of the construction for this project will go to certified and non-certified MWBE firms,” he said. The project also has the support of Community Board 9 Chairman Raj Rampershad, who in a statement issued by the EDC said, “The potential of this project to create more jobs and bring more business would be a great asset to the surrounding community. It would be welcoming boost to the local economy.” Although the building is just outside his d ist r ict , st ate Sen. Joe Add abbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) applauded it as an opportunity to help the borough’s economy. “With more than 80 jobs to be available once this project is complete, I encourage the two dozen businesses that will take over this space to hire local residents who can help keep Queens’ economy thriving,” Addabbo said in a statement issued by his office last Thursday. “By keeping manufacturing operations in Queens, businesses will be able to keep their costs down, benefiting both the business owner and the consumer in the long run.” Construction is expected to start next Q year and be completed in 2018.

QueensWay backers respond to rail study by Anthony O’Reilly

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

Almost nine months after the MTA agreed to conduct a feasibility study for reactivating the long-defunct Rockaway Beach Rail Line, supporters of a proposal to put a 3.5-mile stretch of parkland on the right-of-way wrote to the transportation agency with a list of concerns about the probe. “Rail advocates rallying around the former RBB have painted a simplistic picture of reactivation,” the group Friends of the QueensWay said in a statement issued with its letter. “Sixty years have elapsed since trains have run on these tracks though and through these communities. The landscape and neighborhood has dramatically changed.” The Dec. 12 missive sent to MTA Chairman Tom Prendergast addresses five main issues: the elimination of or disturbance to community spaces, loss of parkland in Forest Park, prohibitive capital costs, cost burdens for Rockaway commuters and negative impacts to existing transportation lines. The MTA agreed to study the feasibility of reactivating the former LIRR line, which last ran in the 1960s but was decommissioned due to low ridership, after former Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder pushed for such a probe to be paid for by the state. The results of it are expected to be released

to the public in June. When asked why Friends of the QueensWay waited until December to address the study, a spokeswoman for the group said in an email, “We’ve been talking to a lot of people throughout the borough who have raised concerns about the devastating impacts to our communities that would result from rail reactivation, and we felt it was important to weigh in on those issues for the MTA to consider in their study.” The letter highlights the concern of the Forest Hills Little League field on Fleet Street being condemned to accommodate the rail, in addition to other ball fields. “This issue could be exacerbated depending on where any new stations might be built, given that certain former station locations are being used for other developments that emerged after rail use was abandoned,” the letter states. The missive also points out that it would cost millions, possibly billions, of dollars to rebuild the line. And that reactivating it would impact A train service as LIRR trains and subways can’t operate on the same line. But as Mike Scala, first vice-president of the Queens Public Transit Committee, points out, that would only be the case if the line was reactivated as part of the LIRR system. “It doesn’t have to be that,” Scala said. “In fact, the Queens

Public Transit Committee has been more in favor of the subway proposal.” Friends of the QueensWay says if the A train were to run on the deactivated line, it might add to the already overcrowded subway tunnels, affecting commute time for Queens residents heading into Manhattan. And the group notes that more than $2 million in private and public money has been awarded to fund the design process of the parkland. But for Scala, the MTA study and support from Rockaway officials are good news for supporters of putting a train there. “The QueensWay people, frankly, should be scared of the momentum,” he said. “And we’d like to thank the MTA for the study.” Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills), a supporter of the park proposal, was not so thankful for it. “The MTA is not a friend of ours,” Koslowitz said in an interview. “They are not nice to Queens. Right now, I will oppose any kind of Rockaway line.” Asked about Friends of the QueensWay’s concerns and any updates to the study, an MTA spokesman said in an email, “We are continuing to look at transportation options and Q ideas for the corridor and will review the letter.”

C M SQ page 5 Y K

SPECIAL SPECIAL

GREY GOOSE VODKA

HOLIDAY SPECIAL$ From Our Staff To All Our Friends and Customers, Thanking You For Your Support and Wishing You A Happy & Healthy Holiday Season

5299 $4699 1st Bottle 2nd Bottle 1.75 Ltr. With coupon.Expires 12/31/16.

SPECIAL SPECIAL

ABSOLUT VODKA

2999 $2499 1st Bottle 2nd Bottle 1.75 Ltr. With coupon.Expires 12/31/16.

Page 5 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

DISCOUNT WAREHOUSE

The Perfect Gift for the Holidays • • • • • • •

VILLA ARMANDO RUSTICO MELLOW RED WINE • 16%

• KETEL ONE Gift Set with 2 glasses

CESARI 3 Btl. Gift Set in woodbox BOLLA 4 Btl. Gift Set in woodbox BOLLA 2 Btl. Gift Set in woodbox PROSECCO Gift Set with 2 Champagne Flutes HPNOTIQ Gift Set with 2 glasses GREY GOOSE Gift Set with Shaker CAVIT 2 Btl. Gift Set - Red & White

STONE CELLARS Cabernet, Merlot or Pinot Grigio

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

• BELVEDERE Gift Set with 2 glasses • AMARETTO Gift Set with 2 glasses Imported from Italy • TEQUILA ROSE Gift Set with glass • BAILEYS IRISH CREAM Gift Set with 2 mugs • CHIVAS REGAL Gift Set with 2 glasses

WOW! SPECIAL! SPECIAL!

SMIRNOFF Vodka Cinnamon Flavor 2 BOTTLES $ 99

1.5 L

1 Ltr.

FINE ITALIAN WINES YOUR CHOICE

39 $ 99

8 4 1.5 L.

BUCHANAN’S

PARTY VODKA

DELUXE SCOTCH WHISKEY

YOUR CHOICE

750 ML

2 BOTTLES

1.75 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

WOODBRIDGE

CARIBAYA

SPUMANTE

CIROC VODKA

COCONUT RUM

CK MONDAVI

WHITE ZINFANDEL

2 BOTTLES

Cabernet Sauvignon

ALL FLAVORS

1.5 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

SANTA MARINA $

1.5 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

1.75 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

Imported From Italy 2 Bottles For OR CASE

$ 99 $

750 ML

1.5 L

1.75 L

VODKA

WHITE ZINFANDEL

HOMEMADE BARBERONE

2 BOTTLES 1.75 L

1149

3999

1899

SHADOW RIDGE

PRODUCT OF ITALY

ALL FLAVORS

PARTY RUM

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

1.5 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

PRODUCT OF ITALY

99 750 ML

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

PRODUCT OF WEST INDIES Your choice: White or Gold

1.75 L

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

BAROLO DOCG

WHITE ZINFANDEL

699

1.5 L

1.75 L

AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA DOCG

750 ML

CALIFORNIA

YELLOW TAIL

1.5 L

1199

SVEDKA

VODKA

FOLONARI BARDOLINO

VSOP

SMIRNOFF

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

FRENCH BRANDY

OPICI

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

NAPOLEON

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

24 1299

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

1 BOTTLE

99 $

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

VINO ROSSO

COLLI BRUNI

PRODUCT OF ITALY

699

750 ML

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

2649

750 ML

With coupon. Expires 12/31/16

106-20 LIBERTY AVENUE, OZONE PARK • 718-843-5850 Cash & Carry On Sale Items Only

We Accept Most Major Credit Cards

LOCATED AT CORNER OF 107th STREET AND LIBERTY AVENUE WITH COUPON ONLY • While supplies last • Not responsible for typographical errors • Some items limited supply. Offers expire

12/31/16.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

PINOT GRIGIO

COMPARE TO MALIBU

1.75 L

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 6

C M SQ page 6 Y K

Digging in to fight City Hall on shelter Community leaders discuss their next steps at nearby high school by Matthew Bultman Chronicle Contributor

Ozone Park residents are digging in their heels, promising to keep fighting a plan from City Hall to put a drop-in homeless shelter in their neighborhood. A few dozen residents met for an informational session last Saturday at the High School for Construction, Trades, Engineering and Architecture. The 104th Street school sits just feet from where the city has proposed the transitional and drop-in homeless shelter. For more than 90 minutes, residents discussed the impact the facility might have and plotted their next moves. “You need to fight this, you need to fight hard,” said Juniper Park Civic Association President Robert Holden, who has been fighting homeless shelters all over the borough the last couple of years. “Once it’s in, things will happen. Guaranteed.” Ozone Park residents are the latest to mobilize in an effort to stop a homeless shelter from coming to their neighborhood, as the city continues to grapple with the more than 60,000 people in the shelter system, a record high.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

This map shows schools near the proposed drop-in center.

In Maspeth, for example, residents strongly opposed a plan to convert a Holiday Inn Express into a shelter, protesting nightly outside the hotel. The Department of Homeless Services, citing “local opposition,” announced in October it would not convert the site into a full shelter but has placed a few dozen homeless single men there. Protesters in September also marched outside a hotel in Bellerose where some of the rooms were being used by the city to house homeless families. The demonstration continued outside the Floral Park home of the hotel’s owner, Harshad Patel. Joseph Maldonado, who organized the information session, emphasized the need for Ozone Park residents to similarly come together in their opposition. “We have to protect ourselves here. We have to unite,” said Maldonado, who unsuccessfully ran for state Assembly in November. The proposed homeless facility would be located at 10032 Atlantic Ave., the former home of Dallis Bros. Coffee. One of the main concerns has been the site’s close proximity to schools — according to meeting organizers, there are at least 10 within a one-mile radius. The drop-in center wouldn’t be a permanent place of residence, but rather a place for people to take a shower, get food and maybe stay the night. Critics called it the “worst kind of homeless facility,” raising concerns about security and whether it would attract sex offenders and drug dealers to the neighborhood. Breaking Ground, the proposed operators of the facility, promised last month to screen for sex offenders and turn them away, after originally stating they would not. Some also speculated there would be an increase in crime, including burglaries and assaults, as well as panhandling. “What neighborhood would want this shoved down their throats?” Holden said. Last month, the DHS and Breaking Ground attended a town hall in Ozone Park — hosted by Councilman Ruben Wills (D-South Jamaica) and Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) — to discuss the plan. That meeting quickly turned into a raucous forum, with hundreds of angry residents yelling at officials and demanding the plan be stopped. Emotions weren’t running as high on Saturday, but residents were nonetheless resolute in their opposition. “The urgency of this cannot be overstated,” said Stanley Shuckman. Shuckman, a realtor, previously volunteered to look for alternative sites, free of charge.

Realtor Stanley Shuckman speaks on the alternative locations he’s found for a proposed transitional drop-in center in Ozone PHOTOS BY MATTHEW BULTMAN Park. On Saturday, he said he had found “four or five” possible locations, including a building near the Van Wyck Expressway. “The point is, there is an alternative,” he said. A petition opposing the facility recently began circulating online and has gathered more than 800 signatures. Residents are also organizing on social media and plan to hold another meeting early next year. In the meantime, people were urged to contact their elected officials and Breaking Ground to voice their concerns. Sample letters to be written to the building owner, a company called 2630 Steinway LLC, were also distributed. “If this homeless facility [drop-in center] is implemented in our community, children will be physically endangered,” one of the letters reads. “Please do not put this facility in our Q community.”

Cops profile Vetrano’s suspected murderer by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

Police have released a profile of the person they suspect to be the murderer of Karina Vetrano, saying he was familiar with the park where she was slain and may have given excuses for his physical appearance in the days following the Aug. 2 slay. The NYPD, in a statement issued Wednesday, released the following information on the suspected killer: • The man may have been familiar with Spring Creek Park and have spent time there for a variety of reasons, either for recreational or drug use;

May have been familiar with the park • May have been living in the park for days, weeks or months prior to the murder and was likely a familiar face to others who were there on a regular basis; • Following the murder, he may have stopped living or visiting the park abr uptly and moved his recreational activities to another part of the borough or city. He may have provided a reasonable excuse for this change to others and suggested his avoidance of Spring Creek was due to danger over there;

• In the hours following the murder, people may have observed him in a disheveled state with scratches or cuts to his hands, arms, neck or face. He may have told them he was in a fight or accident, or a different excuse, for his appearance; and • Following the murder, he may have noticeably changed his level of alcohol, drug or tobacco use. He would have paid careful attention to the media reporting of the murder and changed his appearance.

Since the still-unsolved murder, cops have gotten dozens of tips from the public but none have led to an arrest. Vetrano went for a jog on Aug. 2 when she was sexually assaulted and strangled to death in Spring Creek Park. Those with any information that may prove helpful to the investigation are asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1 (800) 577-TIPS (8477), or, for Spanish, 1 (888) 57-PISTA (74782). The public can also submit tips by logging onto ny pdcrimestoppers.com, or by texting 274637 (CRIMES), then entering TIP577. All Q tips are strictly confidential.

C M SQ page 7 Y K Mon. - Sat. 10:30 AM-6:30 PM Sun. 10:00-4:00 PM • Howard Beach & Broad Channel $2 Charge, • Ozone Park $5 Charge, Belle Harbor/Nesposit $15 Charge

Corrando - 8 lb. Average

SPIRAL HAM

299

Bottom Round

Skinless Breast Meat & Thigh Meat

lb.

99 lb.

Whole Milk

Imported from Italy 25 oz.

POLLY-O

S. PELLEGRINO WATER

1 lb. Mozzarella

299 $ 99 3

2/ 3 $

7.3 oz. Packs

Boar’s Head Black Forest

BEECHWOOD SMOKED HAM

99 lb.

USA #1

RED DELICIOUS APPLES

¢ lb.

- Gift Certificates - Fruit Baskets - Pasta Bowls - Pasta Baskets - Cut Melon Platters - Cut Mixed Fruit Bowls - Fresh Vegetable Platters - Cheese & Cracker Platters

CHICKEN SAUSAGE

ON THE BONE CHICKEN BREAST

339

$ 29

lb.

lb. Cut up $1.49 lb. Skinless $1.69 lb.

Simply Naked - 7.33 oz.

Lipton - 4.5 oz.

STACY’S PITA CHIPS

CHICKEN NOODLE SOUP MIX

All Items Sale!

& deposit All Flavors 6 pk. cans $4.99 +t/d

3/ $ 1000

10” -22ct or 8½ -44ct

2 lb. Box Stauffer’s

All Flavors

Long Island Famous!

CHOCOLATY STAR COOKIES

THOMAS’ - 6 PACK ENGLISH MUFFINS

HUMMEL HUMMEL CRUMB CAKE “PIZZA”

HEAVY DUTY SOLO PLATES

2/$400

2/$300

99 ¢

2/$500

599

Excludes Original

+ tax

799

Land O’ Lakes

Boar’s Head

McCadam

Boar’s Head

ITALIAN BLEND CHEESE

LOW SALT TURKEY BREAST

MUENSTER CHEESE

OLIVE LOAF

2 lb. Bag

GOLDEN YELLOW ONIONS

¢ ea.

- Antipasto Platters - Cocktail Sandwich Trays - Wrap Platters - Cold Cut Platters - Cold Cut Party Heros - Fresh Ricotta - Honeyballs - Grain Pies - Cheesecake

lb.

399

lb.

EXTRA LARGE

SWEET CANTALOUPES

Crisp

CALIFORNIA

ESCAROLE

99 ¢

lb.

599

ea.

lb.

5x6 Size

In The Cello Bag

SLICING TOMATOES

BUNCH BANANAS

89 ¢

lb.

59 ¢

lb.

ea.

- 2 Lb. Cookie Trays - Stauffer’s Dark Chocolate Star Cookies - Stauffer’s Chocolaty Star Cookies - Large Stuffing Mushrooms - Fresh Artichokes - Cardone - Strawberries

- Brother’s Prime Rib Roast (Plain or Seasoned) - Pork Roast on the Bone (Plain or Seasoned ) - Boneless Pork Roast (Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed ) - Filet Mignon Roast (Plain or Seasoned) - Pork Crown Roasts (Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed) - Fresh Ham (on the Bone or Boneless) - Lamb Crown Roast (Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed) - Leg of Lamb On The Bone (Plain or Seasoned)

161-10 Cross Bay Boulevard • Howard Beach • NY 11414 Phone: 718-835-7508 Fax: 718-835-8118

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK SALE DATES: DEC. 16 - DEC. 22, 2016

Fri. 12/23 8am to 8pm Fri. 12/30 8am to 8pm Sat. 2/24 8am to 6pm Sat. 2/31 8am to 6pm Sun. 12/25 CLOSED Sun. 01/01/17 CLOSED Merry Christmas! Happy New Year!

- Boneless Leg of Lamb (Plain, Seasoned or Stuffed) - Spiral Ham -Rabbits -Capon -Ducks - Turkey Breast (on the Bone or Boneless) - Turducken (Boneless Turkey Breast stuffed with a Boneless Duck stuffed with a Boneless Chicken, Seasoned) - Whole Turkeys (Fresh 12 Lbs to 20 Lbs /Frozen 16 Lbs to 22 Lbs)

STORE HOURS: Monday - Saturday 8:00 AM-7:00 PM Sunday 8:00 AM-5:00 PM

For the latest news visit qchron.com

ALL VARIETIES

+ tax

Swiss Miss - 10 ct

lb.

ENTENMANN’S

2/$300

2 lb. Ricotta

HOT CHOCOLATE WITH MARSHMALLOWS

WE DELIVER

USDA Grade ‘A’ Perdue

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Sweet or Hot, Links

POT ROAST or ROAST BEEF

TURKEY CHOPMEAT

HOLIDAY HOURS:

Page 7 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

HOME DELIVERY HOURS:

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 8

C M SQ page 8 Y K

P Less school violence data EDITORIAL

high school girl in Brooklyn was rushed to the hospital Tuesday after some fool of a classmate set her hair on fire, causing third-degree burns to her neck, scalp and ear, according to a report in the Daily News. The boy was taken into custody but not immediately charged. It’s likely that somewhere else in the city, maybe here in Queens, some other high school kid was slapped in the face during an altercation. It used to be that the state would report these incidents differently, labeling one an “assault with serious physical injury,” because it required hospital treatment, and the other as an “assault with physical injury.” That distinction is useful to say, parents who want to know how much violence there is in a school they’re considering sending their child to. But from now on, they won’t know. Both incidents will now be reported in one category, with no distinction based on their severity,

AGE

Queens homeless whack-a-mole

under new regulations the Board of Regents just voted to approve. Same goes for sex offenses. Slapping some girl’s rear end will now be reported in the same category as raping her would be. So, just as they’ve dumbed down educational standards over the years, Albany’s bureaucrats are now dumbing down the reporting of bad events in schools, by combining categories in what is called the Violent and Disruptive Incident Reporting System, or VADIR. You might call the new, more opaque system Dark Vadir, as it keeps the public in the dark about things it should know, and used to be told. Why the regents want to do this is unknown, but as the Families for Excellent Schools advocacy group put it, “To identify our most dangerous schools and hold our education system accountable for the safety of students, we need consistent compliance with existing law as well as more data — not less.”

leading financial hardship, a nonprofit group in Astoria is evicting all of the nearly 40 low-income tenants it’s been housing next month. What great timing the New York School of Urban Ministry has. At least it agreed to delay the evictions to Jan. 31 at the latest, instead of Dec. 31 as originally planned. Merry Christmas. Now, there’s no question NYSUM’s financial situation has seen a decline, as shown in its IRS forms. But here’s the irony: the group plans to replace the folks it may make homeless with ... folks who are already homeless. Why would it do that? Because the city pays outrageous rates, $629 a night for hotel rooms, to house the homeless, according to a Daily News exclusive report — while a suite at the Waldorf Astoria goes for only $385 a night.

LETTERS TO THE Smoke-free homes Published every week by

MARK I PUBLICATIONS, INC.

MARK WEIDLER President & Publisher SUSAN & STANLEY MERZON Founders Raymond G. Sito General Manager Peter C. Mastrosimone Editor-in-Chief Michael Gannon Editor Christopher Barca Associate Editor Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor Ryan Brady Associate Editor Terry Nusspickel Editorial Production Manager Jan Schulman Art Director Moeen Din Associate Art Director Gregg Cohen Production Assistant Joseph Berni Art Department Associate Richard Weyhausen Proofreader Lisa LiCausi Office Manager Stela Barbu Administration Senior Account Executives: Jim Berkoff, Beverly Espinoza

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Account Executives: Patricia Gatt, Debrah Gordon, Al Rowe

Contributors: Lloyd Carroll, Mark Lord, Ronald Marzlock

Photographers: Steve Fisher, Walter Karling, Rick Maiman, Steve Malecki

Interns: Bryant Rodriguez, Nicholas Theodorou

Office: 62-33 Woodhaven Blvd. Rego Park, NY 11374-7769 Phone: (718) 205-8000 Fax: (718) 205-0150 Mail: P.O. Box 74-7769 Rego Park, NY 11374-7769 E-mail: Mailbox@qchron.com Website: www.qchron.com TOTAL CIRCULATION: MEMBER

160,000

Dear Editor: I am a smokefree community advocate with the Queens Tobacco Control Coalition, a cohort of the National Leadership Academy for the Public’s Health, a public health fellowship funded by the CDC. I have never been compensated for the tobacco control and smokefree advocacy activities I’ve engaged in for the past 28 years and have never been employed by a pharmaceutical company or any other entity that could be viewed to have a financial interest in my public health efforts. My motivation is to protect the nonsmoking public from being involuntarily exposed to a proven Class A carcinogen. I am also an advocate for the disabled community with a severe restrictive lung disease and experience respiratory distress if I am exposed to secondhand smoke. That is why I wholeheartedly supported and endorsed HUD’s Proposed Rule: FR 5597-P-02 Instituting Smoke-Free Public Housing. Although implementing this rule will protect 1.2 million households from exposure to secondhand smoke, it does not go far enough to protect residents whose apartments will be located just outside the proposed 25-foot perimeter and continue to have smoke enter their home. I recommended expanding the minimum perimeter distance to 100 feet. The Final Rule does not exclude electronic nicotine delivery systems, aka e-cigarettes. Since the jury is still out on the health and safety of © Copyright 2016 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. 11374-7769.

E DITOR

e-cigs, the proposed rule should prohibit ENDS or it will cause difficulty in the enforcement of the regulation. Multi-unit housing across this country, both public housing agencies and other subsidized housing stock along with market rate properties, have increasingly adopted a smokefree policy which has resulted in a decrease in fatal fires and property damage. However, careless smoking remains the leading cause of fatal fires in our country and one of the leading causes in property damage. I personally know two individuals, one an 88-yearold woman who was lucky to escape her apartment with her daughter whose cigarette smoking in bed caused her apartment to be destroyed by fire. It also pushed surrounding neighbors out of their homes for several months. They were lucky. They all survived to live another day. HUD’s Final Rule is a great first step for the federal government to take in providing many of its citizens with the right to live in a smokefree environment. But the recurring question of

Talk about a broken system. Queens City Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer, who is leading a fight to stop the evictions, says a NYSUM official told him the Department of Homeless Services isn’t going to turn the building into its latest shelter after all, because of the displacements. Two problems with that: The DHS has a history of misleading the public on what it’s going to do under Mayor de Blasio. It could well go back on its word. And even if it doesn’t, it does not operate all homeless shelters. NYSUM says it will contract with a third party to do something with the building. So it could still become a shelter. And the evictions are going forward. Is there no city funding that could keep the tenants there? Given the right to shelter law and city habits, that would probably save money.

“if tobacco products are so bad for everyone, why is it still a legal product?” still goes unanswered. The answer is it should not be legal, but until our lawmakers in Washington decide to change that, we will have to rely on incremental steps to eliminate the lethal effects of tobacco from our lives. Phil Konigsberg Bay Terrace

Cost of CUNY sanctuaries Dear Editor: Students and faculty at Queensborough Community College and other CUNY schools launched a drive to turn their colleges into sanctuary campuses for undocumented students. They must weigh the costs before going any further. President-elect Trump threatens to cut federal funds to sanctuary cities like New York. He can also cut funds to sanctuary schools that can lose lots of money. Professors could lose research grants from

C M SQ page 9 Y K

From Russia with malice

ATTORNEYS

LAW

Nancy J. Brady, R.N., Esq. Linda Faith Marshak, Esq. Alexander Sam Bader, Esq.

Elder Law & Special Needs Practice Estate Planning - Wills - Trusts - Real Estate Closings Powers of Attorney - Asset Protection Home Care and Nursing Home Medicaid

Inter-Generational Planning

If You Are Elderly or Have Elderly Parents, Advance Planning Will Protect Your Home & Savings 156-36 Crossbay Boulevard, Suite I Howard Beach, NY 11414

(718) 738-8500 – Attorney Advertisement –

Christmas Eve Dinner Saturday, Dec. 24th, 2016 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm

FAMILY-STYLE PLATTERS

6000

per person • Fried Calamari • Baked Clams Complete • Mussels • Antipasto • Pasta • Rigatoni Filletto or Linguini with clam sauce

CHOICE OF INDIVIDUAL: • Shrimp Scampi • Calamari & Scungilli • Chicken Francese • Veal Marsala • Vegetables & Potato Wine & Soda, Cookies, Pastries & Fruit, Sweet Table Coﬀee, Cappuccino or Espresso

Kids Under 12 1/2 Price

Call Now! 718-849-0990 101-12 Lefferts Blvd., Richmond Hill Free Valet Parking • Villarussocatering.com

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Dear Editor: (An open letter to U.S. Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Eliot Engel) We write to ask that you request an urgent hearing in the House Foreign Affairs Committee to examine reportedly deliberate attempts by foreign governments to influence the outcome of the 2016 presidential election. On Oct. 7, 2016, the Department of Homeland Security and Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Election Security released a joint statement saying “The U.S. Intelligence Community is confident that the Russian Government directed the recent compromises of emails from U.S. persons and institutions, including from U.S. political organizations.” The USIC went further to explicitly state that “these thefts and disclosures are intended to interfere with the U.S. election process,” and “only Russia’s senior-most officials could have authorized these activities.” We cannot ignore these facts merely because Election Day has come and gone. The Committee must understand and be prepared to counter what constitutes a potentially unprecedented intervention by a foreign government into U.S. elections. The Committee has previously seen fit to examine foreign propaganda directed at American audiences. On April 15, 2015, the Committee conducted a

Russia and the electors Dear Editor: The Electoral College was created for a number of reasons, one being to prevent foreign intrusion in the election of the president of the United States. Alexander Hamilton, a prime mover in the adoption of our Constitution, wrote in Federalist Paper No. 68 about the problem of “foreign powers” desiring “to gain an improper ascendant in our councils.” Hamilton stated the Electoral College would help “guard against all danger of this sort” through the votes of the electors, whose deliberations would provide “the most provident and judicious attention.” The CIA has reported there is evidence that Russia interfered in the 2016 presidential campaign by hacking the email accounts of top Democratic officials and cooperating with a WikiLeaks’ operation to destabilize Hillary Clinton’s campaign to elect Donald Trump. Moreover, Trump has major business entanglements in Russia, as well as in other foreign countries, and two of his selectees for high-level executive positions (Gen. Michael Flynn and Rex Tillerson) have had strong ties and multiple business dealings with Russia. We think it is imperative that before they vote on Dec. 19, the electors should request documents and other materials from all relevant parties to inform themselves whether foreign governments have meddled in our councils. This evaluation should include examining Donald Trump’s tax returns. The electors were never meant to just rubber stamp the nationwide election of the president. Among their duties, they are required to safeguard our country against other nations that seek to do our nation harm by damaging our democracy. The Electoral College’s review of all evidence of foreign intrusion into the 2016 presidential election can and should be done posthaste. Martin H. Levinson Katherine Liepe-Levinson Forest Hills

Trump’s new clothes Dear Editor: The Chinese newspaper’s comment that Donald Trump is as ignorant as a child when it comes to the field of diplomacy is very similar to Hans Christian Anderson’s fairy tale, “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” in which a child in the crowd yells out, “The emperor is naked!” Many in this country are aware of the president-elect’s lack of diplomatic skills, but remain silent. In the future, the question will be: Can he curb blurting out or tweeting his gut instincts? That unfortunate habit could cause international misunderstandings with dire consequences. Glenn Hayes Kew Gardens

hearing titled “Confronting Russia’s Weaponization of Information.” This hearing examined Russia’s use of media to destabilize Ukraine, Eastern Europe and beyond, and the U.S. government’s inability to respond effectively. The Committee’s initiative to respond to this threat is appreciated. We believe this front against foreign influence is a potential venue for bipartisan collaboration. Ranking Member Engel, one of our most cherished institutions, democratic elections free of foreign interference, is in question. We believe our committee can play a critical and constructive role in investigating and highlighting such foreign inf luence, and we respectfully request that you help convene a hearing on the matter. Editor’s note: The letter was signed by 16 members of Congress, all Democrats on the Foreign Relations Committee, two of whom represent Queens. Grace Meng Member of Congress for the 6th District Flushing Gregory Meeks Member of Congress for the 5th District Jamaica

BRADY & MARSHAK, LLP

federal agencies like the National Science Foundation. But students would suffer a much greater loss. The U.S. Department of Education controls two key sources of financial aid: Pell Grants and government-subsidized loans. Pell Grants fund four years of undergraduate education for low-income students. Subsidized loans offer lower interest rates than banks and more flexible repayment plans based on students’ income after graduation. Do they really want to risk all this just to protest Trump’s policies? I realize students and faculty suffer from PTTSD: Post Trump Traumatic Stress Disorder. They didn’t get a trigger warning for his election and want a safe space from its consequences. But they should heed an adage that warns: “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it.” Richard Reif Kew Gardens Hills The writer is a Queens College graduate, class of 1962.

