Volume 13 Issue No. 31 Aug. 3-9, 2012
PAGE 18
Press Photo by Ira Cohen
TO HAIL AND BACK
Commuter van drivers are concerned about a new law that would allow livery cabs to pick up fares from the street, fearing that they could be priced out of business. By Veronica Lewin ‌ Page 3.
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News Briefs Dems Form Richmond Hill Club Yearning for more political representation, political and civic leaders in Richmond Hill have formed the Richmond Hill Democratic Club, hoping to spur Councilman James Sanders (DLaurelton) to victory in the State Senate and carve out a City Council district for Richmond Hill alone. On the City and Assembly level, Richmond Hill does not lie in the heart of any one district. A Richmond Hill/Ozone Park Democratic Club does exist, but Ali Najmi, an organizer of the club, wants Richmond Hill alone to have a political voice. A priority for the club will be the triumph of Sanders in the State Senate primary against State Sen. Shirley Huntley (D-Jamaica). Najmi said Sanders has reached out to people in the Richmond Hill community and is more actively invested in their destiny. The new Senate district will include most of the neighborhood. The Richmond Hill Democratic Club will hold a 6:30 p.m. dinner on Aug. 3 at the law offices of Kawal Totaram, located at 126-03 Liberty Ave. The club will also take an active role in the redistricting process of City Council districts. Its ultimate goal will be the creation of a council district for the South Asian population of Richmond Hill. Losing out on discretionary spending from elected officials, Richmond Hill struggles for small but crucial improvements, like extra garbage cans along Liberty Avenue.
Unions Back Ulrich Last week, two unions backed Councilman Eric Ulrich’s (D-Ozone Park) State Senate bid, lending him another advantage against his Republican primary opponent, Juan Reyes. Ulrich, backed by State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Long Island), appeared with the senator in Howard Beach last week to accept the endorsements of the Plumbers Local 1 and Steamfitters Local 638. Speaking with Skelos and union representatives at Plumbers Local 1 union hall on Cross Bay Boulevard, Ulrich will face the Queens Republican-backed attorney Reyes in the primary. The winner will challenge State Sen. Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) in a new 15th Senate District that is more conservative-leaning than its predecessor. More moderate than his opponent Reyes, Ulrich at times sounded like a Democrat, championing a minimum wage increase, prevailing wage laws and organized labor. Reyes has attacked Ulrich for these views, but Ulrich has a significant fundraising disadvantage in the primary. Ulrich is one of only two
Republican city councilmen in Queens and an ally of Tom Ognibene, the former city councilman who attempted to take over the Queens Republican Party last year. Led by Phil Ragusa, the Queens GOP has repudiated Ulrich, though New York State Republican money is flowing to Ulrich’s campaign coffers. Skelos did take time to knock Democrats in Albany for being “dysfunctional” during the David Paterson administration. He also singled out some Democrats for abstaining from voting to expand the State’s DNA database to include anyone convicted of a felony or penal law misdemeanor. Though unions typically back Democratic candidates, these endorsements of Ulrich appeared tied to his support of organized labor and the fact that his grandfather “Buddy” Ulrich is a member of the steamfitters union. When asked why the plumbers union was backing Ulrich and not his potential Democratic opponent, Addabbo, Plumbers Local 1 Business Manager John Murphy said support for Ulrich transcended party lines.
Queens Man Educates Youth For many writers, commas, semicolons and apostrophes are merely a means to structure a sentence. To K arim Abouelnaga of Astoria, these punctuation marks mean much more. While at Long Island City High School, Abouelnaga experienced difficulty placing the punctuation marks. Rather than being hindered by his shortcomings, the 20-year-old used this experience to his create the non-profit organization Practice Makes Perfect (PMP). Soon after he enrolled at Cornell University, Abouelnaga began working with classmates to develop the organization, which aims to narrow the achievement gap within inner-city communities. This summer, PMP has reached out to educate under-achieving 4th graders by pairing them with high-achieving 9th graders under the supervision of college interns in a seven-week academic summer program. Students from Long Island City, Bedford-Stuyvesant and Harlem participated in the program. “We have had a lot of success working with the students,” said Abouelnaga. “Many of them have already improved greatly in school and have a better outlook on education.” On Aug. 5, Abouelnaga will be competing in the 25th Annual Central Park Triathlon to raise money for Practice Makes Perfect. He has already raised $6,000 in donations and hopes to reach his target goal of $10,000 before the competition. To make a donation to PMP, visit pmpnyc.org/donate-today.
Presstime
Outer Borough Hail Law Worries Drivers BY VERONICA LEWIN
Workers Rally For Paid Sick Days
BY MEGAN MONTALVO
Leroy Morrison, right, talks about the difficulties he has faced while owning a commuter van company in New York City. to afford the new permits. The law was expected to go into effect June 4 but was challenged in court. A court injunction was issued to stop the law’s implementation because it was argued that Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s intervention into City issues violates the state Constitution. In the meantime, commuter van drivers want to make sure their voices are heard. David Clarke operates in Downtown Jamaica and is worried about vans not registered with the TLC taking away customers from his legal business. Clarke said TLC needs to check for illegal commuter vans
three times a day – morning, afternoon and night – and not just for a couple of hours a day. “As a van operator and a van owner, we need more enforcement,” he said. TLC spokesman Allan Fromberg said the agency works with local precincts to crack down on the number of illegal drivers. In the last month alone, TLC seized around 600 vehicles for illegal street hail activity. He added the agency be increasing the number of TLC inspectors for increased enforcement of the law. Reach Deputy Editor Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.
