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Volume 15 Issue No. 16 April 18-24, 2014

PRESS Photo by Luis Gronda

WASTE OF SPACE? Officials raise concerns over empty floors at the Social Security Administration building in Jamaica.

By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 3.

ONLINE AT WWW.QUEENSPRESS.COM

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

News Briefs Man Dies In Rosedale Crash

On the morning of April 14, a 29-year-old man was killed after the car he was riding as a passenger in a car that rear-ended another vehicle and overturned in Rosedale.

According to police, Kendall Heard, of Freeport, Long Island, was in riding in the passenger seat of a 2014 Infinity sedan, traveling eastbound on the Belt Parkway with Sharlene Numa, when the car struck a 2012 Mercedes from behind that was driven by an unnamed 18-yearold man.

The driver’s car overturned near Brookville Boulevard and Conduit Avenue.

EMS rushed Heard to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The unidentified 18-year-old man was taken to Franklin General Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.

Numa was arrested and charged with a DWI and vehicular manslaughter.

Comptroller Announces Sandy Oversight Committee

On Thursday, City Comptroller Scott Stringer announced the formation of a Sandy Oversight Unit, which will draw upon the Comptroller’s Audit, Contracts, Budget and Policy Units to hold government accountable in the rebuilding of New York City from Superstorm Sandy.

Stringer will hold town hall meetings in the Rockaways, Breezy Point, Coney Island, Staten Island and at other locations over the coming months to discuss program ideas and audit recommendations.

“Superstorm Sandy changed the lives of millions of New Yorkers and we are still grappling with its consequences today,” Stringer said in a statement. “It is critical to have an accounting of how government has responded to this event, and what we can do to better prepare for the future. I am announcing the creation of a Sandy Oversight Unit and as part of that Unit’s first order of business, we will be auditing all aspects of the ‘Build it Back’ program. We will ensure government works for the people while finding ways to get New Yorkers the help they need.”

The Sandy Oversight Unit will be a first-of-its-kind initiative that will utilize the expertise and resources of the Comptroller’s Audit, Contracts, Budget and Policy Units. The group will focus on reviewing how federal

aid was spent on recovery and resiliency programs, identifying areas where controls can be strengthened to improve performance and service delivery to protect taxpayers from fraud, waste and abuse.

The oversight committee with also be responsible for monitoring the budget, milestones and status of Sandy projects and proposing policy recommendations to help the City enhance its emergency preparedness capacity.

At the outset, audit staff will take a comprehensive look at the ‘Build it Back’ program to determine whether the Housing Recovery Office has set goals and timetables for the delivery of services and established procedures to reduce the backlog of applications.

The unit will also monitor the speed and quality of services delivered and determine whether adequate control procedures have been implemented to detect fraud. The audit will focus on the Single Family Program, since the majority of the funding was allocated to those recipients.

Trinidadian Man Busted For Heroin At JFK

On April 15, a Trinidadian man was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents for allegedly smuggling nearly two pounds of heroin in his underwear at John F. Kennedy Airport.

According to reports, the suspect, Bernard Charles, a Trinidad and Tobago citizen, was observed walking awkwardly, which raised the suspicion of Customs and Border Protection officers who would in turn take him in for questioning.

While detained by law enforcement officials, Charles reportedly appeared visibly nervous and avoided eye contact. Although they did not find drugs in the man’s suitcase, upon patting him down, officers discovered a hard object in his groin area.

Probing further, the officers discovered two plastic packages of brown paste-like substance which tested positive for heroin. The drugs had a street value of more than $70,000.

Charles faces 10 years in prison if convicted on drug smuggling charges.

Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to: PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime ExcluSivE:

Underutilized SSA Building Raises Questions

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Sept. 19, 1982, was an historic day for Jamaica. Elected officials, civic leaders and business owners from the Downtown area gathered to celebrate under a colorful tent on a vacant lot that was soon to be the site of a $92 million building – the new home to the Social Security Administration offices.

The milestone development was considered to be one of the most ambitious projects for the area at the time. Spearheaded by the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, former U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Addabbo Sr. and former U.S. Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan, it aimed to revive one of the most troubled areas in the City.

According to reports from 1982, prior to its unveiling in 1989, the custom-designed regional headquarters, located at the busy corner of Jamaica Avenue and Parsons Boulevard, was expected to boost the economic climate significantly, with about 2,700 SSA employees spending a hefty chunk of their annual payroll of $55 million in Jamaica’s businesses.

But now, just 25 years after the 11-story federal building opened, The PRESS of Southeast Queens has learned that six of its floors are being used for the storage of filing cabinets, leaving more than half of its one million-square-feet of office space underutilized and hundreds of employees unaccounted for.

Approximately two to three years ago, when the building’s utilization was first called into question, Congressman Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica), whose district encompasses the headquarters, Carlisle Towery, president of the GJDC, and a representative from Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand’s office, toured the headquarters, only to confirm their suspicions.

“This was designed to bring close to 3,000 people and it seems like it was only half-filled,” Meeks said.

“It’s an anchor in Jamaica that we welcomed and worked very hard to get and to have it only used at half its capacity is troubling,” Towery echoed.

The SSA’s New York Regional Communications Director, John Shallman, confirmed that when the building first opened, it housed 2,700 employees. At first, he declined to comment on the current personnel figures “due to security reasons,” but, in a follow up email just a few

hours later, he said that he does not know the exact number of employees that remain in the building.

He did, however, offer an explanation as to why the building is underutilized.

“SSA’s administrative budget has been significantly reduced, resulting in three straight years of funding levels nearly a billion dollars below the President’s Six of the SSA regional headquarters’ 11 floors are budget requests. The being used for the storage of filing cabinets.

Agency has lost nearly 11,000 employees nationwide since Instead of using more than half of the beginning of fiscal year 2011,” the regional headquarters’ floors as he wrote in an email. “This means storage for filing cabinets, Meeks said that the Agency has not been able he has been putting pressure on SSA to replace losses due to normal attri- representatives to use the building tion.” more effectively, so that Jamaica can Although it is unclear as to how continue to economically prosper. many employees still work at region“They need to find additional al headquarters, Meeks said he believes the building’s underutilization is halting economic progression in Downtown Jamaica.

“It hurts the community in gen- BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA eral, because it reduces traffic flow.

Not as many people are going out More than a year after his first reduring lunchtime,” the Congress- quest was submitted to the Dept. of man said. “[Having employees there] Transportation, Councilman Donohelps stimulate growth in the com- van Richards (D-Laurelton) has munity. It brings individuals into the successfully lobbied for a four-way Downtown Jamaica business atmo- stop sign at the intersection of 181st sphere and allows local merchants Street and 145th Drive. to see more sales, which would allow At his press conference earlier this them to employ more individuals.” week, Richards was joined by comIn response to his findings, Meeks munity leaders, residents and civic said that he has requested the Gener- activist group Friends of Springfield al Services Administration conduct to celebrate the traffic victory, which a study that would determine if the he feels will resolve safety issues at space was in fact being used to its the dangerous intersection. maximum potential.

“This was something that we’ve “We’ve been waiting for a long pe- been fighting for in Springfield riod of time to hear back from the Gardens time and time again,” the GSA as to what their findings were,” Councilman said. “There have been he said. “I know they did a study, but a lot of near-misses with accidents at I haven’t gotten it. But I have been that particular intersection. By the putting pressure on them, as I ought grace of God, we haven’t seen any to know what their findings were. I fatalities, but the best thing is to be think they have come to the conclu- preemptive before we see a fatality or sion the building is underutilized.” someone gets hit.”

According to Angie Hu, a spokesAccording to Richards, the site has person for the Senator, Gillibrand been a concern for the community has also been in touch with Public since it was restructured, as there are Building Services and the entities no stop signs on the blocks leading involved so that they can investigate up to the intersection, causing many the matter. vehicles to speed down the road.

“Our office made an inquiry with “There were some serious accithe federal agencies involved and will dents,” he said. “There was one resicontinue to look into the issue,” Hu dent who came out [to the press conwrote in an emailed statement. ference] and he said his daughter’s

federal agencies that are looking for places to reside and move some of them in the Social Security Building,” he said. “That would make sense and maximize the flow of individuals in the building and in the streets, which would help revitalize Downtown Jamaica.”

He also offered an alternate solution.

“If they don’t feel that there are agencies that are trying to relocate, then maybe they should sell the building, or sell the building to someone in the private industry,” he said.

“This way they can lease what space they need for themselves from the new potential owners.”

Shallman noted that this year’s “favorable budget” will allow the SSA to replace some of the losses and that additional people will be hired and located in the regional headquarters.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

Traffic Safety Victory car was rear-ended at that particular intersection.”

Located just a few blocks away from the bustling thoroughfare on Farmers Boulevard, the intersection is also just a few blocks away from two community schools – IS 231 and PS 251.

“People utilize those back blocks as a shortcut to the Belt [Parkway],” Richards explained. “In the afternoon, when children are dismissed, there is a high volume of pedestrian traffic and children are at risk. So, this is a victory for the schools, as well as the local community.”

Though Richards said he is elated the DOT finally installed a fourway stop sign at the intersection of 181st Street and 145th Drive, there is at least one more intersection he believes is problematic – Brookville Boulevard and 147th Avenue.

