Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 13 Issue No. 11 March 16-22, 2012

PAGE 18

PRESS Photo Ira Cohen

PARK PROBLEMS

A recent Comptroller’s Office audit suggests the Parks Department has been sluggish in repairing dangerous infrastructure at playgrounds, such as the Lower Highland Playground at Highland Park. However, the agency says they regularly inspect and fix playgrounds to keep children safe.

By Veronica Lewin… Page 3

Online at www.QueensPress.com

News Briefs Speedbump Planned For 134th Street

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

134th Street in South Ozone Park is a street with an identity crisis.

The residential block is a two-way street barely wide enough to deal with one car plus curbside parking. Its design forces passing cars to duck into driveways and in front of fire hydrants to avoid each other. Yet, the street - the first one west of the Van Wyck Expressway that directly connects Rockaway Boulevard with North Conduit Avenue and the Belt Parkway - has seen a dramatic growth in traffic in the last decade and the Dept. of Transportation has tracked at least 17 injuries at the intersection of Rockaway Boulevard and 134th Street due to automobile accidents between 2006 and 2010.

Much of the speeding traffic heads northbound toward Rockaway Boulevard, putting southbound cars, residents pulling out of their driveways and customers leaving a Dunkin’ Donuts parking lot in perilous situations. The parking lot also includes a drive-thru that uses 134th Street as an outlet only a few feet from the corner. Cars exiting the drive-thru often speed southbound on 134th Street toward Sutter Avenue and the Belt Parkway, at least one neighbor said.

On March 1, Community Board 10 voted unanimously on a plan by the DOT to install a speed bump along the stretch of road between Rockaway Boulevard and Sutter Avenue to control speeding. Cars speeding on residential blocks are a common problem in some South Queens neighborhoods, especially on long blocks leading to traffic lights or long stretches of road with no stop signs or lights, especially close to schools. The intersection of Rockaway Boulevard and 134th Street is located four blocks east of PS 96. The speed bump is expected to be placed close to Rockaway Boulevard along 134th Street within a month.

Fundraiser To Fight Hunger Kew Gardens will unite to fight hunger this weekend- one empty bowl at a time.

The fundraiser will be at the New Homstead Home at 82-45 Grenfell St. on Sunday, March 18 from 4-6 p.m. and will feature painted bowls made by local artists at The Potter’s Wheel. The donation for the event is $15 per bowl and all the proceeds go to the Food Bank for New York City to help feed the hungry.

Attendees will enjoy music and poetry and will be served soup by a local Girl Scout troop in the bowls they will get to keep as mementos of the event. There will also be celebrity bowl auctions featuring bowls signed by Anderson Cooper, NY1 reporter Pat Kiernan and others.

For more information on the Empty Bowls event, visit potterswheelny.com/ workships.html or call (718) 441-6614.

St. Mary’s Workers Continue Contract Fight Hospital workers at the Bayside-based St. Mary’s Healthcare System for Children have been locked in intense contract negotiations since last October, and now they contend that virtually no progress has been made in that time. The workers, represented by Local 1199 SEIU, United Healthcare Workers East, unionized last summer. They do not yet have a labor contract and are seeking one from St. Mary’s.

The goal of the 300-member union is to raise wage levels to a point where they are competitive with other Queens hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. Benson Matthew, a former nurse and organizer for 1199, would not disclose the exact figures the union is seeking, but said wages are stuck at “1996 levels” and workers now need their pay to catch up with inflation.

Matthew criticized the hospital for contributing only 1 to 2 percent to the workers’ health care plans. Magna Care, their health care provider, is not accepted by doctors nearby, he added. St. Mary’s, founded in Manhattan in 1870 and moved to Queens in 1951, joins a long list of New York-area medical facilities that have recently experienced labor strife.

“When your salary for a director is 30 times what people in the trenches are making, you have to do something,” said Frank Skala, president of the East Bayside Homeowners Association. Skala, a former teacher and organizer for the United Federation of Teachers, lives near St. Mary’s and has become a community advocate for the workers. “I told them to keep the topic alive. It took us, as teachers, a year or more for a first contract.

Then a strike that went with it.”

Aboard a purple 1199 RV, nurses and maintenance workers said that conditions at St. Mary’s have improved since they organized, but that intimidation, harassment, and low pay makes a contract absolutely paramount.

“You ask for supplies, not for us, but for the kids, and it’s a problem,” said a nurses’ assistant who did not want to be identified. “How are we going to provide care for these kids if you’re being yelled at for using supplies for the kids?”

Leslie Johnson, a spokeswoman for St. Mary’s, issued a statement in response.

“St. Mary’s continues to negotiate in good faith with 1199. Our end goal is to make certain that we continue to provide care for New York’s sickest children while we remain financially sustainable.”

Presstime

BY VERONICA LEWIN City playgrounds are intended to be a safe place for the borough’s children to enjoy themselves. While playground injuries are often synonymous with being a kid, parents usually do not expect the playground itself to be the cause of accidents. A recent Comptroller’s Office audit contended the Parks Department has been sluggish in repairing dangerous infrastructure at two borough parks, a finding the agency called misleading.

City Comptroller John Liu announced last Thursday that various audits found the Parks Dept. was too slow in fixing hazardous conditions at Highland Park’s Lower Highland Playground in Woodhaven and

Hammel Playground in Far Rockaway, among other playgrounds in the City.

“Parents shouldn’t have to worry about their children playing on broken equipment or near rat holes – especially after Parks’ own inspectors have already reported the hazards,” Liu said in a statement. “In some cases, the Parks Department is inexplicably slow to give its full attention to poor playground conditions and needs to better meet its own guidelines for making badly needed repairs.”

The Parks Dept. said that out of the 107 sites that were inspected by Liu’s auditors, almost all of the conditions identified were non-hazards, such as peeling paint on a bench or cracked paved surfaces. All the reported

Photo courtesy of the Comptroller’s Office.

Liu: Parks Slow In Fixing Playgrounds missing on the playground.

When auditors visited in July, pieces of the safety mats were overturned, scattered or missing. According to the Parks Dept., the mats were replaced between March and July, but fell apart again due to weather and playground attendance.

“The Comptroller’s ‘difference in days’ suggests that conditions were left unadSafety mats at the Lower Highland Play- dressed for a long period of ground in Woodhaven have to be re- time,” the Parks Dept. said in placed often to prevent trips and falls. a statement. “However, many of these conditions were not conditions were addressed, ex- considered unacceptable when cept for non-hazardous condi- they were noted in the original tions that can be resolved when Parks Inspection Program inspection and were, in fact, fixed capital funding is available.

At Highland Park, a March within extremely reasonable 2011 inspection reported that a timelines.”

At Hammel Playground, a section of the safety surface was

May 2011 inspection did not initially report any safety hazards. Two months later, an additional inspection found a protruding metal bracket at the playground’s entrance that was not previously reported.

The Parks Dept. randomly inspects 205 of the City’s playgrounds every two weeks, with each site usually inspected twice a year. Inspection reports are forwarded to the Parks Dept. for review and correction of unacceptable conditions. Hazardous conditions are supposed to be repaired within two to four weeks.

Inspectors then revisit those playgrounds to verify if the problem has been corrected or not.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.

New Lines, Amendment Called An ‘Epic Fail’ apportionment (LATFOR), the body who drew the lines.

“You can take the second plan and put it together with the first plan and shove it,” he said before sitting down.

Later, Senate Democrats boycotted the redistricting vote and walked out of the chamber leaving Republicans and the four members of the Independent Democrat caucus to vote the lines in.

The proposed constitutional amendment to change the way the state redraws its lines would create an independent commis-

not been in place by Thursday.

Cuomo criticized the courtdrawn Congressional maps. The passage of the new maps came along with a cavaclade of other bills including pension reform, a bill to authorize casino gambling and expansion of the state’s DNA bank, which would require anyone convicted of a felony or misdemeanor to provide a DNA sample. All were items on Gov. Cuomo’s legislative agenda.

The new Assembly maps made little to no changes to the maps that were originally proposed in January, but the Senate maps saw some big changes.

Gianaris and Peralta were “decoupled” and the 12th district - currently represented by Gianaris - picked up a few blocks in the Steinway section of Astoria while shedding some of its Ridgewood and all of its Howard Beach areas. The district, however, still stretched from Astoria to Conduit Boulevard in Ozone Park. The 15th district, represented by State Sen. Joseph Addabbo (DHoward Beach), was slightly altered from its January form. It would still stretch across Jamaica Bay to the Rockaway Peninsula, but would now include

coastal sections of the eastern half of the peninsula and parts of Arverne and Far Rockaway.

The Asian-majority 16th district created by Senate Republicans in January remains, but without Bay Terrace, which was drawn into a more compact 11th district. That means State Sens.

Tony Avella (D-Bayside) and Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) remain in the same district, one that includes almost all of Northeast Queens and stretches through Hollis to include parts of Jamaica. Stavisky may run in the 16th district, which includes parts of Flushing, Forest Hills and Rego Park she previously represented. If the maps hold, John Messer, who ran against Stavisky in the 2010 Democratic primary, has said he would run in the new district.

When the primaries would be is still in question. The Assembly passed a bill to move the state legislative primaries to June to coincide with Congressional primaries, but it has not passed the Senate as of yet. If it does not, legislative primaries would remain in September.

Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 125, or drafter@queenstribune.com.

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

would then draw up maps that would need to be approved by the The now-year-long drama legislature by majority vote - or over new district lines entered two-thirds vote if one party conanother act this week as the state trols both bodies. If they fail to aplegislature tweaked the new proprove two sets of commissionposed districts and added an drawn maps, the legislature would amendment to the state Constidraw them up themselves. The tution to take the power to draw amendment would need to be apthe new lines mostly out of their proved again after the next elechands in 2021. tions and then passed by stateThe proposed lines, which wide referendum in 2014. passed in the dead of night Opposition to the new lines Wednesday and were signed into and the proposed constitutional law by Gov. Andrew Cuomo on amendment ran deep, including Thursday morning. The vote came members of the Assembly Black, as many advocates for indePuerto Rican, Hispanic and pendent redistricting, includ- “You can take the second plan and Asian Caucuses - all Demoing Mayor Ed Koch and State crats - announcing they opSen. Michael Gianaris (D- put it together with the first plan posed the bill, but refusing to Astoria), were resigned to the and shove it.” say if they would ultimately -State Sen. vote no. reality that independent redistricting was a lost battle this Though some, including Mike Gianaris time around.