Flake Chooses Sanders For State Senate Primary
BY VERONICA LEWIN
A little less than six weeks before voters head to the polls, Councilman James Sanders Jr. (D-Laurelton) has received a key endorsement in his quest for the State Senate. Sanders announced Tuesday that the Rev. Floyd Flake is backing the outgoing councilman in the 10th State Senate District primary election this September. Sanders, who is serving his third and final term, is challenging State Sen. Shirley Huntley (DJamaica). Huntley has served in the Legislature since 2007. “I am proud to offer my support and endorsement to Councilman Sanders in his race for
State Senate,” Flake said. “I’m proud to stand with a builder in our community, who has been on the front lines of some of the most urgent and pressing battles facing the people of our district.” Flake served in Congress from 1987 to 1997, until he left Capitol Hill to be a full-time pastor at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral in Jamaica. Sanders served as Flake’s assistant district manager during his time in Congress. Flake leads one of the country’s largest churches with a congregation of more than 20,000 members. Though he left Congress 15 years ago, he is still considered to be influential in Southeast Queens politics.
“I am extremely honored, humbled, and gratified to have the support of my role model and former boss, Pastor Flake, as we take the first steps towards shaping a brighter future for our district,” Sanders said. “Rev. Flake has been a trusted advisor, and a friend throughout my personal and public life. His leadership and example have served as both inspiration and a model upon which I’ve tried to base my time as a Council Member.” The primary election for the State legislature is Thursday, Sept. 13. Reach Deputy Editor Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
On July 30, a crowd gathered in front of Taqueria El Idolo at 91-07 Corona Ave., Elmhurst, to rally in demand for a paid sick days law. Councilwoman Julissa Ferreras (D-Elmhurst) joined the protest, which was comprised of small business owners, the Queens Working Families Party and members of the immigrant organization, Make the Road New York (MRNY). As the crowd chanted, in the words of Cesar Chavez, “Si, Se Puede,” meaning “Yes, We Can,” former employee Celina Alvarez shared her experience of being fired from the restaurant after taking a brief medical leave of absence. “I was a loyal and dedicated employee at Taqueria El Idolo, when a serious heart problem forced me into the hospital,” Alvarez said. “When I recovered enough to go back to work, I found out there was no job for me to return to. The hospital stay saved my life, but cost my job.” During Alvarez’s testimony, she noted that many workers in New York are faced with the same problem everyday and asked the City Council to take action on their behalf. According to MRNY, Alvarez currently has a wage and hour lawsuit against the restaurant pending
with the Dept. of Labor. “There are a million New Yorkers who do not have paid sick days,” said Ferreras. “If someone is sick, especially in the restaurant industry, and they go to work, they are serving New Yorkers. This is a health concern.” The Paid Sick Time Act was first introduced in the City Council in August 2009 and has since gained the support of 37 co-sponsors. While business lobbyists voiced strong concerns against the act, Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan) decided not to support the bill and it was never brought to the floor for a vote. If passed, the legislation would require businesses with more than 20 employees to provide nine paid sick days. Businesses with five to 20 employees would be required to offer five paid sick days, and small businesses would only need to provide five unpaid, job-protected sick days. “For workers without paid sick days, losing pay or even a job can be as easy as catching a flu,” said Jose Schiffino, spokesman for the Queens Working Families Party. “It’s time for Speaker Quinn and the Council to pass the paid sick days bill.” Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com
so, that whenever the city has been in trouble they’ve come to the van drivers to make sure that transportation continues,” Williams said. The state legislature passed the Outer Borough Hail Law in February and rules to implement the legislation were approved by Taxi and Limousine Commission in April. “The TLC Commissioner David Yassky promised the van driver coalition that they would be able to have a legitimate and equal opportunity to operate full and unfettered as a business,” Comrie said. The councilmen said Yassky sat down with them and promised that if the Outer Borough Hail Law passed in Albany, van drivers would have a reasonable and efficient way to continue their services and be part of the legal street hails. The current license fee for new commuter vans is $275. Under the Outer Borough Hail Law, the City would make a total of 18,000 permits available at $1,500 each to be able to legally pick up street hails just like yellow cabs can. Drivers at Tuesday’s press conference expressed concerns with being able
PRESS photo by Ira Cohen
The potential of a law to allow livery cabs and commuter vans to pick up street hails has company owners concerned they will be priced out of business. Commuter van drivers and owners stood with Council Members Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) and Jumaane Williams (D-Brooklyn) outside of the Jamaica Center subway station to voice their concerns about the Outer Borough Hail Law.