E DITOR

Page 9 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

LETTERS TO THE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 10

C M SQ page 10 Y K

PHOTOS BY ANTHONY O’REILLY

Christmas with the Falzettas

For the latest news visit qchron.com

There are families who deck the halls for Christmas — and then there are the Falzettas, who take close to a month to decorate their house. The family every year adorns their home at 133-32 122 St. with large inflatable characters, Nativity scenes, Christmas trees and lots of lights. The setup is different each year, but

some things like the Nativity scenes and Christmas trees are a constant. The family starts getting ready in the beginning of November and usually finishes by Thanksgiving. People are invited to stand in front of the home and take pictures up until 11 p.m., as many do when they’re driving past it.

Meng opposed spending bill Re p. G r ace Meng ( D -Flu sh i ng) announced last Friday that she had voted against last week’s stopgap spending bill because of its perceived failure to sufficiently reimburse New York City for protecting President-elect Trump. “Shortchanging New York City for the money it needs to protect Trump Tower is baffling but not surprising,” Meng said in a prepared statement. “It’s just more of the GOP-led Congress’ bias against New York. However, this is more than just federal dollars for our city. It’s funding to help safeguard the incoming President of the United BLSL-070841

States!” The bill only includes $7 million of the $35 million reimbursement requested by Mayor de Blasio. It passed the House 326-96 and the Senate 63-36. Meng also opposed it because of its funding of the federal government until next April instead of a year and its expedition of a waiver allowing Gen. James Mattis to be the secretary of defense when federal law requires that former military members be retired for at least seven years Q before they can serve in the position.

C M SQ page 11 Y K (Across The Street)

PHONE ORDERS GLADLY ACCEPTED Your neighborhood market since 1937 FRI. Dec.

SAT. Dec.

SUN. MON. TUES. WED. THURS. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec. Dec.

Mention $5 coupon in Queens Chronicle and receive

FREE Delivery

PHONE $5.00 OFF ORDERS

$30 Minimum

CALL 718-849-8200 We Accept All Major Credit Cards

with $25 purchase

With this coupon. Expires 12/22/16. Limit One per family.

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

WIC - EBT

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

Wishing All Our Friends & Customers Very Happy Holidays!

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

For the latest news visit qchron.com

KEYF-070910

Sale Dates

102-02 101st AVE. FREE OZONE PARK KEY FOOD Phone: 718-849-8200 BREAD

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

FREE CUSTOMER PARKING

For the latest news visit qchron.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 12

C M SQ page 12 Y K

Pushing for familial DNA testing in NY Phil Vetrano says he’ll push for it even if his daughter’s killer is caught by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

For 25 years, police in southern Los Angeles struggled to identify the perpetrator responsible for killing at least 10 black women over the course of three decades, known as “The Grim Sleeper.” DNA samples left at the crime scenes matched nobody in any databases and detectives seemed to be out of leads. Enter familial DNA testing, a method in which investigators take a sample and look for a match in the databases to determine if it matches that of anyone’s close male relative — the search tests the Y chromosome, passed down by the father — registered in any criminal databases. Using the familial searching, officials were able to find the perpetrator’s son and eventually the killer, Lonnie Franklin Jr., who was arrested in 2010 and was sentenced to death for the murders in August. Were it not for the familial search, Franklin might still be on the loose today — his DNA had never been collected. Now, prosecutors and advocates in Queens are hoping to bring the method to this state in an effort to find Karina Vetrano’s killer and other cold case murderers. Queens District Attorney Richard Brown — along with Police Commissioner James O’Neill — announced his support for the method last Thursday and the next day, the state Commission on Forensic Science said it would look into authorizing its use. Michael Green, chairman of the panel and commissioner of the Division of Criminal Justice, said at an open meeting of the commission that the DNA subcommittee would be looking into the search method and how — should the state adopt its use — it might carry out such investigations. The commission will also be accepting input from forensic experts, along with individuals and groups from other sectors interested on commenting, in a yet-to-be-determined forum. “We need to make sure we’re allowing or permitting forensic science to operate in a way that’s reliable, that gives information which allows the best possible decisions to be made, but is also done in a way that lives up to the standards that all of us expect,” Green told members of the commission. It has not yet been determined when the panel would make such a decision. Brown, in a lengthy statement issued Sunday, thanked Green and the other members for their consideration and urged them to act expeditiously. “Without prompt action, killers, rapists and those who commit other serious crimes will continue to remain at large, the public will remain in danger and the suffering of victims’ families will be amplified by the inability to solve these crimes,” he said. Brown used Vetrano’s unsolved Aug. 2 murder as the impetus for his request, but said there are other factors to admitting familial searching in New York. “How would we explain to another parent that we had the means to prevent their loss but lacked the will?” he said. “Justice demands that law enforcement be able to use every lawful means at its disposal to identify the perpetrators. We owe the public nothing less.” In the Vetrano case, investigators found DNA samples on her corpse and cell phone, but the profile matches nobody in criminal databases. The 30-year-old was sexually assaulted and strangled to death, according to an autopsy report. A Change.org petition with more than 10,000 signatures also calls for its use, and Vetrano’s father, who discovered her dead body, is an adamant supporter. “It’s self-explanatory and it’s so obvious,” Phil Vetrano said in a Tuesday interview with the Queens Chronicle. “This will solve a lot of cases. It’s a great tool.”

Phil Vetrano and others are pushing for familial testing to be used to solve the murder of his daughter, and other cold cases. FILE PHOTO

When asked if he believes the search will lead to his daughter’s killer, Phil Vetrano said, “I don’t know, it’s a possibility. “But this is going to help other people catch other killers,” he said. “Even if my daughter’s killer is caught this afternoon, I’m going to continue fighting for this. This has to be passed, this has to get done.” Right now, nine states utilize familial DNA searching, with California having the most success finding perpetrators through the method and convicting them for the crimes. “To date, the Department of Justice has completed 148 familial searches,” the state’s Department of Justice said in an emailed statement. “Many of these are repeat searches of a previously searched case, which can take place, by request, after a year has passed. The familial search program has provided investigative leads that have solved seven cases.” Internationally, the United Kingdom has had the most success with it and has put away several serial rapists and murderers. It was in the U.K. that Mitchell Morrissey, district attorney in Denver, Colo., first experienced the searching method. “It’s just a proven method anywhere it’s used. Any place that implements it has success,” Morrissey said on Monday in a telephone interview with the Queens Chronicle. “New York will have a familial search success if they start using it.” Morrissey added that states won’t necessarily have “success on the case the state started using familial search for.” He even offered to provide New York with the software his state developed and has either sold or given to others. “We’re more than happy to give it away to any state that will use it in a legal and constitutional way,” he said. In Denver, prosecutors have been able to get back to the source of DNA left at a crime scene 10 times using familial searching, with two convictions coming out of them, both involving car break-ins. The most recent case of familial searching leading to an arrest is out of Ohio, where investigators in Cleveland have arrested a man they believe is a serial child abductor and rapist. The attorney general’s office there declined to say which relative led to them to the suspect, Justin Christian. For at least one of New York’s forensic science commission members, the Empire State should have hopped on the familial search wagon a while ago.

“It bothers me that New York state is not a leader on this issue,” Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said during last week’s open meeting. But the method is not without its detractors. The American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois in 2011 outlined a number of objections to the method — which has not yet been approved in that state — including invasion of privacy, concerns the private sector could use it to deny jobs to those related to criminals and racial disparate impact — noting that more African Americans are in state and federal databases than non-African Amercians. On the latter argument, Fitzpatrick argued, “I’m not sure how true that is.” True or not, Morrissey called it an invalid objection to the test, saying many of the criminals caught by familial searching are white, such as Christian. “People have the right to be protected and I don’t think you shouldn’t use a solid, forensic tool that helps you get the type of answers that familial searching gives you based off such a faulty argument,” the Denver district attorney said. He also noted the ACLU in California previously objected to familial searching until Franklin — the Grim Sleeper — was arrested for murdering people of color. “Those victims are people of color that have a right to have their cases solved,” he said. On the argument that familial searching is an invasion of privacy or violates Fourth Amendment rights, prosecutors and others simply don’t buy the argument. Councilman Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows), chairman of the Council’s Courts and Legal Services Committee, called the discussion “an important and known debate within the law enforcement community,” but he doesn’t believe it violates any constitutional right. “In a sense, it’s not really any different from any other investigative techniques that piece by piece bring you one step closer to the perpetrator of a crime,” he said, citing wire taps or searches of people’s homes as examples. “That doesn’t mean though that law enforcement should be able to rummage through the DNA database.” Morrissey explained that in searching databases for potential male relatives, investigators are “taking DNA that was abandoned at a crime scene. You have no Fourth Amendment right to something that was abandoned at a crime scene.” Furthermore, he added, familial searches require warrants before investigators can go ahead with checking the databases and possible relatives are kept anonymous until a possible match is determined. “There is absolutely no Fourth Amendment right to privacy that is touched by familial DNA searching,” he said. “And anyone telling you different from that is not doing a Fourth Amendment analysis.” Lancman added, “You’re only in the database anyway if you yourself have been naughty.” The councilman said his committee would not look into the method, putting his trust in the state commission to come to a conclusion on the matter. Finally, the ACLU raised the concern of possible false convictions coming out of the method. Brown, addressing that issue, said, “DNA databank advances like these have led to thousands of convictions and exonerated dozens of innocent New Yorkers. They have not led to wrongful convictions; they have prevented them.” Often, critics of familial searching point to the investigation of a New Orleans filmmaker who came up as a possible match in a murder investigation in Louisiana. “But that example does not support the wrongful-conviction argument — he was in fact ruled out as a suspect upon testing of his own DNA sample,” the Queens district attorney said in his statement. “In other words, forensic Q DNA prevented him from being wrongly prosecuted.”

C M SQ page 13 Y K

347-813-4810 HOLIDAY HOURS:

www.tntliquidators.com

Wholesalers Welcome!

CHAMPION SPORTS BRAS

2 FOR $

Only

✁

LINDT

500

3900

Only

✁

WINTER CLOTHING and OUTERWEAR BUY 1, GET 1 at HALF PRICE! Come In NOW for the best selection!

RICE KRISPIES TREATS

• NAUTICA • TOMMY BAHAMA • ELLEN TRACY • LIZWEAR R

.78 oz. Bars 54 Count

2-Piece Men and Women

✁

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

No Limit

Bottled Water 16.9 oz. Bottles 35 Pack

Case

(Plus Deposit)

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

✁

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

HEALTHY CHOICE Chicken W/Rice or Chicken Noodle 15 oz. Cans

2 For

100

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

✁

ZIPLOC BAGS Gallon Size 38 Count

✁

Only

OVER

60% OFF

Eachh

RETAIL!

Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon. Expires 12/29/16

✁

2 For $ 300

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

PERRIER

CASCADE

K-CUP COFFEE

Sparkling Water

Dishwasher Detergent

Breakfast Blend or Pacific Bold

24 Pack 16.9 oz.

Only $ 00

✁

120 Count K-Cup Pods

90 Pacs

Only

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Only $

2500

✁ ✁ ANY PURCHASE OF $25 OR MORE !

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Expires December 29, 2016. With this coupon only. Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon. ALL COUPONS ARE GOOD WHILE SUPPLIES LAST. WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO LIMIT QUANTITIES.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

POLAND SPRING

✁

Some exceptions apply. Expires 12/29/16

✁

PAJAMA SETS

Only $ 75

Only

700

Men, Women and Children’s

✁

800 $ 00 To 30

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

✁

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

21 GramsBof Protein Only 35¢ per bar!

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Lindor Truffles 21.2 oz.

GIFT BASKETS KETS Ranging from

2.12 oz. Bars 20 Count Gluten Free!

NEW Arrivals!

ASSORTED

Only

ASSORTED

PROTEIN BARS

QUEEN SIZE COMFORTER With 2 SHAMS & BED SKIRT

Expires 12/29/16 Cannot be combined with any other offer or coupon.

Mon. thru Sat. 8 am - 9 pm Sun. 9 am - 8 pm Open Christmas Eve 8 am - 6pm Closed Christmas Day!

Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

73-60 Grand Avenue Maspeth, NY 11378

City to keep IDNYC cardholder records De Blasio ordered by court to retain information after litigation by Ryan Brady Associate Editor

Undocumented Queens residents with IDNYC cards might not be protected if the Trump administration wants their records from the city. The de Blasio administration has to retain records for IDNYC cardholders, as litigation has blocked its plan to dump existing ones and stop keeping track of new ones. The mayor originally planned to purge the information of cardholders due to President-elect Trump’s having said that he will deport millions of unauthorized immigrants. De Blasio plans on not retaining background documents for future cardholders, a policy planned to begin in January. Richmond County Supreme Court told the city not to get rid of the IDNYC data on Dec. 5 after litigation was filed by Assemblyman Ron Castorina (R-Staten Island) and Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis (R-Brooklyn, Staten Island). The temporary restraining order was upheld by a state Appellate Division panel two days later. “As public servants the most important facet of our job focuses on the safety of our citizens,” Castorina said in a prepared statement. “Destroying the records deemed ‘no longer necessary’ goes directly against that.” The mayor has expressed confidence that the

Mayor de Blasio’s plan to stop retaining IDNYC cardholder records was halted after a restraining order followed litigation by Assemblyman Ron Castorina and Assemblywoman Nicole MalliotaFILE PHOTO, LEFT, AND PHOTO COURTESY NYS ASSEMBLY kis. restraining order will be lifted. “As we continue to review all of our options, we are committed to keeping IDNYC data private,” de Blasio spokeswoman Rosemary Boeglin said in an emailed statement. “We will be serving our papers opposing the court’s temporary order on December 16th.” Several Queens offficals expressed concerns about the records. “While the City may no longer be retaining immigration documents as a precursor to

obtaining an IDNYC card, it remains the case that an applicant’s name and address may remain fair game for overzealous government officials, or for future litigants,” state Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst) said in a prepared statement “I think the IDNYC legislation, the way it has worked has had some unfortunate unintended consequences,” state Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky (D-Flushing) said. “It was made to provide a source of identification for everybody.

REMODELED FOR YOUR DINING PLEASURE!!

DOLCE AESTHETICS NY

GOLDEN WAY

Dr. Sofia Lubin DO, FACOG Jennifer DiLandro RN, MSN, ANP

Injection Contouring Redefined Improve your Chin Profile at Dolce Aesthetics

1 in Quceinengs:! Introdu st

VOLUM A® XC

YOUR LIPS

ADDS VOLUME AND LIFT TO YOUR CHEEKS! As you age, it’s not just about lines and wrinkles. Your cheeks also lose volume and the skin may sag.

$ LIP LI IP IN INJECTIONS NJ 450

SEXUAL DYSFUNCTION Call for more information!

NEW LIPO

REJUVAPEN

MICRO DERMABRASION

MICROFUNCTIONAL COLLAGEN STIMULATION SYSTEM™

FREEZE THE FAT SEAT AWAY

350

Only

450

Buy Any 1 Session Get Same 1 Session HAIR REMOVAL: • Lip/Chin • Brazilian • Underarms • Upper Legs • Lower Legs

75!

400 per area. BUY 3 AREAS, GET THE 4th FREE

Now Serving Beer and Wine

ELECTROLYSIS

SPECIAL $200

FREE!

3-D MINK LASHES $ starting at Only

$ SUPER SPECIAL! Only

3 BRAZILIANS LASER SERVICES

– OR –

Single Syringe

DOUBLE SYRINGE (1.5 ml)

VOLUMA Only

700

SUPER SAVINGS! ONLY $

600 *

TREATMENTS 20 UNITS

Only

150*

($200 VALUE) 1st Area limited to the first 50 clients. SPONSORED BY

60 MINUTES

Refresh Your Face WITHOUT SURGERY • • • • • •

Juvéderm® Voluma® • Botox ® Belotero® • Radiesse ® Chemical Peels Lip Augmentation Liquid Facelifts Crow’s Feet Treatments

FREE CONSULTATIONS!

GET YOUR GIFT CERTIFICATES TODAY! dolceaestheticsny@gmail.com • dolceaestheticsny.com

87-47 MYRTLE AVE., GLENDALE NY 11385

( 718 ) DOLCE NY • ( 718 ) 365-2369

10% OFF

BBOTOX O “O” SHOT For the latest news visit qchron.com

CHINESE • HUNAN • THAI CUISINE

– IT MELTS AWAY FAT ON CHIN –

L♥V VE

Ample FREE Street Parking!

To use it to deport individuals to me is ridiculous.” The immigrant advocacy group DRUM (formerly called Desis Rising Up and Moving) is opposed to de Blasio’s plan being stopped. “It’s alarming that at a time we have an incoming administration which is openly threatening immigrant communities and making pledges that they will target not only immigrants, but anybody that does anything to stand up for the rights of immigrants, we have legislators from New York City who are looking to collude with those sort of anti-immigrant, antihuman rights efforts,” DRUM Executive Director Fahd Ahmed said The restraining order is not unpopular with everyone, though. “It’s really foolhardy for the mayor to do that because you know, we can have potentially dangerous people in our midst. There could be criminal aliens involved,” Queens Village Republican Club Chairman Phil Orenstein told the Chronicle. “Frankly, the purpose of deporting criminal aliens in this country is for public safety and national security. It has nothing to do with illegal immigration.” Joe Concannon, another Republican club member and former candidate for office, also supports the court’s order. “There are people who actually pay taxes in the city and they need to be serviced,” he said. Q

Visit us in BROOKLYN at

8721 3rd Ave. Bay Ridge

Dining in

With purchase of $30 or more. Coupon expires 12/31/16.

unan cuisine, one of the Eight Great Traditions of Chinese Cuisine, is well known for its deep color, hot spicy flavor, fresh aroma and beautiful presentation. Ingredients for Hunan dishes are fresh. Hunan dishes are very delicious and appetizing. Hunan cuisine with its unique regional characteristics now is popular all over the world.

Fast

FREE Delivery

133-09 Cross Bay Boulevard Ozone Park

718.845.8899 • 718.738.8899

Catering For All Occasions Welcome

GOLW-070852

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 14

C M SQ page 14 Y K

C M SQ page 15 Y K btl. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) Dr Pepper, Sprite or Any Variety of

Coke 2-Liter

ShopRite of 20th Ave.

133-11 20th Ave., College Point • 718-353-3705 • OPEN 6am to 11 pm 7 Days a Week

Chanukah

from our family to yours!

Warm wishes from our family to yours.

SUN

DECEMBER 2016 TUE WED THU

MON

Offers

Pick

)

SALE STARTS

Limit 4

FRI

Pay

for

WITH YOUR

)

M erry Christmas

Happy

192-oz. tot. wt. btls. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) 8-oz. Bottles or 405.6-oz. tot. wt. btls., 16.9-oz. Bottles

only...

SAT

each

Limit 4 Offers

101.4-oz. tot. wt. btls. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) 16.9-oz. Bottles, Dr Pepper, Seagram’s, Sprite or Any Variety of

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

Nestlé Pure Life Water 24-Pack

MUST BUY

Additional or lesser quantities will scan at 1.88 ea.

27 $

Limit 4

96 to 101.4-oz. tot. wt. btls. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) 16 to 16.9-oz. Bottles, Mist Twst, Mtn Dew, Crush or

•Coke Bottles 6-Pk. •Pepsi Bottles 6-Pk.

46-oz. btl., Any Variety, Ocean Spray PACt & Fruit Infusions Drink or 64-oz. btl., Any Variety (Excluding 100% Juice) Grapefruit Drink, Cran-Lemonade or

Ocean Spray Cranberry Drink

199

Limit 4

Per Variety

96-oz. tot. wt. btls. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) 12-oz. Bottles, 8-Pack or 144-oz. tot. wt. cans, 12-oz. Cans, 12-Pack, Mist Twst, Mtn Dew or Any Variety

Pepsi Bottles 8-Pack or Cans 12-Pack

3 $11

Limit 4

for

Offers

MUST BUY

Additional or lesser quantities will scan at 5.09 ea.

96-oz. tot. wt. btl. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) (Where Available) 12-oz. Bottles, A&W, Sunkist 7-Up or Canada Dry Ginger Ale Bottles 8-Pack or 144-oz. tot. wt. cans (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) 12-oz. Cans, A&W, Sunkist, 7-Up or Canada Dry Ginger Ale Cans 12-Pack

Bone-In, Smoked, Honey Glaze Packet Included, Select Brands or

Cook’s Spiral Sliced Ham FINAL COST

2.49 lb. -1.20 lb.

ShopRite Sale Price:

Limit 1-pkg.

Cook’s Butt Half Ham

Limit 1-pkg.

lb.

.99

.89

FINAL COST

1.99 lb. -1.10 lb.

ShopRite Sale Price:

lb.

Center Cut Pork Chops

lb.

Fresh Large Atlantic Salmon Fillets 9.99 lb. -2.00 lb.

ShopRite Sale Price:

Limit 4-lbs.

FINAL COST

lb.

.99

lb.

208

ty, 7 to 20-oz. box, Any Varie Simply Steam (Excludingor Fresh st Harve ) ragus Aspa Butter Sauce, Boil In A Bag

Limit 4

.99

Offers

18.4-oz. pkg., 32-ct.

• Hebrew National Franks in a Blanket

Limit 4

Per Variety

6.4-oz. pkg., Any Variety, Beef Link or

99 1.77

Limit 4 Per Variety

199

1.33

Limit 4

32 to 59-oz. cont., Any Variety, Essentails Probiotic, Farmstand Blended Juice, Trop 50, Grapefruit or Orange

Tropicana Pure Premium Juice

Dannon ee Gr k Yogurt

$10 0 1

5.99 lb. -1.00 lb.

ShopRite Sale Price:

Limit 4-lbs.

COST

lb.

499

12-oz. to 1-lb. box (Excluding Lasagna) Any Variety

Ronzoni Pasta

Limit 4 Per Variety

.69 Limit 4 Per Variety

.99

.41

2 5 $

Limit 4 Per Variety

for

.99 $

ShopRite Bar Cream Cheese

ShopRite Butter 8-oz. box, Oven Ready Lasagna and Manicotti, 12-oz., Healthy Harvest Lasagna and Jumbo Shells or 1-lb., Lasagna

199

8-oz. pkg., Regular or Neufchatel

for

San Giorgio Pasta

.50

Per Variety

Domino Granulated Sugar

Limit 4 Per Variety

•Fresh Tilapia Fillet •Alaska Cod Steaks or Your Choice! Fillets FINAL

Limit 4

99 3.50 .99 er)

Limit 4

4.2 to 5.3-oz. cont., Almond Dream Yogurt or Yoplait Greek 6-oz. cont., Any Variety, 100 Whips, 2% Greek or Any Variety Greek 100, Greek ding Flips) Chobani Greek or Dannon (Exclu or 100 Simply Zero Yogurt or Greek, Mousse or Triple Fit & Light Oikos, Crunch Greek,

Additional or lesser quantities will scan at 3.32 ea.

4-lb. bag (Excluding Canist

12.2-oz. box, Apple Jacks or Original Froot Loops, 12.5-oz., Corn Pops, 15-oz., Frosted Flakes or 11 to 11.4-oz., (Excluding S’Mores) Chocolate or Double Chocolate Krave

Boneless, Flown Direct, Never Frozen, Panko Breaded or

Banquet Brown ‘N Serve Sausage

.26

MUST BUY

Your Choice!

25.7-oz. pkg., 36-ct., in a Blanket

• Nathan’s Beef Cocktail Franks

Green Giant Steamers

Per Variety

Limit 4

$ for

1-lb. pkg., Quarters, Salted or Unsalted (Excluding Organic)

Wild Caught, Previously Frozen, Grade A, Custom Cut

1.21

2 5 for

16-oz. pkg., Part Skim or Whole Milk

.80 1.20

ShopRite Mozzarella Limit 4

Per Variety

199

1.10

Prices, programs and promotions effective Sun., Dec. 18 thru Sat., Dec. 24, 2016 in ShopRite® Store in Gateway Plaza, Brooklyn NY and 20th Avenue, Queens. Sunday sales subject to local blue laws. No sales made to other retailers or wholesalers. We reserve the right to limit purchases of any sale item to four (4) purchases, per item, per household, per day, except where otherwise noted. Minimum or additional purchase requirements noted for any advertised item exclude the purchase of prescription medications, gift cards, gift certificates, postage stamps, money orders, money transfers, lottery tickets, bus tickets, fuel and Metro passes, as well as milk, cigarettes, tobacco products, alcoholic beverages or any other items prohibited by law. Only one manufacturer coupon may be used per item and we reserve the right to limit manufacturer coupon redemptions to four (4) identical coupons per household per day, unless otherwise noted or further restricted by manufacturer. Sales tax is applied to the net retail of any discounted item or any ShopRite® coupon item. We are required by law to charge sales tax on the full price of any item or any portion of an item that is discounted with the use of a manufacturer GLAG-070873 coupon or a manufacturer sponsored (or funded) Price Plus Club® card discount. Not responsible for typographical errors. Artwork does not necessarily represent items on sale; it is for display purposes only. Copyright© Wakefern Food Corp., 2016. All rights reserved.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Farm Raised, Custom Cut, Grade A, Large Salmon Steaks or Boneless, Never Frozen

lb.

Sale Retails: 2.14 to 3.39 ea.