“A young man was hit near the Rosedale Little League baseball field at that intersection in the beginning of my term,” he said. “I’ve been consistently calling on the Dept. of Transportation to take measures to ensure safety there. We don’t want our children to get hit and should not have to wait for a fatality.”

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

Nonprofit Lends Seniors A Helping Hand

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Since 1972, Jamaica Service Program for Older Adults has been enhancing the quality of life for seniors in the community by offering a number of useful services at a low cost or for free.

“Forty-one years ago, there were not the number of programs that are available to seniors now,” said Beverly Collier, executive director at JSPOA. “There was definitely an absence of places where people could go for social services, a place where people can go for socialization and a place where people can just get a break.”

JSPOA currently operates three centers – Friendship Adult Day Care, Rockaway Boulevard Senior Center and Theodora G. Jackson Adult Center, all of which are in Jamaica and offer different types of services.

The Friendship Center, located at 92-33 170th St., exclusively services a population of mentally and physically frail older adults who have become socially isolated and partially dependant on others for their daily living. Visitors include people with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and

tering the physical, spiritual and economic well-being of seniors.

In addition to those three centers, the nonprofit runs an employment program for seniors who are 55 and older.

“It’s a part-time training program that does place people in an employment. They can be in the program for 48 months,” Collier said. “We give them training and hopefully place them in competitive employment.”

Another key program JSPOA Every year, Ann Williams, 101 years old, offers for men and women over coordinates the Jackson Center’s Annual Spring Fashion. She is pictured here mak- the age of 35 is a crime victim ing a grand entrance with her escort, Clif- workshop that is funded by the State of New York. ton Rutherford, 80 years old.

“If it’s a person who has been developmentally disabling condia victim of crime, we help them in tions. terms of supportive services by offerThe Rockaway Boulevard Center, ing them counseling and accompanylocated at 123-10 143rd St., proudly ing them to court if it is that type of bears the motto “This is the place.” a situation,” she said. “A trend we’ve It offers a variety of fun activities noticed is that a lot of seniors are the for seniors, ranging from computer victims of scams nowadays” classes to ceramic classes to exercise Like many nonprofits in the City programs and even dance classes. and the country, JSPOA has been The Theodora G. Jackson Adult encountering significant budget cuts, Center, located at 92-47 165th St., making it difficult to sustain all the similarly offers an abundance of ex- valuable programs it offers. citing activities for adults 60 and old“All nonprofits are experiencing er, but places a heavier focus on fos- some struggles right now. And I

think that comes after many years of the previous [Bloomberg] administration not giving as much to these types of services,” Collier explained. “There have been quite a few cutbacks over the years, and our City agencies experienced cutbacks also.”

“I think that all populations that are in need of services are unfortunately competing with each other for a small pot of dollars, so it is a shame that children have to compete with seniors for needed services that will help every body’s quality of life,” she added.

As a means to raise funds for the JSPOA centers, the nonprofit, in conjunction with the Black Spectrum Theatre, will host a Theater/Dinner Night on May 17.

Tickets to the Theater/Dinner Night at Black Spectrum Theatre are $50 and it will include the cost of dinner and the show, “Smell the Power.” Dinner starts at 6:30 p.m. and the show will begin at 8 p.m.

For more information about JSPOA’s services or the fundraising event, call (718) 657-6692.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

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April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

BP Katz Looks Back on First 100 days

By Luis Gronda It has been a very eventful first four months for Queens Borough President Melinda Katz.

The Borough President has gotten involved with several issues that have come up during her first 100 days as Queens BP. Among the issues in the Borough she has found include reviving the New York State Pavilion and the troubles regarding the Queens Library.

Katz has made rebuilding the pavilion one of her focuses during the early part of her time as BP. Back in February, she hosted a tour of the facility, calling for the decaying structure to be repaired. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the site’s construction, as well as the 1964-65 World’s Fair, and that has led to renewed discussion about the structure’s future.

Katz said it is important to repair it because it is a significant structure to the Borough and its design has made it one of the most well-known structures in Queens.

“From the time I was a kid, people have been saying that it should be restored,” she said.

Another reason for its importance,

according to Katz, is that it is crucial to the “branding” of Queens, as she is trying to promote the Borough as “The World’s Borough” and encourage more people to spend time in Queens when they come to New York City.

The investigation into the Queens Library system has been another issue at the forefront in the Borough during her first four months.

Reports surfaced that restoring the new york state Pavilion and the the Library’s president, troubles involving the Queens Library were two Thomas Galante, has come focal points of Katz’s first four months as Borunder fire for spending ough President. $140,000 on office renovations, including a private smoking Comptroller Scott Stringer currently deck at his Jamaica office, as well as has an audit ongoing of all of the his $391,994 annual salary. There have City’s library systems, including the also been reports of Galante taking a Queens Library.

Late last month, the board of trusthigh-paying consulting gig in addition ees voted to let Galante stay as Presito his work as Library president.

The City Council held an over- dent while investigations continued. sight hearing where they drilled Gal- Katz said she is disappointed in that ante concerning that and reporters decision and still believes he should vasat down with Galante to grill him cate that position for the time being.

“I thought it was a no-brainer that as well.

Katz has called on Galante to the institution comes first,” Katz said.

She helped draft a Queens Litake a leave of absence while investigations of the Library are ongoing. brary reform bill, created by State

Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) and Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry (D-Corona), that would bring more oversight to the Library. State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) also created a bill, adopting some measures proposed by the other bill, but also limiting outside employment for Queens Library executives.

Katz said that the Gianaris/Aubry bill is a good bill that addresses the issues facing the Library, including bringing more transparency and oversight to the library, and aims to restore the public’s trust in what is a top class institution, she said.

“I wanted to bring a structure to the system that people could have faith in,” she added.

Among the initiatives she plans to work on in the future, Katz said, includes improving senior housing in the Borough. She said it is important to address that because seniors are still in need of housing and giving them a place to live will benefit others who work and cannot be there to take care of the elderly all the time.

“It’s the economic thing to do,” Katz said. “We need people to go out and work.”

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

Editorial 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

Editor-in-Chief:

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel

Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda

Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Maureen Coppola Advertising Director Shanie Persaud Director Corporate Accounts/Events Advertising Executives Shari Strongin Brenda Jones

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2014 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

Queens Library Needs Support As we celebrate National Library Week throughout the country, there is no library system more deserving of celebration than the Queens Library.

Over the decades, the Queens Library system has established itself as the “Jewel of the Library System,” not just in New York City; it has also been recognized throughout the country as having one of the largest circulations available. Add to that impressive accomplishment the thousands of programs offering help for residents of the Borough, and it is easy to understand why so many take great pride in what the Queens Library has to offer.

From naturalization training and English-language classes to online services and job seeker training, the library continues to assist tens of thousands of people each year. Throw in special events, including concerts, food tastings and book discussions, and the Queens Library’s 62 branches throughout the Borough certainly offer something for everyone.

Regardless of the troubles the Queens Library has faced in recent weeks, it is imperative that we remember all the good that the system does for the Borough. Many of the programs the library offers provide vital lifelines to the community for thousands of people who could not afford the assistance otherwise.

But these programs – not to mention the items in circulation throughout the Borough – require funding. We hope that as budgets are prepared and grants are offered, that decision-makers keep these programs in mind and realize that the people who rely on these services to help better their lives do not deserve to be punished.

WRITE ON: The PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-40 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 email editor@queenspress.com

Letters What Is Considered American?

To The Editor: There is a movement gaining momentum because of frustration over an intrusive overbearing federal government and its obsession with multiculturalism. It is called secession and there are movements to secede from the United States in Texas, Colorado, Maryland, northern California, Washington State and Oregon. This trend should prompt us to think about what it means to be an American.It has become increasingly difficult to identify oneself simply as “American.” The designation has all but disappeared from U.S. documents. When responding to questionnaires, we are compelled to select an identity from a plethora of hyphenated subcategories. We debate if we even speak the same language and can talk to each other in English. Communicating in English is not a repudiation of your “roots” but a means of sharing your own and understanding all others. Using a common language and defining oneself simply as American is not incompatible with a multicultural society that respects and cherishes diversity.

Are we a nation that believes in common law based on the Ten Commandments? Does whatever the majority happen to vote upon become the new law regardless of our rights? Do we have a sense of shared values?

Do we believe we can create a better life for ourselves by being self-reliant and work hard? Are we givers or takers? Do we look within ourselves and the Constitution for solutions or do we look to the government?

After World War II, the traits of benevolence, tolerance, compassion, self reliance, integrity and hard work became universally recognized as the essential ingredients of the American character. Few institutions teach American history, the Constitution and the basics of our representative government. Even fewer celebrate the contributions and achievements of those who came to America in search of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness and created the highest standard of living on the planet. If the designation “American” no longer has any meaning and is not worthy of contemplation and examination, then who are we?

Ed Konecnik, Flushing

Free At Last, But Homeless Without Restitution A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Jonathan Fleming was in his mid-20s at the time, but like any kid at heart, he wanted a Disney vacation, and that is where he was when Daryl Rush was murdered in Brooklyn.

Details of how Fleming came to be arrested and tried for the murder are not so clear.