Commuter vans, also known as “dollar vans,” have been a cheaper – and sometimes quicker – alternative for cash-strapped commuters in the outer boroughs for nearly three decades. During the 2005 transit strike and weather emergencies, the City calls on commuter vans to help transport people who would otherwise be stranded. “These van drivers have been providing services that have been neglected in these so-called outer boroughs for decades. So much
SEQ Families Unite Against Gun Violence BY VERONICA LEWIN
Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
Photo by Ira Cohen
A recent spike of violence in Southeast Queens has caused relatives of slain victims to speak out. U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) met with family members who lost their children to gun violence over the past two years on Monday afternoon. The group met at The Door, located at 16307 Baisley Blvd., where lunch was served following the discussion. Most of Monday’s attendees were women who lost their sons to street violence. With the wounds still fresh, many found it difficult to share their stories without shedding tears. Emotions ran high at the lunch, with some guests who lost their children to gun violence just weeks ago. Sharon Plummer visited the site of her son Shawn’s murder before attending the discussion, just days after her son was laid to rest. On July 13, 18year-old Shawn was shot dead in
Luck, who lost her son to broad daylight in Far violence, disagreed. Rockaway. “It’s pain, misery and “My 18-year-son had a suffering, and I underfuture, he wanted to be a stand that you don’t unmechanic,” she said. derstand because you’ve Plummer said she and never been there,” she her family emigrated from said. the island of Jamaica to Luck served 17 years provide a better life for in prison and said she did them. her best to parent her son. “I could have been back Still, it was not enough to in Jamaica, living my life. prevent him from being a Not planning to bury any of victim of street violence. my children,” Plummer said. “I may not have been Guests at the lunch inthe best mother in the cluded Shenee Johnson, world, but does that mean whose 18-year-old son was my pain is any different shot and killed in May 2010. than yours?” Luck asked. Johnson said her son had While many grieving plans to attend St. John’s Sharon Plummer, mother of Shawn Plummer, people are angry after losUniversity that fall. After her son’s murder, expresses anger with the criminal justice system ing a loved one to violence, Luck said she does Johnson founded Life Sup- just weeks after the murder of her son. not hold animosity toport, an organization designed to help grief support sys- ter, located at 107-52 Sutphin wards the person who took her child’s life. tem for families struggling to deal Blvd. “If I could help the same one Plummer said the prison culwith the sudden loss of a loved one due to violence. The group ture helps perpetuate violence who put a bullet in my son’s head meets every other Monday at the because inmates brag about the today, I would.” After being released from Sean Elijah Bell Community Cen- crimes they committed. Toni
prison, Luck said she worked for the late Councilman Thomas White Jr. and recently graduated from York College. She said she tries to be an example in the community. Many guests at the lunch expressed the need for the community to unite to end street violence. Police Commissioner Ray Kelly offended many last month when he said many leaders of communities of color are “shockingly silent” when it comes to violence in their own communities, though many have decried NYPD’s stop-and-frisk policy. The congressman said Monday that Kelly’s statement was probably correct. “We’ve got to get angry – we being electeds, we being community folks – about any life that’s lost in our community, and not just the one case that will get the publicity,” Meeks said. “Every life is extremely precious.” Reach Deputy Editor Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.
Local Transgender Program Offers Support BY VERONICA LEWIN For transgender people, finding quality health care can be a challenge. One group with locations in Jamaica is trying to change that. Community Healthcare Network has three locations in Queens, including two in Jamaica. The Queens Health Center is located at 97-04 Sutphin Blvd. and CHN’s Jamaica Family Health Center is located at 90-04 161st St. In 2006, CHN created the Transgender Family Program, which provides care for transgender patients in a family healthcare clinic. CHN is the only health network in New York City that provides services to transgender patients in a family practice setting. Transgender Family Program Manager Renato Barucco said it can be difficult for transgender people to access health care because many doctors in the area do not cater to transgender
Julissa, right, travels to Jamaica from New Jersey to take advantage of CHN’s services. people. He said after the transformation many people simply identify as male or female, which can prevent specialized treatment. According to the 2011 Nation Healthcare Disparities Report, 24 percent of transgender study subjects were denied equal treatment in a doctor’s office and nearly 30 percent delayed needed care as a result.
“We’re not comfortable going to a regular doctor,” said Julissa, 31, a transgender female who learned about the Community Healthcare Network’s program when she moved to the tri-state area one year ago. She said CHN provides a comfortable and relaxing environment for her to get the care she needs. Barucco said it was important to bring the Transgender
Family Program to the borough because lots of patients have said they do not want to travel to Manhattan to get the care they need. In addition to providing health care, CHN has a weekly support group where transgender people can share their experiences. Though Julissa lives in New Jersey, she said travels to Queens for weekly meetings, which she said takes her about 90 minutes. “It’s a little far, but it’s definitely worth it,” she said. Between 2007 and 2011, CHN provided comprehensive health services via the Transgender Family Program to approximately 700 transgender individuals at two health clinics – one in Jamaica and one in the Bronx. To participate in the program, patients had to indicate risk behavior for HIV/AIDS infection. According to Barucco, the transgender family health center has helped decrease risky
behavior within the transgender community they serve. From 2007 to 2011, unregulated hormone injection and sex with multiple partners each decreased from 7 percent to 3 percent. Prostitution as a means to stay alive, also known as survival sex, decreased from 23 percent in the same four year period, while needle sharing decreased from 13 percent to 7 percent between 2007 and 2011. Barucco said there is a high prevalence of HIV in the transgender community. Nearly one-third of the people CHN serves are HIV positive. Since implementing the Transgender Family Program, the prevalence of HIV decreased from 44 percent in 2007 to 38 percent in 2011. The support group meets Tuesdays at the Jamaica Family Health Center at 4 p.m. For more information, visit chnnyc.org. Reach Deputy Editor Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.
FRANKLIN HOSPITAL WELCOMES NEW FAMILY PRACTITIONER MEREDITH M. CORSON, DO
Dr. Corson’s goal is to help her patients achieve a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent the development of chronic diseases. She also specializes in Osteopathic Manipulations, which help alleviate the pain of common musculoskeletal complaints. For an appointment to see Dr. Corson, please call:
(516) 354-7100. 925 Hempstead Turnpike, Suite 200 Franklin Square, NY 11010
Hope lives here.