8 to 21-oz. pkg., Any Variety (Excluding Holiday Tin)

Eggland’s Best Large Eggs Family Pack, Pork Loin, Bone-In

Limit 4

Per Variety

Regular Retails: 4.29 to 6.79 ea.

Per Variety

Boneless Chicken Breast

ShopRite Sparkling Cider

Nabisco Ritz & Snack Crackers

9.3-oz. pkg., Peeled Hard Cooked Eggs or dozen, Grade A

Additional or lesser quantities will scan at 5.01 ea.

Donuts & Cookies

Kellogg’s Cereal

2.75 to 3.5-lb. pkg., Fresh, Skinless

Broccoli Crowns

for

MUST BUY

1/2 Price Sale

FINAL COST

2.09 lb. -1.10 lb.

4 $11

25.4-oz. btl. (Plus Dep. or Fee Where Req.) Any Variety, Imported

6 to 13.7-oz. box, Ritz Crackers or 3.5 to 9.5-oz. (Excluding Stoned Wheat Thins) Snack Crackers Any Variety

Cook’s Shank Half Ham

Ready To Dip or Cook

Offers

lb.

Ham & Water Product, Reduced Sodium, Select Brands or

Limit 1-pkg.

Limit 4

ShopRite Sale Price:

Ham & Water Product, Reduced Sodium, Select Brands or

Canada Dry Bottles 8-Pack or Cans 12-Pack

Additional or lesser quantities will scan at 5.19 ea.

for

Offers

Discount will be applied when you buy in increments of 5 only. Less or additional items will scan at $4.09 each.

MUST BUY

Page 15 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

ShopRite of Gateway Center

590 Gateway Drive, Gateway North Shopping Center at Erskine Street • 718-647-2423

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 16

C M SQ page 16 Y K

Mixed feelings on the MTA fare hike Riders concerned or indifferent to yet another jump in fares and tolls by Nicholas Theodorou Chronicle Contributor

Like it or not, Metropolitan Transit Authority fares and tolls will be going up in some form or another in March, something people have become accustomed to over the past few years. Michael Higgins has been riding trains and buses for the last five decades. “I don’t agree to pay more for anything; that’s just a sign of the times,” Higgins said last Friday. One plan keeps the base fare at $2.75 for bus and subway rides but would lower the bonus for advance purchases while a second plan would raise the base fare to $3 and reduce the bonus. In each case the dollar threshold before the bonus kicks in is increased. Cash tolls at all MTA bridges and tunnels in Queens will go up 50 cents no matter which plan is adopted. Some riders feel enough is enough. The fare has been $2.75 since March 2015. Before that it had been $2.50 since March 2013. Kasandra Pascali, 31, is not thrilled about an increase but feels like she doesn’t have a choice. “I just feel like over the years, the prices going up is just making it harder for us,” she said as she refilled her card at the Woodhaven

MTA riders may soon face fare hikes under proposed increases that would go into effect in March. One would leave the base fare at $2.75 and reduce card bonuses, while the other would PHOTO BY NICHOLAS THEODOROU raise the base fare to $3 and increase the bonuses. Boulevard subway station. “I just feel like it’s too much already,” she said. Pascali doesn’t expect the quality of service to increase with the additional cost. “On the weekend, I feel like there’s not enough, and I feel like it could be more and it’s not,” she added. Others aren’t as concerned. Zema Heldic

said she thinks it’s mentally easier to know that you are paying $3 for a fare. Heldic, 33, is optimistic that the fare hike will lead to improvements and thinks it is not too much to ask to pay a quarter more. “Well you can’t ride for free, you know what I mean,” she said. Juan Fuentes was visiting from California and was using the MTA for the first

time in a while. “Was it $1.50 or something, one twentyfive?” he recalled of the last time he used the MTA. Fuentes was surprised to hear that the fare could now be going up to $3 for a single ride. “Wow!” he said. Fuentes, 24, said mass transit isn’t as good in California, where the bus fare is $2, as it is here in New York. “In California, you need a car,” he said. “Over there all they have is buses and you get a bus like every one hour, nothing like this. It’s way more efficient here.” Deandra Campbell, 20, echoed Pascali’s claim that there isn’t enough service on weekends. “Sometimes it takes too long to get the train on weekends,” she said. “Like I don’t even want to leave my house,” she said alongside her boyfriend from South Carolina. While in South Carolina, Alain Garraud drives most places since his neighborhood lacks solid public transportation. “I use my car to go to work. There’s barely any buses or trains,” he said. Some feel that although they will be paying more service will not improve that much. “I mean, its been going up over the years and it’s still the same thing I feel like,” Pascali Q said of MTA service.

Weapons, drug cache SOP man murdered found in SOP: NYPD at home over debt: DA

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Officers from the 106th Precinct who were executing a search warrant at a South Ozone Park home discovered a weapons and drug cache, police announced last Thursday. The cops found the items at 114-31 123 St. just after 6 a.m. on Dec. 8 and arrested one woman and two men at the residence. The following items were recovered: • one Raven semiautomatic .25-caliber handgun; • 11 rounds of .25-caliber ammunition;

• three rifle-style BB guns; • one machete; • two tiger hook swords; and • marijuana and pills. Kholwatie Argune, 48, Jason Nero, 21, and Hector Rentas, 20, were arrested at the scene and each charged with two counts of criminal possession of a weapon, one count of criminal possession of a controlled substance and one count of unlawful possession Q of marijuana.

These weapons were discovered in a South Ozone Park home.

PHOTO COURTESY NYPD

Two South Jamaica men are charged in the shooting death of a South Ozone Park man who owed one of the alleged perpetrators money, according to cops and District Attorney Richard Brown. Jonathan Chan, 21, is charged with one count each of second-degree murder and first-degree burglary after he allegedly shot 21-year-old Eric Assanah as he slept beside his girlfriend in their South Ozone Park home on Sunday. One of his alleged accomplices, Shamar Daly, 21, faces first-degree murder and burglary charges, according to cops. If convicted, Chan faces 25 years to life in prison, according to the district attorney. “This is another senseless act of gun violence. The defendant allegedly unlawfully entered the victim’s residence with three other unapprehended individuals, crept into the first-floor bedroom and shot and killed the 21-year-old man,” Brown said in a prepared statement announcing the charge. “The victim’s girlfriend awoke to see her companion bleeding to death as the four men fled the scene. This was truly a nightmare come true for this young woman.” According to Brown, Chan threatened to kill Assanah earlier in the day if he didn’t receive a “large sum of cash.”

Eric Assanah

FACEBOOK PHOTO

Brown alleges that Chan and Daly, along with two other unapprehended individuals, broke into the victim’s 135th Place home just after noon. Chan then allegedly shot Assanah in the torso. Emergency officials declared him dead at the scene. The four fled the premises, but Chan was arrested shortly after. Daly was caught on Tuesday. Police are still looking for the other two individuals. Messages of condolences poured into Q Assanah’s Facebook page.

C M SQ page 17 Y K

Now Doing Motorcycle Inspections!

A Complete Diagnostic & Repair Facility For All Foreign & Domestic Cars and Light & Medium Duty Trucks

90-03 LIBERTY AVE., OZONE PARK New York State Emission Inspection Station

FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY

State-of-the-Art USI Italia Spray Booth

• • • • • •

WE HANDLE ALL INSURANCE CLAIMS!

13-Point Check

We are a PPG Certified Collision Repair Center

ALL COLLISION REPAIRS are pre-measured & printed out, then repaired to factory specifications. Then they are remeasured again to give you a perfect printout on our state-of-the-art CAR-O-LINER computerized frame machine.

UNLIMITED LIFETIME GUARANTEE! After 6 pm for 24-HOUR TOWING SERVICE Call

646-533-1772

Only

Save $10

Reg. $33.95

Winter Special! Winter Special!

RADIATOR FLUSH & FILL

Reg. Price $74.95

WHEEL ALIGNMENT

FREE Tire Rotation

WE GUARANTEE A PERFECT ALIGNMENT EVERY TIME

OFF

You Pay Only

COMPUTERIZED SPEED BALANCE

Most Cars

5495 $

Save GAS

Most Cars

Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

Get Your Emissions System Diagnosed And…

BRAKE SPECIAL Front or Rear Includes: • Resurface Rotors or Drums • Brake Pads or Shoes • Full Brake Inspection

Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

• Metallic Pads or Shoes $25 Extra • Rear-Disc Brake Additional

Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

FREE ESTIMATES

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Rotate & Balance Four Tires

COMPUTERIZED DIAGNOSTIC SPECIAL Code Reading with Related Repairs

PHOTO INSPECTIONS

Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

INSURANCE

646-533-1764

HUNTER COMPUTERIZED

Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

• Engine Light Remaining On? • Rough Starts? • Stalling? • Surging? • Misfiring?

Rear-Wheel Adjustment Extra

Includes: • Up to 2 Gallons Antifreeze • Check Hoses • Check Belts • Check Thermostat • Pressure Test Radiator • Mobil or Peak Antifreeze

OPEN Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am - 6 pm Sat. 7:30 am - 3:00 pm

Collision Work & Painting Done to Factory Specifications Vandalism Repair: Glass, Locks, Steering Columns, Etc. Laser Light Chassis & Unibody Frame Straightening State-of-the-Art European Spray & Bake Booth All Insurance Claims Handled by Licensed Appraisers Computerized Color Matching

Includes: • Up to 5 Qts. Mobil Oil 5W30 or 10W30 or 10W40 • Valvoline Oil Filter • Check Brakes • Check Hoses • Check Thermostat • Check Lights • Check All Fluids • Check Belts • Check Wiper Blades • Check Tire Pressure • Check Transmission & Fluid • Check Charging System & Battery • Check Front End • Check Air & Filter 13-Point Check Done Upon Request Only Most cars. Can be combined with other offers. With coupon. Expires 01/14/17

FREE

718-322-1212

90-09 LIBERTY AVE., OZONE PARK • 718-322-9292

WE NOW DO AUTO GLASS!

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL SPECIAL

(Corner of 90th Street)

• Expert Air Conditioning • Rebuilt Engines & Transmissions

Page 17 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

AUTO TECH INC.

SCHOOL SPOTLIGHT

Family Seminars Mrs. Delmar, right, hosted a “Help Your Children Learn to Love Reading” workshop for the students’ families which was greatly attended and appreciated. Ms. Romano hosted a “Learn How to Use Class DOJO” workshop for families as it is important to the success of their children to have open communication with the staff. Parents are thrilled to be able to get “up to the minute” information on their child’s progress. Ms. Cheryl Hines from Cornell University joined in to host a “Saving Energy” workshop. She shared with families how they can save money by caulking their windows, using draft socks for their doors, unplugging appliances which are not in use and using various other items to maintain the heat in their homes. She also shared information to help them learn which items use more electricity

generationOn Kids Care Club visits local senior center The generationOn Kids Care Club at PS 97Q brought cheer and joy to a local senior center, with homemade holiday crafts, which made the seniors smile! They shared 22 pairs of gloves and hats with them in support of the club’s cold weather drive. The club looks forward to making another visit in the spring for its spring dance. The club’s next project is a Postcard Pick Me Up where they will be sending postcards with inspirational words to those in nursing homes and hospitals in Vermont.

than others and how to make the wisest choice to heat the home and save money. All in attendance received an 11-Hour Earth Friendly Lighting light bulb provided by Cornell University. Ms. Lupita, Empire Blue Cross / Blue Shield Health Plus, facilitated a Dealing with Depression workshop for families. This is a most difficult time of year for many and it is sometimes difficult getting through without being sad. Ms. Lupita shared some things to do to help not be upset or depressed over this holiday season. The school greatly appreciates its relationship with Ms. Lupita and look forward to her visit in January when the topic she addresses will be “Childhood Obesity.”

TO SEE THESE STORIES ONLINE GO TO QCHRON.COM/SCHOOLNEWS.

ATTENTION PUBLIC AND PRIVATE ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS SCHOOLS:

For the latest news visit qchron.com

If you would like to be featured on a School Spotlight page, call Lisa LiCausi, Education Coordinator, at (718) 205-8000, EXT. 110.

GIFT GIVING. SIMPLIFIED.

TOP 1

VALID ONLY IN U.S.

TOP

Mall VISA Gift Cards available for purchase at Queens Center or online at www.shopqueenscenter.com

VALID ONLY IN U.S.

The Visa ® Gift Card is issued by Sunrise Banks, N.A., St. Paul, MN 55103, pursuant to a license from Visa, U.S.A. Inc. SunriseBanks, N.A., Member FDIC. Cards may be used only at merchants in the U.S. and the District of Columbia wherever Visa debit cards are accepted. See Cardholder Agreement for details, terms, conditions, and (if applicable) fees.

QUCM-070646

PS 97Q •

PHOTOS COURTESY PS97Q

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 18

C M SQ page 18 Y K

C M SQ page 19 Y K

TA K I N G C A R E O F “BIDness”

A Holiday Wonderland of Savings Shop Woodhaven’s Jamaica Ave.

“Your Everything Avenue!” - Now More Than Ever Shop Locally - Now 2-Hour Parking For Your Shopping Convenience!

Have your photo taken with

SANTA CLAUS! December 17th at Forest Parkway Plaza 1:00 to 4:00 pm

- 100th Street to Dexter Court on Woodhaven’s Jamaica Ave.

• Clean • Safe • Extra Security • Specialized “Small Town” Shopping CLOTHING - ATHLETIC

MARKETS

RESTAURANTS

James F. Rooney, Esq ....................................... 86-07 Marianne Gonzales Esq .................................... 95-07

Sports Lane.........................................................85-15

C-Town ............................................................... 74-39 Compare ..............................................................77-20 Sam’s Deli .......................................................... 80-01 Sam’s Grill .......................................................... 80-08 87th Street Deli .................................................. 87-08 88 Deli and Grill ................................................. 88-01 Fish Store ........................................................... 84-30 Gratia Market ..................................................... 84-31 Scaturro’s ........................................................... 84-39 85th Deli ............................................................. 85-01 Jamaica Gourmet Deli ...................................... 89-02 Fine Fare............................................................. 90-03 Bravo Supermarket ........................................... 90-28 Minimarket ..........................................................95-13 C-Town Bravo .................................................... 98-02

SHOES

May May Kitchen (Chinese Food) .....................74-22 Fried Chicken Restaurant ................................. 74-38 Bonao Chimi .......................................................76-14 King Wok Chinese Food ................................... 79-09 Shanghai Kitchen ...............................................80-11 Subway ............................................................... 80-28 Francy Restaurant Inc. ..................................... 80-29 Francy Restaurant Inc. ......................................92-12 Frank’s ................................................................ 80-29 Fresco Tortillas-China House ...........................84-17 El Puerto Mexicano ........................................... 84-28 U-Me Sushi ........................................................ 85-03 Double Happy Chinese ......................................85-18 The New Pops .................................................... 85-22 Thai Restaurant ................................................. 86-05 Kentucky Fried Chicken..................................... 87-17 Delicias Restaurant & Bar ......................................88-09 Chinese No-1 Restaurant ..................................88-17 Tropical Restaurant............................................88-18 Ho Wan Take-Out .............................................. 88-22 McDonald’s ........................................................ 91-01 Avenue Diner (Formerly Forest View Restaurant) .................... 91-06 Pitkins Fish & Chicken ...................................... 92-02 Ninja Japan Teriyaki & Sushi ............................ 92-06 Carnival House (Chinese) ................................. 92-09 PRIMA PIZZA ......................................................92-15 Dunkin’ Donuts ...................................................84-13 Dunkin’ Donuts ...................................................92-17 Popeye’s Chicken .............................................. 92-20 Café Sugar & Spice ........................................... 93-27 Hetmans Polish Deli ...........................................94-14 Manor German Deli ............................................94-12 Independence Café ............................................94-16 Dumpling House .................................................95-12 Paneorama Bakery & Pastry Shop .................. 95-20 Magic Chef .......................................................... 97-17 El Anzualo .......................................................... 98-01

KMC Othopedic Shoes ..................................... 86-20 Payless Shoe Store ........................................... 89-22

UPHOLSTERY

TATOO PARLORS

Polo’s Upholstery .............................................. 77-09 Imperial Upholstering ....................................... 86-08

Liberating Art Ink ............................................... 90-22 Beaver Tattoo..................................................... 94-02

VARIETY

AWARDS Capo’s Awards ....................................... 79-13

Trama’s Auto School .......................................... 87-15

HOBBY STORE BANKS Queens County Savings Bank ......................... 80-35 Queens County Savings Bank ......................... 93-22 Chase Bank ......................................................84-01A Community Federal Savings Bank .................. 89-07

Planet Hobbywood.............................................86-11

LADIES’ APPAREL Wood Story ........................................................ 80-33 Rainbow Shop ....................................................85-12 Baby Blue Ladies................................................ 91-17

BAKERIES Pan Ugo Bakery ................................................. 84-42 La Gitana Bakery ................................................90-12 Capy Bakery........................................................92-11 Paneorama Bakery & Pastry Shop .................. 95-20

BEAUTY SUPPLY Sumi Eyebrows ...................................................79-17 Mehak Beauty Salon .......................................... 87-12 Pretty Beauty Supply ......................................... 87-16 Coco Nail and Spa..............................................87-24 I Stars Beauty Supply ....................................... 91-05

BICYCLE SHOP

MEN’S Valerie’s Men & Women’s...................................80-17 R.S. Army/Navy .................................................. 91-13

MEDICAL Yellowstone Physical Therapy and Medical Office .............................................88-11

MULTISERVICES Woodhaven Multiservices .................................87-09

CONFECTIONERY Schmidt’s Candy ................................................94-15

Bike Lane.............................................................85-13

FLORISTS BUTCHER - MARKET La Palma Meat Market ...................................... 84-25

Park Place Florist ...............................................88-16 Lands Flowers ................................................... 92-03

CATERING HALL

FOOT CARE

Woodhaven Manor ............................................ 96-01

Podiatry ...............................................................86-12 Podiatrist Doctor ................................................87-24 Woodhaven Footcare .........................................95-11

CELLULAR & PHONE RELATED STORES Orange Technology ............................................75-12 Boost Mobile.......................................................80-10 Cricket Wireless ................................................ 80-27 Universal Multi-Services ...................................84-11 Zee Wireless Corner.......................................... 85-07 T-Mobile ............................................................. 90-07 Sprint PCS.......................................................... 90-24 CPR Wireless ..................................................... 93-29 Cellular Explosion ............................................. 95-07

CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS WBID/Greater Woodhaven Development Corp. .........................................84-01B Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association ...........................................84-20B

CLEANERS Wash & Dry Round the Clock Laundromat........................................................ 78-07 H.M.Y. Laundry ...................................................84-14 Spirare French Cleaners .................................84-20A Florence Cleaners ............................................. 84-29

FURNITURE J&L Furniture ......................................................78-19 The Home Furnishing Center ........................... 80-38

ICE CREAM Baskin Robbins ..................................................84-13 Go Natural Yogurt...............................................89-18 Baskin Robbins ..................................................92-17

INVESTIGATIVE SERVICES

HEALTH Health Store Vitamins ....................................... 84-09

INSURANCE State Farm Insurance........................................ 79-22 Allstate.................................................................84-15 Ohlert Ruggiere .................................................89-11

JEWELRY Prime................................................................... 91-04

PARTY STORE Paola’s Party Land ................................89-06 PHARMACIES Health Max ......................................................... 80-09 Duane Reade ..................................................... 80-30 Queens Care Pharmacy .................................... 84-46 Rite Aid ................................................................89-10 Atlas Pharmacy...................................................92-18 Medex Pharmacy............................................... 96-02

PRINTING

Melanie’s Gift Shop ............................................79-17 Gift Shop .............................................................79-16 99¢ Store .............................................................80-16 DD II .....................................................................80-19 GEM .................................................................... 84-33 Variety Store… ................................................... 85-08 Hallmark Cards .................................................. 86-03 Kew Gifts ............................................................ 89-21 Discount Express .............................................. 91-04 Priceless ..............................................................91-07 $5 And Up-Deals ............................................... 96-01

Beat the Clock .................................................... 97-13

AND MANY MORE!

LaBella Investigations ..................................... 84-01

PIZZERIAS OPTICAL Evan David Optician .......................................... 90-08 Price Optical ...................................................... 93-01

LIQUOR STORES Dexter Wines & Spirits .......................................75-13 Rich Haven Liquors ...........................................85-11 Liquor Store ....................................................... 89-21 Deegan’s Wine & Liquors ..................................95-19

Little Cesars ........................................................74-28 Lane Pizzeria ......................................................75-19 Domino’s Pizza .................................................. 78-02 A Taste of Italy ................................................... 84-07 Sal’s Pizzeria ...................................................... 85-07 DeAleo’s Pizzeria ................................................90-10 Joe’s Pizza and Pasta ....................................... 95-08

LET WOODHAVEN’S STORE KEEPERS PERSONALLY ASSIST YOU! Credit Cards Accepted at most Woodhaven Stores

718-805-0760 • 718-805-0202

Honorable William de Blasio, Mayor, City of New York

25 BLOCKS OF “SMALL TOWN” SHOPPING

For the latest news visit qchron.com

ATTORNEYS

DRIVING SCHOOL

Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

B.I.D.

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 20

C M SQ page 20 Y K

I’ll take boro history for $1,000, Alex Queens historians duke it out at Jeopardy night at Neir’s Tavern by Mark Lord Chronicle Contributor

Three local historians put their reputations on the line as contestants in an evening of fun and games on Tuesday in the f irst ever “Queens Jeopardy! ” competition. Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven, which opened its doors in 1829 and is considered the oldest continuously operating bar in New York City, proved the ideal setting, its walls lined with photographs and documents that would be any history buff’s delight. Based on the long-running television quiz show, the format was familiar to everyone who crowded into the cozy dining area at the rear of the neighborhood staple: players were given answers to topics arranged by category and expected to supply appropriate questions. Prior to taking their places, Jason Antos, author of multiple books about the borough, including looks at Flushing, Jackson Heights and Shea Stadium; Carl Ballenas, president of the Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery, an organization dedicated to promoting its rich history; and Kevin Walsh, webmaster behind the website “Forgotten New York,” reflected o n t h e i r c h a n c e s of w i n n i n g t h e competition.

Historians Jason Antos, left, Carl Ballenas and Kevin Walsh duked it out at “Queens Jeopardy!” PHOTO BY MARK LORD at Neir’s Tavern in Woodhaven. “I think it’s going to be fun and we’ll see what happens. I have a lot of respect for the other two gentlemen,” Antos said.

Ballenas planned “to have a good time,” but added, “Don’t bet on me!” Seemingly most confident was Walsh,

who had once tried out for the actual “Jeopardy!” show, though he never made it on the air. He said he was feeling relaxed and was hopeful of a victory Tuesday night. The game got underway, with Edward Wendell, executive director of the Woodhaven Cultural and Historical Society, filling Alex Trebek’s shoes as host, the players’ not-always-cooperative buzzers close at hand. T he elect ron ic board r eve a le d c at egor ie s i nclud i ng “ Big St reets” (wh ich they had to place), “Queens Voices” (centered around famous local musical artists) and “Name That Face” (which had to be identified). A nt os d r ew f i r st blo o d w it h h is response to the answer, “Main Street,” correctly questioning, “What is Flushing? ” Most of the other points (which replaced the monetary figures on the TV version), rest assured, were harder to come by. Among the faces up for identification were act ress Fran Drescher of “The Nanny” fame, hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons, and Gwen Ifill, the journalist who passed away last month, all of whom were born in the borough. The players’ knowledge was also tested on such far-reaching topics as the Queens continued on page 23

A new chapter at the Queens Library Boro Board hears Dennis Walcott’s take on the future of the system by Christopher Barca

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

Ask Borough President Melinda Katz about the Queens Library system and she’ll tell you that, under new President and CEO Dennis Walcott, the entity has transformed itself over the last several months. Gone is the shadow of corruption that hung over disgraced former President Thomas Galante. Replacing it has been confident leadership and a bright future. “I could not allow Dennis Walcott to come here to the Borough Board without making a comment on how the library has been moving forward, I believe, in such a positive way,” Katz said at Monday’s Borough Board meeting. “Everything never is perfect, but this library system under Dennis and the new Board of Trustees has been moving and has been responsive in our communities.” In his brief but thorough presentation to the Borough Board in Kew Gardens, Walcott ran through a number of capital projects near completion while also discussing the library system’s new five-year strategic plan, currently in a brainstorming phase. After highlighting last Tuesday’s groundbreaking on the $8.9 million, 4,500-square-foot expansion of the East Elmhurst branch, Walcott touted next Tuesday’s ribbon cutting on the long-awaited, oft-delayed $32.4 million Elmhurst library. “It will be a grand ribbon cutting on 32,000 square feet of library that will probably be, within a year, the largest customer library in the country,” Walcott said. “We expect many great things from this library. To my knowledge, this will be the biggest opening in years.”

Another frustrating project, the often-stalled renovation and expansion of the Kew Gardens Hills branch, should be completed in a few months’ time. “The project, which has been stalled for a variety of reasons, is now moving along,” he said. “We’re looking at roughly a June opening.” Walcott also said he expects the new $41.5 million, 20,000-square-foot Hunters Point facility being constructed at 47-40 Center Blvd. to open to the public in “late summer or early fall.” In terms of creating a five-year strategic plan — as it relates to programs like coding and new capital projects — Walcott said more than 1,000 library staffers and community stakeholders recently met at York College for a brainstorming session. The sheer volume of people in attendance, he said, struck a chord. “It was a powerful thing to see all 1,300 or 1,400 people in one room,” he said. “It was a powerful statement about the seriousness of what we want to do as far as getting maximum input from various stakeholders.” The stakes have never been higher for the system, as well, with Walcott noting the “amazing numbers” of people who rely on library services on a yearly basis. “More than 1 million people attended programs this past fiscal year at Queens libraries,” he said. “We had over 11 million visits at our libraries this past year, and we circulated more than 13 million items at our libraries.” To garner feedback from borough leaders and everyday residents alike, Walcott said a survey —available in 10 languages — will soon be distributed to the Borough Board and placed on the library’s website for anyone to take.

Seated next to Councilman Barry Grodenchick, right, Queens Library President and CEO Dennis Walcott discusses the system’s ongoing capital projects and future plans at a meeting with the PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER BARCA Borough Board on Monday night. Following in the next few weeks and months will be public forums and open houses, before the strategic plan is finalized and published in June. “It is our belief that the library shouldn’t just be within the walls of our libraries. It should extend beyond the walls,” Walcott said. “How do we expand our footprint to make sure that people receive quality services from Queens Library? “We’ve been doing a lot of things,” he added, “but we Q want to do more.”