What seemed clear is that he had a solid alibi that he had been in Florida enjoying his vacation at Disney World and had a plane ticket, park ticket stub, hotel bill and eyewitnesses who told Florida investigators that they recalled him as a guest at the hotel at the same time in question, and yet all this evidence was suppressed from his first attorney.

To put the length of time in perspective, it was 1989, the waning months of Ed

Koch’s tenure as New York City mayor and this poor guy was railroaded into jail. He was sentenced in 1990 and here we are, four mayors after Koch, and his conviction is finally overturned.

It was “Charles Hynes time” in Brooklyn, the crack epidemic was in full rage and the district attorney was trying to help clean up his Borough and City. But the overzealous desire to “take back our city,” must have prejudiced their actions.

Here was a poor, young Black man with no known access to money and power and he was convicted and sent off to prison crying foul.

Now there’s a new Brooklyn District Attorney, Kenneth Thompson, and a review of old case files proved Mr. Fleming innocent.

So now after 24 years in jail, the State releases this wrongfully-convicted man

without money, without a job and without a home. When he went to jail, the personal computer as we know it had not yet taken over private homes. Everything is new to this man: the PC, laptop, iPad, cell phone, flat screen TV and a litany of other electronic gadgets. He went in at 27 and came out at 51. A four year-old child probably knows more about our high tech world than Fleming does at this point.

He will, of course, bring a lawsuit against the State, but in the meantime, where is he supposed to live and work? There ought to be a mandate that the State immediately provides for inmates who turn out to have been wrongfully incarcerated, with the wherewithal to survive on the outside.

The system has “done him wrong,” so it ought to be trying to help him to re-acclimate to freedom with housing, job training/employment and

enough funds to tide him over pending a settlement.

Charles Hynes losing his recent reelection bid was the best thing to have happened to Fleming and others like him from Brooklyn. His protracted tenure was a mixed bag. When he was good, he was really good; but when he was bad, he was dreadful.

Historically, the African American community is littered with Jonathan Flemingtype stories. For sure it is not as bad as it was in the bad old days of Jim Crow, but to see it still happening with regularity in this day and age is frightening.

Kudos to DA Thompson for finding the truth and doing the right thing here; and let’s hope that Mr. Fleming quickly gets the help he deserves to begin life anew at 50.

We need reform. This happens too often in our communities.

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

National Library Week

Queens Library System Offers Unique Experiences

By STEVEN J. FERRARI

hunters are encouraged to create a profile with their resume and employment information and the kiosk assists in sending out applications to appropriate positions.

If a job hunter is worried that he or she does not have the proper attire for an interview, the library helps there, too. Its “Tiebrary” program also lends ties to library patrons, along with a pamphlet on how to tie it properly.

Ficalora said the Queens Library was ahead of the game in terms of developing technology to make visits to the library more accessible to everyone. He noted that the library has taken a lead in looking for new ways for libraries around the world – not just within the Queens Library system – to use new technologies.

“Our people are at the forefront of what can be accomplished with technology,” he said.

The library has also made technology within each branch a priority.

System-wide, the library houses almost 2,000 public computers, along with Wi-Fi access so people can work on their own laptops or tablets.

In the storm-ravaged Rockaways, the library is lending tablets with a proprietary interface that makes the system easy to use, even for those who are technologically uninitiated. The program earned the library the Library of the Future Award from the American Library Association in 2014.

The library also provides coursework in computer coding languages, and offers digital access to music and independent films.

work at a school on Long Island raised eyebrows Widely considered to be one of with a number of elected the largest, most-used libraries in officials. the country – if not the world – the City Comptroller Queens Library system celebrates NaScott Stringer called tional Library Week by highlighting for an audit of all three the hundreds of programs available library systems in the to the nearly one million residents of City, while Queens BorQueens who regularly visit one of the ough President Melinda 62 branches Borough-wide.

Katz called on Galante Supporters of the library stress to resign, calling the that the library system is more than situation with Galante just a place to borrow books, mova distraction from what ies and music. The library is a vital the library is meant to part of the Queens community that accomplish. assists residents with job searches, “[The Queens LiEnglish-language classes for non-nabrary] is an extremely tive speakers, computer instruction needed institution to the patrons use the Queens Library Richmond Hill and several other programs for chilcultures and the people branch to read up on the latest news. dren and adults. of Queens,” Katz said “[Library] users are not being dis“The wonderful reality of this liin an interview this week. “Anything suaded from meeting their needs by brary is that it has such a wide array that damages that is a problem.” of services,” Joseph Ficalora, presiEarlier this month, the library’s going to the library,” Ficalora said. dent of the library’s Board of TrustBoard of Trustees met to vote on a “The people funding the library are ees, said. “The library affects so many resolution that would give Galante a being dissuaded.”

He added that library officials are different facets of people’s lives.” paid leave of absence. The resolution Bridget Quinn-Carey, the library’s failed, with a 9-9 tie among members. concerned that private donors and chief operating officer, noted that The resolution’s failure meant that elected officials who provide funding to the library could hold off on the Queens Library is always ready Galante would continue in his role. funding, out of fear that more negato serve its communities. tive news could come to light.

“Our children’s librarians are FUNdINg FEARS “The consequences of these atthere to offer story times for youngOver the years, the Queens Listers,” she said. “Many of the books, brary has seen a drastic reduction tacks are far more damaging than DVDs and music available in each in funding. The lion’s share of the li- the attacks themselves,” he said. “So community library are hand-selected brary’s $128.1 million budget comes many different funding sources are by people who best know their cusfrom the City of New York, which being confused by the information tomers’ needs.” provides 85 percent of the total. De- being put out there.”

When asked about the future of the spite a growing population and high OppORTUNITIES OFFEREd demand for programs, the library Queens Library system, Katz said she agreed with Ficalora’s fears of a deRepresenting one of the most dihad $18 million cut from its budget. verse populations in the world, the While the Queens Library system crease in donors. She said the reason Queens Library has evolved beyond has frequently been recognized as she pushed for the vote to give Galante just a circulation system. AccordpR pROBLEmS one of the largest-circulation librar- a leave of absence was to give the library ing to the library’s website, the 62 News reports calling out the Queens ies in the world, a loss of funding a better future in terms of funding.

“My focus wasn’t to punish anybranches of the library offered more Library system for the high salary means less new items the library is than 38,000 free programs in 2013, earned by President and CEO Thomas able to purchase. According to the one,” she said. “I wanted to bring a with attendance topping 665,000.

Galante led to investigations that re- Library’s website, 17.5 million items structure to the system that donors One of the key offerings in a vealed more news that several officials were circulated to almost 900,000 could have faith in.”

With more than 7.5 million items Borough that boasts hundreds of considered troubling. The use of pub- borrowers in 2013. different languages is the library’s lic funds to create a smoking deck out“You can’t have a high volume in a collection that spans the Boroutreach for immigrants and new side his Jamaica office, in addition to of use if you can’t buy the books,” ough, Ficalora said that he was proud of the Queens Library system, which citizens. Over the last 35 years, the earning six-figures through consulting Ficalora said. library has assisted thousands While a number of elected of- is often hailed as an example of what of immigrants with free citizenficials have attacked Galante for libraries should be. He noted that the ship and naturalization classes, his high salary and consulting library has received countless awards along with English Language work on Long Island, Ficalora for “the innovative ways that it procourses and adult basic educasaid that the end result could vides services,” adding that he is sure tion classes. mean even less available servic- that library patrons will continue to The library also offers a numes for the library’s 62 branches. utilize its services.

“The library offers so many unique ber of programs directed at helpThe Board of Trustees presiing its users find new jobs and dent noted that the bad public- benefits, from afterschool programs get access to small business supity could mean that officials and for kids to programs at night for indiport programs. community groups will shy away viduals who work,” he said. “It really The library’s main branch – from giving the library funding is a wonderful system.”

Reach Steven J. Ferrari at (718) the Central Library in Jamaica A Chinese food cooking demonstration at the in the future. He noted that li– hosts the Jobs4Five kiosk, a Flushing branch is one of the many programs put brary users are still coming to 357-7400, Ext. 122, via email at sferprogram that assists users with on by the library every year. the library to take advantage of rari@queenstribune.com or @stevenferrari. the job application process. Job its services.

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

Mother of the Year CONTEST

The Press of Southeast Queens and its advertisers are honored to once again present our “Mother of the Year” contest. Our Mother’s Day issue will feature winning entries plus thoughts from the children of Queens along with photos of their mothers. This is our small way of paying tribute to the moms out there who help make Queens a better place to live.

Over $1,000 In Prizes

Including Mets Tickets

Don't Delay: get your entry in today and pay tribute to your special "MOM" (and win Mother's Day gifts too!)

ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BY APRIL 30, 2014 Attach this or a facsimile to your entry Age

Your Name Address Phone

Mom's Name Mom's Address Phone

MAIL TO: “Mother of the Year” Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357 editor@queenstribune.com

CONTEST RULES 1. Submit 250 words about why your mom is special. You or your mom must be a Queens resident.

2. Entries must be received by Wednesday April 30, 2014.

3. Give your age (18+ acceptable), address, phone number, plus mom's name and address.

4. Enclose a photo of mom or mom and her kid(s) where possible; put full names on back of photo. Sorry, they can't be returned.

5. Mail entries to “Mother of the Year,” Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357.

6. The entries will be judged in three age groups A) 8 and under; B) 9-12 and C) 13 - adult.

Judging will be based on content, creativity and sensitivity. We are open-minded and even mother-in-law entries will be accepted.