SM
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5
Dr. Meredith M. Corson, board certified in Family Practice, has joined the staff of Franklin Hospital, member of North Shore-LIJ Health System. She is a graduate of New York College of Osteopathic Medicine.
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 Managing Editor:
Steven J. Ferrari Deputy Editor:
Veronica Lewin
Time For A Fix Getting around Queens shouldn't be this hard. Whether it's the congested highways - some of the worst in the nation - or the manic maze that is the public transit system in Queens, it can be quite a feat to get from place to place. It's an old story by now, but one that is worthy of being told again. Our elected officials need to devote time, money and whatever other resources they require to improve the borough's infrastructure. The recently-announced restorations of Queens bus lines is a step in the right direction, but it is not enough to ease packed subway trains and buses, or to limit what should be unnecessary transfers to get where we need to go. If straphangers are expected to accept a fare hike in the coming year, they should get something for their money.
Contributing Editor:
Letters
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Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen Reporters: Harley Benson Ross Barkan Megan Montalvo Wayne Dean Doyle Interns: Asia Ewart Cristina Foglietta Art Dept:
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Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
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A Queens Tribune Publication. © Copyright 2012 Tribco, LLC
Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher
Library Saved To The Editor: On behalf of all the Friends of Queens Library, we would like to thank Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg and the New York City Council for adopting a budget this year that saves our library and our wonderful library staff! Thanks to the City Council's
leadership in this year's budget negotiations, all libraries in Queens will continue to be open a minimum of five days a week without any further reduction in service hours. We would like to thank Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, Speaker Christine C. Quinn and all the members of the New York City
Letters Council for the restoration of funding made to Queens Library in this year's budget. We would like to especially thank especially Queens' own Council Member Jimmy Van Bramer, our friend and Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs and Libraries, for his leadership as well as Delegation Leader Council Member Leroy Comrie for his unwavering support. We also recognize Vincent Gentile, the chair of the Select Committee on Libraries, who has worked tirelessly on behalf of all New Yorkers to preserve library service, and Council Member Domenic M. Recchia, Jr., the Chair of the Finance Committee, for delivering a sound budget. Thank you for recognizing the importance of libraries in these tough economic times. The public library is, first and foremost, primarily a community center which that provides critical services for many that who might not be able to find them elsewhere, from free computer and Wi-Fi access and job placement
assistance to afterschool programs and tutoring. In a variety of ways, the public library creates social capital and expands opportunities for many. We feel strongly that investing in our libraries is investing in the future of Queens and New York City as a whole. Thank you for speaking up for our library. Emily Banks Rochdale Village Geraldine Benfante East Elmhurst Seelia Bogert - Steinway Maria Concolino Woodhaven Tom Dowd - Ridgewood Phillipe Hogarth Cambria Heights Pat Martin - Lefrak City Betty Scott - Pomonok
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To Frisk Or Not To Frisk
A Personal Perspective BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE
This summer has seen a rash of shootings the likes of which has not been seen in our city in many years. It is frightening and disheartening to see dozens of gun-related deaths and damage both deliberate and accidentally caused by some lunatic bent on revenge or just shooting wildly. Toddlers, teenagers and adults alike are falling victim to these horrific events and there seems to be no end in sight. Like the Colorado movie theater shooter proves, just about anyone can get access to a firearm whether legally in a walk-in store, online or from a misguided person on the street. The mayor and the police commissioner of our city are proposing “Stop and Frisk” as a panacea for the problem. That alone will not do it. “Stop and Frisk” may have its place if it is not abused by those charged with implementing it. But such a policy is des-
tined to be abused. Every young Black or Hispanic male will be a target of “Stop and Frisk” if this becomes law of the city. At its core it is racial profiling, even though one could argue that so far most of the one-on-one shootings happening in our city are coming from this demographic. And yet there are thousands of young men from this same demographic who are not involved in shooting other people. What about their right to go about their business without being thrown onto the hood of a police car and traumatized? I would not want to see that happen to my child and I don’t know of another parent who does. To be sure, it is a controversial subject and there are probably no clear-cut answers. On both sides of the issue, New York City has never been the safest place for young Black men. The cliché that New York is “the greatest city in the world,” holds true. But it is also fraught with danger. There are no easy answers to the “Stop and Frisk” question.
Officers would be making onthe-spot decisions about who looks suspicious and who can go be ignored for the moment. Mistakes will inevitably be made in this process. Those being frisked will resent it. Those doing the frisking will, in turn, get aggressive and problems are going to arise. When I see my son playing basketball with his South Asian friends, I sometimes marvel to myself that their parents don’t have to worry about them getting stopped by the police based on their brown skin. But I do have to worry that my son could get stopped largely because of his brand of brown skin. Their parents don’t have to have “the conversation” with their boys. But we must. It is quite literally a matter of life and death. These children grew up together in school and will probably always be friends. But in the eyes of those charged with protecting our city, my son could be an automatic suspect. That is a jagged pill to swallow. There are no easy answers to
this shooting epidemic other than that gun control has to be tightened at the federal level and we need to have more officers on the streets. Funding cuts to afterschool programs need to be restored and there ought to be more counseling happening at the middle and high school levels. To help young people make better choices, music education and sports in the local schools need to be reinstituted across the board. Kids whose minds and muscles are engaged in positive activities are not as easily swayed toward reckless behavior such as buying guns or buying/selling drugs – and these three crimes are usually connected with deadly consequences. As parents, teachers, guidance counselors and ministers, we have to keep driving home the point to our children that life is precious and the deliberate or accidental taking of a life is a grievous event with life-changing consequences. “Stop and Frisk” is not the be all and end all.