C M SQ page 21 Y K Page 21 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER • WITH THIS COUPON • OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/16

For the latest news visit qchron.com

NEWT-070623

LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER • WITH THIS COUPON • OFFER EXPIRES 12/31/16

WOODHAVEN EVELOPMENTS Christmas excitement in Woodhaven by Maria A. Thomson Executive Director GWDC

Here we are in December and baby it’s getting cold outside but don’t let that stop you from shopping on Jamaica Avenue. Although it’s a little cold, the weather is conducive to Jamaica Avenue’s “walkability.” So everyone is out walking and shopping and enjoying December for now without boots, heavy coats and wool hats. I hope that it lasts so that all your Christmas or Hanukkah shopping is done right here with Woodhaven’s caring storeowners and businessowners, all members of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District from Dexter Court to 100th Street. There is only one BID in southwest Queens within Kew Gardens, Ozone Park and Richmond Hill and that is the Woodhaven BID. This is because our stores and businesses contribute their funds to give us all of the activities that make Woodhaven unique and special. So please shop on the avenue, stroll it in this beautiful, brisk weather and shop, shop, shop. Also, stop by one of our many restaurants and have a nice lunch to keep you going. Look for our schoolchildren’s homemade decorations from St. Thomas Catholic Academy; PS 97, the Forest Park School; PS 60,

the Woodhaven School; and PS 66, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis School on the small trees and bushes in the Forest Parkway Plaza area and at Sal’s Pizzeria and the Avenue Diner. At this time of the year with our Christmas trees, and Hanukkah lights, there is a feeling of warmth and good feeling. Especially this year when Hanukkah begins on Christmas Eve into Christmas Day. All the little children are wide-eyed and happy as they think of Santa Claus and all the toys. Let us hope that our children will grow safely and may the happy feelings be with them always. If you are planning on getting a pet as a gift for Christmas I encourage you to get a shelter pet from Bobbi and the Strays at 80-36 Cooper Ave. in The Shops at Atlas Park mall in Glendale. You can also call (718) 326-6070 for more information and save an animal’s life for Christmas. They are open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Monday to Saturday and 12 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Fly the American flag proudly above all others. May God bless our armed forces, may God bless our leaders, may God bless our disabled veterans, may God bless our NYPD and police officers everywhere and may God Q bless America.

MYRTLE AVENUE SAVINGS EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK! Shop the Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District (Myrtle Avenue & adjacent side streets from Wyckoff Avenue to Fresh Pond Road)

Find Something for Everyone at our

Holiday Sale For the latest news visit qchron.com

NOW thru DECEMBER 24th Check Individual Stores For Hours and Look For The Myrtle Avenue

’Tis the season for estate planning by Alexander Bader, Esq., Senior Associate Attorney Brady & Marshak, LLP For most of us there is no “convenient time” to discuss estate planning. Yet with the holiday season on the horizon there may be no better time to address the importance of having a proper estate plan in place. Many of us spend time more time with our immediate and extended family this time of year and we often are less burdened with work responsibilities. Many of you may be thinking, “Must we really discuss serious and potentially uncomfortable topics at such a joyous time of year?” — and in truth, introducing topics like money, health, taxes, etc., to the conversation at family functions may not be the easiest path to take. Nevertheless, should you decide to “take the bull by the horns” in this regard, and have the conversation while all or most family members are present to work toward having you and your loved ones on the same page, the long termbenefits are substantial. To assist you in starting such a conversation, you may wish to frame the important estate planning issues in such a way that will highlight the positives to taking action. For example: • For the dad who does not ever want to give up the TV remote control, advise him that he can also control who will make decisions on his behalf for medical and financial purposes. It is essential for all adults to have a properly executed health care proxy and power of attorney with statutory gifts rider drafted by an attorney to appoint someone to “stand in the shoes” of the individual as a decision maker if he or she is unable to act themselves. Without such documents in place

no one has the tools to immediately help you if afflicted with a health crisis. • For the mom who is concerned the government will end up with the family’s hard-earned money and property, advise her that she can take steps to protect the value of her assets and make certain they are distributed exactly as she wishes at the time of her passing. A proper consultation with an attorney practicing in the fields of elder law and estate planning is the first step to achieving such goals. • For the grandparent who is too proud to ask for assistance with his or her day-to-day activities but is in need of such help, advise him or her that such help is readily available. Many people are unaware of the substantial assistance that the Medicaid program in the state of New York affords those who qualify, particularly under the umbrella of providing help in the home. Should a loved one need such assistance, an elder law attorney can help navigate and advise regarding your family member’s unique circumstances. The contents of this article are in no way intended to be legal advice, are provided for educational and informational purposes only and are directed only to those domiciled in the state of New York. Please feel free to call our office if you feel we can be of service to you in any manner. Our attorneys can be reached at Brady & Marshak, LLP, Attorneys at Law, and (718) 7388500. This article may be considered an Q attorney advertisement.

— Attorney Advertisement —

Holiday Savings Guide

SERVING THE C OMMUNITY FOR MORE THAN 20 YEARS! 97-49 WOODHAVEN BLVD. OZONE PARK

In Participating Stores For

MONEY SAVING COUPONS,

718-529-9700

Store Listings and 2017 Events

NY State Dept. of State Lic. #12000295695

Servicing All Your Security Needs Residential/Commercial

Strolling on Myrtle Avenue In The BID:

OPERA ON TAP CAROLERS Saturday, December 17th, 2016

Enjoy our Holiday Lights & Music Enjoy Live Entertainment While You Shop In The BID!

Visit the Ridgewood website: www.ridgewood-ny.com Follow us on Twitter

SPOTLIGHT ON ELDER LAW

BURGLARY • FIRE • INTERCOM • SURVEILLANCE CENTRAL STATION MONITORING Like Us On Facebook

“Custom Designed Security Systems To Fit Any Budget” CAMERA SURVEILLANCE SYSTEMS WITH DIGITAL RECORDING AND REMOTE VIEWING AVAILABLE

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 22

C M SQ page 22 Y K

C M SQ page 23 Y K

by Christopher Barca Associate Editor

The first acts of the Forest Hills Tennis Stadium’s 2017 concert series have been announced, and both should bring excited crowds to the neighborhood. The venue’s promoters announced last Friday that iconic rock band Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers will play a pair of 6:30 p.m. shows on Wednesday, July 26 and Thursday, July 27. And on Monday, they revealed a 7 p.m. concert on Saturday, June 17 by Icelandic

First shows announced for ’17 series experimental rock band Sigur Ros, who are known almost as much for their award-winning in-show lighting displays as they are for their music. The former act will tour next spring and summer to celebrate the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers’ 40th anniversary, with the two Forest Hills dates serving as the final shows of the North American leg of their tour. Tickets for Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers — whose major hits include “Refugee”

and “Mary Jane’s Last Dance” — go on sale at 10 a.m. on Jan. 14 at ForestHillsStadium. com, with prices ranging from $55 to $165. The June 17 show will also be the final gig of Sigur Ros’ North American tour. Tickets, which run from $30 to $100, can be bought at the stadium’s website starting Friday at 10 a.m. The former home of the US Open until 1978, the venue hosted massive musical acts like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones in its heyday.

But the stadium was essentially abandoned in the mid-1990s, with plans to raze it and turn it into condominiums being floated in recent years. In 2013, its transformation back into a music venue began with a concert by Grammy Award-winning folk rock band Mumford & Sons. And in the three years since, global hits like Bob Dylan, Van Morrison, Drake, Lil Wayne, Carlos Santana, Dolly Parton and Forest Hills native Paul Simon have all performed shows at the recently renovated site. Q

Jeopardy night

SPECIALIZING IN

CARDIOLOGY

JOSEPH L. MUSSO, M.D., F.A.C.C. • • • • • • • •

NUCLEAR STRESS TESTING STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY VASCULAR SONOGRAPHY ARRHYTHMIA SCREENING PACEMAKER & DEFIBRILLATOR MANAGEMENT CARDIOLOGY CONSULTATIONS ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY CONSULTATIONS

Hospital Affiliations: • • • •

NORTH SHORE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL AT MANHASSET LONG ISLAND JEWISH HOSPITAL ST. FRANCIS HOSPITAL WINTHROP UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL

94-07 156th Ave., Suite 200, Howard Beach HANDICAPPED ACCESSIBLE WITH ELEVATOR ACCESS

718-323-3773 www.compcardiopc.com MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED

DAY, EVENING AND SATURDAY APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE

RECENTLY EXPANDED STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITY NOW OFFERING ON PREMISES:

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 20 Borough president who ended his life in 1986, Donald Manes, and the singer who left his heart out west but was born and raised in Astoria, Tony Bennett. After the first round, Walsh held a commanding lead, with 2,000 points, followed by Ballenas, with 1,000. Antos was in the hole, at -900. But things have a way of turning around pretty quickly in the second round, or Double Jeopardy, as they would on this occasion. Going into the Final Jeopardy question, in which the contestants were allowed to wager up to their entire number of points, Antos held a slight lead with 5,300 points over Walsh, who had 5,000. Ballenas was within striking distance at 3,200. The category was the 1964 World’s Fai r. T he answer: I n 1965, th is Br oa dway pr o d uc e r d e cl i ne d a request to take over the World’s Fair, stating, “I’d rather be hit by a baseball bat.” None of the three could come up with the correct question, “Who was Billy Rose?” Antos, who bet most conservatively, ended up the winner, taking home a bag of Christmas candy as well as a handmade scarf for his efforts. All three contestants also received baseball-style caps, presented by Natalie Milbrodt, president of the Queens Memor y Project, a collaboration between Queens College and the Queens Library dedicated to the oral preservation of the histories of the borough’s residents. Loycent Gordon, owner of Neir’s for the past seven years, was happy to have the three historians on hand for the event, saying each had previously appeared at the establishment for various presentations. “It was only right to get them together for a friendly competition,” Gordon said. Wendell was similarly pleased with the evening, saying, “Anything we can do to get people interested in Q the borough is a plus.”

Page 23 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Tom Petty, Sigur Ros to play FoHi Stadium

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 24

C M SQ page 24 Y K

Nearing the end of the holiday season There’s still plenty of time to come down to donate to our toy drive by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

Since last week, we’ve seen more of you come down to our Rego Park office and drop off toys by the sleighful for the needy boys and girls of Queens — and we can’t thank you enough for it. But there’s still time for even more of you to come visit. With only 10 days left before children everywhere wake up on Christmas morning, the Queens Chronicle is getting ready to deliver some early presents to those in homeless shelters around the borough. As we get closer to that magical day, our office is beginning to look more like Santa’s workshop than a news operation. We’re also hearing that the politicians who have graciously volunteered their office as drop-off points are seeing many gifts that will surely put a smile on the faces of young children next week. But as the old saying goes, the more the merrier. We’d like as many of you as possible to look into your hearts and help spread some holiday cheer this year. We will be accepting gifts until next Thursday, Dec. 22. Some of our mail got mixed up with Kris Kringle’s this week and we received some of their Christmas wish lists.

Many of them are asking for Barbie and Baby Alive dolls, dollhouses, clothes, makeup kits, diaries, Yu-Gi-Oh trading cards and more. They’ve all been such good boys and girls, helping their families with chores and doing their homework. Some parents have written in asking for necessities such as diapers and wipes. They’re also requesting play mats for infants, plush toys, Fisher Price learning toys, learning blocks and books and more. New items of clothing, for infants up to children aged 17, will also be accepted. We cannot accept any used items of clothing. We also ca n not accept bikes, scooters, Heelys, skateboards, hoverboards, drones or violent toys. The gifts will go to children in four city homeless shelters: the Kings Inn Family Center in East Elmhurst, the Boulevard Family Residence in Elmhurst, the Metro Family Residence in East Elmhurst and the Saratoga Family Inn in Springfield Gardens, as well as Dove House, an emergency shelter for battered women or men and their children in eastern Queens. Gifts can be dropped off at the Chronicle

office, at 62-33 Woodhaven Blvd. in Rego Park, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you can’t deliver gifts during regular office hours, you can leave them at Barosa Brick Oven Pizza, next door at 62-37. A number of elected officials also let their offices be used as drop-off points. They are: • Councilman Daniel Dromm, at 37-32 75 St., 1st floor, in Jackson Heights; • Councilman Jim my Van Bramer, at 47-01 Queens Blvd. in Sunnyside; • Councilman Donovan Richards, at 234-26A Merrick Blvd. in Laurelton; • Assemblyman Ed Braunstein (who collects for other drives as well as ours), at 213-33 39 Ave., suite 238, in Bayside; • state Sen. Leroy Comrie, at 113-43 Farmers Blvd. in St. Albans; • Assemblyman Mike Miller, at 83-91 Woodhaven Blvd. in Woodhaven; • State Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach), at both 159-53 102 St. in Howard Beach and 66-85 73 Place in Middle Village; and • Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), 93-06 101 Ave. in Ozone Park. We’d like to thank the following people who

have come to our office: Bob and Edna Harris from Fresh Meadows, Pat Mieela from Middle Village, Robert and Caryn Perlman from Forest Hills, Antonella Natale from Maspeth, Linda and Jim Dobson from Middle Village, Debbie Dees from Middle Village, Carmella Cerar from Howard Beach, David Roy from Ozone Park, Joan Samson from Maspeth, Judy and Eric Gonzaga from Forest Hills, Marie from Forest Hills, Elaine from Middle Village, Pat Farrell from Kew Gardens and Meagan and Mary Meehan from Bayside. We’d also like to thank the “Santa & Elf” from Forest Hills. Additional thanks go out to all who have dropped off items to the politicians’ offices. So while you’re out at the stores looking for good deals for all the people on your list, take some time to think of those who won’t be as comfortable come Christmas morning. The least you can do is help put a smile on their face. Remember, homelessness is at an all-time high in the city right now — more than 60,000 people are in the shelter system — so there are more people than ever who need help this holiday season. We thank you in advance, and if you have any questions, please visit the Queens Chronicle office during business hours or call us at Q (718) 205-8000.

Mayor tells seniors about water fee suit Lancman rips de Blasio for playing politics with court-blocked rebate by Ryan Brady

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

Mayor de Blasio came to the Clearview Senior Center and spoke about the litigation blocking the $183 water bill credit for one- to th ree-family homeow ners last Thursday. “This is something that so many people care about in this city,” said de Blasio, who was joined by Councilmen Paul Vallone (D-Bayside) and Costa Constantinides (D-Astoria). “ Eve r y ye a r, t he r e’s some increase in the water bill because it costs more money every year to provide water,” he said. “This year was the lowest increase in 16 years, only a 2 percent increase.” The credit, which would go to more than 275,000 Queens homeowners, has been blocked in court, along with the rate increase. “We provided 120,000 seniors with relief on their water bill,” de Blasio said. “For years and years, you paid the water bill but you didn’t just pay for water,” he added. “People were spending money on the water bill; it was going to things that had nothing

to do with water.” De Blasio criticized the Rent Stabilization Association, the group that filed a petition along with three Brooklyn landlords to block the credit and water rate increase. The credit would not go to landlords who do not own one- to threefamily homes, which the RSA contends leaves them paying an unfair share so the mayor can reap political benefit from the rebate. Its suit also claims the 2.1 percent rate hike is unnecessary to fund water service and therefore not legal. De Blasio paints a different picture. “They sued the City of New York to block us from giving 600,000 people money back,” he said. “A bunch of powerful, wealthy landlords who could afford all the lawyers in the world sued your city to stop 600,000 people from getting money back, and then tying us up in court.” The mayor is confident that the city, which is appealing the ruling, will prevail in court. “We’re gonna fight them and I believe we’re gonna win in the end,” he said. “It’s nice to see the mayor fight

to give us some money back,” Vallone said. Cou ncilman Ror y Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows) said that the mayor is misrepresenting both the tax credit and the lawsuit. “I think it’s the peak of cynicism and disingenuousness for Mayor de Blasio to offer a tax credit for a water tax that he imposed and which was completely unnecessary and then complain when the people didn’t get the tax credit for his un necessar y tax,” he told the Chronicle. Like other Queens lawmakers such as state Sens. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) and Tony Avella (D-Bayside), Lancman has said that he will not support de Blasio — who is being investigated by Manhattan District Attorney Cy Vance and U.S. Attorney for the Southern Dist r ict Preet Bharara — for re-election. The court agreed with the plaintiffs that the rate hike exceeded the Water Board’s authority. State Supreme Court Justice Carol Edmead said in her decision, which was made earlier this year, “T he bi l l c r e d it is u n r elat e d

Mayor de Blasio spoke about the litigation blocking his planned water credit for one- to three-family homeowners at the Clearview Senior Center in Bayside. PHOTO BY RYAN BRADY

and bears no reasonable correlation to the costs of water service, and is designed to accommodate the mayor’s political agenda to provide a windfall to cer tain homeowners.”

“He’s just playing a shell game with our money,” Lancman said. “He imposed an unnecessary tax so he could give a rebate to some homeowners to give a political benQ efit to himself.”

C M SQ page 25 Y K Page 25 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Weprin panel talks about hate crimes Recent uptick, being safe discussed at South Asian Advisory body meeting by Matthew Bultman Chronicle Contributor

$2 GAMES | $2 SHOES $2 HOT DOGS | $2 PBR DRAFTS

Private Events Holiday Parties

Dr. Ming-der Chang of NewYork-Presbyterian/ Queens speaks during a meeting Sunday of the 24th Assembly District South Asian Advisory PHOTO BY MATTHEW BULTMAN Panel. presidential election. Nishan Bhaumik, who leads South Asian outreach efforts for the New York City AntiViolence Project, talked for several minutes about ways people can respond if they see someone being harassed on the streets, or in buses and subways. “You should always consider your own safety first, and figure out if it’s safe for you to interject yourself into the situation,” he said. Even if you’re unable to intervene, Bhaumik said, something as simple as checking on the person afterwards can go a long way. “Just acknowledging the fact that it happened with that person might help them,” he said. Several of the 20 or so community leaders in attendance also inquired about IDNYC, the city’s immigrant-friendly municipal ID card program. There has been some concern that program data could be used as a deportation tool under the Trump administration. Mayor de Blasio has pledged the city would seek to shield the information from federal officials — something it’s being sued over — and Weprin on Sunday encouraged people to continue participating in the program. City Councilman Barry Grodenchik (D-Oakland Gardens) also noted the City Council held a vote last week reaffirming New York City’s status as a so-called “sanctuary city,” where law enforcement generally doesn’t turn over undocumented immigrants to federal authorities. “We’re going to be very careful with that and make sure that the rights of all people are protected, whether they have status here or Q not,” Grodenchik said.

Corporate Parties Team Building Adult Birthday Parties Fundraisers Networking Product Launches Reunions / Get Togethers Graduations / School Teams Church Events and more Professional Catering Audiovisual Capabilities Laneside Food & Beverages

98-18 Rockaway Blvd. Ozone Park, NY 11417

718-843-5553 Bowl360nyc@gmail.com WWW.BOWL360.NYC For a limited time only. Terms and conditions apply. See Bowl360.nyc for terms and conditions & for more details.

Buy One Game, Get One Free With this Ad. Limit one per person. Shoe rental not included. Coupon expires February 1st, 2017 BOWL-070640

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Fariha Nizam, a 19-year-old from Bellerose, was on the Q43 bus one recent morning, commuting to her internship in Manhattan, when a middle-aged white couple boarded the bus. The couple approached Nizam, she recalled, and started yelling at her to take off her hijab. When other riders attempted to intervene, the woman reached over and tried to grab the hijab off of Nizam’s head. “I was just bawling at that point and I was just completely afraid,” Nizam, a Bangladeshi-American, told the Chronicle in an interview last month. According to Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Fresh Meadows), whose district has the largest South Asian population in the city, there has been a spike in complaints about hate-related incidents since the presidential election last month. The confrontation on the Q43 bus involving Nizam took place just two days after the election. In another example, Woodside resident Karim Metwaly posted a video on social media last month that showed a driver hurling obscenities and racial insults at his friend, calling him a “terrorist” and saying “Trump is president ... he’ll deport you soon.” The apparent uptick in hate-related incidents hasn’t been limited to just Muslims or those perceived to be of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. Weprin said there have also been an increased number of complaints from the Jewish and LGBT communities, among others. “Obviously, as far as I’m concerned there’s no tolerance at all for any form of hate speech or hate crimes, whether it be physical or verbal,” he said. “We all have to stand together because a hate crime against one community is really a hate crime against all communities.” Weprin’s comments came as part of a meeting Sunday of the 24th Assembly District South Asian Advisory Panel, inside the assemblyman’s Union Turnpike office. Launched in 2015, the panel is composed of leaders in the Muslim, Sikh and Hindu communities. Organizers said the goal is to foster more dialogue between the South Asian community and their elected officials by offering a direct channel for communication. Some of the topics discussed during the meeting, the advisory panel’s fifth such session, were somewhat routine: traffic problems at an intersection, concerns about bus service near Hillside Avenue. A representative from the city’s Department of Consumer Affairs also gave a presentation about free tax services that will be available in coming months. But the most pressing issue seemed to be hate-related incidents and the aftermath of the

RD BEACH HOWA

SHOP MOM & POP

PHONE:

718-659-9500

PHARMACY

FAX: 718-659-9100

Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 9 pm • Sat. 9 am -7 pm • Sun. 9 am - 7 pm

We Accept Medicaid and All Prescription Plans

Frank P. Pantina Owner, Pharmacist, Notary Public, is available to Administer the Flu and Shingles Shot Every Monday and Wednesday from 9 : 00 am - 9 : 00 pm at our Howard Beach location and Fridays at Ozone Park.

NT C O N V E N IE E C U R B S ID D E L IV E R Y

50% OFF ALL GREETING CARDS ALL YEAR ROUND

of Anyt hing – “N ever Run Ou t To You! ” We’ll Run It Ou t

PHARMACY Come in for your Complimen tary 2017 Calender

Come in for your GIFT & LOYALTY CARD We Speak Italian, Polish & Spanish

www.crossbaychemist.com

SPEND $200

GET 10 OFF

FREE PICKUP & DELIVERY

for all your prescriptions & YOUR NEXT PURCHASE over the counter (prescriptions not included) needs

96-05 101 AVE., OZONE PARK

PHONE:

718-880-1644

FAX: 718-880-1606

Mon. - Sat. 9 am - 7 pm • Closed Sunday

Product of Italy

BIAN CAFFE

Assorted

THE CANDLEBERRY CO.

PANETTONE Italian Specialty Cake

$ 99

Fine Gift Candles

20% OFF Our Discounted Price! Our Ou

REG. $13

25% OFF

20% OFF

ALL CHRISTMAS TRIM-A-TREE & DECORATIONS

Serves 6

Italy

GIFT CARDS FOR THE HOLIDAYS Cash Purchase Only!

READING ADING GLASSES

Suggested g gg Retail Price!

Laundry Detergent 50 oz.

100 Cups or 150 Pouches $39.99

$ 999

2/ 6

MUCINEX

$ 49

DOMINO Sugar 4 lb. Pkge.

$ 97

Classic Bath Products from Italyy

Designer

NANCY ADAMS Pretzels Gift Box

$ 69

Your Choice 20 Reg. 14 Max or 20 DM

$ 99

SCOTTIES Bulk 6 Pack 140 2-Ply Tissues Per Box

$ 88

MOTRIN/TYLENOL Extra Strength Caplets

YOUR CHOICE

$ 97

1799

PLENTY FLEX-A-SIZE HALLS LOZENGES 40 Bonus Ct.

$ 00

NYQUIL

NICORETTE

24 Liquid Gels

100/110 pcs.

TYLENOL

REG. $55.99

Assorted Cold Formulas

$ 99

YOUR CHOICE

COLGATE

ALL PROCTOR SILEX Kitchen Appliances

20% OFF

Cavity Protection Paste 8.0 oz.

$ 99

15% OFF

CLARITIN Bonus 40 Tablets

$ 97

Suggested Retail Price!

Paper Towel Big Roll

99 ¢

“With Sincere Appreciation Cross Bay Chemists Wishes You A Joyous Holiday Season And A Healthy New Year Filled With Peace and Love, And Hope And Happiness”.

CREST 3-D White Strips

$ MACE Personal Security Pepper Spray

3200

REG. $49

For the latest news visit qchron.com

$ 99

25% Off

w/3-Way Blinking Option

Kitchen Appliances

6 Bars

WRAP SECTION

50% OFF

140 INDOOR/OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

ALL BLACK & DECKER

DOVE SOAP

FELCE AZZURRA

25% OFF ENTIRE GIFT

HOLIDAY BOXED GREETING CARDS

PUREX

Orig. Price $25 5 Now

Full Line of

3 Pair $ 99 7

Promotes Heartt Health

CERAMIC Product ESPRESSO SET of

Espresso Crema 2.2 lb. Beans

DESIGNER FRAGRANCES

RESVERATROX OX

For the latest news visit qchron.com

OZONE PARK

CROSS BAY CHEMIST

FILL YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS WITH US!

157-02 CROSS BAY BLVD., HOWARD BEACH

C M SQ page 27 Y K Page 27 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 26

C M SQ page 26 Y K

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 28

C M SQ page 28 Y K

A wrench in the ‘well-oiled machine’ Townsend Harris community blasts interim acting principal’s actions by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

In the 16 years Frank Scardino has been teaching at Townsend Harris High School, he’s seen five principals walk in and out of the doors of one of the top educational institutions in the city. “We’re like a well-oiled machine,” Scardino said. “We continue to keep pumping out some of the best students.” But lately, according to Scardino and others in the school community, there’s been a “wrench” stopping the machine from doing what it’s supposed to do, that being Interim Acting Principal Rosemarie Jahoda. And now, students, teachers, alumni and more are organizing to ensure she is not named the permanent head at the high school. “She’s like a Mafia don,” said one teacher, who wished to remain anonymous. “She’s up there in her tower and the only way you can talk to her is through one of her underlings.” A petition on Change.org asking the Department of Education to name a different permanent principal has garnered more than 3,5000 signatures since it was launched last week. Dozens of students last Thursday held a sit-in in the school’s hallways, protesting her possible appointment. A DOE spokesman said the process to find a permanent principal has not yet started at the school. “Principal hiring and assignment decisions are made by the superintendent in accordance with the Chancellor’s Regulations, and based on consultations with members of the school community,” spokesman Will Mantel said in an email. “We listen closely to the feedback and concerns of all school communities, and engage them as part of the C-30 process.” Jahoda, whose office referred all questions to the DOE, took over replaced former principal Anthony Barbetta in September and brought with her a bad reputation. At her former school, Bronx High School of Science, 20 teachers — almost the entire math department — filed a complaint accusing her of harassment and intimidation, actions that were probed by an independent fact checker from the American Arbitration Association who wrote in an April 16, 2010 letter, “there is substantiation for complaints of harassment and intimidation by Assistant Principal Rosemarie Jahoda with regard to certain teachers.”

Interim Acting Principal Rosemarie Jahoda speaks with Townsend Harris High School students during a town hall. FACEBOOK SCREENSHOT

A DOE official disagreed with the report, saying in part that it was “not fairly based upon all the evidence in this case.” “She addressed all that and I thought, let’s give her a chance,” said Judy Biener, a teacher for 28 years, the longestserving at Townsend Harris. But Jahoda’s actions quickly took a turn for the worse. The Classic, the Townsend Harris student newspaper, reported Jahoda went on a profanity-laden rant when it was suggested she be more present in the school’s hallways.Three of the people the Queens Chronicle spoke to confirmed that action. “I’m not [Former Principal] Anthony [Barbetta] and I’m not standing in the f---ing hallway,” the paper reported her

saying, citing “irrefutable evidence” of the conversation. “I’m not gonna do what Anthony did ... I’m not gonna stand and hold the door open.” Biener said Jahoda has a tendency to “fly off the handle.” “She screams, she curses,” the English teacher said. Jahoda originally denied the interaction but in a town hall meeting with students on Tuesday, which was livestreamed on Facebook by The Classic, she admitted to it and apologized. Teachers also told the Chronicle they have a hard time reaching the interim acting principal. “She’s put up this wall,” said the teacher who wished to remain anonymous. “Our voices aren’t being heard.” Biener said she just wanted to introduce herself to Jahoda and has not been able to. “She’s locked herself in her office,” she said, adding that Jahoda will often drag assistant principals into her office for hours-long meetings. Beyond that, there have been administrative flubs in the time she’s been at the high school’s helm. Scardino said assignment calendars were not distributed to instructors until the end of October and a memo explaining the tardiness not issued until weeks after that. Other issues have popped up as well, according to Scardino, such as new red tape tying up requests for field trips. There have also been concerns that Jahoda has ignored traditions at the school, which worries alumnus Michael Byc. “That kind of scares me,” said Byc, who graduated in 2007. The former Townsend Harris student said the fact that students held a sit-in speaks volumes about how they feel about Jahoda. “Townsend Harris students, they don’t go out of their way to leave the classroom,” he said. “They’re mostly just worried about their grades.” The school leadership team and parent-teacher association each will have a meeting on the issue today, Dec. 15, at 4 and 6:30 p.m., respectively, at the school. Both are open to the public. Susan Karlic, PTA co-president, said in an email she is staying neutral until the school’s next steps are discussed at Q the meeting.