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

pix

103 Years Young

Easter Fun in Downtown Jamaica The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation held an early Easter celebration on April 11, featuring activities for kids in the area. The events took place in a festively-decorated Harvest Room within the Jamaica Market.

Photo courtesy of the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Center

Photos by Walter Karling

Nelda P. Schaetzle (bottom center, purple sweater) celebrated her 103rd birthday party during a special celebration at the Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Center, located at 220-01 Linden Blvd. Yolanda Rodriguez (top, second from right), deputy director of public affairs at NYC Department for the Aging, was on hand to present the birthday girl with a certificate honoring her for her longevity. Also pictured is Vice Chairman of the Center, Brother Elmer Blackburne (top, far right) along with friends and family of the birthday girl.

Resorts World Honored For Support

The East Coast Car Association Inc./Toys for Tots (ECCA) Vice President Lou Buglione and Board Member Harold Mecabe presented Resorts World Casino President Ed Farrell (center) with an award on April 11, in honor of Resorts World Casino New York City’s work with the car association and continued support of the organization.

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Police Blotter 104th Precinct

Grand Larceny

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying the following individual wanted for a grand larceny that took place at approximately 5:30 p.m. on April 2. The suspect used a stolen ATM card to buy sneakers inside J and M Sneakers, located at 5734 Myrtle Ave. The suspect is described as a male, 20-25 years old, approximately 5-foot-7.

Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.

105th Precinct

Fatal Collision

At 4:15 a.m. on April 14, police re-

sponded to a 911 call of a motor vehicle accident involving two vehicles in the vicinity of South Conduit Avenue and Brookville Boulevard.

Upon arrival, police discovered that a white 2014 Infinity sedan operated by a 28-year-old female, identified as Sharlene Numa of Roosevelt, was travelling eastbound on the Belt Parkway between Springfield Boulevard and Merrick Boulevard when she rear ended a second vehicle, a 2012 Mercedes, operated by an 18-year-old male. The Infinity overturned in the vicinity of South Conduit Avenue and Brookville Boulevard.

EMS responded to the location and transported the 18-year-old to a local hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

The occupants of the Infinity were taken to Jamaica Hospital, where the driver, Numa, was listed in stable condition. A male passenger in the vehicle, identified as Kendall Heard,

29, was pronounced dead at the hospital.

Numa was taken into custody after being treated and charged with manslaughter, vehicular manslaughter and DWI.

112th Precinct

Grand Larceny

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in locating a female Hispanic wanted in connection with a grand larceny that took place at 7 p.m. on April 8 at the Aldi’s Supermarket, located at 61-35 Junction Blvd.

The suspect removed a handbag from a 34-year-old female’s stroller after the victim left her bag unattended.

The suspect is described as 5-foot10 and 135 lbs.

Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers

Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.

assault

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying the following individual wanted for an assault that took place on April 2 on a Queensbound F train, within the confines of the 112th Precinct. The suspect threw a coffee in the face of a victim and then proceeded to punch the victim in the face. The victim, 53, received minor injuries.

The suspect is described as approximately 5-foot-1, last seen wearing a black jacket.

Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.

Borough Beat

Queens CBs Lose Members as Board year Begins

By Luis Gronda As the new Community Board year begins this month, some longtime members have been asked not to return, leaving those members frustrated and confused as to why they are no longer on their boards.

After elections in March and early April, each member has to resubmit paperwork asking to be reappointed to their respective Community Board.

While the majority are granted membership, some are asked by Queens Borough President Melinda Katz to not return as a board member.

While some members can choose not to return for various reasons, including health, several residents will not be members in the coming year, and not by their own choice.

A new rule created this year by Katz enforces an attendance policy on the Borough’s CB members: If you miss five or more meetings for two consecutive years, you will not be reappointed.

In a phone interview with the PRESS of Southeast Queens on Monday, Katz said she made the policy because it is important for board members to be present at the monthly meetings.

“And for the record, that’s half the meetings,” Katz said, discussing the policy. Community Boards meet once a month, except for July and August.

Some members are not returning for the new year, some due to their

attendance, while others are under different circumstances.

Joseph Todisco, a Woodhaven resident, would have started his 20th year as a Community Board 9 member but was asked not to return.

The reason for his dismissal remains unclear to Todisco. According to Todisco, when he received a notice about no longer being a member, through a letter sent by the BP’s office, he went to the Borough President’s office to ask why and he was given no reason. Todisco said that Barry Grodenchik would only say that he is being asked to not return.

Todisco said he was told that he can reapply to be a board member again next year, but he would not consider that without knowing why he was dismissed in the first place.

“Why would I resubmit something when you treated me like garbage?” he said.

Katz’s office confirmed that Todisco was not asked to return to CB9, but it is their policy to not discuss why individual board members were not appointed to a Community Board.

Community Board 5, representing Maspeth, Middle Village, Glendale and Ridgewood, also lost members, but for different reasons.

Manuel Caruana (Maspeth), Vernon McDermott (Middle Village), Rose Johnson (Maspeth) and Rosanne Rosatto (Ridgewood) were asked not to return to the board because Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley

(D-Middle Village) was over represented in CB5, according to both Katz and Crowley.

Katz said when she was looking at the Community Board numbers, some percentages for council members in the Community Boards were “off” and needed to be corrected.

According to the City Charter, each neighborhood within a Community Board needs to be equally represented. The Borough President selects half of the board members recommended by a council member and each council member is supposed to be equally represented within a Community Board.

Katz said there were too many members from Crowley’s district and a few needed to be eliminated to allow Councilman Antonio Reynoso (D-Brooklyn) to be more represented on the board. Reynoso’s district includes a portion of Ridgewood.

Crowley’s office sent out a statement in response to the situation.

“My total number of board appointments had to be reduced from 44 to 39 members to accurately reflect the 76.96 percent of Community Board 5 that includes Council District 30. I thank the past board members for their years of dedication and service to our community,” she said in a statement.

Caruana, who is the uncle to former City Council candidate Craig Caruana, said the reason for his removal was politically motivated.

Craig Caruana ran against Crowley for her City Council seat last year and Manuel sits on the board of directors of the Juniper Park Civic Association, an organization known to have supported Crowley’s opponents in the past, including Caruana.

“This sends a really bad message to people who are looking to volunteer on a Community Board when you dismiss them like they are nothing,” Manuel said.

Campaign finance records show that both McDermott and Bob Holden, the president of the JPCA, donated to Craig Caruana’s campaign last year. Holden gave $175 and McDermott $150.

When asked about the controversy, Katz said those residents lost their membership strictly because Crowley was overrepresented and had nothing to do with politics.

“I told her that she had to lose members, it was too much from her district,” the Borough President said.

“We tried to do it fairly and systematically, but it’s not always perfect.”

Community Board 8, which represents areas bordering southeast Queens including Fresh Meadows, lost two members this year as well, according to their office. One member was chronically absent from meetings and another did not reapply for health reasons.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

A&E

Spartan Race Comes To Flushing They came, they saw and they conquered Citi Field.

The stadium typically home to the New York Mets was turned into a battleground for a test of people’s will last weekend, as about 8,500 people participated in the Spartan Race, an annual obstacle race held throughout the country.

This year’s version at Citi Field was the Spartan Sprint, a three-milelong race. This was not your typical foot race though, as participants had to go through several obstacles and challenges to complete the race, including carrying two two-gallon jugs of water (or one jug for women) up and down flights of stairs and tying a rope around an ankle and hopping up a second flight of stairs. Other challenges included throwing a wooden spear into a target and the fire jump, in which participants must leap over a ring of fire.

The race at Citi Field also culminated with the release of Joe De Sena’s book, “SPARTAN UP! A TakeNo-Prisoners Guide To Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Peak Performance in Life,” which is set for a May 13 release. De Sena is the co-founder of the race, which has become a traveling event around the country.

De Sena, a Howard Beach native, said he created the race to inspire more people to boost their work ethic and their values in order to become more successful in life. De Sena said

he looked at what people did to be successful and would like to help others who may not have achieved as much.

“I wondered if you can change people,” he said. “Could we take somebody from a Third World country and somebody from a First World country and could we toughen up the guy from the U.S. to compete with somebody who is just looking for food, water and shelter?”

He said the book was written to serve as a motivational tool and teach people how to attack any type of adversity in your life, much like the race itself, which places barriers in front of runners that they must persevere through to finish the race.

During the event on Saturday, De Sena had many adoring fans lining up to meet their beloved motivator and get his autograph. One by one, they would tell him how much his motivation has changed their lives and how honored they were to meet him.

De Sena said he often hears stories of fans thanking him, but always says he is not the main reason why they have improved their life.

“I get a million people telling me ‘thank you, you changed my life’ but I always respond with ‘No, you changed your life, I just provided the platform for that,’” he said.

Participants in the race all discussed how challenging but fun the race was.

Rich Nailes, a Briarwood resident,

BY JOE MARVILLI

Photo by Bruce Adler

BY LUIS GRONDA

About 8,500 people competed at the Spartan Race last weekend at Citi Field.

said he had to pace himself throughout its duration so that he could complete the competition and not overexert himself.