Citizens Union, praised the Gianaris, whose home amendment, reformers like was placed back into the district sion to draw new lines after the Koch and Gianaris were unimhe represents under the second 2020 Census. The commission pressed by it. Gianaris called the round of lines after he was ini- would include two members each amendment “an epic fail” and tially thrown into the same dis- appointed by the Speaker of the said it “is still hyper-political and trict as State Sen. Jose Peralta Assembly and the Senate Major- does not create a truly indepen(D-East Elmhurst), did not lose ity Leader and two members each dent commission.” Gov. Cuomo quietly. Late Wednesday night from the minority leaders. A final called the bill “progress.” While he stood on the floor of the State two members would be appointed noting it was not perfect, he had Senate chamber with a message by the other eight, with at least warned against allowing courts to the Legislative Task Force on five of the eight agreeing to the to draw the state lines - which Demographic Research and Re- appointments. The commission they could have done had a plan

BY DOMENICK RAFTER

Turner Declares U.S. Senate Intentions

BY DOMENICK RAFTER

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

Six months - almost to the day - after shocking the political world by winning the Congressional seat of former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner, U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Middle Village) announced that he would be seeking to challenge U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand for the United State Senate seat.

Gillibrand, who is running for her first six-year term this November after winning a special election in 2010 to finish the term of Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, had not been previously eyed by national Republicans as a potential target, but that could change now that Turner is in the race.

Turner, whose district was dismantled by Judge Roanne Mann - the special master appointed to redraw the state’s congressional lines after the state legislature failed to agree on a map - had previously said he would run in whatever district

his home ended up in, but according to the map, that would force him to face off against U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) in a district that is much more Democratic and majority black.

At least three Republicans have been eyeing the U.S. Senate race: Nassau County Comptroller George Maragos, Rye Town Supervisor Joe Carvin and Manhattan attorney Wendy Long, but in early polling all three badly trailed Gillibrand. State Republican officials were worried a divisive primary would prevent a candidate from making any leeway against the incumbent who won 62 percent in 2010.

However, none of the other three candidates have hinted that they would step aside for Tuner and Conservative Party Chairman Mike Long has said he would, for now, stick with Wendy Long- no relation - as their preferred candidate against Gillibrand. Turner has already received the endorsement of the

Manhattan and Brooklyn Republican Parties, as well as the GOP in Rockland County, but even after Turner’s announcement, several upstate county Republican parties, including

Erie County, which includes Buffalo, endorsed Long meaning Turner could face still face a primary. Queens GOP chairman Phil Ragusa has already endorsed Maragos for Senate and

has not indicated that he’ll switch to Turner now that he’s in the race.

Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 125 or drafter@queenstribune.com .

Huntley’s Vet Bill Passes Senate

BY VERONICA LEWIN

veterans who are returning home for the Iraq and Afghanistan The State Senate passed a bill wars. last week that would make life “Veterans risk their lives to easier for veterans redefend our freedom turning home. every day,” Huntley State Sen. Shirley said. “New York State Huntley (D-Jamaica) needs to be proactive announced that the in ensuring our veterNew York State Senans receive the ate passed a bill proper care they de(S.4466-A) she introserve regarding any duced in the Capitol. conditions such as If the bill becomes a post-traumatic stress law, it would define disorder, or alcohol State Sen. the responsibilities of and substance Shirley Huntley the Office of Alcohol abuse.” and Substance Abuse Services to Under the bill, the Office of provide recovery services to our Alcoholism and Substance Abuse

Services, the Division of Veteran Affairs and the office of Mental Health would work together to ensure specialized treatment services are available to our Veterans.

Huntley said passing this legislation was important to her because the St. Albans Veterans Hospital is in her district. Thousands of veterans visit the hospital annually and rely on a plethora of services that help improve their health and well-being.

As of printing, the bill is awaiting action in the Assembly.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123, or vlewin@queenspress.com.

Man Indicted For Sex Trafficking

BY JASON PAFUNDI Queens DA Richard Brown announced on Thursday, March 8, that a 22-year-old Ozone Park man has been indicted by a grand jury on kidnapping, sex trafficking and other charges for allegedly raping and prostituting a 15year-old Long Island girl in a house that was unlawfully occupied by the defendant and others.

Five other defendants have also been indicted in connection with the case.

The lead defendant, Gary Council, has been indicted on charges of first-degree kidnapping, first-degree rape, first- and third-degree criminal sexual act, second-degree kidnapping, compelling prostitution, sex trafficking, second-degree burglary, second- and third-degree promoting prostitution, third-degree attempted grand larceny, third-degree rape and endangering the welfare of a child. If convicted,

he faces 25 years to life in prison.

According to the allegations, Brown said that on Feb. 6, the 15-year-old victim was with a friend on Jerome Street in Brooklyn when they were allegedly picked up in a vehicle by co-defendant Junior Goldring and another man — who has not been apprehended — and taken to a house on 101st Street in Ozone Park, where she met Council and co-defendant Roy McMillan.

When the victim, whose name is not being released, tried to leave the house with her friend, Council allegedly grabbed her by the arm and said “You’re not going anywhere. You’re going to stay here and make me money.”

Council then allegedly pulled her back inside the house and introduced her to co-defendant Andrea Furlonge and told Furlonge that the victim was a “new girl” who “was going to make a lot of money” for him and instructed Furlonge to take the victim and “do what she had to do.”

Brown said that, according to the investigation, Furlonge took nude and partially clothed pictures of the victim with a cell phone and posted them on backpage.com to advertise prostitution services. Furlonge allegedly also posted pictures of herself on backpage.com with the same callback number as the victim.

It is alleged that between Feb. 6 and Feb. 11, the victim was forced to have sexual intercourse and oral sex with numerous men inside of the location in exchange for money and that all of the money was collected by Furlonge and given to Council. It is alleged that Furlonge told the victim to obey Council or he would get violent and told her not to cry or he would get angry. Also, when the victim tried to take a shower, Council grabbed her hair and told her to get back downstairs and make his money.

Furthermore, allegedly on Feb. 8, Council and co-defen-

dant Omari Millington together forced the victim to take two Ecstasy pills, and the victim was then tied up and raped and sodomized by Council, Goldring, McMillan and Renardo Williams while Millington and another unapprehended man were in the room.

Brown said that on Feb. 12, Council told the victim to go across the street and get him something from the store, but when the victim left, she ran away and did not return.

The actual owner of the house, 63-year-old Tsung Chen, arrived at the location on Jan. 21 and found that the locks had been broken off and a new lock had been installed. He put a new lock on the house and returned on Feb. 5 only to find that the new lock had been broken. A woman who the homeowner later identified as Furlonge was living on the first floor and two men later identified as Council and McMillan were living on the second floor.

Chen called the police and alleged that none of the occupants had permission to be there.

The occupants showed Chen and the police lease agreements allegedly between Council, Furlonge, McMillan and the leaseholder, identified in the papers as “Raymond Kelly.”

On Feb. 10, Chen returned to the location and asked Council, McMillan and others to leave.

He was apparently told by Council and McMillan that they would only leave if he paid them $6,000 each, and Council said that if Chen did not pay them, he would have big problems.

“This is a horrific case in which the victim, a young girl, is alleged to have survived a nightmarish ordeal that included being drugged, gang raped and forced to work as a prostitute,” Brown said. “She is fortunate to have escaped.”

Reach Reporter Jason Pafundi at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128 jpafundi@queenstribune.com .

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens Managing Editor:

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

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Reporters: Harley Benson Veronica Lewin Domenick Rafter Ross Barkan Jason Pafundi Interns: Brianna Ellis Joanna Gonzalez Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Candice Lolier Barbara Townsend

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

Advertising Director Shanie Persaud Sr. Account Executive Shelly Cookson Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Shari Strongin

A Queens Tribune Publication. © Copyright 2012 Tribco, LLC

Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher

Editorial Let The Sun Shine In How ironic that the New York State legislature chose this week to go behind closed doors to make back room deals on the proposed State Senate and Assembly lines.

Since 2005, the second week of March has been recognized as Sunshine Week, a national initiative used to educate the public about the importance of open government and the dangers of excessive and unnecessary secrecy.

The initiative began as “Sunshine Sunday” in Florida in 2002, in response to efforts by Florida legislators’ efforts to create a great number of exemptions to the state’s public records laws.

With zero transparency and no accountability, LATFOR’s Senate and Assembly lines proposal is politics as usual in what is most likely the least transparent legislature in the country.

Gov. Cuomo promised that he would veto the district lines if drafted in such a partisan manner. We hope that the governor is a man of his word and sends a message that it’s time for the legislature to stop playing the same old political games.

Letters Where’s The GOP? To The Editor: There is still more to the insightful thoughts of “What Comes After The John Liu Legacy?”

(Michael Schenkler — March 8).

Notice that there is no potential Republican candidate to succeed

Liu. The last effective GOP challenger for City Comptroller was businessperson Richard Bernstein, who ran with former Mayor Ed Koch in 1981. This also applies to former Brooklyn Democratic Assemblyman Jules Polenetsky who ran for Public Advocate with former Mayor Rudy Giuliani in

Letters 1997. The last Republican was NYC Council President Sanford Garelick, who won in 1969. The last Republican Comptroller was Joseph D. McGoldrick who served from 1938 to 1945.

NYC Council Finance Committee Chairman Domenic Reccia, based upon recent history, has a difficult task ahead should he desire to run for NYC Comptroller. Past NYC Council Finance Committee Chairpersons Herb Berman from Brooklyn lost to Bill Thompson and David Weprin from Queens lost to John Liu in their respective Democratic Party primaries.

Democrats are going to support one of their own to end the GOP’s 20-year control of City Hall. The result will be one party control of all three citywide offices along with the City Council. This is a recipe for a return to municipal corruption.

Those who assisted Bloomberg in 2009 by actually endorsing fellow Democrat Bill Thompson for mayor and then sitting on their hands and going through the motions by nominally campaigning for him will

not do the same in 2013.

Yesterday’s old friends of Bloomberg have become strangers, having no incentive to help him groom a successor.

Democrats will all rally around their own party’s nominee for mayor in 2013. They want a friend in City Hall when running for reelection in 2014.

Bloomberg abandoned the Republican Party, whose ballot line he “rented” for convenience in winning a third term. He has continued his past track record of doing little to help finance and run serious Republican challengers against incumbent Democrats.

Bloomberg’s 2009 reelection strategy was deliberate in not spending any significant time campaigning or fundraising for GOP challengers. He didn’t want to increase turnout of registered Democrats or offend incumbent Democratic Party public officials.