‘Kevin and Avonte’s Law’ passes Bill co-named for autistic Rego boy who died in 2013 by Christopher Barca For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

The House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed “Kevin and Avonte’s Law” last Thursday, co-named for the autistic Rego Park teenager who died after wandering from his Long Island City school in October 2013. The legislation, if passed in the Senate and signed by the president, would allow parents of children with various developmental disabilities or family members of those with dementia to apply to have noninvasive tracking devices attached to their loved ones in an effort to prevent them from going missing, should they wander away. Government health and law enforcement agencies, as well as nonprof it groups, would design, create and provide the technology, thanks to $10 million in federal grants being made available to them over

the next five years. That money will also go toward educational and training programs for parents, school officials and first responders on how to prevent and respond to disabled children leaving a safe location. “What happened to Avonte Oquendo was a horrible tragedy that should have neve r o c cu r r e d ,” Re p. G r a c e Me ng (D-Flushing) said in a statement. “As a founder and Co-Chair of the Kids Safety Caucus, I believe that we must do everything we can to protect our kids, and this legislation will help prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.” The House voted 346-66 in favor of passing Kevin and Avonte’s Law last Thursday. A bipartisan companion Senate bill — sponsored by Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and co-sponsored by Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa)

and Thom Tillis (R-NC) — was with that legislative body’s Judiciary Committee as of press time on Wednesday. Oquendo, who was nonverbal, was just 14 when he ran past at least one school safety officer and out the door of the Riverview School in Long Island City on Oct. 4, 2013. After an exhaustive three-month search ac ross t he Tr i-St at e A rea — wh ich involved searching every mile of subway track and the playing of his mother’s voice on police loudspeakers — Oquendo’s remains were discovered on the College Point shoreline in mid January. His corpse was so badly decomposed, his cause of death could not be determined. The bill is also co-named in honor of Kevin Curtis Wills, another autistic child, who was just 9 years old when he jumped into the Raccoon R iver in Iowa and Q drowned in 2008.

Rego Park teenager Avonte Oquendo was just 14 when he wandered from his Long Island FILE PHOTO City school in 2013.

C M SQ page 29 Y K

Aizaz Siddiqui has been booked for leaving the scene of a fatal crash Associate Editor

Police have made an arrest in connection with the death of 20-year-old Binghamton University student Stefani Lineva, a Middle Village native and graduate of Forest Hills High School. Authorities busted Binghamton resident Aizaz Siddiqui, 26, last Thursday and charged him with leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death, as officials believe he was the person who hit Lineva as she walked along Route 434 in the upstate city early Saturday morning. “All of these detectives worked around the clock since Saturday, day and night,” Binghamton Mayor Richard David said at a press conference announcing the arrest, “pursuing leads and exploring every avenue and looking under every rock to find information to solve this crime.” Lineva’s body was discovered around 2 a.m., crumpled up against a concrete median a few miles from campus. The junior had suffered severe injuries consistent with being struck by a vehicle, and she was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. A star tennis player at the school, she was in her first semester at Binghamton after transferring from Adelphi University earlier this year. In recent days, Lineva’s mother claimed her daughter was murdered, as the college student’s cell phone and wallet were not on her person when she was discovered. However, police believe she dropped the items earlier in the night, since they were discovered in the western portion of the city. “We’re confident through our investigation that this was a hit-and-run accident,” Binghamton Police Chief Joseph Zikuski said at the press conference.

Police have made an arrest in the hit-and-run death of Binghamton University student, Middle Village native and Forest Hills High TWITTER PHOTO / NORTHEAST CONFERENCE grad Stefani Lineva. Surveillance video shows Lineva, a member of Binghamton’s tennis team, walking alone near the crash site shortly before her death, Zikuski said, and authorities believe she may have been drinking that night.

Born in Bulgaria, Lineva moved to Middle Village with her family as a young child, attending elementary school at St. Margaret’s on 80th Street. She went on to become one of the best youth tennis players in the city during her time at Forest Hills High School, qualifying for the Public School Athletic League women’s singles championship match as a senior. At Adelphi, the psychology major continued to dominate, winning conference rookie of the year honors as a freshman and leading her team to a conference title as a sophomore. “The loss of someone so young and talented is almost impossible to imagine and impacts our entire community,” Binghamton University President Harvey Stenger said in a statement the day after her death. “We will miss Stefani’s spirit, passion and engagement with everyone she touched on our campus.” Last Saturday, one week after Lineva was killed, Binghamton paid tribute to its fallen student with an emotional pregame ceremony prior to the men’s basketball team’s game against Loyola University. Before the national anthem was played, the school’s entire athletics department lined the basketball court for a moment of silence, while the tennis team stood group hugging at center court. Nearly everyone in the crowd also donned “Binghamton Tennis” shirts with lavender ribbons adorned on the front and Lineva’s initials on the back. In Forest Hills, Lineva was remembered at a private memorial service last Friday at the West Side Tennis Club, where the sports star and her family are members. Siddiqui plead not guilty on Thursday and is being held Q without bail.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

BLSL-070918

by Christopher Barca

Page 29 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Middle Village coed’s alleged killer arrested

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 30

C M SQ page 30 Y K The Red Storm season may only be 11 games old, but it’s already obvious that the Big East Rookie of the Year award is St. John’s guard Shamorie Ponds’ to lose. And while the young season continues to go the way of a roller coaster for the Johnnies (5-6), Ponds looks more like a space shuttle rising higher and higher in the sky. Coming off a career-high 25 points in last Monday’s win over Cal State Northridge, the freakish freshman exploded for 26 points, nine assists, seven rebounds and four steals during last Thursday’s 90-62 drubbing of Fordham, opening eyes across the NCAA. Quite simply, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a St. John’s rookie dominate quite like that in my time either as a student at the Jamaica school or a writer covering the team. With starting point guard Marcus LoVett missing a second straight game with a sprained ankle, Ponds once again picked up the slack and then some for the Red Storm, burying seven of his 11 three-point attempts and turning the ball over just three times. LoVett might be the team’s best passer, but Ponds had me and a fellow sports writer openly saying “wow” on more than a few occasions last Thursday. On back to back plays early in the first half, it was Ponds who came up with a steal, following it up with ridiculous passes in transition to teammates streaking down the court for buckets. Returning to his home borough last Sunday to take on LIU-Brooklyn at the Barclays Center — a tough 74-73 loss — Ponds didn’t exactly play like “Pistol” Pete Maravich, but he still found ways to impress without putting the ball in the basket.

RM WARNING by Christopher Barca

With St. John’s on defense trailing by one with 10 seconds left, Ponds dove like a baseball player in an attempt to steal LIU’s inbounds pass and give the Johnnies a chance to win the game. He somehow got a hold of the ball, knocking it off an opponent’s leg out of bounds. Mere seconds after Red Storm guard Malik Ellison had the ball stolen from him, and all hope appeared to be lost, it was Ponds who was still out there doing anything and everything he possibly could to give his team new life. So you can imagine how surprised I was when Ponds’ game-winning shot attempt at the buzzer bounced off the right side of the rim and fell harmlessly to the floor. After all, myself and so many others in the building were convinced he would win the game after his incredible defensive play kept St. John’s alive. Despite the miss, Ponds still ended up with 18 points, six rebounds and two assists. Combining that performance with his games against Cal State Northridge and Fordham, he’s racked up an insane 69 points, 16 rebounds and 16 assists. On the year, he’s averaging 17.4 points, 5.5

rebounds and 3.4 assists per game on 48 percent shooting from the field and 45 percent from three-point range. And all that production is coming from a kid no one was sure would be ready to hit the ground running in college. “I think he’s way ahead of schedule. I felt like Shamorie was the perfect guy for us,” second-year head coach Chris Mullin, also a lefty from Brooklyn, said after the Fordham game. “He’s a really smart kid and he’s also got really great instincts. I can play him all over the court and he’ll know what to do and how to make it work.” Even though his Blackbirds pulled out a win, LIU coach Jack Perri called Ponds an obvious “superstar” with an immeasurable amount of potential. “You can’t make any mistakes,” Perri said. “If you make mistakes against him, it’s in the basket. He’s a super talent, obviously.” Sure, this St. John’s team still has a ton of holes and they’re not going to become an NCAA Tournament team overnight. But I promise you, Ponds will make all the ups and downs bearable. I’ve been covering this kid

Freshman guard Shamorie Ponds is a star in PHOTO COURTESY ST. JOHN’S ATHLETICS the making. for the better part of three years now, and I can attest that both his talent and his personality are off the charts. He’s humble. He’s smart. He’s selfless. And he can shoot the freaking lights out. What more can you ask for from a true freshman? Pay attention, Johnnies fans. You’ve got yourself a budding superstar on your hands. Q Enjoy the hell out of it.

Derek Jeter spreads holiday cheer in Rego Yankees icon gives out gifts to Turn 2 Foundation campers last Thursday by Christopher Barca

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Associate Editor

Over 100 Turn 2 Foundation campers from across the city got the thrill of a lifetime at their Rego Park holiday party last Wednesday, as former New York Yankees legend Derek Jeter paid them a surprise visit. And he came bearing gifts. Some modesty, too. “I don’t think it was for me,” Jeter said of the cheers when he walked into Lost Battalion Hall on Queens Boulevard. “I think it was for Santa.” Sitting down next to Kris Kringle, the future Hall of Famer thanked the children for being a part of his foundation — which promotes education and healthy living — before spending 20 minutes handing out backpacks filled with small presents to every kid in attendance. “We’re just here to spread some holiday cheer,” Jeter said after the event. “I think everyone deserves a smile on their face during the holidays, and that’s what we try to do year in and year out.” Jeter started the Turn 2 Foundation during his rookie year with the

Yankees in 1996, and in the following two decades, the organization has turned into a lifeline for countless youth across the country. Programs operated by Turn 2 include afterschool art, music and fitness classes, tutoring and a popular peer-mentoring operation called Jeter’s Leaders, in which high school students help their classmates with college preparation and counsel younger children. The foundation, which also partners with the Parks Department to put on an annual baseball clinic in Flushing, is operated by Jeter, his sister, Sharlee, and their parents. “For us, as a family, we want our legacy to be away from the field,” the for mer baseball star said. “When I started this 20 years ago, I wouldn’t have thought we would be here. Me and my dad started it over pizza one day in Detroit.” One of Jeter’s Leaders, Far Rockaway resident Shawn Salick, 17, said taking part in Turn 2 has been one of the most fulfilling experiences of his life. “When I reflect on the work that this program does, I get a warm feeling,” Salick said. “For example,

this past summer, we packed food for 10,000 hungry people. It was really inspiring.” “Everything we teach is based on what he was taught when he was growing up,” he added of Jeter. “It’s a huge part of our lives, mentoring and teaching other kids how they should act.” While many of the students were thrilled to meet Jeter, the former Yankees captain who retired after the 2014 season, they aren’t the only ones who get excited during his foundation’s events. “I enjoy it. This is our favorite time of year,” he said. “We have so many kids who go through our programs, and to get an opportunity to meet them, even if it’s just brief, it’s awesome. We want them to really enjoy it.” Jeter also briefly touched on his playing days when prompted by the Chronicle, as his former team announced last Tuesday that they will retire his No. 2 jersey and dedicate a plaque in his honor in Yankee Stadium’s famed Monument Park on May 14, 2017. “It’s awesome, it goes without saying what a special honor it is,”

Former New York Yankees shortstop Derek Jeter didn’t just come to Rego Park bearing gifts last Thursday, he also presented them with some tips on how to lead healthy and productive lives in the classroom and in the real PHOTOS BY CHRISTOPHER BARCA world. he said. “My dream was always to play shortstop for the Yankees. To have my number retired in Monument Park, it’s a day my family and friends are looking forward to.” Over the course of his 20-year career, Jeter won five World Series championships, the 1996 Rookie of the Year award and five Gold Glove

awards as the best fielding shortstop in the American League and was named to the AL All Star team 14 times. His 3,465 hits is good for sixth in Major League Baseball history, and he is the Yankees’ all-time leader in hits, games played, at-bats, doubles Q and steals.

C M SQ page 31 Y K

Former New Orleans Saints lineman Will Smith was shot dead in April by Christopher Barca Associate Editor

Justice has been served in the April shooting death of former professional football star and St. Albans native Will Smith. A jury convicted 28-year-old Cardell Hayes on one count of manslaughter and one count of attempted manslaughter on Sunday, seven months following his deadly dispute with the former New Orleans Saints defensive end and his wife, Racquel, after a minor car accident. Hayes faces up to 40 years in prison and will be sentenced in February. Shortly after 11 p.m. on April 9, the 34-year-old Smith, his wife and friend Richard Hernandez were rear-ended by Hayes in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans. An agitated Smith, who was heavily intoxicated at the time of the incident, and Hernandez got out of their car and began arguing with Hayes and his passenger, Kevin O’Neal, according to trial testimony. That’s when prosecutors said Hayes, a former New Orleans high school football star himself, grabbed his gun and shot Smith — who was restrained and being led back to his car by his wife, according to witnesses — once in the torso. When the wounded father of three attempted to retrieve his own firearm from his vehicle, Hayes walked up to him and fired eight more rounds, seven of them into the former Pro Bowl lineman and one into Racquel Smith’s leg. She was treated at a nearby hospital and released, but her husband, who led the Saints in sacks during their Super Bowl-winning 2009-10 season, died at the scene. Officials also testified at trial that Hayes intentionally rammed his Hummer into Smith’s Mercedes after a brief chase, following the former professional athlete’s accidental

Seven months after former New Orleans Saints star defensive lineman and St. Albans native Will Smith was shot to death in the Crescent City, a jury convicted the man who PHOTO BY ASIM BHARWANI / FLICKR killed him last Sunday.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

MILB-070843

rear-ending of Hayes a few blocks away, but the jury acquitted him of that. While on the stand, Hayes claimed he shot the former NFL star in self-defense after Hernandez took his shirt off and used it to brandish a knife, while Smith threw a cup of alcohol at him, punched him in the face four or five times, shoved O’Neal to the ground and fired his weapon at him after threatening to kill him. But of the nine shell casings found at the scene, all came from Hayes’ gun, while multiple witnesses and O’Neal himself did not corroborate Hayes’ story. Often seen sitting with Smith’s family at trial was longtime Saints head coach Sean Payton and a number of old teammates, including future Hall of Fame quarterback Drew Brees and star running back Deuce McAllister. Pierre Thomas, a former New Orleans running back who was driving just ahead of Smith when the incident took place, testified that his friend argued with but never touched Hayes. Born in Queens on July 4, 1981, Smith lived in St. Albans until he was 4, when he moved to Utica, NY to live with his grandmother after his mother died of breast cancer. His uncle, Herbert Smith, still resides in St. Albans. He told the Daily News in April that his nephew flew to Queens to visit him just days before he was murdered. A star lineman at Ohio State, Smith helped lead the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2002 before being selected by the Saints in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. He enjoyed nine successful seasons in New Orleans, recording 67.5 career sacks and even earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2006, before retiring in 2014 after a brief stint with the Q New England Patriots.

Page 31 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Conviction in slaying of NFL star, Queens native

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 32

C M SQ page 32 Y K

Queens leaders back 21st Century Cures Act by Michael Gannon Editor

President Obama on Tuesday signed the 21st Century Cures Act, which is slated to set aside billions of dollars for medical and disease research. It passed by ove r whel m i ng bipa r t is a n major it ies i n both houses of Congress, and city and Queens leaders are embracing it just as enthusiastically. Highlights are $4.8 billion in research funding for the National Institutes of Health and $1.8 billion for the “moonshot” cancer research program that was pushed by the president and Vice President Joe Biden. The cancer portion of the bill was named for Biden’s late son Beau, who died of brain cancer last year at age 46. “This bill also makes muchneeded investments in the National Institutes of Health and other medical research programs,” Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Queens, Bronx) said in a statement issued by his office. “New York is home to some of the top research universities and hospitals in the country, and additional funding can help

these institutions continue and expand their efforts.” St at e Se n. Toby St av isk y (D-Flushing), a member of the Senate’s Health Committee, said a planned $1 billion set-aside for states to administer opioid abuse treatment and prevention programs should benefit all of New York greatly. “This is a serious problem. It’s a national crisis,” Stavisky told the Chronicle in a telephone interview on Tuesday. Congresswoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing), who welcomed the commitment to fighting cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease and other diseases, said in a statement from her office the opioid funding was long overdue. “All have cut too many lives short, and have devastated too many families here in Queens and throughout the country,” Meng said. “This will save lives,” the congresswoman added. Bot h Me ng a nd St av isk y praised the plan for earmarking money for mental health needs. New York City First Lady Chirlane

McCray, who has taken the lead on mental health issues for the de Blasio administration, on Tuesday said the measure serves as comprehensive mental health legislation. She said Obama’s signature marked Tuesday as an important day for families across the nation, and gives the city more tools to deal with the problem. “The 21st Century Cures Act will provide tangible resources to the thousands of Americans with untreated — but treatable — mental health and substance misuse disorders,” McCray said in a press release from City Hall. She said one in five Americans suffers from some form or degree of mental illness each year. “That means every family, in red states and blue states, has been touched by mental illness or substance misuse,” she said. “That is why representatives from both sides of the aisle are working together, with urgency, to address this public health crisis.” The bill was championed on Capitol Hill by Rep. Fred Upton (R-Mich.) . The f inal version

STRUGGLING WITH STAIRS?

City and Queens leaders are praising the 21st Century Cures Act, with billions of dollars they said will greatly benefit New Yorkers. passed in the U.S. House of Representatives by a vote of 392-26. The Senate then passed the measure 94-5, after Senate Majorit y Leader Mitch McCon nell (D-Ken.) surprised Biden, who represented Delaware in the Senate for six terms and was present for the vote, by renaming the cancer-funding measure for his son.

Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside), who serves on the City Council’s Health Committee, said in an email that he also was pleased with measures to streamline the approval process for new drugs and medical devices that must undergo testing before being made available to the public. “It will speed up the approval process for life-saving medicines and encourages us to better use tech nolog y to keep A mer ica healthy,” he said. “These are all issues of deep importance to New Yorkers.” Van Bramer also said he was glad that Congress, for once, could work together on important legislation that will improve the lives of New Yorkers and all Americans. Some of the act’s critics said the funding is reliant on future Congresses to appropriate it. U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) derided it in part as a giveaway to the pharmaceutical industry. Stavisky was well aware of the benefits for the industry. “I’d rather think about the people Q who will be helped,” she said.

Expert care for your eyes Steven Divack, M.D., F.A.C.S. EYE PHYSICIAN

A DIVISION OF TK WHITAKER

NEW YORK

For the&latest visit qchron.com H EALTH FITNESSnews S ECTION • 2016

TKWI-066688

STARTING AT

NEW & INSTALLED Stair Lifts • Wheel Chair Lifts • Ramps Straight, Curved, Narrow Staircases Folds Up Against Wall • Factory Direct Pricing Installed within 48 Hours New, Reconditioned and Rentals • Sales 24-Hour Service Over 20 Years Serving the New York Tristate Area

631-647-8855 Insured

Routine Eye Examinations Cataract and Implant Surgery Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Laser and Micro Surgery Ambulatory Surgery Glaucoma Contact Lenses Medicare, GHI-CBP, BC/BS and most other insurance plans accepted

FREE ESTIMATES

www.StairGlideNY.com Licensed

SURGEON

COMPREHENSIVE EYE CARE • • • • • • •

2,795

AND

151-31 88th Street, Howard Beach

C M SQ page 33 Y K Page 33 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

NYU LANGONE AT COLUMBUS MEDICAL IS NOW NYU LANGONE AMBULATORY CARE REGO PARK.

NYUL-070894

424432_NYU1758_QueensChronicle_2016_P4C.indd 1

12/2/16 11:21 AM

H EALTH & Fvisit ITNESSqchron.com S ECTION • 2016 For the latest news

We’re changing our name. What we’re not changing is the convenient, easy-to-reach location and the world-class care our patients have come to expect. Over the years, our services have grown, too. We now offer expert care in more than 20 medical specialties. With a new name comes a renewed commitment to serving the residents of Rego Park, Forest Hills, Elmhurst, Middle Village, and adjacent neighborhoods. For more information, call 718.261.9100 or visit nyulangone.org. 97-85 Queens Boulevard, Rego Park, NY 11374.

For the&latest visit qchron.com H EALTH FITNESSnews S ECTION • 2016

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 34

C M SQ page 34 Y K

When someone in the family has a hearing loss, the whole family has a hearing loss, say experts at PHOTO COURTESY NAPS the Hearing Loss Association of America.

Hearing loss and the holidays, a family affair

HOSP-070279

Since the holiday season is such a great time to connect with friends and family members you haven’t seen in a while, it may also offer an opportunity many may not have considered. Now can be your chance to check in with loved ones about their health and well-being, including those who may be grappling with hearing loss. After all, hearing loss affects 48 million — or one in five — Americans and could become even more widespread in the future. Two reasons are the aging population and the frequent use of earbud headphones to listen to music, which can cause noise-induced hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss can lead to social isolation, stress and depression, social rejection and feelings of loneliness, irritability and anger, reduced alertness and even an increased risk of falls. This holiday season, take the opportunity to help those you care about start the new year off on a positive note by addressing untreated hearing loss. Untreated hearing loss not only affects a person’s quality of life — it also has an impact on his or her family. While hearing loss is isolating, it’s not an isolated problem. For those with loved ones experiencing untreated hearing loss, the effects are real, significant and can affect the most important relationships in their lives. Everyone who loves them and lives with them feels the effects, too. Couples often feel the effects of untreated hearing loss the most, with spouses reporting a decrease in social activities because of the inability to have a conversation in some settings, and many say they’re unable to enjoy even simple activities like watching a movie or TV together because of the disparity in comfortable volume levels. For adult children with parents experiencing hearing loss, connecting can be a challenge. When a parent has hearing loss, he or she may avoid phone conversations and social situations, making it hard to maintain closeness. And children or grandchildren, with typically higher, softer voices, can be particularly hard to understand for someone with untreated hearing loss, which can lead to frustration or embarrassment.

If you suspect that someone you love is experiencing hearing loss, it’s time to take action. Here are seven tips to improve communication with a loved one experiencing hearing loss: 1. Get their attention before you start speaking. This ensures they can focus on you and what you’re saying. Don’t yell from another room, for instance. 2. Don’t change topics without warning. If you start talking about weekend plans and then suddenly launch into an unrelated idea, your loved one may have difficulty following the conversation. 3. Slow down and eliminate background noises. Many people talk too fast. Slow down, speak clearly and pause — it helps. Mute the TV and turn down the radio, too. 4. Double-check. If you’re relaying vital information, confirm you were understood. 5. Seek help and ensure safety. If your loved one has difficulty using the telephone or cannot hear emergency warning signals, visit the Hearing Loss Association of America, hearingloss.org, to learn more. 6. Share the hearing responsibility. It is the responsibility of the person who is talking to make it easier to be heard and understood. It is the responsibility of the person with hearing loss to acknowledge the problem, connect with a hearing loss expert or audiologist who can help, and use technology to improve hearing now. 7. Start a conversation. Speak with your loved ones about hearing loss and treatment options. Keep the conversation positive, speak to the impact that hearing loss has on the family, and discuss the benefits that can be realized through seeking treatment. Finally, reassure them that you’ll support them in taking the first step of having their hearing examined. Hearing loss doesn’t have to compromise your relationships. For information about the signs of hearing loss, how to maintain hearing health and treatment Q options, visit hihealthinnovations.com. — NAPS

C M SQ page 35 Y K

Fun, family, food — the holidays are packed with enjoyable activities. But hectic schedules, holiday stress and tasty indulgences at every turn can lead to a few extra pounds by the year’s end. Fortunately, with a few smart strategies, joyful eating doesn’t have to result in holiday weight gain. Dr. Aimee Gould Shunney, a licensed naturopathic doctor specializing in women’s health and family medicine, says to forget the all-ornothing attitude during the holiday season. “Depriving yourself of holiday foods isn’t part of a healthy eating strategy and it’s no fun! It will make you more likely to overeat other foods and less likely to feel satisfied. Allow yourself a small portion of your favorite food and enjoy it.” Shunney offers these 10 tips for enjoying holiday foods to the fullest without gaining weight: 1. Be realistic. Setting goals to lose weight over the holidays is unrealistic. Strive to maintain your weight and not gain. 2. Don’t skip meals. Skipping meals will cause your blood sugar to drop, making you irritable and causing you to burn calories less efficiently. You are also more likely to overeat if you arrive at a party famished. 3. Eat a light snack. Having a small piece of fruit, yogurt, cheese, or almond butter on an apple or banana before going out will make you less likely to binge on fattening or sweet foods later.

a great way to promote a healthy mood while supporting blood sugar balance, body composition and overall health during the holidays. 9. Exercise. Classes and group activities are great, but this time of year it’s extra helpful to have a form of exercise in your pocket that can be done on your own schedule, like walking, running, swimming or doing an exercise video. Another option: Grab a family member or the dog and go for a walk before or after a large meal. It’s a great way to get some time with a loved one, or maybe a bit of alone time for yourself. 10. Focus on life’s sweet moments. Sometimes, when things get stressful and hectic, dessert or a glass of wine can seem like the quickest, easiest way to reward yourself. But does it really get the job done? And more importantly, does it serve you long-term? Make a list of all the things that bring you pleasure and joy. Try to do one every day. Shunney reminds people it’s important to maintain perspective during the holidays. “Overeating one day won’t make you gain weight. It takes days of overeating to do that,” she says. “Choose your foods wisely, eat healthful foods more often, and limit fatty foods, sugars and alcohol. If you overindulge at a party, put it behind you. The most important things to remember are balance and Q moderation.” — Brandpoint

To avoid weight gain during the holidays, remember to choose your food wisely, eat healthful foods PHOTO COURTESY BRANDPOINT and don’t overindulge in fatty foods, sugars and alcohol. 4. Eat slowly. Chew your food thoroughly so you can taste it and enjoy it! Plus, chewing well aids in the digestion process. Remember, it takes up to 15 minutes to feel the effects of food. 5. Be selective. Take small portions of all your favorite foods, emphasizing protein, vegetables and high-fiber options. Don’t eat sweets or carbohydrates alone, and keep your protein intake regular throughout the day. 6. Make a plan. Decide when you are done. When you have tried a little bit of all your favorite foods and feel satisfied, put your napkin on your plate, have a mint or a piece of

gum and pour yourself a glass of water to sip. 7. Choose your beverages wisely. Alcohol is high in calories — about 7 calories per gram. Liquors, sweet wine and sweet mixed drinks (holy eggnog!) contain 150-450 calories per glass. Try to alternate your alcoholic beverage with water or a fruit juice spritzer. 8. Eat omega 3-fats. Fish oil is important all year long for its anti-inflammatory properties and proven ability to reduce risk for heart disease, improve insulin sensitivity, decrease pain and improve age-related cognitive function. A fish oil supplement two times a day is

Page 35 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Ten tips to help you enjoy holiday foods without the weight gain

Board Certified In Foot Surgery - Board Certified In Wound Care and Diabetic Foot Care

www.forestparkdental.net Including:

FREE

Bunions and Hammertoes, Nail Disorders, Corns and Calluses, Heel and Arch Problems, Foot Injuries and Physical Therapy.