“It’s a pretty long race, but I expected even worse than it was,” said Nailes, who finished the race in 53 minutes.

Steven Holguin, who lives in Astoria, had a GoPro-style camera attached to his head as he completed the competition. He intends on making a YouTube video of the race and showing it to his friends and family.

Holguin finished this year’s race in 56 minutes, an improvement from the one hour, 17 minute time it took last year.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Many Films For Queens At Tribeca

BY JOE MARVILLI The Tribeca Film Festival kicks off this week, with hundreds of screenings, discussions and panels that will take place between April 16 and 27.

There is something for everyone at Tribeca this year. Some films highlight a relationship with Queens or display New York moments that created memories for many in the Borough.

The big music documentary at this year’s festival is “Time Is Illmatic,” a project created by multimedia artist One9. The documentary follows the trajectory of Nas’ acclaimed debut, “Illmatic,” and how he overcame obstacles to create it.

“It just came out so great and it’s really celebrating artists coming out of New York, which is intimately entwined with Tribeca,” festival programmer Cara Cusumano said.

The other big name out of Queens in this year’s festival is actor/director Jon Favreau, who is appearing in

Sci-Fi Comes To The Moving Image

tary features interviews with many Knicks legends, capturing their tireless energy and spirit that led them to victory in the 1970s.

“The New York Knicks are an institute in the City,” Cusumano said. “I think “When The Garden Was Eden” will screen at there’s a real appetite to the Tribeca Film Festival, which runs from April hear this story.”

Before the festival even 16 to April 27. kicked off, Queens made its “Chef.” The comedy tells the story presence known. Lawrence Becker, a of Carl Casper, a chef who goes on a Queens resident, won in the #6Secsocial media-fueled tirade against his Films competition under the “Genre” nemesis food critic and starts a new category. Titled “The Vortex Finds a Host,” the short was created on Vine, food truck business.

“Day Ten” is a short film that re- an application that creates and posts flects on the days after the Sept. 11 looping video clips.

For more information on all of the terrorist attacks. It is part of the shorts films, panels and other events, visit program, “Soul Survivors.” www.tribecafilmfestival.org/festival A lighter topic goes under the camera in “When The Garden Was Eden,” or call (212) 941-2400.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) a documentary about the golden era of the New York Knicks. Directed 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenby Michael Rapaport, the documen- stribune.com.

Starting this Friday, the Museum of Moving Image will screen some of the most famous entries from one of film’s most fantastical genres.

The Astoria museum will focus on science fiction for its latest “See It Big!” series, which offers attendees the chance to see classic movies on the big screen. Kicking off with “Alien” on April 18 and continuing through July, these films will take audiences from outer space to dystopian futures and beyond.

“Those are movies where a whole different world is created.

They’re movies that work great on the big screen,” David Schwartz, MOMI’s chief curator, said.

It all begins on April 18 at 7 p.m. with one of the most famous sci-fi horror films of all time. Ridley Scott’s “Alien” stars Sigourney Weaver as Ripley, a member of a crew of astronauts whose spaceship is invaded by a vicious creature. Ripley earned critical acclaim as one of the first female protagonists in science fiction.

“It’s a great audience movie that combines horror and science fiction,” Schwartz said.

On April 20, MOMI will head back to the mid-1960s with “Alphaville.”

Directed by Jena-Luc Godard, this film follows a private eye who is tasked with killing a supercomputer.

The screening starts at 6:30 p.m.

One of the odder films in this series is “Altered States,” directed

by Ken Russell. This abstract movie follows a professor who experiences psychological transformations that spread into physical changes. This film will air on April 25 at 7 p.m.

One day later, at 7 p.m., the museum will show Nicolas Roeg’s cult classic, “The Man Who Fell To Earth.” It stars David Bowie as an alien who arrives on Earth.

Also screening is “THX 1138,” the debut by George Lucas. Completely different in tone from “Star Wars,” this movie takes place in a police state where the population is kept under control with drugs. You can see it on May 25 at 7:30 p.m.

More films will be put on the schedule for June and July, including “2001: A Space Odyssey.” To keep up with the latest news, call (718) 784-0077 or visit www.movingimage.us. MOMI is located at 36-01 35th Ave., Astoria.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

Queens today

FRIDay 4/18

English and Chinese at the Flushing Library. She will be joined by guest tenor Mingjie Lei and accompanied by voice coach Jennifer Peterson on the piano. The free concert runs from 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

tALE oF thE Bunny PiCniC GooD FRiDAy ChinEsE ConCERt

To celebrate the reopening of the Queensboro Hill Library, the New Americans Program will present a free Gala Chinese Concert at the library at 2:30 p.m. Performances will include Chinese folk songs, pop music, male and female duets, a female trio, a vocal quartet, a violin solo and a piano solo. The library is located at 60-05 Main St., Flushing.

In honor of Easter, the Museum of Moving Image will present “Tale of the Bunny Picnic,” a 1986 film co-directed by Jim Henson. This seldom-seen one-hour special introduces Bean Bunny, who wants to help get ready for the big bunny picnic, but his older siblings think he is too little. Other clips featuring notable Muppet rabbits and bunnies will precede the feature. Tickets are free with museum admission, on a first-come, first-served basis.

It will take place at 1 p.m.

hinDi PoEtRy

Join the Glen Oaks Library for an afternoon of Hindi poetry, hosted by Ashok Singh, the Director of the International Hindi Association, and featuring invited poets Ashok Vyas, Anand Ahuja, Bindeshwari Agrawal, Purnima Desai and Ram B. Gautam. The recital starts at 4 p.m.

satuRDay 4/19

GustAvo RivERA

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the New York Hall of Science by attending a meet-and-greet with poet Gustavo Rivera. In the Science Technology Library at 2:30 p.m., attendees will also have the chance to read and write poems about science. Attendance is free with NYSCI admission. Call (718) 699-0005 for more information.

EGG-stRAvAGAnzA

Queens Botanical Garden will host two sessions of its Egg-Stravaganza, at noon and 2 p.m. The event will include games, crafts and a special scavenger hunt with egg prizes. Registration of $5 is required and supplies are limited to the first 500 children per session. For information, call (718) 886-3800, Ext. 204, or email rforlenza@queensbotanical.org.

suNDay 4/20 EAstER sunDAy

EAstERFEst

JiA LinG

Mezzo-soprano Jia Ling will sing art songs on the theme of love in Latin, German, French,

Ascension Church in Forest Hills will celebrate the most important day of the Christian calendar at 11 a.m. at PS 101, 2 Russell Place in Forest Hills. The event will include a worship service, music, craft activities for kids, an Easter egg hunt and refreshments.

Cost is $5 per child, $2 be-

SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK satuRDay 4/19

DoKtoR KABooM Doktor Kaboom’s original blend of interactive science comedy will come to the Queens Theatre for two shows, at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Blending theater arts with the wonders of scientific exploration, Doktor Kaboom keeps his crowds riveted with interest and rolling with laughter.

Tickets are $14. For more information, call (718) 760-0064.

fore 11:30 a.m. For information, visit www.discoverascension.net.

DRoP-in FAMiLy WoRKshoP

The Queens Museum invites children 5-12 and their adult companions up to Studio A to explore different works on view each week through a variety of fun hands-on art making activities. Children with special needs are welcome. No fee or advance registration required. For more information, call (718) 592-9700. The event runs from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

REsPECt thE RunWAy

MoMA PS1’s Sunday Sessions will present “Respect the Runway: The Red Carpet to Mastery,” from noon to 6 p.m. This event will celebrate the history and pedagogy of New York City’s House and Ballroom scene. The session is a collaboration between the Vogue’ology Collective, Arika and Ultra-red. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the door. For more information, call (718) 784-2084. MoMA PS1 is located at 22-25 Jackson Ave., Long Island City.

moNDay 4/21

A viEW oF WooDhAvEn

The Woodhaven Historical Society will host a free slideshow entitled “A View of Woodhaven” at 7 p.m. at Neir’s Tavern and Steakhouse. The slideshow will showcase many old pictures of Woodhaven, including Neir’s Tavern, which

has been in existence for 180 years. In addition to the slideshow, attendees will be encouraged to participate in a pub quiz with the winner walking away with a copy of Vincent Seyfried’s “The History of Woodhaven & Ozone Park.”

tuEsDay 4/22 EARth DAy

EARth DAy FEstivAL

Flushing Town Hall will celebrate Earth Day with this free festival for all ages, starting at 1 p.m.

Develop your green thumb, learn about bee-keeping and the importance of clean waterways while making sculptures, jewelry and art out of recycled materials. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd. For more information, call (718) 463-7700.

a discussion. To learn more, visit www.growingcitiesmovie. com. Tickets are $5 at the door. Queens County Farm Museum is located at 73-50 Little Neck Pkwy.

WhEn thE WoRLD CAME to QuEEns

To mark the 50th anniversary of the World’s Fair, author and historian Bill Cotter will offer a thorough history of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, followed by a book signing, at the Queens Theatre.

Cotter will display rare photographs, peppered with behind the scenes anecdotes. The event is free with a suggested donation of $10.

Reservations are recommended. For more information, call (718) 760-0064.