As a result, he has virtually no GOP allies or minor league bench in City Hall to develop candidates for Mayor, City Comptroller or Public Advocate in 2013.

Larry Penner, Great Neck

Bob Turner And The New District Lines

A Personal Perspective

BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE We knew it!

We knew that once Bob Turner got a taste of Washington, DC as a newly-elected representative, he would not want to leave. Sure enough, the 9th Congressional District, for which he ran to replace Anthony Weiner (do we still need to say “the disgraced?”) is being wiped out and he does not want to leave.

He knew it would go on the chopping block and is now on the chopping block. It stands to be eliminated during the redistricting process. He knew this going in but he wanted it anyway.

For a 70-year-old retired businessman, a year in Congress is a great diversion from watching himself sink into boredom and a speedy old age. An opportunity such as what was basically handed to him is a reinvigorating experience. But power can be addictive and it didn’t take long for the newly-minted Congress-

man to get hooked.

The seat is leaving him but he does not want to leave Congress. So what does he do? He announces he’s going to challenge Kirstin Gillibrand for the Senate seat. That little taste of power now has Turner drunk with it.

He can run all he wants but he won’t beat Gillibrand. Most people were upset by the process by which Gillibrand came by the seat. She was a freshman congresswoman appointed by the then-Gov. David Paterson to replace Hillary Clinton in a bumbling process.

Gillibrand threw herself into the job and has worked hard to make it her own. She has been a solid advocate on important issues such as the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act. Carolyn Maloney and the talented New York Congressional Delegation led the charge in the House; and Gillibrand championed it in the Senate. She has also supported immigration

policies such as the DREAM Act; and has voted to crack down on illegal gun traffickers.

So Turner is challenging her.

It is his right to do so. But good luck with that. It’s an already crowded field and he, at least downstate, now has some name recognition over the other challengers, but that’s mainly in Queens and Brooklyn. This will be Gillibrand’s first campaign for a full term of her own, but she will hold her own.

Turner is feeling things out for himself. Encouraged by the fact that he, a Republican, could win a congressional seat in a predominantly Democratic district, he seems to be feeling invincible.

However, he has to remember that it wasn’t so much that the voters loved him so much as that they were not feeling the love for David Weprin, the other candidate in that race.

Weprin is a good guy who was not such a good candidate in their eyes. Voters in the predominantly Jewish district were

against the gay marriage bill for which Weprin voted in the Assembly. Turner also had the power of Ed Koch behind him.

The former mayor wanted “to send a message to President Obama,” because he felt the president was not pro-Israel enough.

Turner shouldn’t get it twisted. A statewide campaign will be a whole different beast.

He’s still such an unknown quantity downstate, never mind upstate. Gillibrand seems “likeable enough” as Obama once said of Hillary. And we can see her trying to get around the state. Hard work and likability make for success.

Few of us thought she’d grow on us given how we felt about the way she got the job. But the “how” of getting it no longer matters much. It’s the “how” of her performance that is going to ensure she keeps it.

Let’s hope all the changes across the city and state work out for our greater good.

Fred Wilpon At The Helm

By MICHAEL HOWARD SCHENKLER With apologies to: Ernest Lawrence Thayer, Casey At The Bat The Outlook isn’t brilliant for the New York Mets this year, The courts took all the dough from the Wilpons we do fear, And then when the Madoff receiver, goes another round, A sickly silence replaces cheering as Citi Field’s only sound.

A straggling few fans already left in deep despair. The rest Cling to the hope which springs eternal in the human breast; They think, if only Casey, could buy the baseball team, They’d put up even money with a new owner of their dreams.

But Fred Wilpon he is stubborn, a man of ego and pride, His Sterling Equities empire, was once so high and wide, But upon his mighty empire, now grim melancholy sat, Madoff was the money, and the courts ended all of that.

And soon they’re back for another round of the Madoff money game, Three hundred million more and the team will never be the same, Win or lose the next round, really doesn’t matter The Wilpon team finances can’t afford a first class batter.

From a city filled with fans, there rose a lusty cry, It rumbled from Citi Field; it rattled in Queens skies, It knocked upon LaGaurdia and recoiled off Flushing Bay, If only there were a Casey, to buy the team today.

Casey could be Bloomberg, a mayor with wealth and grace, A superb team manager setting his sights only on first place, And now he’s really term limited; he’s gotta find a new game.

Baseball, yes it’s baseball, the World Series is the aim.

Or Casey could be “The Donald,” Mr Trump who hails from Queens, A rather flamboyant fighter, who wants to win by any means, He too may have the money, but please don’t change the name, It’s the Mets and not the Trumps so maybe he won’t play the game.

Or maybe Casey is an unknown, a bond trader or techie geek, A Facebook, Apple, Microsoft billionaire so bright and meek, Or could he be a family heir with enough money to build a team, Oh where, oh where is Casey, the New York baseball dream?

But from the stands not-so-filled with people, goes up a muffled roar Like the take–off of a jet plane o’er Queens and Long Island’s Shore.

“Sell em’, Sell the Mets” shouted someone; the price will be so pretty.

Make Fred Wilpon sell ‘em, he can’t afford a team in New York City.

“Fraud” cried the Flushiing maddened crowds; an echo answered “Fraud.”

We need to find a Casey, and we need to find the lord, We need to find a hero, and tell the Wilpons it is time We need to find New York’s Casey, before the fans all lose their minds.

Who Who Who Who

can can can can

afford to deal with Wilpon? Who can step up to the plate? win back all the fans who are quickly turning love to hate? afford the pitcher, the batter and the ball? afford the big Apple and have a team that’s best of all?

Oh, somewhere in this favored city, the sun is shining bright, The band is playing somewhere and somewhere hearts are light, And somewhere men are laughing and somewhere children scream.

But there’s no joy in Queens, New York, mighty Casey is just a dream.

Republican seat – and above all -- drawn independently of the ugly legislature and its LATFOR political poison, has made the Special Master’s effor ts a welcome democratic gift to the people.

Bet ween th is writ i ng, and your reading, the State Legislature still has the opportunity it has had for the many months – almost a year – since the 2010 census data was released, to draw and pass new lines for t he CongresJudge Mann’s Congressional Lines sional seats as well as their two houses: the Assembly and Senate. They also would need the writing, couldn’t even cut a deal to Today (Sunday, March 11), we Governor’s signature. save their own seats. We hope that have Congressional lines drawn Well, the Legislature, in spite the four days this column gets to with the speed of the gods, by U.S. of some positive leadership of age, did not see any new deal-makMagistrate Roanne Mann, ing by the Legislature to a court appointed Special approve redistricting Master – independent of maps. Their self-serving the Legislature – in a manpolitical participation will ner that seems to meet consider no one but the needs of just about evthemselves. er yone – e special ly the And our Governor, people of New York State. who for those many The near magical months, said he would strokes of judge Mann’s not accept anything that pen have been received by was not drawn by an inall as a calm elixer in the dependent commission, middle of a chaotic, hopefully served as the corruptable legislative proinsurance that no lines Judge Mann’s Congressional Lines cess. passed by the legislature Fairness, geographic would see the light of consideration, protection day. He did f lir t w ith of ethnic minorit ies, considering Governor Andrew Cuomo, has con- deal-making and using a promised but not catering to incumbents, tinued to demonstrate that it is the Constitutional Amendment to rid even-handedness, favoring neither most dysfunctional in the nation. the State of the Legislative involveparty – eliminating one Dem and These jokers, at least until this ment forever.

In any event, we expect that the Cuomo leadership after redistricting is over will provide us with that Constitutional Amendment. It would be, for him, an historic step closer to the White House.

Assuming the Legislature and Governor do not come to an agreement, the court master’s lines will go to the three federal judge panel which appointed her, and likely be approved and take effect for the next ten years.

I’ll live with the court-drawn Congressional map and blindly anticipate and accept U.S. Magistrate Roanne Mann’s efforts on the Legislative lines.

An independent effort in just about anything is preferable to participation of the New York State Legislature, which lost its way decades ago.

MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

By MICHAEL SCHENKLER By the time you read this, Redistricting may have a different face.

N.Y .C. N.Y.C.

N.Y .S. N.Y.S.

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

But with a thought of Wilpon legacy, no Casey will appear, Nor will Jose Reyes or any big name player we do fear.

For Fred he cut $50 million in salary, as we enter a new season, If the Mets don’t get far enough to collapse, we all know the reason.

Drawing The Line(s)!

Not-So-Standard Appeal

BSA Under Fire Over Concerns Of Accountability And Bias

BY ROSS BARKAN

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

“Manhattan-Centric” New York’s zoning code, established in 1916, rigidly defines what kinds of buildings can be built and where. It is the reason a structure the size of the Empire State Building does not loom over Parsons Boulevard. The BSA’s function is to allow for sensible exceptions to the established zoning code in a particular area. Individual parcels of land could lie in a certain type of zone, and a developer or the community may feel a structure that violates the established zoning code could exist without disrupting the community.

The BSA will not hear applications unless another City agency like the Dept. of Buildings has rendered a decision first. Therein is the word “appeal.” Developers appeal to the board to be allowed to build beyond what the land was originally zoned for.

Variances — an exception that allows land zoned for one

PRESS Photos by Ross Barkan

Outside a vacant property in suburban Flushing, civic group members were not protesting the Board of Standards and Appeals. Their colorful signs and cutting slogans were saved for a potential church that, they argued, would be too massive to conform to the single-family homes on the block. Rather than protest the BSA, they were asking for its mercy.

The BSA is one of the most influential agencies in New York City, and perhaps the most influential one that no one has heard of. Despite zoning guru Paul Graziano’s assertion that during Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s decade-long reign, the BSA has listened more to the concerns of City denizens than in the past, verbal and legislative volleys continue to be fired at its Manhattan office.

Made up of five members appointed by the mayor, the BSA can grant a developer “relief” from the City’s stringent zoning code.

People call on the Board of Standards and Appeals to deny a variance to a church proposal in Flushing. particular use to be utilized differently — can be granted if a developer claims there is a “hardship” that requires such a variance. Hardships can be related to the physical nature of the property, such as an oddlyshaped lot, environmental contamination or a high water table.

They can also be economic; the BSA stipulates that property owners are entitled to a “reasonable” economic return. Developers can be adept at using — or exploiting — this hardship.

“The BSA has a Manhattancentric view,” said Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone).

“Manhattan is completely built up. The BSA does not appreciate subtleties of communities like ours with one or two family homes on larger parcels of land with a lot of green space.”