The Senate and Assembly Primary Races To Watch By MICHAEL SCHENKLER In the most confusing election year in modern times, we are now into phase three of the primary season.
15TH SENATE DISTRICT Eric Ulrich, (R-Ozone Park) will win this primary with ease. In what I’ve said is an example of “Queens Republicans eating their young,” the feuding half of the par t y has decided to chal lenge Ulrich, causing him to use financial resources against Juan Reyes, instead of conserving for the winnable main event in this swing seat against incumbent Democrat Joe Addabbo Jr (D-Howard Beach). Ulrich has raised triple what Addabbo has raised in the most recent reporting period. Look for the State Republican Senate to outspend their Democratic col legue s significa ntly. Ulrich should easily win this Primary and enter the General as the favorite against Addabbo. 16TH SENATE DISTRICT This race has started smok-
ing already, as businessman John Messer targets longtime incumbent Toby Stavisky in a newly-drawn district which is half Asian. Stavisky, who has never had an Asian on her staff is now reaching out to the Asian community. Messer, married to a Chinese woman, is expected to win the Asian portion of the district and has banked significantly more funds than Stavisky in the reporting period. This one is up for grabs.
office at least three times in the past and always seems to be a bridesmaid. The energetic campaign of newcomer Nily Rozic looks to do it to him again. The former chief of staff of Manhat tan Assemblyma n Brian Kavanaugh has outraised and spent more cautiously than the longtime pol. We would be surprised if this is the race which surprises this year. Watch Rozic.
10 SENATE DISTICT Incumbent State Senator Shirley Huntley is being challenged by sit t i ng Councilman Jame s Sanders Jr. (D-Laurelton) The two office holders have in their campaign accounts a poultry $22,271 and $15,488 as of the last filing. Unimpressive efforts by both candidates in this newly-drawn distr ict which now i nclude s the Rockaways helping Sanders. It’s a toss-up.
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 40 As Grace Meng continues her historic Congressional campaign, a wild melee is taking shape to replace her. Yen Chou, who three years ago won a primar y for Council only to lose to popular, then-Republican Peter Koo (D-Flushing), has demonstrated both her fundraising and campaigning ability and therefore is to be consid-
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 25 In this seat vacated by Rory Lancman, the Dem organization backed Jerry Iannece has run for
NYS SENATE DISTRICT 15 2012 July Periodic Report Summary Page Ulrich Reyes Addabbo Opening Balance $.00 $.00 $15,735.07 Contributions $430,761.00 $49,575.00 $147,311.00 Misc. Receipts $12,772.93 $20,000.00 $.00 Total Receipts $443,533.93 $69,575.00 $147,311.00 Total Expenses $58,088.97 $32,094.38 $58,241.81 Closing Balance $385,444.96 $37,480.62 $104,804.26 The Sept. 13 Republican primary is between Ulrich and Reyes with the winner facing Incumbent Addabbo.
ered the slight frontrunner. Ethel Chen, who has been seeking office for more than a decade, will take some of the Chinese votes from Chen. Koreans Ron Kim and Myungsuk Lee will divide their ethnic block. Look for Kim’s efforts to knock Lee off the ballot in order to become competitive in this race. Finally, longtime pol Martha Flores-Vasquez with little or no money and comic book store owner John Scandalios round out the field. With four Asians in the race, perhaps an ethnic upset could be had in this largley Asian seat, but it would take substantial funding to pull out voters. Neither Scandalios or Flores-Vasquez seem to have any. Someone will have to do some impressive work to take this away from Yen Chou. Stay tuned. MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com
NYS SENATE DISTICT 16 2012 July Periodic Report Summary Page Messer Stavisky Opening Balance $.00 $155,859.85 Contributions $351,625.05 $92,750.00 Misc. Receipts $.00 $.00 Total Receipts $351,625.05 $92,750.00 Total Expenses $121,052.44 $37,567.13 Closing Balance $230,572.61 $211,042.72 NYS SENATE DISTICT 10 2012 July Periodic Report Summary Page Huntley Sanders Opening Balance $4,355.63 $.00 Contributions $65,349.81 $32,079.00 Misc. Receipts $.00 $.00 Total Receipts $65,349.81 $32,079.00 Total Expenses $47,434.27 $16,590.91 Closing Balance $22,271.17 $15,488.09
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 25 2012 July Periodic Report Summary Page Rozic Iannece Opening Balance $.00 $.00 Contributions $60,511.05 $52,878.00 Misc. Receipts $.00 $.00 Total Receipts $60,511.05 $52,878.00 Total Expenses $4,559.26 $10,822.06 Closing Balance $55,951.79 $42,055.94
ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 40 2012 July Periodic Report Summary Page Chou Chen Kim Lee Opening Balance $.00 $.00 $.00 $.00 Contributions $68,888.88 $17,475.00 $51,509.92 $81,390.00 Misc. Receipts $60,000.00 $95,005.00 $50,000.03 $.00 Total Receipts $128,888.88 $112,480.00 $101,509.95 $81,390.00 Total Expenses $27,639.67 $23,541.76 $13,640.90 $56,320.28 Closing Balance $101,249.21 $88,938.24 $87,869.05 $25,069.72 Also in the 40th A.D. race: John Scandalios filed an “in Lieu of Statement” indicating that he had not raised or spent over $1,000. Martha Flores-Vazquez did not file but should have; this probably indicates that she had not raised or spent significant funds, however, she is subject to penalty for failing to file.
Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
With a Presidential and then a Congressional Primary behind us, we look to Thursday, Sept. 13 (originally scheduled for Tuesday Sept. 11 but changed in deference to the date), the third and final State Primary will be held to select party candidates for Assembly, Senate and party positions. Tens of millions of dollars in extra costs for extra primaries later, one would expect that a redistricting year (every tenth year) would bring many competitive races and challenges to incumbentrs. Not so in New York. While we chose to report here on five races, only four are competitive and only two of those four competitive races have an incumbent running. While money is not the end all or be all in local primary races, it does play a factor. Moreover, the ability of a candidate to raise funds may indicate both strength of their network and willingness to work hard at fundraising. One would expect incumbents – and other office holders – would have a great advantage over challengers and newcomers when it comes to bucks in the bank. Remember, any candidate who has raised large sums of money in a short period of time is likely to be able to continue raising sub-
stantial funds. Those who have raised an unimpressive amount are not likely to surprise us with big bucks going forward. All financial data is from campaign reports as of July 12, 2012.
BY ROSS BARKAN
Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
Though the Metropolitan Transportation Authority last month unveiled a $13.1 billion preliminary budget that did not slash any services— and actually extended a train line — the cries for more train and bus service in Queens are as fervent as ever. Last week, elected officials and civic leaders in Astoria demanded the W train and QM22 bus route return to the borough, while a similar contingent in northeast Queens called for a bus extension to whisk residents of Bayside, Flushing and Whitestone to lower Manhattan. In the middle of the borough, an abandoned Long Island Rail Road line has become, for some transit advocates, a last ditch effort to drastically fix the flaws of a transit system that has frustrated residents for generations. Bus lines meander across the entire borough; east-west train lines stop dead in their tracks at Jamaica. Even with an intricate bus system, traveling throughout Queens, depending on the destination, can be an exercise in confusion and futility: a roughly seven mile trip from Jackson Heights to Richmond Hill, without an automobile, requires an F train and a Q10 ride that can take upwards of 30 minutes. For the borough’s less affluent residents, traveling in any direction simply takes much more time. Manhattan Transfer Those more aff luent residents want additional service, too. Residents and elected officials have banded together to demand a commuter bus extension that would allow people in Bayside, Whitestone and Flushing to travel by bus to lower Manhattan without transferring to another bus or train. The QM20 bus leaves from Bay Terrace, traveling via the Clearview Expressway to Flushing before terminating in midtown Manhattan at 57th Street and 3rd Avenue. The QM7, departing from Fresh Meadows, reaches Pearl Street in downtown Manhattan. According to Whitestone resident Ali Fadil, this turns the
hushed Fresh Meadows neighborhood into a parking lot. “The MTA said to me, ‘look this is a great, we would love to do it, the only issue is money and right now the MTA has no money.’” Fadil said. Since the MTA’s financial outlook is now somewhat rosier, though still precarious, Fadil and elected officials like Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) and State Sen. Tony Avella (DBayside) have lobbied MTA Chairman Joseph Lhota to create the new downtown service. The MTA now has $29 million to allot to new or expanded services, but a QM20 extension will not be included, according to an MTA spokesman. The Q24, Q27, Q30, Q42, Q36 and Q76 will all have extended or restored service. Despite forecasting slight surpluses over the next few years, the MTA is relying upon biennial fare and toll hikes, no labor cost increases and tax revenues, at times unreliable, to remain consistent. Governor Andrew Cuomo should be doing more to shore up the MTA’s finances himself, argued Michael Murphy, a spokesman for the public transit advocacy group Transportation Alternatives. State and local subsidies account for only 7 percent of the MTA’s budget. Dedicated taxes kick in another 36 percent. “The solution is monetary,” Murphy said. “Until there is a secure, sustainable source of revenue and fund expansion, we won’t see any improvement. People will keep paying more for less.” Integration Despite repeated calls for the restoration of the W train, a service that allowed more people to access local stops between Astoria and Lower Manhattan, the MTA said that there are no plans to make the W a reality again because the Q runs on the same route. The MTA will also not restore the QM22 bus, which provided express service between Jackson Heights and Midtown Manhattan via Astoria. Ridership, MTA spokesman
Press photo by Ira Cohen
Queens’ Transit Trouble
Some are calling for the return of the W train to help ease public transit woes in Queens. Kevin Ortiz said, was just too low. Transportation experts agree that public transportation in the borough is not adequate. But they do not believe a simple restoration of a train line like the W is the remedy for slow, unreliable service. One quirk of Queens transit is its segregation: a more expensive Long Island Rail Road and a much cheaper subway system both serve Manhattanbound commuters. George Haikalis, president of the nonprofit Institute for Rational Urban Mobility, believes integrating the LIRR and subway system into one fare structure is the first step towards rectifying the many peculiarities of Queens public transit. With a fare increase due for next year, Haikalis said that now may be the time for the MTA to begin contemplating such a proposal. “Right now, we have a system that causes people to take long bus rides to subways and use overcrowded subways,” he said. “We really should be moving toward a one city, one fare kind of structure. A Metrocard would be good for a bus, subway and com-