CONSULTATION, EXAM and X-RAYS For All New Patients!

FREE

St. John’s Episcopal Wound Care and Hyperbaric Center.

Advanced Wound Care and Hyperbaric Oxygen Treatments Available

MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED. Day, Evening & Saturday appointments available. House calls available on request.

Diabetic Shoes For Medicare Recipients

94-07 156th Avenue Howard Beach, NY 11414

55-36 69th Place Maspeth, NY 11378

718-641-7180

718-446-0500

• Painless & Affordable Family Dentistry • Cosmetic Dentistry • Braces and Invisalign® • Implants • One-Visit Crowns • Laser Dentistry • Whitening Procedures

ORTHODONTICS CONSULTATION! $

300 Off! invisalign

Clear Braces

69-45 Myrtle Ave. Glendale, NY 11385 Facebook.com/ForestParkDental

718.821.4680

Proud Member of the Glendale Kiwanis Club

Diabetic Foot Conditions and Wound Care

H EALTH & Fvisit ITNESSqchron.com S ECTION • 2016 For the latest news

Specializing In:

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 36

C M SQ page 36 Y K

boro

R E S TA U R A N T R E V I E W

Sit down, stay a while at Golden Way restaurant by Anthony O’Reilly Associate Editor

All too often, Chinese restaurants in New York City are places where people order their food to go. It’s rare to see tables with people actually sitting at them and enjoying their food. That’s not the case, however, at Golden Way in Ozone Park. The eatery, located at 133-09 Cross Bay Blvd., recently renovated its interior to enhance the experience for customers. Comfortable seating accompanied by large-screen televisions make for an inviting atmosphere that encourages people to sit down and enjoy their meal, rather than asking the server to put it in a container to be enjoyed on the living room couch later.

Golden Way Where: 133-09 Cross Bay Blvd. When: 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Contact: goldenwayozonepark.com, (718) 845-8899

But whether you order at the table, to go or for delivery — $15 minimum — there’s a good chance you’ll be sitting down to enjoy a fantastic meal. Although the inter ior may have changed, the philosophy behind Golden Way’s cooking has stayed the same: Cook with high-quality, fresh ingredients to create delicious Chinese, Taiwanese and Hunan dishes. Take for example the mango shrimp, which is exactly what it sounds like. Shrimp is flavored with the mango and served inside the fruit, both of which are incredibly tasty and refreshing, even on a cold winter day. If you’re looking for something hot to warm you up, the steamed fish and chili soup is an excellent option. The fish is not overpowered by the spices and vegetables mixed in with the broth, which itself provides just the right amount of spiciness — at least for this diner, but if it’s too spicy for you just add a little white rice to it. There are plenty of other options to try out as well, such as the Pad Thai, fried rice, Pad See Yu (spicy rice noodles with

The steamed fish and chili soup and mango shrimp are just two delicious items available at PHOTOS BY ANTHONY O’REILLY Golden Way in Ozone Park. broccoli and eggs), spicy basil chicken, the mango duck and more. Of course, they have all the classics such as General Tso’s chicken, chicken and broccoli and more on their lunch special menus — $6.50 for Chinese dishes from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day of the week. Thai lunch specials are offered at

the same times, but prices vary per item. But with affordable prices and healthy portions on the other items, it’s worth it to branch off and be a bit adventurous. Golden Way is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. It can be found online at goldenwayozonepark.com Q or reached at (718) 845-8899.

Holiday Toy Drive

For the latest news visit qchron.com

The Queens Chronicle’s 22nd Annual Holiday Toy Drive is on Now! For Children in Queens Homeless Shelters

Please bring NEW, UNWRAPPED and UNUSED TOYS for Children in Queens Homeless Shelters NOW through THURSDAY, DECEMBER 22nd during business hours: 9 am to 5 pm, Monday thru Friday to any of these participating locations:

QUEENS CHRONICLE OFFICE 62-33 Woodhaven Boulevard, Rego Park, NY 11374 After Hours and on Weekends: Toys can be dropped off next door at

R ESTAUR A NT

Barosa Brick Oven Pizza, 62-37 Woodhaven Blvd. For more information please call

718-205-8000

Senator Joseph P. Addabbo Jr. 159-53 102nd Street, Howard Beach

Lisa at Ext. 110 or Stela at Ext. 111

66-85 73rd Place, Middle Village

and

Assemblyman Ed Braunstein 213-33 39th Ave., Suite 238 Bayside

Councilman Daniel Dromm 37-32 75th Street, 1st Floor Jackson Heights Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer 47-01 Queens Blvd., Suite 205 Sunnyside

C M SQ page 37 Y K

December 15, 2016

Page 37 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

ARTS, CULTURE C ULTURE E & LIVING L IIVING LI V

Spirits of the

season ‘A Christmas Carol’ swings onto the Queens Theatre stage •

by Mark Lord

returning for this production, makes the most in her brief appearances as Scrooge’s housekeeper, always eyeing her employer with suspicion, and she is equally effective as the kind and loving M r s . Cratc hit , wife of S c ro oge’s p o or but devoted clerk. As Jacob Marley, the one-time business partner of Scrooge, Brad Makarowski (another returnee) ma kes a power ful impression, wa r ning t he penny-pincher of the impending arrival of the three apparitions. He also cuts a towering figure as the silent phantom, clad in a hooded black robe, who paints a bleak picture of the lonely death that awaits Scrooge. continued ononpage 41 Continued page

For the latest news visit qchron.com

A sumptuous-looking and sounding adaptation of Charles Dickens’ perennial holiday stor y, “A Christmas Carol,” is filling the intimate underground performance space at Queens Theatre, cour tes y of Tit an Theatre Co., the venue’s in-residence troupe. T h e m u l t i p l e awa r d -w i n n i ng p r o d u c t i o n opened a return engagement last Friday night and runs through Dec. 22. The adaptation of the classic tale of irascible Ebenezer Scrooge, whose outlook on life is transformed by a succession of Christmastime visits from ghosts representing the past, present and future, is the handiwork of Emily Trask and

Lenny Banovez, who have captured the essence of the original in a fa s t-paced 9 0 minutes. Banovez, the company’s artistic director, also ser ves as director of the production, eliciting memorable performances from the entire cast, many of whom play a variety of roles. Anchoring the production is Michael Selkirk, in his third go-round as the surly antithesis to the holiday season. With his wide white sideburns, gruf f demeanor and booming voice, this is a Scrooge who, at first, seems unlikely to ever change his ways. But (spoiler aler t), he does indeed change, and Selkirk makes the transition believable, the pure joy he receives in abandoning his miserly ways etched clearly on his face. Laura Frye, another of several cast members

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 38

C M SQ page 38 Y K

W H AT ’ S H A P P E N I N G MUSIC The Queens Consort: Music for Yuletide, with works by Vivaldi, Bach, Manfredini and more, on period Instruments. Sat., Dec. 17, 7 p.m., St. Mark’s Church, 33-50 82 St., Jackson Heights. $15-$20. Info: queensconsort.com. Oratorio Society of Queens Holiday Concert, with excerpts from Handel’s “Messiah,” Christmas carol singalong, Chanukah favorites and more. Sun., Dec. 18, 4 p.m., Queensborough Performing Arts Center, 222-05 56 Ave., Bayside. $35 ($40 at door); $30 seniors, students; $10 kids under 13 with adult. Info: (718) 279-3006, queensoratorio.org.

SPECIAL EVENTS

FILM “Holiday Affair,” the 1949 light romantic comedy with Robert Mitchum and Janet Leigh, called by some “Miracle on 34th Street Lite,” with discussion afterward. Sat., Dec. 17, 1 p.m., Greater Astoria Historical Society, 35-20 Broadway, Long Island City. Free. Info: (718) 278-0700, astorialic.org. “A Muppet Family Christmas,” the 1987 Jim Henson movie uniting the Muppets, Fraggles and “Sesame Street” characters for the holiday, with rare, behind-the-scenes footage from the production and more. Sun., Dec. 18, 1 p.m., Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 Ave., Astoria. $12; $9 seniors, students; $7 kids 3-17. Info: (718) 777-6888, movingimage.us.

THEATRE “It’s a Wonderful Life,” a radio-style version of the Christmas favorite about a troubled man seeing what his hometown would have been like without him, by The Chain Theatre. Thu.-Sat., Dec. 15-17, 8 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 18, 2 p.m., RWS Studios, 37-12 35 St., Long Island City. $10, kids under 11 free. Info: (646) 5806003, chaintheatre.org. COURTESY PHOTO For the latest news visit qchron.com

Holiday Historic House Tour, the 29th annual, visiting as many of the following as each participant wants: Louis Armstrong House Museum, Bowne House, Flushing Town Hall, Friends Quaker Meeting House, Kingsland Homestead, Lewis H. Latimer House Museum, and Voelker Orth House. Sun., Dec. 11, 1-5 p.m., starting at any of the locations. $15 advance; $20 at door; $5 kids under 12. Info/tickets: facebook.com/QueensHistoricalSociety.

“A Christmas Carol,” Dickens’ classic holiday tale of greed and redemption, by the Titan Theatre Co. Thru Thu., Dec. 22, varying dates and times, Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park. $18 (discount with code ITSINQUEENS16). Info: (718) 760-0064, queenstheatre.org.

EXHIBITS “Read My Lips,” prints, paintings, sculptures and video examining the fluidity of bodily forms and referencing the history of queer abstraction. Thru Sun., Dec. 18, Thu.-Fri., 5-9 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 2-8 p.m., Knockdown Center, 52-19 Flushing Ave., Maspeth. Free. Info: knockdown.center.

The Oratorio Society of Queens, some of its performers seen here during their spring concert, will perform holiday favorites Sunday at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center. See Music. PHOTO BY DOMINICK TOTINO

“Found and Funky,” mixed-media works made of found objects and paying homage to the jazz term for an art piece achieving its highest form. Thru Sat., April 8; opening reception Thu., Dec. 15, 6 p.m., Materials for the Arts, 33-00 Northern Blvd., 3rd floor, Long Island City. Free. Info: (718) 729-2007, mfta.org. Kelly Franké drawings, with works by the Astoria artist and Long Island native featuring Queens, NYC and LI, on display and for sale. Thru May, QED, 27-16 23 Road, Astoria. Free. Info: (347) 451-3873, qedastoria.com.

“Language as Representation,” with visual artworks examining the value and meaning of words, which appear in all the pieces. Thru Mon., Jan. 30, Fisher Landau Center for Art, 38-27 30 St., Long Island City. Free. Info: (718) 937-0727, flcart.org.

DANCE

“Toys & Games from the Attic and Beyond,” with more than 150 items including Queens-born Mr. Machine, Hess trucks, Lionel trains, Beanie Babies and more, with info on their histories. Tue., Sat., Sun., 2:30-4:30 p.m. or by appointment, thru June, Queens Historical Society, 143-35 37 Ave., Flushing. $5; $3 seniors, students; under 12 free. Info: (718) 939-0647, queenshistoricalsociety.org. “Martin Scorsese,” on the iconic New Yorker and director’s intertwined career and life, with production material, childhood artifacts, behind-thescenes images, film retrospective and more. Thru Apr. 23, 2017, Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 Ave., Astoria. $15; $11 seniors, students; $7 kids 3-17. Info: (718) 777-6888, movingimage.us.

Festival of Lights, with four poets and music celebrating the winter solstice, “as the seasons turn — from darkness to light,” with reception afterward. Sun., Dec. 18, 2 p.m., Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38 Ave., Flushing. $5. Info: (718) 359-6227, vomuseum.org. Winter Bazaar, with free performances, food, drinks, gifts to buy and more. Fri., Dec. 16, 5-8 p.m., Salvatore LaRussa Dance Theatre-The Academy, 66-85 73 Place, Middle Village. Free. Info: (347) 263-7538. Bayside Hills Civic Assn. Holiday Festival, with Christmas tree and menorah lighting, music, refreshments and more. Sun., Dec. 18, 5 p.m., Bell Blvd. and 53 Ave. mall. Free. Info: facebook. com/BaysideHills.

“Q100: photographing the city bus to Riker’s Island,” highlighting the loved ones of people detained in the city jail. Thru Sun., Jan. 15. Qns Collective, 36-27 36 St., Long Island City. Free. Info: queenscouncilarts.org. “GingerBread Lane,” the 2013-15 world record holder for largest gingerbread village, with edible, homemade houses by chef Jon Lovitch. Thru Sun., Jan. 15; with gingerbread house-building workshops Dec. 17, 28, 29, 1 and 3 p.m., New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111 St., Corona. Free with admission; workshops $10 per kit. Info: (718) 699-0005, nysci.org.

Winter Solstice Star Celebration, with professor’s lecture, stargazing and party, for adults, kids 9 and up. Attendees may bring telescope or binoculars. Sat., Dec. 17, 7 p.m., Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston. $12. Info/pre-registration (req’d): (718) 229-4000, alleypond.com.

Calpulli Community celebration, with children and adult students performing Mexican folk dances, accompanied by accordion and guitar. Sun., Dec. 18, 2 p.m., Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Blvd. $15; $12 students. Info/RSVP: (718) 463-7700, flushingtownhall.org. COURTESY PHOTO Paul Taylor Dance Co., performing “Airs,” “Lines of Loss” and “Black Tuesday” under dancemaker The New York Times called “the greatest choreographer alive.” Sat., Dec. 17, 2 and 8 p.m.; Sun., Dec. 18, 3 p.m., Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. S., Flushing Meadows Corona Park. $25-$42. Info: (718) 760-0064, queenstheatre.org.

TOURS Winter Wildlife Viewing, a walk around Willow Lake in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, led by an urban park ranger. Sat., Dec. 10, 9-10:30 a.m., meeting at Albert Mauro Playground, Park Drive E. and 73 Terrace. Free. Info: (718) 352-1769, on.nyc.gov/2gR1tWj.

Kite Score Flying Performance, with artist Dylan Gauthier exploring the aesthetic, conceptual and transcendent aspects of flight, invention and collaboration. Sat., Dec. 17, Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City. Free. Info: (718) 956-1819, socratessculpturepark.org. Beacon of Peace Wonderland, with Santa and friends visiting the nonprofit. Fri.-Sat., Dec. 23-24, 3-approx. 7 p.m. (depending on turnout), 97-05 109 St., Ozone Park. $10 donation for photo with him and gift. Info: (347) 557-5457, bop.beaconofpeace@gmail.com. Meet Sarah Claus, Old St. Nick’s “spiritual relative,” who’s from Mongolia and speaks both English and Mandarin, to get photos with her and enjoy treats from Rockaway-based Madelaine Chocolate Co. Sat., Dec. 17, 12-2 p.m., Made in Queens, 27-24 Queens Plaza S., Long Island City. Free. Info: (718) 606-6365, madeinqueens.nyc. COURTESY PHOTO continued on page 42

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

C M SQ page 39 Y K Page 39 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Join a tightknit group qboro contributor

A knitting and crochet club called Hooks and Needles is eager to welcome you indoors for knitting, crocheting, friendship and service as the cold, dark Queens evenings set in. “This is a community effort,” said Lorraine McAndrews, a group member who has been recruiting new ones. Prospective participants can join in on Mondays between 1 and 4 p.m., when there’s a $2 materials charge, Thursdays from 6:30 until 9 p.m., when there is no charge, or both days. The magic happens in a community room at the NORC, or naturally occurring retire-

Hooks & Needles When: Each Mon., 1-4 p.m.; each Thurs., 6:30-9 p.m. Where: Big Six Shopping Center, 60-10 Queens Blvd., Woodside Entry: $2 Mon.; free Thurs. (917) 817-4037

ment community, run by the nonprofit SelfHelp.org in the Big Six Shopping Center, at 60-10 Queens Blvd. in Woodside. The center is part of the Mitchell-Lama Big Six Towers Cooperative Housing Complex. The curious can check out the group’s work at a flea market the shopping center recently began holding on weekends from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. The original Monday group, as far as members recall, was started at least a decade ago by a social worker affiliated with Big Six’s NORC, and is for residents of that community 60 and over. The idea was to knit hats for donation to premature babies. “When we first started this whole thing, we did the hats and then we did the squares,” said Rose Soave. Crocheted squares were sewn together into blankets, and those were raffled off to raise money for yarn to be used in additional projects. The Thursday group is the newer one, and is open to anyone. It was part of an effort to attract nonretired members, as McAndrews explains with a sense of humor. “We were wishing we could have some younger people. We were tired of going to funerals,” she said.

Chriss Lutz, left, Pat Hunter, Lorraine McAndrews and Rose Soave model some of their PHOTO BY VICTORIA ZUNITCH club’s creations and welcome you to join them. Members create both service projects and personal ones for friends, family and self. At a recent Thursday meeting, members worked on red, white and blue blankets created for veterans receiving home hospice care. The Visiting Nurse Service provides the yarn and then distributes the blankets. They are meant both for use by the vet and to be kept as a remembrance for family members after the death of their loved one.

Recent projects have included preemie hats for the Mother Cabrini Mission Foundation and wheelchair accessories for the Queens Extended Care Facility, such as lap blankets and bags to hold personal items such as eyeglasses and pens. Hooks and Needles members coach each other, but newbies are directed to YouTube videos to get started. However, the more continued on page 43

Come Bring in your New Year’s Eve Mardi Gras style with Villa Russo!

Hosted in our Palace room from 7:30 pm to 1:00 am

Hosted in our Grotto room from 8:30 pm to 2:00 am

$125 Complete price for Adults

$85 Complete price for Adults

$62.50 children ages 2-12

$42.50 children ages 2-12

5½ Hour package includes:

• A Full 11 Item Cocktail Hour • Appetizer and Pasta course • Delicious 6 Choice Dinner Selection • Champagne Toast at Midnight • Top Shelf Open Bar, Wine, Draft Beer

• Unlimited Soft Drinks, Coffee, Espresso, Cappuccino • Full Venetian Hour • Party Favors • Live DJ with Television Screens • Valet Parking • And Much, Much More!!!

• Salad and Pasta course • Delicious 9 Choice Buffet Feast • Champagne Toast at Midnight • Top Shelf Open Bar, Wine, Draft Beer

Book Your Reservation Today - Call our Banquet office at

FREE

Valet Parking

• Unlimited Soft Drinks, Coffee, Espresso, Cappuccino • Plated Desserts • Party Favors • Live DJ with Television Screens • Valet Parking • And Much, Much More!!!

718-849-0990

Visit our website: Villarussocatering.com

101-12 Lefferts Blvd., Richmond Hill

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Bring in your New Year’s Eve at a Black & White Ball at Villa Russo!

by Victoria Zunitch

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 40

C M SQ page 40 Y K

The Hellgate Bridge, shown under construction in 1915, and the Sunyside Yards were key links in the Pennsylvania Railroad’s gargantuan plans to establish its New York Extension. PHOTO, ABOVE, COURTESY LIBRARY OF CONGRESS / ARCADIA PUBLISHING

The Pennsylvania RR comes to Queens by Michael Gannon qboro contributor

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Get the help you need to pay heating bills this winter. You may qualify for help paying your home heating costs – even if you rent. The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) offers grants on a ﬁrst-come, ﬁrst-served basis to those who truly need help. For more information, please call NYC Human Resources Administration at 1-800-692-0557. If you are not eligible for HEAP, National Grid can help with other ways to manage your bills. Visit www.nationalgridus.com or call 1-718-643-4050.

Connect with us on NATG-070812

Railroads and railroad history run long and deep throughout Queens. They also are in the blood of David Morrison, a Long Island resident whose book “Sunnyside Yard and Hellgate Bridge” came out on Monday. “I’m a retired branch line manager for the Long Island Rail Road — 25 years,” Morrison said in a telephone interview with the Chronicle. The work is his fourth book combining photographs — some going back to the 1880s — of the people, sites, landmarks and locomotives that graced the borough, and in some cases still do. His publishers first asked for a work on the Sunnyside Yards alone, with the Hellgate added at Morrison’s request when he was unsure if he had enough material on Sunnyside alone to start a full book. “It turns out I did, but I still put in a chapter about the Hellgate, because they are interrelated,” he said. “They were both parts of the massive plans by the Pennsylvania Railroad to create a New York Extension, the first of which was Penn Station.” The undertaking was an ambitious one, according to Morrison in his forward. It required construction of Penn Station in Manhattan, which preservationists want to rebuild after the original was torn down in the 1960s; two tunnels under the Hudson River and four under the East River; obtaining a passenger car yard (Sunnyside) that was

two miles long and 1,500 feet wide; and linking it all to New England via the Hellgate, a steel arch bridge with four tracks running across a deck 350 feet above the East River. Morrison already had a huge head start on gathering content. “I have six shoeboxes of old 4-by5-inch negatives from Fred J. Weber, who was a professional photographer used by the LIRR for years,” he said. Morrison also owns old postcards, timetables, tickets and other memorabilia, including a copy of just about every edition of the “Long Island Rail Roader,” a company magazine begun in the 1930s and continues to be published today as “Along the Tracks.” John Turkeli, a friend with a massive private collection of material on the Pennsylvania Railroad, provided the photos used in the chapter on the Sunnyside Yards. Morrison, who will be promoting the book in numerous appearances beginning this month, said his writing process from start to finish takes about one year. The toughest part generally is deciding what has to be relegated to the cutting room floor. “And each time, you finish with the book, it’s all done and off to the publisher, and you come across something saying “I wish I had put that in!’” Train lovers, history buffs and those buying holiday gifts for them can pick up “Sunnyside Yard and Hellgate” for $21.99 both locally in stores and online Q at arcadiapublishing.com.

C M SQ page 41 j YK

continued from page 37

‘A Christmas Carol’ When: Through Dec. 22, varying times Where: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Ave. South, Flushing Meadows Corona Park Tickets: $18. (347) 738-5602, titantheatrecompany.com

A La Carte Seating for New Year’s Eve

Michael Selkirk, as Scrooge, is confronted by Brad Makarowski, as Marley. On the cover: Selkirk is joined by Kate Semmens, as The Ghost of Christmas Past. PHOTOS BY MICHAEL DEKKER is perhaps overly familiar, from its countless film and stage incarnations, this production is definitely well worth seeing. And

“2017”

PIZZERIA & RESTAURANT

Ring in the New Year with us

“A Howard Beach Landmark Since 1970”

...Still Still The Th Best” B t”

For complete details contact: Mike or Anthony at

MATTEO’S HOWARD BEACH Have Your phone: (718) 322-2606 Party 155-10 Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach Holiday 1 at www.MatteosHowardBeach.com info@MatteosHowardBeach.com

Matteo’s

GREAT IDEA FOR YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY:

MANY HOLIDAY PACKAGES

3 Foot - 6 Foot Heros Choice of Italian, American or Chicken Cutlet

(On or Off Premises)

10% OFF 15% OFF All Catering Packages

All Catering Packages

$100 or more With this coupon. Expires 12/31/16.

$200 or more With this coupon. Expires 12/31/16.

164-02 Crossbay Blvd., Howard Beach

718-738-3500 Fax: 718-738-3801 WE DELIVER 11 AM - 11 PM

Visit Our Website at www.Lennyspizza.com Ample Free Parking

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Ask Us About Our Seafood Platters and Italian Specialty Trays To Complement Your Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Table

Saturday, December 31st • 8 p.m. ’till... Enjoy our all-inclusive package: • Five-Course Meal • Open Bar • DJ • Noise Makers • Hats • Horns • Champagne Toast at Midnight $165 per person includes tax and gratuities Reserve Your Table Now!

Join Us for CHRISTMAS EVE

its brevity makes it an ideal introduction to Dickens’ tale for youngsters who have yet Q to have the pleasure.

LENP-070925

Charles Dickens at 30 in 1842, one year before “A Christmas Carol” was pubFRANCIS ALEXANDER VIA WIKIPEDIA lished.

Several scenes are particularly wellplayed, including two heartbreakers: the moment when Belle (an effectively emotional Erika Toderic), a woman who loved Scrooge in their youth, realizes he is not the man she hoped he would be; and the always-touching scene over the grave of young Tiny Tim. Physically, the production is gorgeous. The actors are bedecked in a wide array of beautifully imagined costumes, credited to costume associate Lorraine Smyth and her assistant Grae Greer. Scenic designer Michael Sabourin has conceived a look that is not only appropriate but easily adaptable to the story’s various locales. And the lighting designer, Katy Atwell, applied the finishing atmospheric touches to a show that completely immerses its audiences. While not a full-out musical, this rendering offers multiple delights for the ears as well, with fine choral singing under music director Jestin Pieper, and simple but elegant movement devised by Frye, the show’s choreographer. While the story of Scrooge and company

Page 41 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

From ghosts to goose, Scrooge’s tale lovingly told

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 42

C M SQ page 42 Y K

boro continued from page 38

KIDS/TEENS Teen Happy Hour, to chill with friends and play board, card games or the library’s Nintendo Wii U or X Box 360. Each Fri. thru Dec. 30, 4-6 p.m., Flushing Library, 41-17 Main St. Free. Info: (718) 661-1200, queenslibrary.org. Friday Kids Club, with board games, knitting, arts and crafts, Legos and more, for kids 5-12 and parents, grandparents, other caregivers. Every Fri. thru Dec. 30, 3-4:30 p.m., Glen Oaks Library, 256-04 Union Tpke. Free. Info: (718) 831-8636, queenslibrary.org. Chess club, learning the basics and improving one’s game, for ages 8 and up. Every Sat., 2 p.m., Flushing Library, 41-17 Main St. Info: (718) 661-1200. Kindershul, interactive program for children ages 2 to kindergarten and parents. Every Sat., 10:30 a.m., Hillcrest Jewish Center Library, 18302 Union Tpke. Info: (718) 380-4145.

FLEA MARKETS

LOIO-070877 QC

Light Up Your Holidays! LIMITED ENGAGEMENT Nov. 22 - Jan. 8

For the latest news visit qchron.com

DAN IC & S U CE W M G NE XPERIEN N I Y E TRIF IVE ELEC TERACT E H T IN

Holiday Food & Craft Market, with handmade items, honey, craft beer and more. Sun., Dec. 18, 1-6 p.m., Finback Brewery, 78-01 77 Ave., Glendale. Free. Info: (718) 366-6085. Warming Up Winter Holiday Market, with art, crafts, clothing, jewelry, food and more, by local vendors, artists and artisans. Sun., Dec. 18, 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Queens Museum, Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Free. Info: (718) 592-9700, queensmuseum.org.