WEDNEsDay 4/23 ADMinistRAtivE PRoFEssionALs DAy

tHuRsDay 4/24

tAstE oF RiDGEWooD

“GRoWinG CitiEs”

Queens County Farm Museum will kick off its growing season with a screening of “Growing Cities” at 7:30 p.m. This urban agriculture documentary showcases innovators and everyday people who are transforming their cities one vacant lot, rooftop farm and backyard garden at a time. The screening will be followed by

The 2014 Taste of Ridgewood event is scheduled for 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Ridgewood YMCA at 69-02 64th St. The Taste of Ridgewood, which was first held last year, was established as an annual tasting event geared towards dishing up some of the best food in the most diverse borough of the City.

Got EvEnts?

send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, Ny 11357

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

Queens today Send 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, or email queenstoday@ queenstribune.com

EDUCATION..............

ART DECO JEWELRY Saturday, April 19 Steinway library. Register.

ORGANIC GARDENING Saturdays, April 19, 26 Steinway library at 10.

BELLY DANCING Mondays, April 21, 28 Whitestone library.

Register.

BALLROOM DANCING Mondays through April 28 Forest Hills library at 6:30.

POETRY WRITING Tuesdays through April 29 Langston Hughes library at 5:30.

JEWELRY BOX Wednesday, April 23 Ridgewood library at 4:30 and Thursday, April 24 Queens Village at 3:30.

BEGIN CROCHET Thursday, April 24 McGoldrick library at 11:30.

DIGITAL PHOTO. Thursday, April 24 Central library. Register.

ENTERTAINMENT..

WORLD’S FAIR EXHIBIT Through June 30 celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1964-65 World’s Fair at the Central library.

MOONRISE KINGDOM Friday, April 18 film at the Hollis library at 2.

CHINESE CONCERT Friday, April 18 Queensboro Hill library at 2:30.

HINDU POETRY Friday, April 18 Glen Oaks library at 4.

MOVIE MATINEES Fridays through April 25 Rosedale library at 2:30.

SINGING FOR LOVED Saturday, April 19 Flushing library at 1:30.

EGG HUNT Saturday, April 19 12-4. $5. Queens County Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway. 347-FARM. BELLE’S PLAYERS Saturday, April 19 scenes performed at the Forest Hills library at 2:30.

DARK WORLD Saturday, April 19 film at the Lefferts library at 3.

AMER. SONGBOOK Saturday, April 19 Mitch Kahn sings at the Flushing library at 5.

ON THE TOWN Monday, April 21 film at 3 at the Sunnyside library.

ITALIAN CABARET Monday, April 21 Middle Village library at 2:30.

DARK KNIGHT RISES Tuesday, April 22 film at the Sunnyside library at 4.

HISTORY OF ROCK Tuesday, April 22 Lefrak City library at 5:30.

MRS. WINTERBOURNE Wednesday, April 23 film at the Pomonok library at 1:30.

OPERATIC VOICES Wednesday, April 23 Bay Terrace library at 1:30.

JAZZ Wednesday, April 23 Glen Oaks library at 2.

MISTER & PETE Wednesday, April 23 “The Inevitable Defeat of Mister and Pete” shown at the Central library at 6.

MOTOWN REVUE Thursday, April 24 Astoria library at 2.

BOBBY SOXER Thursday, April 24 “The Bachelor & Bobby Soxer shown Central library at 2.

MOVIE MATINEES Thursday, April 24 Rosedale library at 2:30.

OPEN MIC Thursday, April 24 East Elmhurst library at 6.

BINGO Thursdays McGoldrick library at 1.

MOVING & GROOVING Fridays through April 25 Briarwood library at 11:30.

CONTROL STRESS Friday, April 18 Bayside library at 2.

ZUMBA Fridays, April 18, 25 Woodside library. Register.

COMpUTERs............

INTER. WORD Saturday, April 19 Central library. Register.

INTER. EXCEL Saturday, April 19 Central library. Register.

INTER. WORD Saturday, April 19 Flushing library. Register.

INTER. POWERPOINT Monday, April 21 Central library. Register.

BEGIN EXCEL Monday, April 21 Flushing library. Register.

MAC MONDAY Monday, April 21 Central library. Register.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Tuesdays through April 29 Woodside library at 5:45. Central library.

Register. Corona library.

Register.

INTER. WORD Tuesday, April 22 Flushing library at 10.

BEGIN EXCEL Tuesday, April 22 Flushing library. Register.

BEGIN INTERNET Tuesday, April 22

Queens Village library.

Register.

CREATE E-MAIL Tuesday, April 22 Central library. Register.

TWITTER Tuesday, April 22 Flushing library. Register.

GOOGLE TIPS Wednesday, April 23 Central library. Register.

BEGIN WORD Wednesday, April 23 Central library. Register.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Thursdays, April 24, May 1 Ozone Park. Register.

INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, April 24 Central library. Register.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Thursdays, April 24 11 Rosedale library.

TEENs & KIDs......

MOONRISE KINGDOM Friday, April 18 film at the Hollis library at 2.

JEWELRY WORKSHOP Friday, April 18 Sunnyside library at 4.

HANDS-ON FARMING Friday, April 18 LIC library. Register.

EASTER CRAFT Friday, April 18 McGoldrick library. Register.

FUN FRIDAYS Fridays through April 25 Central library at 4. Ages 6-12.

TEENS GOT TALENT Fridays through April 25 Rosedale library at 3:30.

MOVIE MATINEES Fridays through April 25 Rosedale library at 2:30 and Laurelton library at 3:30.

TEEN HAPPY HOUR Fridays through April 25 Flushing library at 4.

DISCOVERY SCIENCE Fridays through April 25 Corona library at 6.

Grades 2+.

YOUTH ADVISORY Fridays Laurelton library at 5.

CRAFTS Fridays Ozone Park library at 3, Briarwood and East Flushing at 4, Pomonok and Flushing library at 4:30.

MATH HELP Saturdays through April 26 Flushing library at 10. Grades 4-8.

FAMILY STORYTIME Saturday, April 19 Flushing library at 11:30.

FROZEN Saturday, April 19 film at the Sunnyside library at 2:30.

DARK WORLD Saturday, April 19 film at the Lefferts library at 3.

EARTH DAY Monday, April 21 Flushing library at 2:30. Ages 6-12.

WORLD STORIES Monday, April 21 Laurelton library at 4:30.

Ages 5+.

TEENS MAKE JEWELRY Monday, April 21 Central library. Register.

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Profile

National Congress Of Black Women Looks To Queens

BY JOE MARVILLI A national nonprofit organization looking to help the disenfranchised has made its way to Queens.

The National Congress of Black Women, Inc. is establishing a new chapter in Queens, planting roots in Flushing for its endeavors that will spread throughout the Borough.

The organization is dedicated to the educational, political, economic and cultural development of African American women and their families, as well as increasing their presence in those areas. Founded in 1984, NCBW is led by Dr. E. Faye Williams. The founder of the Queens chapter, Pauline Murray, reached out to Williams to get the go-ahead to start the new branch.

“I said I would like to get a chapter here in Queens. She said, ‘Pauline, there isn’t one. We want some of more chapters in New York City.’

I’m on a mission to get the Queens chapter going,” Murray said.

While Murray said she had stopped being an active member of the NCBW in 2001, she re-established her connection with the group and decided to help spread its cause to Queens. She added that the organization’s name should not be seen as limiting and her chapter is willing to help any of the diverse individuals in Queens that are in need.

“It’s important that people understand that there’s a shift in the paradigm of thinking. We’re talking about those who still consider themselves of the populations I spoke about, being disenfranchised,” she said. “They could be Hispanic women. They could be Asian women. You could be of Irish descent. You could be of Jewish descent. If we can help you, we will help you.”

Murray added that the NCBW chapter is going to throw itself into issues af-

fecting Queens residents, with separate vice chairs taking the lead on different areas in the Borough. In terms of Borough or Citywide problems, Murray said she wants to help reduce prison populations by finding economic and educational opportunities for parolees.

She added that mental health consultation and assistance is also needed.

“How do you keep these individuals back?” Murray asked. “There’s a need for training, education, there’s a need to help them get jobs.”

The NCBW also plans to work with the City Economic Development Corporation to increase outreach to minority women on how they can set up their own businesses and find help running them.

The implementation of universal prekindergarten and registering people to vote are two more goals for the organization that they will be pursuing in the near future.

Now that the chapter is up and run-

ning, Murray said that the next step is to increase membership and decide what to work on first. In terms of getting new faces to join, the NCBW plans to hold fundraisers for those who want to join but cannot afford the membership fee. Murray described the process of finding their first projects as “a little tricky” due to the different needs in different neighborhoods of the Borough.

By the end of the year, the Queens chapter of the NCBW should have a physical location somewhere in Flushing, which will be determined once they see what their membership and finances are like. Those looking for more information can come to a meeting on April 27 in the Flushing Library’s conference room D at 2:30 p.m. They can also call the national headquarters of the NCBW at (202) 678-6788.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

People The New York Army National Guard has announced the promotion of members in recognition of their capability for additional responsibility and leadership.

Michael Puello of Queens Village, serving with the Headquarters and Support Company, 42nd Infantry Division, is promoted to private first class.

Anthony Davis of Jamaica, serving with the Forward Support Company, 204th Engineer Battalion, is promoted to specialist.

Abismael Gonzalez of Richmond Hill, serving with the Headquarters 106th (Regional Training Institute), is promoted to sergeant first class.