The chief problem with the BSA, assert critics like Halloran, is its lack of accountability. Board members are not elected and once they issue a decision, only a court order can overturn it.

Though the board, which consists of one city planner, one architect and one engineer, will take community concerns into account when rendering a decision, they are not obligated to do so. Halloran and Councilman Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gar-

dens) have co-sponsored legislation that would give community board members and the Borough President the power to appeal a BSA decision.

“The Board takes the recommendations of the community ver y seriously,” said Jeffrey Mulligan, a spokesman for the BSA. “Ultimately the Board decisions must be legally defensible and are therefore based on the applicant’s ability to make the findings as identified in the zoning resolution, New York State case law and the Board’s previous decisions.”

Mulligan said the BSA does not publicly comment on specific cases.

“Skewed” Judgment?

Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) has also introduced legislation that would expand the BSA to 16 members, including five members from City Council, five from City Hall, one from the Public Advocate, and one from each borough president’s of-

fice. Van Bramer would also like to see City Council approve all members of the BSA. According to data from his bill, between 2005 and this month, the BSA approved 778 variances and rejected 21 in Queens. Since they offer little public explanation for their decisions, Van Bramer said the BSA “lacks transparency” and represents an “abuse of the system.”

“The problem is the BSA is still not the way it should be, a 50-50 way of looking at something from a neutral perspective,” said Graziano, a Flushing-based urban planning consultant who, along with State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside), designed a zoning designation to prevent the construction of unusually large singlefamily homes known as “McMansions.” “Prior to Bloomberg getting in here, something like 94 percent of all variances were granted. Now, it’s about 72 percent. At least we have a chance, but before it was really skewed against the people.”

Skewed is a word that BSA opponents use often — it implies that BSA decisions are often handed down in favor of developers looking to build lucrative and larger projects against the wishes of neighboring residents.

In Bayside Hills, an application for a variance was submitted by an architect, Paul Bonfilio, who was once the vice chair of the BSA. Bonfolio wanted to squeeze a second home on a narrow, subdivided lot that locals believed could not possibly hold another structure. Bonfilio’s application was approved, sparking Halloran and Weprin’s reformation efforts.

Go West, Young Developer Civic leaders in Northeastern and Western Queens seem to dislike the BSA’s decision making the most. In the more suburban quarters of Northeast Queens, residents are very pro-

tective of what they repeatedly call their neighborhood’s “character.” Western Queens continues to evolve as a commercial and residential hub, attracting developers who want to profit on land rapidly spiking in value.

In 2011, the Dept. of City Planning rezoned Sunnyside and Woodside to protect the lowerdensity milieu of the residential neighborhoods. Residents rejoiced.

Despite the rezoning efforts, Van Bramer and community activists have blasted the BSA for recently rendering decisions that would allow for larger, mixed-use developments that would violate the new zoning code. Dutch Kills residents, reacting to Long Island City’s hotel boom, sued developer Steven Bahar and the BSA in 2010 over a proposed hotel at 39-35 27th St. Residents contended Bahar, who opened Hotel Vetiver on 39th Avenue, had not made enough progress on the hotel’s foundation to warrant a variance.

The BSA also ruled last year that an eight-story apartment building could be constructed at 64-01 Woodside Ave., despite its lack of conformity with City Planning’s rezoning efforts. Community Board 2, representing Maspeth, Sunnyside, Woodside and Long Island City, fought the variance and Van Bramer has used that decision as an impetus for a reform bill.

And contrary to the wishes of CB 2, Ravel Hotel was granted a variance to expand to a lot that is adjacent to its current location at 8-08 Queens Plaza South.

“The BSA has a total lack of understanding of the neighborhood,” said Joseph Conley, the chair of CB 2. “Time and time again we’ve seen everywhere that the BSA votes against the community.”

Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, or rbarkan@queenstribune.com.

Police Blotter Compiled by JASON PAFUNDI

105th Precinct

109th Precinct

Missing Man

Pedestrian Killed

The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Rupert West, who was last seen at his residence, 135-18 218th St. in Laurelton, on March 9, at approximately 7 a.m.

West is 5-foot-8 and 170 pounds, with blue eyes, black hair and a full beard. He was last seen wearing plaid shorts.

He is in good physical but poor mental health.

Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

On March 8 at 8:12 p.m., police responded to a report of a pedestrian struck at 149th Street and 45th Avenue.

Upon arrival, police determined that a 65-year-old male was crossing the intersection eastbound at 45th Avenue and was struck by an unknown vehicle traveling southbound on 149th Street. The vehicle fled the scene.

EMS responded and transported the victim to NY Hospital Queens where he was pronounced dead on arrival. No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.

The identification of the deceased is pending family notification.

Robber Sought The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in identifying the suspect wanted for a robbery

that took place on March 7.

At 1:30 p.m., the suspect, armed with a knife, entered an apartment in Flushing. Once inside, the suspect asked for money, but before the victim, a 22-year-old female, could comply, the suspect removed a set of car keys from a table and f led the location. There were no reported injuries.

The suspect is described as a 22-year-old Asian male, 5-foot7 and weighing 160 pounds.

Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers a t 1 - 8 0 0 - 577 -T I P S ( 8477 ) .

The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

110th Precinct Robber Wanted The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in locating and identifying a suspect who is wanted in connection with two robberies.

The first incident took place on Feb. 12 at 11:56 p.m. The suspect entered a Papa John’s restaurant located at 43-04 National St., pulled out a silver firearm and demanded money from the register. When the victim did not respond to his command right away, the individual discharged one round into the wall of the establishment. The suspect then removed cash and fled to parts unknown. There were no injuries.

The second incident occurred on Feb. 26 at 7:22 a.m.

The suspect entered a 7-Eleven located at 107-24 Corona Ave., pulled out a silver firearm and demanded cash. The suspect removed cash and f led on foot

to parts unknown.

The individual is described as a Hispanic male, dark skinned, mid 20s to early 30s, with a stocky build and a thin mustache.

Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477).

113th Precinct Man Killed On March 8 at approximately 12:06 a.m., police responded to a 911 call of a male shot in front of 172-40 133rd Ave. Upon arrival, officers observed a 24-year-old black male with gunshot wounds to the head. EMS also responded to the location and pronounced the victim dead on the scene. There are no arrests and the investigation is ongoing.

The deceased has been identified as Maurice Johnson of 14063 161st St., Apt. 2. His family has been notified.

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

pix

Cemetery Clean-up

Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

Black Tie Affair

Photo by Juliet Kaye

Photos by Walter Karling

PS 15Q in Springfield Gardens held its inaugural Gala Black Tie Affair last week, to celebrate children and school parental and community involvement. More than 60 students were in attendance, dressed in special occasion dresses and dark suits. Pictured with PS 15Q students at the event are Principal Antonio K’Tori, the Hon. Archie Spigner, Councilmen Leroy Comrie and James Sanders Jr. and keynote speaker, Assemblyman William Scarborough.

The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation recently engaged in a clean-up of garbage and debris, which has plagued Prospect Cemetery on the York College campus in downtown Jamaica. Participants pictured (from left) are Jim Vaccaro, Mohamed Keita, Gilberto Acevedo, Errol Pinnock, Machel Miller, Christina Rattu, Michael Paulino and Frederick Robinson.

The clean-up is crew hard at work.

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

Continued Support

The U.S. Coast Guard recently presented Queens DA Richard Brown with its Employer Support of Guard and Reserve Patriot Award in recognition of his outstanding support of QDA Detective and Coast Guard reserve John Keeley. Pictured (from left) are QDA Chief Investigator Lawrence Festa, Adler, National President of the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, District Attorney Richard Brown, Special Agent-inCharge William P. Hicks, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service (MidAtlantic Region), QDA Detective John Keeley and Chief Assistant District Attorney John Ryan. Photo courtesy of the Queens District Attorney’s Office.

Borough Beat

EDC Denies Request For Proposal Names dent supporters of the development dream that the cratered New York City’s Economic streets that wend among the dizDevelopment Corporation has zying number of repair shops, scrap not yet disclosed the names of yards and waste processing sites developers seeking to transform will be swapped for retail outlets, the auto repair shop oasis that is hotels and perhaps a convention Willets Point, infuriating its op- center. EDC denied WPU’s Freeposition, Willets Point United. dom of Information Law request This year EDC will reward a for names of the developers, contract to a private developer to though the deadline for proposals turn the 62-acre Iron Triangle into to be submitted was Sept. 9, 2011. what some hope will be a hub of Opponents of the planned commercial activity; the most ar- Willets Point development have said they believe the City is actively misleading its citizenry about multiple facets of the project, including its potential paralyzing impact on Van Wyck Expressway traffic flow and a “living wage provision” that was promised to be a part of any development proposal but has not been specifiWillets Point workers protest prob- cally stipulated by EDC in the lems in the area during a rally in Feb- development’s first phase. A ruary.

Phase 1 developer will be an-

PRESS Photo by Ross Barkan

BY ROSS BARKAN

nounced within several months.

The property owners of Willets Point also contend that their sewer-free, sidewalk-free neighborhood has been neglected by the City for decades and is only now targeted for upgrades so City government can ultimately force them off their land using the power of eminent domain. Eminent domain refers to the ability of a governmental body to transfer land from one private property owner to another for the sake of “public use,” in this case economic development. WPU has filed multiple lawsuits against the City for allegedly abusing its use of eminent domain in the first phase of the project, which is 12 acres.

“It’s important to disclose the names of the developers because EDC clearly cannot be held to its word,” a spokesperson for WPU said. “The need for transparency is paramount.”

Those who answered EDC’s request for proposals should be known to the public, WPU argues, because EDC itself is a public corporation. An EDC spokeswoman, Jennifer Friedberg, said the EDC is still negotiating with respondents. According to a 2011 report in Crain’s Business New York, a source disclosed four of the developers that had submitted proposals for Phase 1. They are The Related Companies, Silverstein Properties, mega-REIT AvalonBay Communities Inc., and TDC Development & Construction Corp.

Related has partnered with Sterling Equities, the real estate firm controlled by Mets owners Fred Wilpon and Saul Katz.

EDC, however, will not confirm any of the names, and since the deadline has passed for applicants to respond, there is no good reason for the names to be kept from the public, said Robert Freeman, executive director of

the New York State Committee on Open Government.

“The developers are on equal footing if the deadline is reached,” Freeman said. “I don’t see any conceivable basis for withholding these names.”