muter rail. Riders could pick a combination of routes that work.” Haikalis said he wants the MTA to “think regionally.” He envisions Long Island City, now filled with glittering hotels and upscale restaurants, as a regional hub that could handle trains speeding from Long Island through to New Jersey. Enhancing the train capacity of Penn Station, rather than undertake a costly LIRR extension to Grand Central Station, would have been a smarter move for the MTA, Haikalis said. Transit experts have also proposed a train line, known as the Triboro Rx, which would travel over existing freight rail lines, joining southern and eastern Brooklyn with Middle Village, Jackson Heights and Astoria, before continuing over the Hell Gate Bridge into the Bronx. Rail Revivals Smothered with dead leaves, fallen branches and decades-old detritus, the Rockaway Beach Branch represents, for some transit advocates, the last great
hope for a public transportation revolution in the borough. Trains have not thrashed across the tracks, spanning from Rego Park through Ozone Park and continuing to the Rockaways, in a half century. Were the line to be revived, Queens would have the north-south rail link urban planners called for decades ago; New York’s master builder Robert Moses scuttled plans for railways along the Van Wyck Expressway, as well as commuter rails that would have ran down the middle of the Long Island Expressway and linked up with subways in Queens. Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Far Rockaway), along with Assemblyman Mike Miller (DWoodhaven), have begun pressing for a return of the Rockaway Beach Branch, shuttered in 1962 because of a trestle fire and declining ridership. The MTA’s budget does not call for sweeping investment any time soon. Goldfeder is hoping Genting, the international gambling giant that runs the Resorts World Casino at the Aqueduct Racetrack, will help finance a rail revival that would bring more patrons to Ozone Park. Commuting times for south Queens residents could be slashed dramatically if the line were revived, but despite Goldfeder’s delivery of 2,500 signature petitions to the MTA, Port Authority and the governor, any hope of reviving the line is many years away. Community Board 9 Chair Andrea Crawford has spearheaded efforts to turn the former rail line into a “Queensway” equivalent to Manhattan’s HighLine. With the rusted rails running across parking lots of an apartment building and little league ball fields, land would need to be condemned for a new rail line, making a greenway a less expensive alternative. Still, residents in neighborhoods like Forest Hills would prefer the rails to be left alone. The potential noise of people or machines, they have said, would be just too much. Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@ queenstribune.com.
Police Blotter Compiled by STEVEN J. FERRARI
102nd Precinct
107th Precinct
Assault
Commercial Robbery
The NYPD is asking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect wanted for a non-fatal shooting. At approximately 5:20 p.m. on July 13, the victim, a 21-yearold Hispanic male, was walking in front of 101-61 131st St., Jamaica, when a red Toyota Camry pulled up and the occupants began shooting at the victim. The suspects then fled the scene. The victim was removed to Jamaica Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition with gunshot wounds to his calf and thigh. The suspects are described as two male Hispanics in their late teens or early 20s. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.
The NYPD is asking the public's assistance in identifying a suspect wanted for a robbery. At approximately 11:30 p.m. on July 20, the suspect, armed with a gun, entered the Savvy gas station, 173-12 Horace Harding Blvd., Flushing, and demanded money. When the victim refused, the suspect fired one round from his weapon into the ceiling. The victim then complied and handed over an undetermined amount of money. The suspect then fled. There were no reported injuries. The suspect is described as a male Black or dark-skinned Hispanic, 25-30 years old, 5-foot-7, weighing 170 lbs. He was wearing a red baseball cap, white Tshirt with a picture and the words New York on it and blue jeans. The suspect also has a tattoo on his right forearm. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The
public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
114th Precinct
Assault
The NYPD is seeking the public's assistance in identifying and locating the following suspects wanted in connection with an assault. At approximately 4 a.m. on July 19 in front of 32-22 Steinway St., Astoria, two male suspects each assaulted different male victims with a metal cane and box cutters. Both victims sustained severe lacerations to the head and face. The suspects fled in an awaiting vehicle, a beige Cadillac, heading southbound on Steinway Street. The first suspect is described as an Hispanic male in his mid20s, approximately 6-foot-2, 180
lbs., with medium skin complexion and was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and khaki pants. The second suspect is described as an Hispanic male in his mid-20s, approximately 5-foot-9, 160 lbs., with medium complexion and was last seen wearing a blue tank top and shorts. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.All calls are strictly confidential.