PS/IS 49 Holiday Vendor Market, with gifts, food, raffles and more. Sat., Dec. 17, 11 a.m.-3 p.m., 63-60 80 St., Middle Village. Info: (718) 326-2111. Richmond Hill, 117-09 Hillside Ave., every Sun., 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Largest flea market in Queens. Info: (347) 709-7661, richmondhillfleamarket.com.

“BEST NEW ACT IN AMERICA! SUPERB, SENSATIONAL!”

SUPPORT GROUPS

$ P H U L F D ·V * R W 7D O H Q W

Overeaters Anonymous, for people who want to lose weight or have any eating disorder. Every Tue., 7:30-9 p.m., Holy Child Jesus Outreach Center, 112-06 86 Ave., Richmond Hill; every Thu., 12:15-1:40 p.m., Rego Park Library, 91-41 63 Ave. Info: (718) 564-7027 (Richmond Hill); (718) 8964756, (718) 459-5140 (Rego Park).

“SPECTACULAR! MAGICAL! DAZZLING!” - N Y Ti m e s

;LSLJOHYNL JVT ࠮

iLuminate.com New World Stages • 340 W 50th St.

Krampus Holiday Fair, a whimsical market and “fine alternative to the hyper cheerful elf and Santa set,” inspired by Bavarian tradition and mythical demon-goat creature, with gifts, drinks and more, by the Rock Paper Scissors Collective. Sat., Dec. 17, 4-8 p.m., The Cobra Club, 6 Wyckoff Ave., Brooklyn (steps from Ridgewood). Info: facebook.com/RockPaperScissorNYC.

FUN FOR ALL AGES! LEES-070914

Gam-Anon is a 12-step program for families of someone with a gambling problem. Call hot line (212) 606-8177.

Bereavement groups for assistance dealing with loss and the process towards healing, with others experiencing similar situations. Central Queens YM & YWHA, 67-09 108 St., Forest Hills. Registration req’d. Info: (718) 268-5011, ext. 160, olderadults@cgy.org. Alcoholics Anonymous, daily meetings around Queens for those with a drinking problem. Info: (718) 520-5021, queensaa.org.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES Howard Beach Senior Center, 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd., across from Stop & Shop. Basic beginner computer classes every Fri., 10:30 a.m. Adult coloring classes, every Wed., 10:30-11:30 a.m. Karaoke, every Fri., 1 p.m. New craft class, every Fri., 10-11:30 a.m. All seniors invited to join in the fun. Open 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Lunch served at 12 p.m. Info: (718) 738-8100. Della Monica-Steinway Senior Center. Serving adults 60 and over. 23-56 Broadway, Astoria. Exercise classes daily, 10 a.m. Social dancing every Mon. and Thu., 1 p.m. Daily lunch served 11:45 a.m. Info: (718) 626-1500. The Gold Senior Center at Hillcrest Jewish Center, 183-02 Union Tpke., Flushing, every Wed., 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Cultural and recreational programs, socialization. $3 suggested contribution. Contact: Gloria Davidson (201) 264-9515 Maspeth Senior Center, 6961 Grand Ave. Free English classes for Chinese speakers, computer instruction, Silver Sneakers, tai chi, yoga and more; breakfast and lunch served. Info: (718) 429-3636. SNAP of Eastern Queens Innovative Senior Center for adults 60+. 80-45 Winchester Blvd., Queens Village. Classes — Exercise every Mon.: advanced, 11 a.m.; beginners, 1 p.m. Every Tue.: magic and ABC computer class, 10 a.m. Every Wed.: armchair yoga, 9 a.m.; Zumba gold, 10 a.m. Every Thu.: creative writing, 11 a.m.; painting, 1 p.m. Every Fri.: fall prevention, 10 a.m.; women’s discussion group, 11 a.m. Info: (718) 454-2100. Pomonok Senior Center, 67-09 Kissena Blvd., is proud to offer the following programs, available to anyone 60+. Zumba for both beginners and continuing students, Tues., 9:30 a.m.; aerobics by Shape Up NYC, for anyone 18+, Fridays at 11 a.m.; Dear Abby discussion group, Thurs., 11 a.m.; movie screenings, Wed., 1 p.m. Info: (718) 5913377, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Bayside Senior Center, 221-Horace Harding Expwy. Trained Medicare specialist available every Wed., 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., must call for app’t. Other activities incude: chair yoga, Tue. and Fri., 9 a.m.; senior singalong, Tues., 12:30 p.m. Open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. English and Chinese spoken. Info: (718) 225-1144. The YIQV Senior Center, with tai chi, yoga, pilates and low-impact exercise and educational programs. Open Mon.-Fri., 141-55 77 Ave., Flushing. Info: (718) 263-6995.

C M SQ page 43 Y K

ACROSS 1 More, to Manuel 4 Humorous one 7 St. consisting of two peninsulas 8 Infants 10 Raccoon relative 11 Expiated 13 Executive, often 16 Island garland 17 Mill input 18 Pair 19 Sorts 20 Huffed and puffed 21 Many Christmas trees 23 Portobello alternative 25 Actor Gregory 26 Volcanic outflow 27 Exist 28 Persistent attack 30 Bashful 33 Cabal member 36 Mexican entree 37 Neighborhoods 38 Rind-removing tool 39 Taleteller 40 Trawler need 41 Young fellow

DOWN 1 Florida city 2 Start of a play 3 Roof component

WOK & GRILL SINCE 1978

DANNY’S SZECHUAN GARDEN Treat your loved ones to THE BEST Food & Fun for the Holidays

★ MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS EARLY – LIMITED SEATING ★

NEW YEAR’S EVE DINNER Saturday, Dec. 31st, 2016

4 Bulb measures 5 End abruptly, NASA-style 6 Actress Rowlands 7 Fashion 8 Foundation 9 Put down roots 10 Western st. 12 Wooden peg 14 Annoys

Hooks & Needles

26 Shunned one 28 Trap 29 Archipelago component 30 Lieu 31 Frost 32 Decade parts (Abbr.) 34 Muscat’s land 35 Met melody

New Year’s Eve DINNER Saturday, December, 31st, 2016 9:00 pm to 12:30 am

Answers below

States most of her life. At Hooks and Needles, Lutz started crocheting and sending her handcrafted gifts back to a family caring for her brother and the old family home in Ireland. The conversation and camaraderie are just as important as the creative work. Club members often eat dinner together after the Monday meetings or take local excursions, such as a recent visit to a fabric fair in Brooklyn. A few members at a recent meeting mused about the possibility of getting together for a trip to the Queens Zoo or to the Queens County Farm, which sells yarn Q made from its sheep’s wool.

OUR POPULAR

per person Plus Tax and Gratuity

GIFT CERTIFICATE

Children Under 10 $25.00 Per Child

• Choice of Hibachi Table or Chinese Dining • From Soup to Dessert the Best in the House • Two Standard Cocktails or Beer or Wine • Unlimited Soda • Champagne Toast, Party Favors

A GREAT GIFT IDEA!

Crossword Answers

RESERVE NOW!

QUALITY TAKE OUT FREE HOME DELIVERY (IN THE LOCAL AREA)

156-40B CROSSBAY BLVD. • HOWARD BEACH

718 738-6500 Experienced hands at work on a project. PHOTO BY VICTORIA ZUNITCH

AMPLE PARKING AT

REAR PARKING LOT

For the latest news visit qchron.com

continued from page 39 experienced members are eager to help and are ready, willing and able to assist anyone who ties a project up in knots. Most Hooks and Needles members crochet blankets. But Pat Hunter is an exception. “I taught myself to knit,” Hunter said. “It looks completely different.” Crocheting creates a looser material, whereas knitting pulls the yarn closer together. “I used to knit in childhood. Long time ago,” said Chriss Lutz, who grew up on a farm in Ireland but has lived in the United

15 Ply oars 19 Squid squirt 20 Underwear with underwire 21 1990s presidential candidate 22 Polar feature 23 Creche trio 24 Generally 25 Campaign fundraising grp.

Page 43 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

boro King Crossword Puzzle

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 44

C M SQ page 44 Y K

✻ RND ✻ APPLIANCE SERVICE 718-845-4378 • 718-279-4246 718-956-4880-82 Ask for Senior $10.00 Frank Citizens’ Coupon NO SERVICE Discount with this ad CHARGE WITH REPAIRS

EXPERIENCED REPAIRS ON: Stoves/Refrigerators/Washing Machines/ Dryers/Dish Washers

Classical Custom

CLASSICAL IRON WORKS, INC.

FREE ESTIMATES 833

Since 1980

718-528-2401

www.classicaliron.com

Lic. #1069538

FREE ESTIMATES

Licensed & Insured

WE SERVICE YOUR COMMUNITY

718-641-4164 • 516-244-3799

New Floors Sanding/Installs Stain & Refinish Old Floors FREE ESTIMATES

718-830-7197 Cell: 917-714-8825

All Work Guaranteed Lic. & Insured Lic. #113420104

★

J&F FLOOR SPECIALIST ★ ★ Expert Workmanship ★ ★ Professional Service ★ Sanding • Refinishing Polyurethane • Staining Bleaching • Pickling Moisture Cure PAINTING INSURED FREE ESTIMATES

718-361-1873

15 For the latest news visit qchron.com

OFF*

On All Roofs With This Ad

20% OFF with this ad

CONCRETE EXPERTS

• • • •

Emergency Service 24/7 Bonded with BBB & Fully Insured

Lic. #1197433

Licensed & Insured Free Estimates

FREE ESTIMATES

IMPERIAL APPLIANCE REPAIR

Carpentry Specialists

All Work Guaranteed

718-440-4673

We Remove Old Furniture, Household Items, Appliances, Yard Waste, Construction Debris And More.

FREE ESTIMATES

Neat, Clean, Dependable Quality Paint Job at an Affordable Price done by 6 someone you can Trust 100 % Satisfaction - Lic./Ins. Free Estimate 917-733-1489 cbpaintpro.com

STEVE TSIMIS PAINTING AND CARPENTRY Moldings • Drywall • Painting Int/Ext Specializing in Plaster Work & Skim Coating Door & Window Replacement 50 LICENSED & INSURED

(516) 270-6195 Office (914) 721-0705 Cell

We Remove Your Junk, So You Don’t Have To!

718-218-5347

• Roofing • Seamless 5 & 6 Inch Gutters & Leaders • Windows • Skylights • Brick • Stucco & Vinyl Siding • Concrete • Kitchens & Baths • Basements 7 • Extensions • Dormers • Sheetrock

Owner Operated

FREE ESTIMATES Domestic & Commercial All Makes & Models

Same Day Service

Licensed/Insured

Call 917-755-2507

917-731-8365 718-849-6400

Cell: Office:

HOME IMPROVEMENT Handyman Services

10% OFF FINAL BILL with ad

220V Service Upgrades Complete Rewiring Ceiling Fans Air Conditioner Lines Indoor/Outdoor Lighting

917-731-1723

ROADSTONE CONTRACTING

• Refrigerators • Ovens • Cooktops • Washers - Dryers • Air Conditioners • Dishwashers

24 HR. EMERGENCY SERVICE

Cell:

Big or Smal

VIOLATIONS REMOVED

Appliance Repair & Installations

FREE ESTIMATES

RE-NEW CONSTRUCTION COMPANY, INC. No Job Too

NYC LIC. #1191201 *Reg. price quoted Lic. # 0859173

Residential/Commercial • Lighting, Heat, Power, 220 Upgrades, A/C Lines, Bells and Intercom • Violations Removed NO JOB TOO BIG OR SMALL!

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

WWW.NEWHEIGHTSCONSTRUCTIONLLC.COM

All Work Guaranteed • Se Habla Español

J.H. ELECTRIC

Est. 1938

Driveways Stoops/Patios Retaining Walls Cleanouts

1-800-525-5102 • 718-767-0044

LOW PRICES • FREE ESTIMATES 24 Hours A Day • 7 Days A Week Call Leon 718-296-6525 • 917 577-7609

FREE ESTIMATES

• • • •

FALL SPECIALS ON WINDOWS FALL SPECIAL On Seamless Gutters

• Gutters Cleaned & Installed • Leaders • Skylights • Specialists in Flat Roofs & Shingles • Roofing Repairs • Rubberoid Roofs

• • • • •

Sidewalks Blacktop Waterproofing Basements

Siding • Windows • Rooﬁng • Fences Kitchens • Baths • Basements • Decks Doors • Awnings Brick Pointing • Concrete Stucco

ROOFING & SIDING

LICENSED ELECTRICIANS

www.metrocementinc.com

Low Prices!

Fully Insured • Free Estimates Call Anthony 347-226-0202

718-763-8796

Call Any Time

NEW HEIGHTS CONSTRUCTION LLC

ALEXIS

J.S.V. ELECTRIC Inc.

718-558-0333 917-731-7636

WINTER SPECIALS ON PAINTING Interior & Exterior - Over 30 Years of Experience BASEMENTS • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS • New Tile Installation • Sheetrock • Water Damage Repairs • Tile Repair • Taping & Plasterwork • Wood Floors • Painting • Doors • Waterproofing • Wallpaper Removal • Skim Coating • Carpentry Specialist • Moldings/Windows 50 ALL WORK GUARANTEED!

917-560-8146

718-318-1442 516-342-0954

RAINBOW ELECTRIC Residential - Commercial Wiring for Light-Heat-Power Violations Removed-220 Service Install Ceiling Fans Lighting Fixtures - Switches FREE ESTIMATES Licensed and Insured

FREE ESTIMATES

HANDYMAN

• • • •

• • • • •

Lic. #1335180

Lic. #1078969 Credit Cards Accepted

Lic. #1311321

www.jmcleanouts.com NYCBIC #489952

METRO CEMENT

PAINTERS & TILES R US

INSURED

Lic. #1398018 & 1310043

Tommy’s WOOD FLOORS

✁

Specializing In: • Driveways • Sidewalks • Brick & Blockwork • Foundation & Excavation • Certified Cambridge Paver Installer All Types of Concrete

Reasonable Prices - Free Estimates No Job Too Big or Too Small 1

Cell: 646-262-0153

Are you thinking about renovating or remodeling your home or business place? Your home is your single largest investment! We have the experience and knowledge regarding ALL types of home and business improvements. New Construction, Remodeling, Extensions, Alterations, Additions, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Roofing, Tiling

LICENSED

• Window & Door Replacement

AFFORDABLE PRICES FREE ESTIMATES

GARY RYAN HOME SPECIALIST, INC.

FREE ESTIMATES

718-496-2572

Carpentry, Sheetrock, Framing, Windows, Siding, Painting, Bathrooms, Kitchens, Finished Basements, Tiling, Plumbing, Wood Floors

Kitchens Bathrooms Carpentry Painting

Fast, Clean, Reliable & Affordable Service

Member of the Better Business Bureau

• • • •

Ask For Stela

FULLY INSURED

NO JOB TOO SMALL 3

HOME IMPROVEMENT HANDYMAN SERVICES

347-531-5159

718-827-8175

Removal of Garbage - Debris Unwanted Furniture/Appliances

SAVE $20.00 with this ad

W&U Construction Inc. To Place A Service Ad Call 718-205-8000

• Flat & Shingle Roofs • Gutters & Leaders Cleaned and Installed • Slate Repairs • All types of Windows

Call Russo Electric Honest & Reliable Your Neighborhood Electrician Since 1946

Free Estimates Since 1980

H.I.C. #0937014

FERRARO ROOFING

3rd Generation 220V Services, Outlets, Security Lights, Fixtures, Etc.

Lic. #1069538

J&M CLEANOUTS

ELECTRICIAN

• Aluminum • Plastic • Fabric

• Vinyl Fences • Awnings • Stainless Steel

• Gates • Fences • Railings • Window Guards

✁

Licensed

AWNINGS

PERFECTIONIST PAINTING Looking to Spruce Up the house for the Holidays? Licensed & Insured

Then call Daniel to receive your FREE ESTIMATE

• Painting • Plastering • Concrete Work • Carpentry • Crown Moldings • Hardwood Floors • Basements

Licensed & Insured Reasonable Rates - Free Estimates

718-426-2977 646-244-1658

MAINTENANCE & REPAIRS

Specializing in: • Kitchens • Bathrooms • Doors • Painting • Tiling • Windows • Plumbing • Cleanouts • Electrical • Power Washing • Basements 51 INSURED FREE ESTIMATES Frank 917-770-4510 Your Ad In

9 Newspapers For The Price Of One.

190

5 Weeks 52

ALL PRO HOME IMPROVEMENT GROUP INC.

(718) 974-8904 7

• Kitchens • Bathrooms • Plumbing • Electrical • Ceramic Tile • Sheetrock

C M SQ page 45 Y K

All Leaks on Pipes, Faucets, Toilets, Shower Bodies, Radiator Valves, Clear Stoppages in Sinks, Tubs, Also Install Hot Water Heaters Free Estimates Cheap Rates Ask for Bob

We will Not be Undersold! • • • •

Roofing • Siding Windows • Cement Work Basements & Bathrooms Violations Removed Lic. and Insured

718-598-9754

Lic. #1244131

718-968-5987

BIG JOE’S HOME IMPROVEMENT Commercial and Residential • • • •

Siding Roofing/Rips Gutters Slate, Etc.

• • • •

Painting Plastering Taping, Etc. Sheetrock

• Kitchens & Bathrooms

Celebrating Our 35 th Anniversary

SPECIALIZING IN: - VINYL SIDING - CUSTOM WINDOWS - ROOFING - DOORS - SEAMLESS GUTTERS - AWNINGS - GARAGE Call For FREE Estimates DOORS or Visit Our Showroom

FOR ALL OF YOUR PAINTING NEEDS

No Job Too Big or Too Small 14 Free Estimates 718-600-6290 Licensed & Insured

Weber Home Improvement

• WINDOWS • DOORS • STORM DOORS

• • • • • • • • • •

Interior/Exterior Painting Residential/Commercial Fully Licensed & Bonded

All Work Proudly Guaranteed www.webercarpentry.com

Call Martin

347-387-1604

Nassau Lic. #H0421840000

Center Post Removed • Openings Widened

Insulated Garage Doors

HUGE CLEARANCE SALE • Storm Doors • Security Doors • Maintenance Free Doors

VICKAR FLOOR SERVICE

Sales & Service For All Major Brands Wholesale & Retail

WOOD FLOORS SPECIALIST

BROKEN SPRINGS, DOORS, CABLES

• Hardwood Floors Installation • Refinishing • Repairs • Staining FREE ESTIMATES

Authorized Distributors & Installers For:

$25.00

MODERN DUSTLESS MACHINES

718-803-1348

718-323-9797

1-800-599-1150 www.jbhomeimprovementsinc.com

• Steel • Entrance Doors • Wood • Gate Operators • Raised Panels • Parking Systems

Corlough76@gmail.com

NYC Lic. #2011058 L.I. Lic. #H18D2240000

GARAGE DOORS Complete Framing Available • Garages Extended

PAINTING

Kitchens Bathrooms Garage Doors Skylights Decks Sheetrock Flooring Basements Drop Ceilings And Much More

FREE ESTIMATES

Wall Restoration Specialist HOLIDAY SPECIAL 10% OFF with this ad 50 Free Estimates 516-965-7582

Cavan House

– SINCE 1995 –

NYC Lic. #1001786

J&B HOME IMPROVEMENTS, INC.

Page 45 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

REPAIRS

MY WAY CONSTRUCTION

COUPON With Installation of Any New Garage Door Expires 12/31/16

PLUMBING PLUMBING

ALL KINDS OF PLUMBING WORK

• BATHROOM - Showers & Tubs • KITCHEN - Sinks • Toilets • Drains • Clogs • Water Heater Installations

ANY TYPE OF LEAK FIXED! 718-717-9976 - 347-236-7763 - 516-315-1135 LIC NYC #1474832

Nassau H0448990000

◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆ ◆

Store Fronts & Curtain Walls Glass Partitions & Shower Doors Windows & Doors Glass Conservatory Glass & Mirror Products Skylights FREE Any Glazing Jobs Estimates

The professionals on these pages can help maintain your home.

PARTS • REPAIRS • REMOTE CONTROLS FREE SHOP AT HOME SERVICE

CASSEL & FREYMUTH, INC. Serving Queens For Over 50 Years

RO O F I N G CONTR ACTOR Fully Licensed & Insured HIC Lic #1443031

718-205-8000 qchron.com

20% OFF W/AD Senior Discounts

SERVING ALL OF QUEENS, NY – FR EE ESTIMATES –

and ONLINE To advertise, call today

J. Johnston

917- 4 07-1 1 41 71 8 -71 3 - 8020

THE QUEENS CHRONICLE Gets Read. Gets Remembered. Gets Results!

Fully Licensed & Insured

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL ELECTRIC GARAGE DOOR OPENERS

347.536.4466 info@alstrogroup.com www.alstrogroup.com

IN PRINT

718-739-8006

JJOHNSTONROOFINGANDPAINTING.COM To advertise, call today

718-205-8000

• All Types of New Roofs • Roof Repairs • Roof Sealing • Firestone Rubber FIND US ON:

• Seamless Gutters • GAF Asphalt Shingles • Brick Sealing

• Chimney Caps • Waterproofing • Leaf Guards/ Pest Guards 51

For the latest news visit qchron.com

ALSTRO GROUP ◆

TIME TO REMODEL?

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 46

C M SQ page 46 Y K To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Help Wanted

Cars Wanted

Legal Notices

ESTABLISHED TRANSPORTATION COMPANY LOCATED IN QUEENS, NY IS SEEKING AN INDIVIDUAL W/5 TO 10 YRS EXPERIENCE IN PAYROLL OPERATIONS. Qualified applicants must have experience processing electronic/computerized time & attendance & payroll, detail oriented & possess the ability to work in a fast paced environment. Must be able to handle confidential information w/ discretion at all times & work well with others. Responsibilities include assisting in the processing of non-exempt payroll weekly, generating & calculating union remittances, supporting 3rd party payroll audits & other ad hoc projects as requested. Proficiency in Excel a must & attention to detail & accuracy are imperative. Competitive salary commensurate w/your experience.

Apply by email to: HRbusnyc@gmail.com

WAREHOUSE/ ORDER PICKER (Jamaica)

OFFICE HELP For Order Taking, Phones, Light Data, Commission, Entry. Will Train! $720.00 Per Week, Medical, Dental, 401k. 2 Weeks Vacation, Holiday Pay. - APPLY IN PERSON -

At: CALLAHEAD CORP. 304 Crossbay Blvd. Queens, NY 11693 Monday- Friday 9AM-7:00PM

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Help Wanted

New Diner in Manhattan is looking for full-time

Experienced Waiters & Waitresses, Counterperson & Grillman Cooks for AM/PM shifts, serving breakfast, lunch & dinner. Apply in person @ East Side Diner 352 E. 23rd Street (off 1st Avenue) or call 212 533-2034

EXPERIENCED ROOFER WANTED

for Rego Park company. Experienced with all types of roofs. We cover all 5 boroughs! Please contact

Steve Moskowitz for details 917-796-4695

F/T ACCOUNTANT for Construction Comp. in Queens MBA or Equivalent req: Send resume to:

Akal Builders of NY Inc. 95 12 121st Street, Richmond Hill, NY 11419 akalbuildersgroupnyc@gmail.com

K & E AUTO BODY & COLLISION CENTER, INC. Looking for:

Detail/Polish Man Plastic/Combo Man Heavy Frame Man Assembly Man Minimum 3 years experience required in the auto body field. – APPLY IN PERSON AT–

111-12 101st STREET RICHMOND HILL, NY 11419

Looking for an experienced warehouse worker / order picker. Package and ship orders accurately. Organize and maintain warehouse inventory, and cleanliness. uoading / unloading of trucks. Knowledge and experience needed for driving a forklift, using electric pallet jacks. Ability to lift boxes up to 75 lbs. Organized, neat and able to work well with others. Able to work 8-9 hour shift. Work as a Team Player. Please Email Resume: Angi@ceratile.com AIRLINE CAREERS Start HereGet trained as FAA certified Aviation Technician. Financial aid for qualified students. Job placement assistance. Call AIM for free information 866-296-7093

Merchandise Wanted LOOKING TO BUY Estates, gold, costume jewelry, old & mod furn, records, silver, coins, art, toys, oriental items. Call George, 718-386-1104 or 917-775-3048

1819 Cornelia Street LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10 / 03/16. Office location: PLEASE CALL LORI, Queens County. SSNY has been 718-324-4330. I PAY THE BEST, designated as agent of the LLC MOST HONEST PRICES FOR upon whom process against ESTATES, FURNITURE, CHANDELIERS, LAMPS, COSTUME JEW- it may be served. SSNY shall ELRY, WATCHES (WORKING OR mail a copy of process to: Bipin NOT WORKING), FURS, COINS, Mathew, 16-92 Linden Street, POCKETBOOKS, CHINA, VASES, Apartment #3, Ridgewood, GLASSWARE, STERLING SILVER- NY 11385 Purpose: For any WARE, FIGURINES, CANDLE- lawful purpose. STICKS, PAINTINGS, PRINTS, RUGS, PIANOS, GUITARS, VIOLINS, FLUTES, TAG SALES, CLEANOUTS, CARS

Moving Sales Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Sat & Sun, 9am-2pm, 156-26 86 St. Side entrance, art, collectibles, & furn, new items every week!

Services

Tutoring

Responsible, honest, reliable cleaning lady. I will clean your apt Certified Teacher will tutor in or house. I have exp. Call anytime, Math, Science, Reading & SATs, 718-460-6779 very reasonable, 718-763-6524

Adoption

Ph.D. provides Outstanding Tutoring in Math, English, Special Exams. All levels. Study skills ADOPT—Loving family hoping to grow through adoption. We taught. 718-767-0233 promise to always be loving, supportive and caring. Please call/text Annie & Mike at 315-289-6724 Donate your car to Wheels For Wishes, benefiting Make-A-Wish. We offer free towing and your donation is 100% tax deductible. REAL ESTATE Attorney. Buy/Sell/ Mortgage Problems. Attorney & Call (855) 376-9474 Real Estate Bkr, PROBATE/CRIMINAL/BUSINESS-Richard H. Lovell, P.C., 107- 48 Cross Bay Blvd, Ozone TAG SALE! Household items, furn, Park, NY 11417, 718-835-9300, antiques, clothes, records, sports LovellLawnewyork@gmail.com memorabilia & much more. MUST SEE! Call 917-402-2299

Cars Wanted

Legal Service

Merchandise For Sale

Merchandise Wanted Collectibles, CA$H BUYER, Old Comic Books 10c to 35c covers, also Guns, Gold Coins. I travel to you and Buy EVERYTHING YOU have! Call Brian 1-800-617-3551

Classified Ad Special

Pay for 3 weeks and the 4th week is FREE!

Call 718-205-8000

Notice of Formation of 41-16 49 ST LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 10/24/16. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 53-42 Metropolitan Avenue, Ridgewood, N Y 113 8 5. Purpose: any lawful activity.

616 Seagirt, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/03/16. 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: 616 Seagirt, LLC, 536 Oak Dr., Far Rockaway, NY 11691 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

79TH STREET HB, LLC Art. Of Org. Filed Sec. of State of NY 09/12/2013. Off. Loc.:Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to The LLC, 185-07 80th Drive, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

Complex Immigration Problems? We Can Help! • • • • • • •

Enter the US illegally or Crew Visa? Ordered deported or denied asylum? Criminal record affecting your immigration status? Crisis, separated or divorcing your U.S. Spouse? Problem with your 2-Year Green Card? Parent of U.S. Citizen who needs immigration relief? Approved brother, sister or parent’s petition — want your Green Card in U.S.? • Child living with single parent or guardian? • Job sponsor, students, medical professionals, entrepreneurs, business immigration, religious and non-profit immigration.