An exasperated Jake Bono, a Willets Point property owner and member of WPU, agrees with Freeman. He said EDC’s lack of disclosure perplexes him.

In the case of eminent domain, a bill just passed in the House of Representatives may present a future obstacle for EDC. The “Private Property Rights Protection Act of 2011” would curtail the powers of eminent domain nationally. Its ultimate passage is still far from assured, however, and any curtailing of eminent domain would require the overturning of a Supreme Court decision.

Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com .

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Profile

Hollis Library Jumpstarts Author’s Career

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

When William Jelani Cobb was a boy, his mother took him to the public library on Hollis Avenue. He was amazed at the number of books on the shelf and signed up for a library card that day.

“I was thrilled with the fact that I could read as many books as I wanted,” he said. It was then he decided he would grow up and become a writer.

During his career, Cobb has published four books and has one more on the way. His book “To The Break of Dawn: A Freestyle on the Hip Hop Aesthetic” was published in 2007 and became a finalist for the National Award for Arts Writing.

His essay collection “The Devil & Dave Chappelle and Other Essays” was published that same year.

He is also the author of “In

Our Lifetimes: Barack Obama and the New Black America” and a scholarly monograph titled “Antidote to Revolution: African American Anticommunism and the Struggle for Civil Rights, 1931-1957.” In between books, Cobb also maintains a blog called “American Exception.”

Cobb was born and raised in Southeast Queens and grew up in both Hollis and Springfield Gardens. He is a graduate of Jamaica High School. He went on to study at Howard University and eventually Rutgers University, where he received his doctorate in American History in 2003.

He is currently an Associate Professor of Africana Studies at Rutgers University. He served as a delegate and historian for the 5th Congressional District at the 2008 Democratic National Convention. Cobb has received fellowships from the Fulbright and

William Jelani Cobb Ford Foundations.

His articles and essays have appeared in a plethora of publications including The Washington Post, Essence and Vibe. Cobb has contributed to a number of anthologies including “In Defense of Mumia,” “Testimony,” “Mend-

ing the World” and “Beats, Rhymes and Life.” He has also been a featured commentator on National Public Radio, CNN, AlJazeera and CBS News.

In “The Devil and Dave Chappelle,” a wide-ranging collection of essays, Cobb examines the black experience of the past decade using cinema, music, literature, politics and pop culture.

Topics include the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the gift and curse of “black success” in the post civil rights era. Cobb calls his collection a chronicle of where blacks have been and a signpost for where blacks need to go next.

In “To The Break of Dawn: A Freestyle on the Hip Hop Aesthetic,” Cobb takes readers inside the lyrics and flow of hiphop, separating what he calls corporate rappers from creative MCs that paved the way. This past summer, Cobb read this

book to children at the South Hollis library - the place a librarian inspired him as a child.

“The Queens Public Library was really important to me being able to pursue my goals in life,” he said.

Cobb is currently working on a book called “Anti-Communism and the Civil Rights Movement,” which is expected to be released in 2013.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.

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A&E

New Book Praises Queens’ Diversity

BY DOMENICK RAFTER In the late 1990s, a history teacher told her class at a Queens high school during a discussion about race, “In Queens, everyone is a minority.”

For the last few decades, that has been technically true. There is no majority ethnicity in Queens, one of the few places in the country - and indeed the world - where that is true. Often it’s a sense of pride for Queens residents, sometimes it has led to minor strife, but the borough’s

ethnic diversity has given it a reputation that has gone global.

Journalists and authors Karl Meyer and Shareen Blair Brysac are just the latest to write about that reputation. In their new book, “Pax Ethnica,” the duo explores Queens and other places around the world where different cultures live together in relative harmony like the religious diversity of Muslims, Hindus and Christians living together in Keralta, India, and the large Muslim population of Marseilles, France - a country that banned the wearing of Islamic headscarves.

Restaurant Review

More Than Just A Pie

Vincent and Andrea’s 113-07 Jamaica Ave. Richmond Hill (718) 846-7070 www.vapizzany.com CUISINE: Italian DELIVERY: Yes HOURS: Mon-Thu, Sun 10:30 a.m.–10 p.m.; Fri-Sat 10:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m.

CREDIT CARDS: All Major

board members. They interviewed Richard Italiano, the late chairman of Community Board 4 who passed away in January, and spoke about how many immigrants do not get involved in community board and civic positions because they tend to work multiple jobs and have little time to be involved in civic activities. They also took note of the “potpourri of ethnic groups” that ride the 7 train and the cultural events that often bring together large groups of different people, including the Phagwa Parade in Richmond Hill, which was held this past weekend.

“The Muslims, Hindus, Christians and Jews, to a degree that’s really quite impressive, generated an general inter-communal feeling,” Meyer said.

Queens’ diversity can be seen even in its healthcare system, Meyer and Brysac said. Pharmacists in local small pharmacies gear toward the immigrant community and help customers not only with medicines, but also im-

migration and tax issues. At Elmhurst Hospital, there are 10 full-time translators because of the number of foreign language speakers in the community.

But what stood out above all else in the borough, the duo said, was its libraries.

“If you go to your local library in Manhattan and compare it to the library in Flushing, there is no comparison,” Brysac said, she went on to describe the borough’s libraries are “very people directed” and are not only places to check out books, but fully-functioning community centers that played host to organizations, community meetings and events; something that is not in Manhattan libraries.

In many ways, Meyer said Queens was what communities, faced with a future full of diversity, will evolve into.

Pax Ethnica can be found at publicaffairsbooks.com Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 125, or drafter@queenstribune.com.

Wopat Brings B’way To Boro

BY TAMMY SCILEPPI As part of its Celebrity Concert Series, Queens Theatre’s upcoming production on March 24 will feature a concert of dazzling Broadway hits and nostalgic standards of the 40s and 50s performed by TV and stage star Tom Wopat.

Wopat says jazz is his passion, but he’s also into rock and country. As a youngster, he recalls learning all about different genres from his music teacher, while growing up in Madison, Wis. The talented lad began singing and dancing in school musicals from age 12. Following high school graduation, he pursued music as a viable profession.

Studying at the University of Wisconsin, Wopat dropped out to front a rock band, as both guitarist and lead singer, and later gained on-stage experience in such musicals as “South Pacific,” “West Side Story” and “Jesus Christ Superstar.”

From 1979 to 1985, Wopat’s freewheeling Luke Duke character was considered a hero and heartthrob for a generation of teens who watched him every week on the CBS TV series, “The Dukes of Hazzard.”

But Wopat never let that role define his career – no sir.

After the cancellation of the popular series, he reverted back to his first true love - music - successfully refocusing as a recording artist and musical leading man of Broadway and regional shows.

Wopat performed in the Tony Award-winning “City of Angels” and “Guys and Dolls.” In 1999, he received a Tony nomination for his role in the Broadway revival of “Annie Get Your Gun,” opposite Bernadette Peters.

Then, in 2008, the star returned to Broadway as Tom Hurley in “A Catered Affair,” with Faith Prince and Harvey Fierstein. The star spent much of 2011 on Broadway again, starring as Frank Abagnale Sr. in the adap-

tation of “Catch Me If You Can.” Never one to let grass grow under his feet, Wopat was in the spotlight again as Cybill Shepherd’s ex-husband/ stuntman, on her own sitcom series “Cybill,” in 1995.

Other credits include a recurring role on Home Improvement, the critically acclaimed NBC movie “Just My Imagination,” HBO’s “Taking Chance,” alongside Kevin Bacon, and most recently, a spot on CBS’ “A Gifted Man.” In 2012, Wopat will star in ABC’s first-ever movie musical, “Elixir,” alongside Jane Seymour, Chelsea Kane, Sara Paxton and more.

Tom Wopat WHERE: Queens Theatre, Flushing Meadows Corona Park WHEN: March 24 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m.

TICKETS: $44 or $60 for Producer’s Circle. http://queenstheatre.org

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

Vincent and Andrea’s, located at 113-07 Jamaica Ave. in Richmond Hill, may appear to be just another pizzeria in a borough soaked in pizzerias, but as its extensive - almost restaurantsized - menu shows, it’s much more than just a pie.

Ordering from Vincent and Andrea’s is almost like talking to your waitress by phone.

What comes a half an hour or so later is a smorgasbord in a box. For our meal, we ordered a multitude of dishes, including sides. I had a personal supreme pizza. Barely big enough for someone starving to finish in one setting, this pizza is probably better off shared with a significant other. The pizza was topped with sausage, pepperoni, olives, onions and peppers. Though it may seem like a lot going on for one pizza slice - and it was - the mix of flavors made it a delight. It’s easier to eat it with a fork and knife than the typical folding of the slice

way. Want different toppings?

You can get a buffalo chicken or barbecue-chicken-topped pizza.

For those who don’t eat meat, there’s a vegetarian pizza topped with broccoli, peppers, onions, mushrooms and olives and for the more adventurous; a Hawaiian pizza, with ham and pineapple.

Like most Italian takeout places, Vincent and Andrea’s offers a wide selection of pasta dishes and heroes. Try the tortellini with vodka or alfredo sauce for a creamy treat. In the mood for a hero? Vincent and Andrea’s has the laundry list you’ll find in an Italian eatery: meatball, sausage, eggplant, veal cutlet, chicken cutler and peppers and egg. But they take it one step further. Beyond the traditional heroes, Vincent and Andrea’s has a selection of wraps added to their menu, as well as burgers and steak sandwiches.

Even when enjoying your delicious and filling meal, don’t miss out on Vincent and Andrea’s extensive appetizer menu. I recommend the New Zealand mussels in garlic and white wine sauce. The mussels are exceptionally meaty and seasoned in a mouth-watering sauce. The mussel shells have a unique and hypnotic rainbow color.

-Domenick Rafter

Although their travels took them all over the world, both say Queens definitely stands out as unique.

She and Meyer “handled Queens a little differently” than they did in other areas they visited and profiled and noted that its location - directly across the river from where they lived in Manhattan - made it a much less time consuming place to research.

Every week during their research, the two of them would visit different parts of Queens and see how different communities lived. They read local newspapers - including sister-paper Queens Tribune - and visited with community boards and parentteacher associations.

“Community boards and PTAs are very important,” Meyer said. “They provide a forum for different ethnic groups to get together and try to solve problems” Meyer said they took note of some of the borough’s quirks, such as the aging of the community

Faith

Hollis Church Welcomes U.S. Rep. Meeks

BY VERONICA LEWIN Members of the Hollis community will get an opportunity to meet with their local Congressman this Saturday.