Medwin Fontin of St. Albans was named to the Dean’s List for the winter 2014 term at Choate Rosemary Hall in Wallingford, Conn.

Army Reserve Pvt. Mazie D. Thomas has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills.

Thomas is the daughter of Denise Thomas of Jamaica.

The Forest Park Runners Club will present the Forest Park Classic 4-Mile Road and Trail Race, begin-

ning 10 a.m. May 18 in Forest Park.

Registration for the race is open now.

Registration is available at www.forestparkrunners.org.

For information, call Frank Gallo at (718) 296-4015 or email fgallo813@ verizon.net.

Trip To Cuba:

Benjamin Chu of Queens Village was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Nicole Godreau of Jamaica, a communications major at Ithaca College, has been selected as a New York Women in Communication scholarship recipient.

The New York Conference of Italian-American State Legislators is now accepting applications for four $2,000 scholarships to be awarded at its annual Legislative Conference Day on June 9.

The scholarships will be handed out to four current or future college students from New York State. Eligibility will be based upon the student’s grade point average, interest in pursuing a higher education, involvement in the local community as well as individual financial need.

To apply, interested students can contact State Sen. Tony Avella’s district office to request an application by calling (718) 357-3094 or emailing avella@nysenate.gov. Completed applications are due by May 2.

The Fialkoff Dental Study Club, founded by Dr. Bernard Fialkoff, a Queens Periodontist and Dental Implant Specialist, traveled to Cuba last week on a historic humanitarian mission. The 16-member group, which included prominent dentists from the Tri-State area, donated desperately needed dental equipment, and met with Cuban dentists, dental students and public health specialists during their five day stay in Havana.

Tell The PRESS Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements and honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 All announcements will be considered for publication without fee.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

Faith

Easter Is A Time Of Celebration And Reflection

BY JOE MARVILLI

The next significant day of Holy Week for Christians is Holy Thursday, the day of the Last Supper. The meal that Jesus shared with His Apostles formed the basis for the sacrament of the Eucharist. Accounts of that night in the four Gospels also depict Jesus washing the feet of His Apostles and stating that one of them will betray Him. Good Friday is the most solemn of all Christian occasions, as it marks the day that Jesus was arrested, tried and sentenced by Pontius Pilate to be crucified at Calvary. Although His death is mourned, the day is also celebrated as His sacrifice redeemed humanity for its sins.

Jesus’ resurrection is then rejoiced on Easter Sunday. According to the Gospels, either a woman or multiple women visited Jesus’ tomb, only to find it empty. From there, accounts indicate that either an angel or Jesus himself appeared to the women, confirming that He had risen from the dead.

This weekend, Christians will gather in church and around the family dinner table to commemorate one of their most sacred religious holidays: Easter.

Easter is a holiday that celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, three days after He was crucified at Calvary. The day is a culmination of Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and repentance, as well as Holy Week, which marks the Passion of Jesus, the final period of His life.

While Easter is generally viewed as the biggest day of Holy Week, the entirety of this period is important for Christians, as it depicts the last days of Jesus’ life. The holiday begins with Palm Sunday, taking place a week before Easter. This day marks Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem, riding in on a donkey, a symbol of peace.

The Gospels also mention that Jesus met and interacted with His disciples, though they did not always recognize Him. When He visited the disciples in the Cenacle, Thomas the Apostle was not present and would not believe that Jesus had returned until he came face-to-face with Him. This created the expression of “Doubting Thomas,” to describe a skeptic.

Although the colorful Easter Eggs that are now associated with the holiday seem to have little to do with Jesus’ resurrection, the tradition was actually adopted by the Christian Church in 1610. The eggs symbolize the empty tomb of Jesus, as they are unfertilized. They are generally seen as a symbol of rebirth as well.

Unlike Christmas, Easter falls on a different date each year in western Christianity. The days of the week remain the same, but that holiday can happen anytime from March 22

through April 25. Rather than being determined by a Gregorian or Julian calendars, Easter is calculated with a lunisolar calendar, coming the first Sunday after the Spring full moon.

Eastern Christianity bases its calculations for Easter on the Gregorian calendar, meaning it falls between April 4 and May 8, with the date changing from year-to-year.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

Keep’n The Faith Then it’s time to share...The PRESS wants to hear about special programs in your faith community. Send your thoughts, stories, prayers and photos to: The PRESS at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357. All stories will be considered.

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Notebook

BCAE High School

The Business, Computer Applications and Entrepreneurship High School in the Campus Magnet Complex in Cambria Heights is preparing their students for the business world.

The school participates in a worldwide program called Virtual Enterprise International. Five days a week, two hours per day, BCAE students operate a make-believe or virtual business. The students operate their business class as if it was an actual business.

This school year, the class started a new company instead of keeping the old business from last year. The new VE company is called Oh! Furnishings.

The “Oh” in Oh! Furnishings represent the Office and Home Furniture that the students handpicked to sell to their target market. They want to supply virtual furniture to all VE firms in the United States and around the world.

Oh! Furnishings employees must make sales in order to pass the class.

No sales, no passing grade. They have to be focused and be able to get all tasks done that will benefit the company, while learning business skills at the same time.

Photo by Bob Harris

School Prepares Students For The Business World

Students participating in the Virtual Enterprise International class at BCAE High School.

The students have organized their employees into four departments: human resources, administration, accounting and marketing and sales.

The vice president of marketing and sales has to think of promotional ideas on how they are going to sell the products they have selected to meet their potential customers’ wants and needs. The department

has to make $100,000 in sales every month to be able to pay the expenses of the company.

Other departments play a big role as well. Accounting handles the numbers, administration keeps track of business documents and human resources makes sure all employees are staying on track.

No matter what hardships the

company may face, everyone must stay positive and give their best every day. The students at BCAE enjoy the hard work and experience that they expect will one day help them in their future careers. The Virtual Enterprise International class is led by business teacher Nadine MorganThomas.

-Jazmin Tarrant

April 18-24, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

What’s Up oNGoiNG Clergy United programs Clergy United for Community Empowerment offers group sessions at 172-17 Linden Blvd., second floor, Saint Albans. Topics covered include domestic violence, substance abuse intervention, decision-making and self-esteem awareness. Group sessions are open to the public, but it is important to call ahead for the next group session.

Other programs offered by Clergy United include: Early Intervention Services, a simple and accurate way to find out if you have HIV. No needles, no blood test. On-site testing walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Infant mortality reduction initiative program provides free services, including case management, parent skills building, crib care, breast feeding education, health education, confidential counseling and more.

Free summer vacation for your child, through enrollment with the Fresh Air Fund, for kids ages 6-12.

Contact Ms. Richardson at Clergy United for more information.

For information on programs offered through Clergy United, call (718) 297-0720.

Youth organizations LP FAM’s Youth Organization is holding youth baseball registration for boys and girls ages 5 to 14 every Saturday, 12 p.m. until 3 p.m.

at Dunton Presbyterian Church, located 109-29 135th St., South Ozone Park. Call Derick Braswell at (917) 692-4775 or Paul Cox at (718) 8358416 for more information.

The organization is also holding registration for its basketball program. Boys and girls between 8 and 16 years old can register every Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Queens Transition Center, located at 142-10 Linden Blvd., South Ozone Park. For more information, call Mike Glasgow at (917) 442-0479, Paul Cox (718) 835-8416, or David Reid at (646) 241-4211.

LP FAM is also looking for volunteer youth baseball and football coaches. Please call Paul Cox at (917) 607-2421 or Derick Braswell at (917) 692-4775 for more information.

overcoming Barriers to Employment Every Friday, the Queens Central Library in Jamaica helps residents experiencing barriers to employment. A Job Information Center case manager is available on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to discuss potential problems you may have regarding child care, housing, immigration, degree evaluation, healthcare, goal and career planning, former incarceration, education and training and more. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 480-4222 or stop by the Job Information Center.

No registration is required and the service is free.

Forestdale StYA Youth Mentor Forestdale, Inc., an organization with a great history of supporting families in need and committed to empowering children in foster care and in the local community, launched a new mentoring program in January 2014. This new program, called “Future Prep: Successfully Transitioning Youth to Adolescence,” or STYA, is designed to attract communityminded people who may not be able to commit to foster parenting, but nevertheless want to make a significant investment in the lives of children and their better future. We are looking for mentors (18 or older) to work with children ages 9-12 for one year. Starting in January, there will be four 10-week sessions throughout the year, each running for three hours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program will take place at the Hollis Community Center at 203-09 Hollis Ave. This is an excellent opportunity to truly make a difference is someone’s life, build meaningful relationships and be part of an enthusiastic, compassionate and supportive environ-

ment, in addition to a great learning experience with the opportunity to learn about a multitude of issues facing underprivileged youth in New York City today. For additional information, contact Mirzya Syed, Youth Volunteer Coordinator, at Msyed@ forestdaleinc.org or (718) 263.0740, ext. 365.

Queens Satellite high School And College Mentoring program Queens Satellite High School is seeking volunteers to provide students with the skills and experiences that will support their personal growth. Key to the institute is the active participation its volunteers in the private sector and community members who wish to provide real world connections for their students through weekly seminars.

Mentors can participate in oneday sessions or teach a seven-week seminar on a topic of their choice.