Free Consultation! Call Now!

SALIS LAW, P.C. 347.663.7699

212.810.7111

1179 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Se Habla Español • “No Approval, No Attorney Fees for DHS Cases”

Text 24 Hrs: 212-203-9202 • For Latest Immigration Issues: immigrantguide@gmail.com

C M SQ page 47 Y K To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Legal Notices

AUQUILLA, JORGE, Plaintiff TORRES, NANCY, Defendant NOTICE TO: TORRES, NANCY Return date: 01/10/2017

Malabani, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/01/16. 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: Manash Bhaduri, 90-01 185 Street, Hollis Ave, NY 11423 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Norman NY LLC, Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 09/15/16. Office Location: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 843 60th St., #A6, Brooklyn, NY 11220. Purpose: to engage in any lawful act.

Sanford Estate Mezz De, LLC, a foreign LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/29/16. 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, 112-15 Northern Blvd., #2, Corona, NY 11368. General Purpose.

Sherpa Venture Partners LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/28/16. 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: Sherpa Venture Partners LLC 2071 28th Street, Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

MLNNNYC, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/09/16. 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: c/o United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Perez & Company LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/25/16. 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, 11105 110th St., South Ozone Park, NY 11420. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

SHERPA ASSOCIATES LLC Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/01/2016 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 Sherpa Associates LLC, 2071 28th Street, Astoria, NY 11105. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

SUNNYSIDE AUTO REPAIR, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/19/16 (amended 11/17/16 ). 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: c/o United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Briggs 1671 LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 10/28/16. Office location: Queens C o u n t y. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Joseph Sultana, 21441 42 Ave., Bayside, NY 11361. General purpose.

The Court has reviewed the Motion for Order of Notice and the Complaint/Application/Motion which asks for: Divorce (dissolution of marriage). The Court finds that the current address of the party to be notified is unknown and that all reasonable efforts to find him/her have failed. The Court also finds that the last known address of the party to be notified was: 107-04 Otis Avenue, Apt. 3 Corona, NY 11368 The Court Orders that notice be given to the party to be notified by having a State Marshal or other proper officer place a legal notice in: Queens Chronicle a newspaper circulating in Corona, NY containing a true and attested copy of this Order of Notice, and, if accompanying a Complaint for divorce (dissolution of marriage), complaint for dissolution of civil union, legal separation or annulment, or if accompanying an application for custody or visitation, a statement that Automatic Court Orders have been issued in the case as required by Section 25-5 of the Connecticut Practice Book and are a part of the Complaint/ Application on file with the Court. The notice should appear before 12/29/16 and proof of service shall be filed with this Court. Assistant Clerk Robert A. Jackson 12/8/16 State of Connecticut, County of Fairfield ss: Danbury December 12, 2016. This is a true and attested copy of the original Order of Notice given to me for service by publication. Automatic Court Orders have been issued in this case as required by Sec. 25-5 of the Connecticut Practice Book and are part of the Complaint on file with the Court. ATTEST: Steven Pichiarallo Connecticut State Marshal

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

Apts. For Rent Houses For Sale Howard Beach, all new totally redone in 2016, stone front, siding, windows, roof, new kit with S/S appli, granite, 4 BR, 3 full baths, $659K. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Hamilton Beach, brand new mint, 3 BR, 2 baths, 2 stories, det, granite countertops with S/S appli. Reduced $399K. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136 Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, 60x100 lot back dormered Cape, 4 BR, 3 full baths, great location, full fin bsmnt, park-like backyard, 3 zone heat, new boiler & HW heater, deck off top fl, beautiful sunroom. Asking, $719K. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136

Howard Beach/Rockwood Park, Cape 6 rms, 3 BR, 2 baths, gorgeous all updated, extended 1st fl open floor plan, S/S appliances, Howard Beach, studio, all new. full fin bsmnt, IGP. Howard Beach A/C, own thermostat, no pets/ Realty, 718-641-6800 smoking, utils incl. $1,150/mo. 516-445-4960

Apts. For Rent

Open House

Ozone Park, renov 2 BR, garden apt, brownstone. Close to trans. Lots of closets. Heat/hot water incl. $1,600/mo. 718-850-1360 Leave detailed message.

Ozone Park, Sun 12/18, 1-3PM, 94-12 86 St. 2 family house on 50x100 lot, new kit & new bath, 2 new heaters, bsmnt, 4 car gar, won’t last! Asking $940K. C-21 Ozone Park, studio, no pets/smok- Amiable II, 718-835-4700 ing, utils incl. $1,200/mo, 1 mo Richmond Hill North, Sat 12/17, sec. Call 718-738-6124 2:00-3:30PM, 104 36 91 Ave. Woodhaven, 2 BR, 1 bath, close Attached 2 family, 3 BR, 2 full to all. $2,000/mo. Call for details. baths, lots of original charm. Mike 917-446-9834 @ Realty Asking $535K. Connexion I R E, Connect USA 718-845-1136

Room Wanted

Real Estate Misc.

URGENT NEED FOR SINGLE, UNFURNISHED RM. SHARE KIT & BATH IN QUEENS AREA. 718-986-0912

ABANDONED FARM! 26 acres— $49,900 Gorgeous acreage with views, nice pond, in a perfect country setting! Quiet town road with utilities! EZ terms! 888-905-8847

Furn. Rm. For Rent Woodhaven, (3) completely furn pvt rooms for rent, share kit & bath, use of backyard avail immed, $750—$850/mo. Owner, 347-475-9279

Co-ops For Sale Howard Beach/Lindenwood *Hi-Rise 2 BR, 1 bath Co-op w/ terr, renov. $219K *Beautiful Garden Co-op, custom island, 2 BR, 1 bath, HW fls, top fl, courtyard. $225K Garden Co-op, 2 BR, 1 bath, top fl, move-in cond, dogs ok. Asking, $229K *Garden Co-op, 2 BR, FDR, 2nd fl. $245K * One of a kind Garden Co-op, two units combined, 2 master size BR, 2 full baths, updated kit, dogs allowed, updated thruout. $263,999. Connexion I RE, 718-845-1136

LENDER ORDERED SALE! 39 acres—assessed value—$95,700 Available now for $89,900! Catskill Mountain views, woods, fields, apple trees, great hunting! 3 hrs NY City! Owner terms! 888-479-3394

Legal Notices VERNALEO LLC. Art. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 09/23/16. 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 L LC, 214-36 27th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11360. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

For the latest news visit qchron.com

FutureHub, LLC Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/03/16. 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: c/o United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228 Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

LEGAL NOTICE BY PUBLICATION is hereby given to Ahmad Bostani a/k/a Arman Rezayar Bostani a/k/a Ahmad Reza Bostani a/k/a Ahmadreza Bostani (collectively referred to as “Bostani”), pursuant to CPLR 315, of an action commenced in the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Queens, under Index No. 702988/2015, the object of which is, among other things, to recover damages against defendant Bostani in an amount of no less than $430,000.00 and expenses in an amount of no less than $7,288.01, for his role in the improper transfer of a certain piece of real property and for failure to repay a loan in a principal amount of $472,000.00 borrowed by Bostani in connection with said transfer of real property. Pursuant to its obligations under a policy of title insurance, plaintiff Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company (“Commonwealth”) paid the above sum and incurred the above expenses to quiet title to the property. Fidelity National Law Group, 105 Eisenhower Parkway, Suite 103, Roseland, New Jersey 07068, (973) 863-7017, are the attorneys for Commonwealth. You are summoned to answer the Verified Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your Answer, or if the Verified 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 (or within thirty (30) days after the service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Verified Complaint. Your Answer, Notice of Appearance, motion or other response to the Verified Complaint must be served upon the above-referenced attorneys for plaintiff and filed, with proof of service, with the Supreme Court Clerk, located at 60 Centre Street, New York, NY 10007, in the General County Clerk’s Office, Room 119. There is no filing fee for filing an Answer. However, if you decide to file a motion, a filing fee in the amount of $45.00 must be paid. If you do not file and serve a written Answer or motion within thirty (30) days of the date of publication of this notice, the Court may enter a judgment against you for the relief that plaintiff demands, plus interest and costs of suit. If judgment is entered against you, the Sheriff may seize your money, wages, property or other assets to pay all or part of the judgment. If you cannot afford an attorney and seek information about the legal process, you may call the Help Center at the Supreme Court at (646) 386-3025, or visit Room 116 at the courthouse. Commonwealth Land Title Insurance Company v. Islam, et al. Index No. 702988/2015

Alicia’s Candles LLC Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 9/7/16. Off. Loc.: Queens Co. SSNY desig. as agt. upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 23-20 36th St #3F, Astoria, NY 11105. General Purposes.

To Advertise Call 718-205-8000

Page 47 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

STATE OF CONNECTICUT SUPERIOR COURT ORDER OF NOTICE IN FAMILY CASES JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF DANBURY AT DANBURY

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 48

C M SQ page 48 Y K

Shelter foes merge forces in Jamaica by Michael Gannon Editor

Homeless shelters and hotels that have been converted into new ones are spreading like wildfire in Queens. But so too are protests against them that are increasingly larger and better organized. On Saturday it was in Jamaica at 163-18 115 Ave. at the corner of Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, where residents have been growing increasingly concerned over a two-story, 75-room hotel undergoing construction. Michele Keller, a member of Community Board 12 who helped organize the 90-minute rally, had been apprehensive about the turnout in the days before. But she felt the more than 50 who showed up made for a good first effort, particularly with a few snowflakes falling at the time. “Though I would like to see more people from the neighborhood,” she admitted. It also was not by accident that the marchers had support from other Queens neighborhoods that have been fighting the conversion of hotels within their borders to shelters. Chants ranged from “No hotels!” to “Dump the dope from Park Slope,” the latter a reference to Mayor de Blasio’s nonGracie Mansion residence. “We’re not opposed to the construction,” resident Bob Bedrossian said. “We don’t want a hotel that could become a shelter.” Residents of Maspeth, St. Albans, Middle Village, Richmond Hill and others joined the Jamaica march with signs and manpower. Also lending his voice and cachet was Curtis Sliwa, founder of the Guardian Angels and a radio talk show host. “We just left a town hall meeting on a drop-in center in Ozone Park,” said Bob Holden, president of the Juniper Park Civic Association, who carried signs and a bullhorn in Jamaica

Residents of Jamaica fear a hotel under construction on 115th Avenue could eventually become another homeless shelter. On Saturday their protest received support from neighborhoods throughout Queens waging similar battles with the de Blasio PHOTO BY MICHAEL GANNON administration. along with several residents of Maspeth and Middle Village [see separate story in this edition]. There are an estimated 60,000 people in the city’s homeless system, and the de Blasio administration has been meeting increasingly stiff resistance to its policies in Queens. The area served by Community Board 12, which includes most of Jamaica proper, hosts more than half of the homeless shelters in the borough and at any given time has 30 to 40 percent of Queens’ homeless population. Residents in Maspeth and Middle Village thought they had successfully stopped a Holiday Inn from converting to a shelter — until the city just began renting out rooms for homeless men.

They have formed the Maspeth-Middle Village Task Force, which has protested at several sites around Queens in solidarity with other neighborhoods. The group also has protested twice at the Brooklyn home of Steve Banks, Mayor de Blasio’s commissioner of human resources. Members of Elmhurst United met with Jamaica residents last week to counsel them on what to expect from the city. Members of People for the Neighborhood in St. Albans were at Saturday’s rally. They were able this year to stall a homeless shelter for veterans on Hollis Avenue for months through a court injunction. “The important thing is that the neighborhoods stick together,” Holden said. Sliwa, who said he came after learning of the rally from Holden, agreed, saying that in his opinion, the city is trying to play neighborhoods off one another. “The mayor has been trying to divide and conquer,” Sliwa said. “If you objected it was because you hate the homeless, or because of race. “This is not about race. Jamaica is a large, successful black middle class neighborhood. The city is targeting middle class neighborhoods.” The Rev. Bishop Charles Norris of Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church in Jamaica also was on hand. Norris long has advocated that residents of the Jamaica area take more political advantage of their status as the largest minority voting district in the city. At a recent meeting of CB 13, he reiterated that the region turned out in massive numbers for de Blasio in both the primary and general election in 2013. “What do we get for our support?” he asked at the meeting. The bishop was admittedly disappointed on Saturday. “I still haven’t gotten an answer from the mayor,” Norris Q said. “I don’t know what else I can say to the man.”

PHOTOS BY MICHAEL GANNON

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Joining forces in Jamaica

Jamaica residents on Dec. 10 staged a protest on the corner of Guy R. Brewer Boulevard and 115th Avenue. The site is one of many hotels under construction in the area, and one residents fear may eventually become a homeless shelter. But it now appears that neighborhoods throughout Queens where shelters have been opened or proposed have banded together, with people from five areas marching in the cold to show their support. Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, left came to show

his support. Joyce Bartlett and Johnnie WIlliams of Jamaica, top left, said their neighborhood does not have the supportive services. Middle Village resident Bob Holden, top center, came to show his support and his opinion of the de Blasio administration. Above center, Jamaica residents and their supporters make their views clear along Guy R. Brewer Boulevard. At right, Jamaica community activist Kevin Livingston hands out informational fliers to drivers, many of whom honked their horns in approval while going past.

C M SQ page 49 Y K

Gift Cards now available to all Maspeth Federal Savings customers.

Page 49 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Give the perfect gift for any occasion. · No processing fee · Various design choices · Choose your dollar amount from $10-$1000

MASF-070730

For the latest news visit qchron.com

maspethfederal.com

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 50

C M SQ page 50 Y K

‘Eggs’ were broken for approach of the Triborough by Ron Marzlock Chronicle Contributor

The idea of a triborough bridge had been kicking around since 1916. Finally, in October 1929, Mayor Jimmy Walker dedicated the start of construction on it at the same time the stock market had just crashed. The city had allocated $5.4 million toward its construction, but the The Grand Central Parkway at Astoria Boulevard money was quickly gobbled up by looking south from Hoyt Street, Astoria, July 1936. legal counsel fees and payments to the Astoria residents for their homes and Moses’ favorite slogan was, “To make an businesses seized under eminent domain omelette, you have to break a few eggs.” The scale of the approach seen here was laws. The project came to a halt. In 1932, enter Robert Moses, who per- massive and Moses’ vision from 80 years suaded the city to push the project forward ago was correct. Imagine the gridlock again. Once Roosevelt became president, today in Astoria without this approach. he granted a $37 million loan to the new The people who complained are long Triborough Bridge Authority. Mayor Fio- passed away. With the massive daily traffic rello LaGuardia appointed Moses as its in this area, newer Astoria residents ask chairman. To get to the new bridge, a lot of why it wasn’t made larger or a second deck people had to be moved for its approach. put on it. The incoming president has expressed Thousands of people, along with their busiinterest in funding huge infrastructure nesses and homes, were removed. Astoria Boulevard was destroyed to projects; whether any will happen in Q make way. When residents complained, Queens remains to be seen.

New York is trophy town by Lloyd Carroll Chronicle Contributor

Like country music, college football is far more popular outside of New York City than it is within the five boroughs. Nonetheless, the NCAA football world descends upon New York the second week of December every year. The reason? The presentation of the Heisman Trophy, honoring the sport’s most outstanding player. Last Saturday night, it was awarded to University of Louisville sophomore quarterback Lamar Jackson, who became the youngest person to win the award in its 82-year history. University of Oklahoma wide receiver Dede Westbrook finished fourth in the voting, but he was certainly the most thoughtful of the five finalists whom I spoke with at the media session before the start of the ceremony. I asked him if he had ever met that famous NBA superstar who both shares his surname and works in the Sooner State, Oklahoma Thunder guard Russell Westbrook. “No, but I have met his brother,” he said. “I’m hoping to meet him in the near future.” Being a Columbia alum, I humorously asked Westbrook if he ever considered playing for an Ivy League school, which isn’t exactly a gateway to the NFL. He gave a serious response. “I would love to have had the opportunity. The truth is that I didn’t take high school seriously and my grades weren’t very good,” he

CENTURY 21 AMIABLE II 718-835-4700

www.howardbeachrealty.com

“Too New For Photo” • Ozone Park •

OZONE PARK

2 Family House on a 50x100 lot, new kitchen, new bath, 2 new heaters, basement, 4 car garage, won’t last. Asking $940K

OPEN HOUSE • Lee Ann of Amiable II Sat. 12/17 • 12:30-2 pm • 79-09 153rd Ave.

Brooklyn Bay Ridge

T o ys F o r T o ts Drop off a new, unwrapped toy to our office

Happy Holidays

OZONE PARK Just Listed

1 fam detached, 7 rms, 3 bedrms, finished bsmt, pvt drive,

2 family, 4 bedrms, 2 full baths, stainless appliances, granite countertops, fin. bsmt,

CALL NOW!

OCEANSIDE

HOWARD BEACH ROCKWOOD PARK

HOWARD BEACH Waterfront, 2 fam, 12 rms, 5 bedrms, 5 baths, 4 terraces, all redone.

CALL NOW!

180 72nd Street, Apt 335

• Lindenwood • • Lindenwood • Lovely 2 Bedroom - 2 baths, with terrace. Large rooms, lots of closets, movein condition, near all shopping, schools and transportation.

Legal 4 Family - Great investment property, yearly rental income is $61,800, not market value, no mandatory flood insurance required, side driveway with 35 foot easement. 3 balconies, new heating system and hot water heater, windows replaced #HC5FE8

For the latest news visit qchron.com

mint renovated with a terrace. Call Janice for private showing 718-490-8023

Ozone Park, NY 11417

OPEN HOUSE Sun. 12/18 • 1-3 pm • 94-12 86th Street

• Lindenwood •

137-05 Cross Bay Blvd

Broker/Owner 718-641-6800 List with us for only

718-628-4700

2 Bedroom Condo in the Elitecompletely gutted after Sandy to the studs. Everything needs to be replaced, no boiler, no appliances, no Sheetrock, exposed studs.

Thomas J. LaVecchia,

A True Professional Selling Homes in the Area for 40 Years

69-39 Myrtle Ave. Glendale, NY 11385

• Lindenwood •

said. “Fortunately, I went to a junior college and that gave me a chance to mature and appreciate the importance of education.” The presentation of the Asa Bushnell Cup, the Ivy League’s Heisman equivalent, traditionally kicks off college football week in the Big Apple. Jay Fiedler, who won the 1992 Bushnell Cup when he quarterbacked Dartmouth, had a decent NFL career, including a short stint with the Jets, attended this year’s ceremony. He now coaches aspiring quarterbacks, who range from 7 years old to college-aged players. He told me that he hasn’t watched the Jets much this year but could understand why head coach Todd Bowles stuck with struggling quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick as long as he did, instead of turning to backup Bryce Petty. “Players can tell in practice, meetings, and the weight room who the best QB on the team is,” he said, “and it’s the coach’s job to play the guys who best give the team a chance to win.” Former NFL commissioner Paul Tagliabue spoke at the annual Sports Business Journal Intercollegiate Athletic Forum last Wednesday. He believes that college football players should be paid, but that compensation should be linked to scholarship accomplishment. “If a player completes his degree with a good GPA,” he said, “then he can receive a bonus of say, $75,000.” Q See the extended version of Sports Beat every week at qchron.com.

Howard Beach Realty, Inc.

www.howardbeachrealty.com

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

Exclusive to Century 21 Amiable II Studio for rent, completely

BEAT

SPORTS

I HAVE OFTEN WALKED

Det Colonial, new construction, 3 available, 11 rms, 4 bedrms, 2 baths, gas fire pl, lg lot,

CALL NOW!

Cape 6 rms, 3 bedrms, 2 baths. Gorgeous all updated, extended 1st fl open floor plan, stainless appliances, full fin bsmt, in-ground pool.

RICHMOND HILL 1 fam, 7 rms, 3 bedrms, det, pvt drive, and gar, full bsmt

CALL NOW!

C M SQ page 51 Y K Celebrating our 28th Anniversary

REAL ESTATE SERVICES INC.

Get Your House

SOLD!

OPEN 7 DAYS!

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

718-845-1136

ARLENE PACCHIANO

LAJJA P. MARFATIA

Broker/Owner

CALL OUR FULL-TIME REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS

FOR A FREE MARKET EVALUATION

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukah RICHMOND HILL NORTH

Only CALL FOR DETAILS

OPEN HOUSE

HOWARD BEACH

1 Family in the heart of Richmond Hill North, 3 BRs & walk-up attic room, 2 full baths, unfinished basement, 1/2 block from school, few houses down to J train. Asking $695K

List with Us!

SAT., DEC. 17th • 2:00 to 3:30 104-36 91st Ave.

RICHMOND HILL NORTH

Very unique 2 family, 3 floors, renovated fully, 5 BRs, 3 full baths, 2 half baths, porch. A must see!

Attached 2 fam, 3 BRs, 2 full baths. Lots of original charm.

REDUCED

Page 51 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016

Connexion I

Asking $535K

$749K

Thinking Of Selling? Now Is The Time! Call us for a FREE Market Evaluation

718-845-1136

HOWARD BEACH/ LINDENWOOD CO-OP

HOWARD BEACH

One-of-a-kind, two units combined, 2 master size BRs, 2 full baths,laundry room, dogs allowed, updated throughout.

All new totally redone in 2016, stone front, siding, windows, roof. New kitchen w/SS appliances, granite, 4 BRs, 3 full baths.

Asking $659K

ROCKAWAY BEACH

Asking $263,999

HOWARD BEACH/ HAMILTON BEACH

Very close to beach, hi-rise, Coral House Condo, beautiful large and sunny 1 bedroom featuring updated open kitchen and bath, hardwood fls., terrace, rec room, BBQ area. Can be sublet.

Brand new mint, 3 BR/2 Bath, 2 stories, detached, granite countertop w/stainless steel appliances.

HOWARD BEACH

Reduced $399K

Large Ranch (65x27 on 80x100 lot) 3 lg BRs/2 full baths, living room, large dining room, new roof, new appliances, beautiful hardwood fl oors, lg attic, pvt driveway. Owner motivated .

Asking $209K

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK

HOWARD BEACH/ LINDENWOOD Hi-rise 2 BR / 1 bath Co-op w/terrace renov $219K Beautiful garden Co-op. Custom island, 2 BR, 1 bath, HW fls, top fl. courtyard $225K Dogs OK

Asking $679K

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK

RICHMOND HILL NORTH

Lovely Cape on 50x100 lot, 4 BRs / 2 baths, large yard / needs TLC

Asking $599K 60x100 lot, back dormered Cape, 4 BRs, 3 full baths, great location, full fin. bsmt. Park-like backyard. 3 zone heat, new boiler/HW heater/deck off top floor, overlooks yard, beautiful sunroom. Asking $719K

Asking $489,900

HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK HOWARD BEACH/ROCKWOOD PARK CLO

CLO

CONR-070836

CLO

D IN

D I

N CO

D CT STER A ON L O C NC

CLO

S CLO

D CO IN

ED IN

N CO

For the latest news visit qchron.com

Lovely det. Colonial/ Original molding, fireplace and banister. 4 BR, 2 full baths, near train

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, December 15, 2016 Page 52

C M SQ page 52 Y K

LIBERTY R E A L T Y

96-10 101st Ave., Ozone Park, NY 11416

718-848-4700 Fax: 718-848-4865 kwrliberty@gmail.com

JOHN DIBS Broker⁄owner

OZONE PARK Fully Renovated & Newly Painted 1 BR Apartment, New Carpet, New Bath, New Kitchen! Near “A” Train & Express Bus

HOWARD BEACH

EAST NEW YORK

Office Exclusive – Mint Condition 2 Fam., 1st Flr Completely Renovated After Sandy, New Bath, Kit. & Flooring Throughout. 4 BRs, 2 Baths, Laundry Facilities, Terrace & Crawl Space Attic!

Income Producing Semi-Det. 2 Family Featuring 4 BRs & 2 Baths Contact Theresa Labocetta For More Information 347-531-9060

Contact Carolyn DeFalco For More Information 917-208-9176

Contact Felicina Lisena For More Information 718-848-4700

RICHMOND HILL Excellent Move-In-Condition 1 Family w/Full Fin. Bsmnt In Prime Richmond Hill Location Near All Transportation, Shopping, Schools & Minutes From JFK Airport. Contact Pedro Duarte For More Information 646-552-4422

remely Owner E xt S ell ! To r e Eag

HOWARD BEACH

Contact Anthony Fernandez For More Information 646-881-4165

Contact Carolyn DeFalco For More Information 917-208-9176

JAMAICA Great 1 Family Starter Home with 3 BRs. Recently Renovated Basement, New Bathrooms, New Stairs, New Flooring Throughout, Surveillance Cameras, A New Water Tank!

For the latest news visit qchron.com

ROCHDALE 2 Family 3 Over 3 With 2 Baths and Private Driveway. Shortsale – Handyman Special! Contact Subhas Ramroop For More Information 347-581-5596

Contact Valerie Shalmoff For More Information 646-533-8142

GLENDALE

WOODHAVEN

Gorgeous Newly Updated Legal 2 Family Brick In Great Upper Glendale Location With Parking For 3 Vehicles. Contact Mark Reardon 347-749-8500 or Anthony Reardon 917-209-5686 For More Information

Large 2 Family Home Complete W/Full Bsmnt. W/Separate Entrance. Newly Renovated with Spacious Closets & Tons Of Extras! Priced To Sell!

RIDGEWOOD

Contact Rene Rose For More Information 718-810-0293

CORONA

6 Family Brick With Backyard – Four 2 BR Apts, One 1 BR Apt, One 3 BR Apt. Near All Transportation, 20 Minutes To Manhattan! Priced To Sell! Lowest On The Market!

Well Maintained 5 Family In Prime Corona Location. Close To 7 Train, Long Island Expressway, Grand Central Parkway, Flushing Meadow Park, Citi Field & Arthur Ashe Stadium. Lots Of Upside. High Income! Close To A 7 Cap Rate!

Contact Raj Pardal For More Information 646-533-9262

Contact Natasia Pagoulatos For More Information! 917-335-1143

OZONE PARK

RICHMOND HILL

OZONE PARK

Well Established Barbershop On Busy Avenue Servicing The Area For Over 10 Years.

Excellent Two Family With Large Rooms & Bsmnt., New Baths, New Sewer Lines, New Roof, New Boiler and New Cellar Door!

Previous Dance School – 700 + Sq Ft Space Available For Use As Medical, Law, Accounting Etc.

Contact Paul Deo For More Information 347-581-9863

Contact Rene Rose For More Information 718-810-0293

HOWARD BEACH Excellent Condition 3 BR, 2 Bath Co-op With Terrace. Very Bright & Spacious Unit With Plenty of Closets & Beautiful Hardwood Floors!

Contact Carolyn DeFalco For More Information 917-208-9176

Contact Tom Dusi For More Information 917-804-3106

HAMILTON BEACH

Bank Owned Property – Excellent Condition, Recently Reno- Excellent Condition Hi-Ranch Semi-Det Water Front vated 1 Family With Brand New Boiler & Hot Water. Beautiful Property, Newly Renovated, Perfect 2 Family Income Water View, Natural Lighting & Open Breeze Throughout! Property. Close To Charles Park & “A” Train