U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) will attend a meet and greet session on March 17 at Gethsemane Baptist Church, located at 88-48 193rd St. in Hollis. The Congressman will arrive at 4 p.m. Saturday and spend about an hour at the church. The Rev. Michael Corley said the church invited Meeks to allow the community to put a face with the name and ask him questions about issues concerning constituents.

“We’re excited about him coming,” he said.

The Gethsemane Baptist Church has been open for 64 years and Corley is the congregation’s fourth pastor.

For the past four years, Corley said he has been trying to improve community outreach. He said his age – 42 – not only makes him more aware of the issues affecting young people in Southeast Queens, but it helps him understand what is going on.

“I can relate to what is happening with young people,” Corley said.

Corley’s road to leading Gethsemane Baptist Church began when he was just six years old. He accepted Christ as his Savior at the age of six under the pastorate of his father, the Rev. Edward Corley, at the Mount Olive Baptist Church in Manhasset, Nassau County.

Since then, Corley has served his home church in several ways, including the Junior Usher Board, Senior Choir Director and Sunday School instructor.

The Rev. Michael Corley For three years, he hosted a Christian Radio Program called “Precious Moments” where he reminded youth every week that they are precious in God’s sight.

Preaching runs in Corley’s family, as his father, maternal

grandfather and great-grandfather were also preachers. He eventually answered the call and was licensed by his father in February 1999 at Mount Olive Baptist Church. A year after being ordained, Corley was appointed to serve as the assistant to the pastor of Mount Olive.

Corley held this position for nine years before being called to serve as the pastor of Gethsemane Baptist Church in March 2008.

In addition to his role at the Hollis church, Corley has been active in the Eastern Baptist Association of New York. He currently serves as the 2nd vice president for the Board of Evangelism & Coordinator for Young Preachers and Ministers.

He is also a member of Empire State Missionary Baptist Convention, Hampton University Ministers’ Conference and the

National Baptist Convention USA, Inc. Gethsemane Baptist Church is hosting their annual Health and Career Fair on June 30. For more information about upcoming events at the church, call (718) 464-0391.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123, or vlewin@queenspress.com.

Word

“The nature of God is a circle of which the centre is everywhere and the circumference is nowhere.”

- Anonymous

Notebook Adult Learning Center

Rochdale Village Library To Expand Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

BY VERONICA LEWIN In an effort to better serve the community, the Rochdale Village Queens Library branch will expand its Adult Learning Center.

A kickoff ceremony was held on March 9 at the Rochdale Village branch, located at 169-09 137th Ave., to celebrate the changes coming to the library.

The Adult Learning Center will be expanded eastward to more than double the existing space.

The center currently serves hundreds of adult students each year who are learning to read, write and converse in English, as well as students who are taking preGED classes. The center is one of seven in the borough.

The $4.1 million expansion and renovation will include expanded classroom space, more

computers and listening stations, more study group space and a new handicapped-accessible restroom. It is being built on adjacent City-owned property.

The roof and HVAC and fire protection equipment will also be replaced. Instead of waiting in long check-out lines, stations will be available for patrons to check out books in a matter of seconds.

The expanded Adult Learning Center is expected to open in the fall of 2013.

“This is something very, very special. We view it as a new era for expanding library service here for adult learners in Southern Queens,” said Queens Library CEO Tom Galante.

Community groups have long pushed for the library expansion, including the Friends of the Rochdale Village Library Adult Learning Center. Elected officials

By the end of 2013, the Rochdale Village community will be able to enjoy a new Adult Learning Center at the neighborhood Queens Library branch. who represent Rochdale Village had a hand in securing funding for the library expansion. Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (DRochdale) said a man visited her

office to plead for a new bathroom at the Rochdale Village branch, and now the plan is being put into action.

One of Borough President

Helen Marshall’s main priorities in office has been to support and improve the Queens Library system.

“I believe that education and lifelong learning are the keys to every individual to have a successful and fulfilling life,” Marshall said.

“The new Adult Learning Center will provide expanded opportunities for adults continuing education and older citizens re-entering the workforce,” said Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica).

During the construction, the full-service library will continue its normal operations. The Adult Learning Center will continue to serve the community by holding sessions at Rochdale Village and Laurelton branches.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send typed announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357.

Send faxes to 357-9417, IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.

SINGLES SIMCHA SINGLES Friday, March 16 for those 40-60+ at the Little Neck Jewish Center, 49-10 Little Neck Parkway at 8. Services followed by discussion: “Jewish Humor: Its Place in Jewish History and Its Role in our Contemporary Lives.”

516-487-0674.

THEATER FUNNY THING Through March 25 “A Funny Thing Happened On The Way to the Forum” at Marathon Little Theatre in Little Neck. $18 adults. 229-4644.

RENT April 11-14, 18-20 at LaGuardia Performing Arts.

482-5151.

TALKS

ACT TEST Saturday, March 17 take an A C T p ra c t i c e t e s t a t t h e F l u s h i n g l i b ra r y. 800-2738439 register.

JOB SEARCH Saturday, March 17 at the Central library at 10:30.

CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2.

TEEN STUDY Mondays through Thursday s at the Lefrak Cit y library at 4.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays Douglaston/Little Neck library at 4.

TEEN CHESS Mondays at 6 Bayside library.

HOMEWORK & GAMES Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays homework help and teen gaming at the Fresh Meadows library at 4.

EGG BALANCING Tuesday, March 20 Spring Solstice Egg Balancing Challenge for Teens at the Far Rockaway library at 4.

3D ECO ART Tuesday, March 20 create an environmentally themed painting at the Middle Village library. Register.

DANCE & LITERACY Tuesday, March 20 interactive workshops using literacy to explore the roots of contemporary culture. Cambria Heights and LIC library at 4.

Wednesday, March 21 at the Ridgewood library at 4.Thursdays, March 22, 29 at the Cambria Heights library and the LIC library at 4. Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Ridgewood library at 4.

LIC CHESS CLUB Tuesdays LIC library at 4.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays Windsor Park library at 4.

DANCE & LITERACY Wednesday, March 21, Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Ridgewood library at 4.

RESUME WRITING Wednesdays 4 Arverne library.

GAME DAY Wednesdays Howard Beach and St. Albans libraries at 4.

CHESS Wednesdays at 3:30 Queens Village library.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays South Ozone Park library at 1. Knit at the Bayside librar y. Register.

KNITTING CLUB Wednesdays at the Bayside library. Register.

3D ECO ART Thursdays, March 22, 29 create an environmentally themed painting at the Astoria librar y. Register.

MOTIVATIONAL WORK.

Thursdays, March 22, 29 motivational workshop for teens at 5 at the Laurelton library.

KARAOKE NIGHT Thursday, March 22 at the Arverne library at 5:30.

OPEN MIC Thursday, March 22 at the East Elmhurst library at 6.

TEEN THURSDAYS T h u r s d ay s B ay Te r ra c e l i brary at 3.

CHESS CLUB Thursdays 4-5:30 Douglaston/Little Neck library. East Flushing library at 5.

WII GAMING Fridays, March 23, 30 wii gaming at the Astoria library at 4:30.

TEEN HAPPY HOUR Fridays at 4 Flushing library.

CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale library a t 3 : 3 0 . Tu t o r i a l a t t h e Woodside library at 4.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays Briarwood library at 4.

GAME DAY Fridays Woodhaven library at 4:30.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Every Friday at 4 Hillcrest library.

TEEN FRIDAYS Fridays Seaside library at 4.

LIVE WOLF Saturday, March 24 wolf conservation center at Alley Pond Environmental Center.

229-4000.

FLEA MARKETS SPRING FAIR Saturday, March 24 9-3 at UUCQ, 147-54 Ash Avenue, Flushing.

FLEA MARKET Saturday, March 24 9-4 at Plattduetsche, Renken Apartments Great Room, 1140 Hempstead Turnpike, Franklin Square.

SPRING TREASURE Saturday, March 24 9:303:30 and Sunday, March 25 11:30-3:30 at Church of the R e s u r r e c t i o n , 8 5 - 0 9 1 1 8 th Street, Kew Gardens.

FLEA MARKET Saturday, March 24 9-4 at O u r L a d y o f H o p e , 7 8 th Street and Eliot Avenue, Middle Village.

MISCELLANEOUS MARCH FOR EARTH Sunday, March 25 celebrate the first day of spring, Earth Day, at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. 886-3800. 10-1. Free.

METROCARD VAN Tuesday, March 27 1-3 at Forest Parkway and Jamaica Avenue.

APEC PROGRAMS March Alley Pond Environmental Center will hold Toddler time Nature Programs, Sunny Bunnies and Fledglings (for those 3-4). 2294000.

ST. PAT’S STORY TIME Saturday, March 17 at 11 at Barnes & Noble, 176-60 U n i o n Tu r n p i ke , F re s h Meadows. Craft at 11:30.

STORY BOOK LADY Saturdays 12:30-1:30 reading enrichment program for 6-9 year olds at Maria Rose International Doll Museum in St. Albans. $7.50. 2763454.

SCIENCE LAB Saturdays Central library at 11.

MATH HELP Saturdays Flushing library at 10.

HOMEWORK HELP Saturdays 10-noon Bayside library.

CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2.

S TORY TIMES Saturdays at 11 and Tuesdays at 10:30 weekly story times at Barnes & Noble, 1 7 6 - 6 0 Un i o n Tu r n p i k e , Fresh Meadows.

ADVENTURE HOUR Sunday, March 18 celebrate Spring with 18-36 month kids at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 2294000.

LEGO BUILDERS Mondays, March 19, 26 at the LIC library at 6:15.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at 4 Douglaston/ Little Neck library.

HOMEWORK HELP Mondays 3:30-5:00 Bayside library.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays, March 20, 27 at the Hillcrest library at 3:30.

DANCE & LITERACY Tuesday, March 20 at the Cambria Heights and LIC library at 4.

3D ECO ART Tuesday, March 20 at the Middle Village library.

CHESS CLUB Tuesdays LIC library at 4 and Rosedale library at 4:30.

HAPPY HAPPY STORY Wednesdays, March 21, 28 at the LIC library at 10:30.

PICTURE STORY TIME Wednesday, March 21 at 10:30 at the Lefrak Cit y library. For those 2-4.

S TORY T I M E Wednesdays, March 21, 28 East Elmhurst Storytime at 11:30 at the library.

LIBRARY BUDDIES Wednesday, March 21 a t the Auburndale library at 4.