Technical assistance for lesson planning will be provided throughout your experience. For additional information, contact Kristy Nguyen at (718) 657-3920 ext. 4031.

WhAt’S Up With YoU? Send your community events to the PRESS for a free listing at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357.

Call (718) 357-7400 or email editor@queenspress.com.

All events will be considered for publication, without a fee.

LEGAL NOTICE

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LEGAL NOTICE

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LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY SUMMONS AND NOTICE Index No. 10699/12 Borough: Queens Block: 9470 Lot: 25 NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiffs, vs.

The heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors,successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through JOSEPH J. BEDNARIK, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT AU-

THORITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; ELIZABETH MUNOZ; JOSEPH BEDNARIK, JR., if living, or if he be dead, his wife, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors, successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said JOSEPH BEDNARIK, JR., by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs; ALEXANDER BEDNARIK, if living, or if he be dead, his

wife, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors, successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said ALEXANDER BEDNARIK, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs AND "JOHN DOE #4" THROUGH "JOHN DOE #100", the names of the last 96 defendants being fictitious, the true names of said defendants being unknown to plaintiff, it being intended to designate fee owners, tenants or occupants of the liened premises and/or persons or parties having or

claiming an interest in or lien upon the liened premises, if the aforesaid individual defendants are living, and if any or all of said individual defendants be dead, their heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, committees, devisees, legatees, and the assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest of them, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, through, or against the said defendants named as a class, of any right, title or interest in or lien upon the premises described in the complaint herein, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in the aboveentitled foreclosure action, and to serve a copy of your answer on the plaintiffs’ attorney within thirty (30)

days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal service within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Queens County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the subject premises. Dated: January 9, 2014 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an Order of Honorable Rudolph E. Greco, Jr., a Justice of the

Supreme Court, dated February 25, 2014, and filed with supporting papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Office. This is an action to foreclose a tax lien covering the property known as 127-11 97 Avenue, Borough of Queens, New York and identified as Block 9470 and Lot 25 (the “Tax Parcel”).

The relief sought is the sale of the Tax Parcel at public auction in satisfaction of the tax lien. In case of your failure to appear, judgment may be taken against you in the sum of $10,626.44, together with interest, costs, disbursements and attorneys’ fees of this action, and directing the public sale of the Tax Parcel.

Anthony J. Iacchetta Phillips Lytle LLP Office and Post Office Address 1400 First Federal Plaza Rochester, New York 14614 Tel. No. (585) 238-2000

Above The Law?

Q

CONFIDENTIAL

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 18-24, 2014

Musicians OF QuEEns

Annika

QConf is edited by:

We all know that New York City politicians get some pretty sweet perks – one of which is getting to park almost anywhere consequence and ticket-free, even if it means you’re endangering the lives of constituents.

Last week, Deputy Borough President Leroy Comrie was on his way to attend a press gathering about the trash problem in Southeast Queens when he conveniently parked

his van across the street from the conference.

Only problem? Mr. Comrie parked his car illegally, blocking more than half of the crosswalk.

While we here at QConf applaud Comrie’s involvement in the community, we suggest he be a little bit more considerate when parking his vehicle.

After all, there were plenty of visible spots available up the block…

Queens Hoop Stars Coming Back One Queens basketball star is coming home and a second one could be coming back to New York as well.

Tina Charles, a former star at Christ the King High School and a Jamaica native, was traded to the WNBA’s New York Liberty on Monday, acquiring the 2012 league MVP for a hefty price. They traded Alyssa Thomas, Kelsey Bone and the Liberty’s 2015 first round pick to the Connecticut Sun to get Charles.

Charles was originally drafted number one overall by the Sun in 2010, winning Rookie of the Year that season. She also won the MVP in 2012, averaging 18 points a game that year, which is a Sun team record.

Over on the NBA side, new Knicks president Phil Jackson could begin his rebuild of a

Knicks team that will miss the playoffs this year with a familiar.

There are reports saying the team may sign forward Lamar Odom, also a former Christ the King star, to a contract before this year is over and for next season.

Odom played on the Los Angeles Lakers from 2004-11, when Jackson was coaching the team and was well-regarded by the 11-time NBA championship winning coach.

If they sign him before this season is over, it would allow the Knicks to give Odom another year on his contract unguaranteed and to get a look at the 34-year-old forward.

Odom’s career has fallen by the wayside in recent years, dealing with drug problems and his well-known marriage to Khloe Kardasian.

So Long, Soccer!

The long debate and handwringing over where a new Major League Soccer franchise will play seems to be over.

MLS officials announced earlier this week that the New York City Football Club will play three seasons worth of games at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, not in a new stadium at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

While this is great news for park advocates concerned with

losing space in Queens, we can't help but think this plan seems familiar.

That's probably because outspoken former City Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. suggested a similar plan, having the team play games at Citi Field.

The idea was nixed early on as a logistical nightmare by MLS spokespeople.

Here at QConf, we find it amazing what months of failed negotiations can do...

Steven J. Ferrari Contributors: Bruce Adler, Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Michael Schenkler.

Follow us on Twitter: @QueensTrib Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ QueensTrib

Got Talent?

We want to feature you! E-mail editor@ queenstribune.com for inclusion in a future edition.

Party Like It's 1964 This weekend, New York Mets fans will receive a blast from the past, at least in terms of ticket prices.

In honor of the 50th anniversary of the Mets’ previous home, Shea Stadium, the team will roll back the cost of select seats to their 1964 prices. This promotional offer will take place during a three-game stand against the Atlanta Braves on April 18, 19 and 20.

For $3.50, fans can get a ticket in the Promenade Outfield. For $19.64, they can sit in a left field baseline box seat.

Of course, some would argue that those prices might still be too steep for the struggling Mets, who recently sidelined Juan Lagares and Curtis Granderson due to injuries. You can get a coffee and a bagel for $3.50, which may give you more satisfaction too!

Hmm, maybe the team should have turned back time to the 1969 “Miracle Mets.” We’re sure everyone could get behind that idea!

Although Annika may be only 16 years old, her songs prove that she has a soul that is wise beyond her years. Her songwriting has the distinct sound of a veteran too, simple yet powerful, with most of the weight being carried by her voice and acoustic guitar.

Given that she has been playing music since she was in elementary school, it should come as no surprise that Annika has grown into an experienced, skilled musician. Her journey started when she attended the Willie Mae Rock Camp for Girls and formed a band on the first day of camp.

“I realized then how much I loved performing, and I knew by the age of 9 that it was something I wanted to continue doing,” she said.

One year later, Annika’s mom won studio recording time at a fundraising auction for the camp. The time was used recording one of Annika's original compositions, a piece that impressed the studio owner, who told her to get out into the music scene and form a band. With that, Still Saffire was born.

By the time summer 2013 rolled around, two members of Still Saffire were in college, limiting their time to practice and play together. Therefore, Annika started writing and performing under her own name.

While Annika said that her writing process has remained mostly unchanged, the difference between Still Saffire and her solo work came in the arranging.

“With Still Saffire, I had help with arranging from my mother and sometimes from

band members, but now I just do all instrumentation by myself [on studio recordings],” she said. “Since I`ve been on my own, I`ve been trying out new styles of songwriting/ sound/music, but that could simply be the result of me growing as a writer.”

Her growth as a songwriter has certainly paid off. Annika not only competed in the Queens Battle of the Boroughs at The Greene Space, but she was voted as the winner and moves on to face the top musicians from the other four boroughs on June 27.

“It was really exciting, and unexpected. It really made me aware of all the support I have from my family, friends and fans. And for that I am deeply appreciative,” Annika said.

“If it weren’t for my family, friends and fans, I wouldn’t have won.”

Besides her solo projects, preparing for the Battle of the Boroughs, SAT prep, Driver’s Ed, college tours and everyday high school work, Annika is also taking part in a series called Real Women Real Songs. Each week for all of 2014, she is writing a new song based on a prompt, which will be posted online at www.youtube.com/user/ RealWomenRealSongs.

“It`s making me grow as a songwriter and keeping me disciplined,” she said. “I`m currently recording a bunch of new songs with recording engineer Larry Alexander, and hopefully will have an album out in the near future.”

To keep up with details about that upcoming release, as well as her live dates, visit facebook.com/annikamusic1 and annikamusic.com.

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25 FRI

At EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care you’ll find new programs every month to help you stay healthy, get well and live better.

All classes are FREE and open to the public.

Low Impact Zumba 11:30 am –12:30 pm Workout Asthma – Zumba Style 1:00–2:00 pm

26 SAT

Spring Fitness 5:00–6:00 pm

28 MON

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon –1:00 pm The National Alliance on Mental Health For Caregivers 4:30–7:00 pm

Group Health Incorporated (GHI), HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP), HIP Insurance Company of New York and EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC are EmblemHealth companies EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC provides administrative services to the EmblemHealth companies. Neighborhood Care is a division of EmblemHealth. ©EmblemHealth Inc. 2014, All Rights Reserved.

Full event calendar at ehnc.com 1-866-539-0999 to RSVP

29 TUE

*HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP) is a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract. Group Health Incorporated (GHI) is a Medicare Advantage organization and a standalone prescription drug plan with a Medicare contract.

HIP and GHI are EmblemHealth companies. Y0026_124361 Accepted 02/18/14