DANCE & LITERACY

Wednesday, March 21 at the Ridgewood library at 4.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays at the South Ozone Park library at 1.

GAME DAY Wednesdays Poppenhusen library at 4.

3D ECO ART Thursdays, March 22, 29 at the Astoria library. Register.

DRAMA POSSE Thursday, March 22 at the Hillcrest library. Register.

DANCE & LITERACY Thursdays, March 22, 29 at the Cambria Heights library and the LIC library at 4.

CRAFT TIME Thursdays 3:30 Ozone Park library.

KIDS COLORING Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Queensboro Hill library at 11.

KIDS ACTIVITY Friday, March 23 a t t h e Briarwood library at 3:30.

LIBRARY BUDDIES Fridays, March 23, 30 at 4 at the Auburndale library.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Briarwood library at 4.

DANCE & LITERACY Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Ridgewood library at 4.

WII GAMING Fridays, March 23, 30 at the Astoria library at 4:30.

SEASONAL CRAFT Friday, March 23 a t t h e Lefrak Cit y library at 4:30.

TODDLER CRAFT Fridays Briarwood library at 10:30.

READ TO ME Fridays Briarwood library at 3.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays at 2 Queens Village and LIC libraries. Briarwood library at 4.

GAME DAY Fridays Queens Village library at 2.

FLASH FRIDAYS Every Friday at 3 Ozone Park library.

GAME PLAYERS Every Friday Hillcrest library at 4.

CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale library at 3:30. Tutorial at 4 at the Woodside library.

GAME DAY Fridays Rochdale Village and Windsor Park libraries at 4.

TWEEN ZONE Fridays LIC library at 2:30 for those in grades 5-8.

BOOST GAME DAY Fridays Central library at 4:30 and at 5 McGoldrick library.

LIVE WOLF Saturday, March 24 wolf conservation center at Alley Pond Environmental Center.

229-4000.

SENIORS FREE LUNCH Saturday, March 17 All Saints Church in Richmond Hill. 849-2352 reservations.

ELDER LAW Sunday, March 18 Reform Temple of Forest Hills, 711 1 1 1 2 th S t r e e t a t 1 0 : 3 0 .

Light breakfast served.

AARP CHAPTER 1405 Monday, March 19 at Bowne S treet Communit y Church, 143-11 Roosevelt Avenue at 1.

KEW GARDENS Monday, March 19 Art Appreciation “The American Wing in the Met” at 1.

Wednesday, March 21 Basic Sewing. Kew Gardens Communit y Center, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE Mondays Lunch, lesson and c o n g e n i a l p l ay. P r i d e o f Judea. 423-6200.

STAY WELL Mondays at the Central library at 10 and Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst librar y.

HOWARD BEACH Tuesday, March 20 “Emotional Wellness” seminar.

Thursday, March 22 “Healthy Eating Can Minimize Strokes and Heart Att a c k s ” a t 1 1 . 1 5 6 - 4 5 8 4 th Street. 738-8100.

TAX HELP Tuesdays, March 20, 27 at the Hollis library. 465-7355.

CAREGIVERS Tuesdays 3:30-4:30 Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 2 6th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886.

PLAY SCENES Wednesday, March 21 Senior Theater Acting Repertory will kick off their 22 nd spring season at the Bellerose library at 1.

BRIDGE Wednesdays Reform Temple of Forest Hills. 2612900.

STAY WELL Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst library for exercise.

STARS Wednesdays at the Hollis librar y. Senior Theater Acting Repertory. 776-0529.

TAX HELP Thursdays, March 22, 29 tax counseling for low-income older adults at the Fresh Meadows library at 1.

STARS Fridays, March 23, 30 Senior Theater Acting Repertory meets at the Queens Village library at 10:30.

ANNIVERSARY Saturday, March 24 38 th anniversary of the Allen Communit y Senior Citizens Center 1-5. 658-0980.

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

ELDER LAW Sunday, March 18 “Elder Law for Yourself and Your Parents” at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills, 7111 112 th Street at 10:30. .

ISTANBUL Wednesday, March 21 Cit y of Cities: Byzantium, Constantinople, Istanbul at 12:15 at Campbell Dome, Queens College. 997-5597.

SELLING CRAFTS Wednesdays, March 21, 28 learn how to sell your handicrafts online at the Central library. 990-5102.

CALLIGRAPHY Thursdays, March 22, 29 appreciation of classical Chinese calligraphy at the Flushing library at 6:30.

SON OF APOLLO Saturday, March 24 “Revelations 911: Sun of Apollo” discussion and signing at 1:30 at Barnes 7 Noble, 17660 Un i o n Tu r n p i ke , Fre s h Meadows.

YOUTH

TEENS

People Zainab A. Sulaiman o f Queens Village was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2011 semester at Drew University in Madison, NJ. Air Force Airman Shaquille Q. Ellington graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

He is the son of Theresa Neath of Jamaica and is a 2011 graduate of Queens High School of Teaching in Bellerose.

Xavier Harding of Laurelton was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2011 semester at Gettysburg College in Gettysburg, Pa. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2011 semester at Syracuse University. They include:

Sewer & Drain

Jamaica: Danika Johnson, Dominique Pierrot.

South Ozone Park: Amari Howard, Zoban Singh.

Springfield Gardens: Tiffany Pierrot.

Air Force Airman Kavin Lovelace graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Lovelace is the son of Hortence Ford of Jamaica.

Major General Patrick A. Murphy recently announced the promotion of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their capabilities for additional responsibility and leadership.

Thaddeus Wohl of Jamaica, serving with the 133rd Quartermaster Support Company, was

Sewer & Drain

Furniture

promoted to the rank of Private First Class.

Lotoya Harris of Jamaica, serving with the 133rd Quartermaster Support Company, was promoted to the rank of Specialist.

Mohamed Islam of Hollis, serving with the 719th Transportation Company, was promoted to the rank of Private.

Patrick Pichardo of Springfield Gardens, serving with the Company A, 2-108th Infantry, was promoted to the rank of Private.

Jasmyn Browne of South Ozone Park performed in “Love in the Afternoon,” an annual concert presented by the Marist College Singers at Marist College in Poughkeepsie.

The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings March 410. The following winners each received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

Upholstery

Nir Barak of Far Rockaway won $10,000 on the Mega Millions drawing March 2. Barak’s winning ticket was purchased at AK Newstand, 322 Ave. M, Brooklyn.

Fernando Corrales of Rego Park won $10,002 on the Quick Draw drawing March 5. Corrales’ winning ticket was purchased at the Mini Mart, 97-02 Queens Blvd., Rego Park.

William Lewis of Jamaica won $10,130 on the Take Five drawing March 6. Lewis’ winning ticket was purchased at the C-Town Supermarket, 142-36 Foch Blvd., Jamaica.

Sandra Bors of Woodside won $30,115 on the Take Five drawing March 3. Bors’ winning ticket was purchased at the Green & Clean, 44-06 48th Ave., Woodside.

Mario Sabatino of Astoria won $37,417 on the Take Five drawing March 4. Sabatino’s winning ticket was purchased at the M&R Newsstand. 30-09 36th Ave., Astoria.

Maksim Golishev of Jackson

Help Wanted

Heights won $17,550 on the Take Five drawing March 8.

Golishev’s winning ticket was purchased at Shaha, 82-06 37th Ave., Jackson heights.

Gladys Hernandez of Jackson Heights won $10,130 on the Take Five drawing March 6.

Hernandez’s winning ticket was purchased at Junction Convenience, 34-60 Junction Blvd., Jackson Heights.

The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning scratch-off ticket March 410 and received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

Sohan Singh of South Ozone Park won $25,000 on the Double Your Luck scratch-off game. Singh’s winning ticket was purchased at Family Candy in Brooklyn.

Kurian Varughese of Glen Oaks won $25,000 on the Triple Million scratch-off game.

Varughese’s winning ticket was purchased at Lakeville Stationery in New Hyde Park.

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March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

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Models Of Queens

Irene Elle Home: Elmhurst Age: 20 Height: 5’2’’ Weight: 127 lbs.

Stats: 37-32-32 NYPhotoByNick

Med School Model Irene started modeling this past August because she wanted to try a new art form. The 20-year-old St. John’s University student is a double major in psychology and biology and doesn’t view modeling as a full-time job. Medical school is on her mind, but modeling is in her heart. Her modeling interest was piqued by an advertisement she saw from St. John’s fashion club. They were looking

for models, and Elle signed on.

“The reason I like modeling is that I’m an artsy person,” she said.

“It’s a way of creating art using your own body.”

Elle enjoys drawing and painting, and practiced ceramics in high school at Christ the King. She wants to go to medical school and become a psychiatrist, and views modeling as a fun side project.

Right now she is focused on build-

ing her portfolio.

When she’s not studying hard or modeling, she’s hanging out with her friends in Manhattan or Flushing.

Queens will always be her favorite, though.

“Queens is a combination of the suburbs and big city. You have some areas where it’s busy, and some that are residential and quiet.”

Nails Heading to Jails Former New York Mets outfielder Lenny Dykstra was sentenced to three years in a California state prison after a judge rejected a last-ditch effort to change his no contest plea and fight the charges.

Dykstra, who went by the nicknamed “Nails” was nailed for grand theft auto and filing a false financial statement in connection with a scheme to use somebody else’s paperwork to steal or lease several new cars.

When handing down her sentence, L.A. County Superior Court Judge Cynthia Ulfig said the effort to steal cars showed “sophistication, planning,” and prosecutors had argued that he did not exhibit Lenny Dykstra isn’t this excited about his recent sentencing. any remorse toward his victims.

Judging by what Dykstra said, that’s not hard to believe.

“Did I do something I’m not proud of? Yes,” he said. “Am I a criminal?

No.” During his statement, he apologized to his family but not to the victims, including the person whose identity he stole as part of his effort to steal the cars.

Clearly he was better at stealing bases.

Ike’s Got The Fever

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 16-22, 2012

Vallone Goes Hollywood

Peter Vallone isn’t too happy with ABC

After calling for a boycott of the new ABC show “GCB,” Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (DAstoria) appeared on TMZ Live to discuss his opposition to the show, based on a book called “Good Christian Bitches.”

Vallone said the show is a disgrace to Walt Disney, founder of the company that owns ABC. “I think Disney would be turning over in his grave looking at what’s been done to his legacy.”

The network has said that the show is called “Good Christian Belles” but Vallone doesn’t buy that.

“I don’t have idiot written on my forehead. You cannot name it after a book and then later say that

Music To Our Ears There may be no such thing as a free lunch, but Queens residents can definitely find free music.

The Queens Public Library recently announced it would offer library card holders three free music downloads per week. Just log on to www.queenslibrary.org/freegal with your library card number and

you’ll be given the option to download any three songs available on the website – including brand new releases. Spend the week enjoying your new songs and come back next week for three more.

The best part? Unlike a library book, you don’t have to return the music once you’ve listened to it.

it actually means something else.”

Despite his objections, Vallone doesn’t want the show taken off the air. He just wants the title changed and an apology from ABC. Good luck with that.

The Mets' Ike Davis has a fever.

Confidentially, New York . . .

Mets first baseman Ike Davis may have something called Valley Fever. Only a Met would have something called Valley Fever.

Valley Fever is not something you get from living in Valley Stream or California. It is a fungal infection found in desert regions in the Southwest. Davis, who is a Met, is also susceptible because he plays for the Mets, a team that can’t really catch a break.

May the fungus stay away on opening day, Ike.

Muy Bien Following along at municipal meetings can sometimes be tough, even when you speak the language. If English isn’t your first language, however, the task can be even more of a challenge.

A recently-introduced pilot program will help change that.

Community Board 3 meetings – covering the heavily-Hispanic section of Corona – will give attendees a headset, which will provide a Spanish translation done by an on-site interpreter. The initiative is being run by New Immigrant Community Empowerment and was funded by Councilman Daniel Dromm.

If the meetings get boring, hopefully they will provide some suitable music alternative.

What’s Up ten by George Carroll and ChrisMARCH 17 Tyler.

Walkers For Wellness Club tinaFor tickets and information, Looking for a fun way to improve your health? Join the Walkers for Wellness Club at New Hope Lutheran Church of Jamaica. Under the guidance of a Walking Leader, you will walk two to three times each week at a comfortable pace with others along routes throughout Southeast Queens. The club is open to walkers of all ages and abilities.

The walking schedule is Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 8 a.m. Walkers meet at New Hope Lutheran Church, located at 167-24 118th Ave. T-shirts and pedometers will be provided. Contact Thurkessa Brown at (917) 553-1089 for more information.

Hands-On History The King Manor Museum’s Hands-on History Workshops are free drop-in programs designed for families with children.

Imagine what life was like without electricity! When Rufus King lived at King Manor they only had candles for light! Children will dip their own candles and enjoy other fun crafts!

This free event will be held at King Manor Museum, 153rd Street and Jamaica Avenue, from noon to 3 p.m.

Vissi Dance Theater

The Tragedy of Tupac Just who did shoot Tupac Shakur? If you really want to know, then you need to check out the Black Spectrum Theatre’s production of “The Tragedy of Tupac or Who Shot Me?” Writ-

Charisa: The Violin Diva Charisa, the Violin Diva, began her musical journey in a small public school program at the tender age of four, and so began a lifelong love-affair with music.

Since then, Charisa has collaborated with some of the most illustrious artists across the musical borders, including Wynton Marsalis, Savion Glover and Musiq Soulchild. Charisa’s first two albums “The Soul Evolution of Charisa” and “This Journey Home” are set to release in this year. Join her and her funky band for an evening of Jazz and R&B! Food will be available. Tickets can be purchased in advance for $15; $17 at the door.

This event will be held at the Afrikan Poetry Theatre, 176-03 Jamaica Ave., at 8 p.m.

MARCH 18 Empty Bowls Event Join an effort to fight hunger.

Share a simple meal of soup and bread in a handmade ceramic bowl of your choosing. Keep your bowl as a reminder that there are always empty bowls in the world. $15 donation per bowl. All proceeds will be donated to the Food Bank of New York City. Seating is limited. Register at (718) 4416614.

This event will be held at The New Homestead Home, 82-45 Grenfell St., from 4 to 6 p.m.

MARCH 19 Life in the Key of Love Are you a huge Stevie Wonder fan? If not, then you simply need to learn more about the work of this musical genius. You can do so by attending the York College Department of Music’s upcoming panel discussion of the music of Stevie Wonder. The panel will feature George White, Tom Zlabinger and others.

This free event will be held at York College’s African American Resource Center, Academic

Queensborough Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 10:30 a.m.

Ridgewood Savings Bank, 23022 Merrick Blvd., at 7 p.m.

Springfield Gardens Community Meeting

Women’s Recognition MARCH 22 Night Councilman James Sanders Jr. Remembering the War of The Guy R. Brewer United invites you to attend a Spring- 1812 Democratic Club meets monthly field Gardens Community Meeting. Are you concerned about crime, sanitation, traffic safety, and foreclosures? Then come out and hear from the following agencies: the New York City Department of Environmental Protection, the New York City Department of Sanitation, the Parks Dept., NYPD, the Dept. of Transportation, the Dept. of Housing Preservation and Development, and the Parodneck Foundation.

For more information, contact (718) 527-4356.

This free event will be held at Birch Family Center, 145-02 Farmers Blvd., at 7 p.m.

MARCH 20 Walkers For Wellness Club See March 17 listing. At 7 p.m.

Open House

The King Manor Museum is pleased to present the next of its Talking About History talks. This lecture will consider key events from the War of 1812 by exploring satirical visual imagery. Political cartoons were printed with immediacy, to capitalize on sensational events and to mock prominent politicians and figures, while extolling pride in the American cause. Caricatures of this period, although printed in haste, expose how people in America felt and how they responded to the War of 1812.

The War of 1812 in American Caricature will be lead by Dr. Allison Stagg.

This free event will be held at St. John’s University’s Hall Room 306, 8000 Utopia Parkway, at 5 p.m.

Fashion Event

Interested in becoming a more confident and effective communicator? Then come to Talk of the Town’s Friends and Family Night. Talk of the Town is an enthusiastic, fun Toastmasters Club with Members from all walks of life, who share the desire to learn how to be better leaders and communicators. All guests interested in improving speaking or leadership skills, while meeting fun friends and neighbors are welcome!! There is plenty of free street parking available after 7:00 pm.

This free event will be held at the Robert Ross Johnson Family Life Center, 172-17 Linden Blvd., at 7:15 p.m.

Calling all local fashionistas, photographers, stylists, models, bloggers, and agents. Come on out for a fashion filled evening at downtown Jamaica’s pop-up lounge - Apple Lounge. Bring your portfolios and get ready to network and socialize with other fashion industry professionals.

Learn more about the opportunities to have your talents featured in an upcoming fashion extravaganza taking place at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center. Food and beverages will be served. Be fashionable, but don’t be late.

Contact (718) 526-2422 for more information.

This free event will be held at Applebee’s Apple Lounge, 16119 Jamaica Ave., from 6 to 9 p.m.

MARCH 21 Mock Interviews

Laurelton Crime Summit

Are you ready for your next job interview? Participants will learn about how and what to research before the interview, what to expect in an interview, answering some tough questions, and what to do after the interview. To register, please call 718990-5102 or visit the Job Information Center.

This free event will be held at

Councilman James Sanders Jr. invites you to attend a Crime Summit in Laurelton. Come out and hear from law enforcement on how they’re tackling crime in Laurelton, Rosedale and Springfield Gardens. The special invited guest is Deputy Inspector Joseph Courtesis, of the 105th Precinct. For more information, contact (718) 527-4356.

This free event will be held at

on the fourth Thursday of the month. Refreshments are served.

Come on out for Women’s Recognition Night. Come out and see how you can help get the vote out for President Obama. For additional information, contact District Leader Leslie Spigner at grbudc@aol.com.

This free event will be held at the Guy R. Brewer United Democratic Club, 197-01 Linden Blvd. at 7:30 p.m.

MARCH 23 No-Cost Mammograms State Sen. Shirley Huntley and the American Italian Cancer Foundation are pleased to present a community no-cost mammogram and clinical breast exam. If you are insured, please bring your insurance card on screening day. Women age 40 and over who have a City mailing address and who have not had a mammogram in the past 12 months are eligible. An appointment is required, call 1 877-6289090. Screening by appointment only. Absolutely NO walk-ins.

Screening is by appointment only. Not every insurance is accepted by the medical provider and appointments are NOT validated until the patient navigator confirms the appointment. AICF reserves the right to turn away women who do not meet their requirements as per the patient navigator. For further information or to make an appointment, please call the District Office of Senator Huntley at (718) 523-3069.

This free event will be held in a mobile unit at 161-10 Jamaica Ave., from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

T.K. Blue T.K. Blue, also known as Talib Kibwe, has released his 9th CD entitled “Latin Bird.” He will perform at York College. A donation of $10 is suggested. For additional information, call (718) 262-2559.

This free event will be held at York College Performing Arts Center - 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., from 7 to 9 p.m.

March 16-22, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

Vissi Dance Theater explodes onto the stage at JPAC for a tour de force performance. Still buzzing from its wildly successful performance at the Performing Arts Center at York College, Vissi returns to Queens with a special performance in honor of International Women’s Month. Choreographer Courtney Ffrench will feature the premier “The Triangle of Fire” along with repertoire favorites “For Sonia” and “For My Love.” Admission is $20; $15 for seniors or children under 12.

This event will be held at Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Ave., at 7:30 p.m.

visit www.blackspectrum.com or call (718) 723-1800. Tickets are $20; $20 with a college ID. This event will be held at the Black Spectrum Theatre, 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard, at 8 p.m.

Core 3B04, 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., at 7 p.m.

Pride of New York Shirley Chisholm

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Brooklyn College Former Congresswoman and Candidate for Democratic Presidential nomination In Memoriam

Martina Arroyo Barbara Boxer Hunter College International Opera Star

Brooklyn College United States Senator

Ruby Dee Rita DiMartino Hunter College Award winning actress on stage and screen, Writer

College of Staten Island CUNY Trustee; Chair, Bronx Lebanon Hospital Board; Former AT&T VP of Congressional Relations

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® Gertrude Elion Augusta Kappner Hunter College Nobel Laureate in Medicine In Memoriam

Rosalyn Yalow

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Hunter College Nobel Laureate in Medicine In Memoriam

Helen Marshall Iyanla Vanzant Queens College Queens Borough President; Former New York City Council Member and New York State Assembly Member

Medgar Evers College, CUNY Law School Best-selling author, Inspirational Speaker

The City University of New York celebrates Women’s History Month

VISIT WWW.CUNY.EDU 1-800-CUNY-YES CUNY-TV CHANNEL 75

Hunter College NYU Steinhardt Institute for Higher Ed. Policy Former President, Bank Street College Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of Education