Burglary Pattern The NYPD is asking the public's assistance in identifying and locating the following individual wanted in regards to three burglaries. At approximately 2:30 a.m. on July 17, the suspect entered the rear door of the Butcher Bar, 37-08 30th Ave., Astoria, and removed an unknown amount of
cash from the register. On July 20 at approximately 3:30 a.m., the suspect entered through the rear window of the Mister Laundree Laundromat, 32-02 34th Ave., Long Island City, and removed an unknown amount of cash from the register. On July 21 between 12:01 and 5:30 a.m., the suspect entered through a side window of Astoria Laundry, 28-09 24th Ave., Astoria, and removed an unknown amount of cash from the register. The suspect is described as a white or Hispanic male, 20-30 years old with a thin build. The suspect was last seen wearing a T-shirt with an eagle printed on it and dark blue jeans. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers' website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
Borough Beat
Marshmallow Maven Seeks To Expand BY MEGAN MONTALVO
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
From outward apoffer the Mitchmallows pearances, the mallows with hot chocolate and seem modern yet unass’mores.” suming. The cubed strucIn addition to going ture holds the integrity mobile, Greenberg is also of multiple tastes and working on creating a gives a unique take on an three-course meal made old-fashioned classic. entirely out of marshmalAfter working with valow. riety of flavors at the En“I know I can do it,” trepreneur Space at 36he said. “I’ve done 46 37th St. in Long Isenough experimenting land City, Greenberg per- Mitchmallows offers an eclectic variety of puffy with savory flavors and I fected popular flavors treats to appeal to diverse tastebuds. can see it in my head like java, pretzels-andalready.” Once develbeer, chocolate-chipotle and they taste it, they think it’s deli- oped, Greenberg said he hopes cious.” maple syrup pancake. to release the full course meal in Although Greenberg notes On the heels of the success he a boxed set available for online that much of his work comes has already experienced online, purchase. He is also in talks while in the kitchen, he says that Greenberg says he looks forward with gourmet food stores in he also looks forward to re-edu- to starting a mobile flagship food hopes of beginning in-store discating the public on the popular truck. tribution. “I would love to have a treat. “Mitchmallows make a Reach Reporter Megan great snack and a great dessert,” M i t c h m a l l o w - m o b i l e , ” Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. Greenberg said. “People are a Greenberg said. “It would be great 128 or mmontalvo@ little hesitant at first, but once during the winter so we could queenstribune.com. Press Photo by Megan Montalvo
It was just a few years ago when gourmet cupcakes were all the rage. After Oprah added Sprinkles Cupcakes to her list of favorite things, the overnight sensation officially became a hit and gave way to several chain stores from Beverly Hills to the Upper East Side. Now that the market has become successfully oversaturated with a string of cupcakeries, New York City has welcomed what may be the next big thing – gourmet marshmallows. Owner of Mitchmallows, Mitchell Greenberg, has been at the forefront of the budding trend and is already taking the candy market by storm. As long-time television set designer and former graduate of Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Clown College, Greenberg de-
cided to merge his talents by diving head first into the candy business. “I was always a fan of candy,” Greenberg said. “After about three months into the process, I realized ‘Oh, they’re not marshmallows, they’re Mitchmallows.’” Soon after the name came to him, Greenberg launched mitchmallows.com in January 2011 and has since expanded his business from online domestic orders to catered events with his upscale s’mores bars. According to Greenberg, the idea behind the business originally started as an accident. “One day I was wondering, ‘Gee, how do you make marshmallows?’” Greenberg said. “After making my first batch, they were amazingly delicious and unlike anything I had bought in the store.”
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Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson
Hitmakers
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
Producer Chris Curry, singer Meli’sa Morgan and Councilman James Sanders congratulate Morgan after she was presented with a “Living Legend” platinum album award during the Garvey-Tubman Music Series “Smooth Soul Hitmakers” concert at York College Performing Arts Center in Jamaica on July 13.
Meli’sa Morgan went out into the crowd to greet her fans during her performance at the July 13 concert. Future concerts include “Soul Power,” featuring Atlantic Starr and Steve Arrington on Aug. 22 at York College and “Live Jazz Party in the Park,” featuring Lonnie Liston Smith, Bobbi H u m p h r e y, A z i z a & T h e JazzSoetry Experience and U4OURIA Sept. 1 at Brookville Park. Balladeer Joe headlined the concert and had the audience in the palm of his hand.
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Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson
Photo by Ira Cohen
Play Ball!
On Aug. 1, around 35 Summer Associates from the office of Comptroller John Liu helped clean up the Sean Elijah Bell Community Center. They donated sporting equipment and arts and crafts. Earlier that day, the Summer Associates helped kids write letters to their representatives in Congress about ending gun violence and supporting local community centers.
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Profile
Octogenarian Reflects On Life Of Service BY VERONICA LEWIN
ing built in Bayside. For 15 years, she was trustee at Amity Baptist Church on 108th Avenue in Jamaica, where she has been a member since 1972. She has served on the board of the Jamaica chapter of the NAACP, the women’s division of the National Conference of Christians and Jews and the 103rd precinct community council, among other positions. In 1977, she was chosen as one of 37 delegates to represent the New York State at the first National Women’s Conference in Houston, Tex. Cabell ran for office when Malcolm Wilson was governor and was the chosen Republican for a job development position in the administration. “I think I’m the only black Republican in this whole neigh-
borhood, this whole community anymore. All of the others have died out,” she said. In 1998, Cabell retired for a few months. On the first day of her retirement, a friend asked her to join the board of Blanche Community Progress Day Care Centers. She started the position in March 1999 and was elected president just three months later. The organization has a site in Jamaica and St. Albans. She said she had tried to step down from being president, but her job is fulfilling because she enjoys interacting with children. Cabell turns 81 next month and said she has been blessed to be able to accomplish all she has in eight decades. “It’s been a very active life,” she said. “I don’t know when the heck I had time to even work.” Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123.
2012 commencement ceremonies at Rider University in Lawrenceville, N.J. Madalyn L. Lesman of Jamaica Estates was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Binghamton University.
speech communication during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at SUNY Potsdam.
Photo by Veronica Lewin
As one Jamaica resident enjoys life after 80, her dedication to service continues. Constance Cabell was born in Harlem, which she said had a strong sense of community and neighbors looked out for each other. “Growing up in Harlem was a wonderful experience because it was so different than it is now,” she said. Cabell’s father owned the only mattress factory in Harlem, where he reupholstered mattresses and other furniture. She said its uniqueness made it a lucrative business at the time. When Cabell was 16, she and her family moved to St. Albans, becoming the first black family on the block. In 1947, Cabell’s parents were able to hold the house for just one dollar until they could save up the rest of the money. She wasn’t happy about moving to Queens, and remem-
bers her first day in the neighborhood. “I was standing outside when my parents were in the house negotiating and a little Caucasian boy rolled by on his bicycle and stuck his tongue out at me, and that was about the most terrible thing that had happened in my whole life at that time,” Cabell recalled. Cabell ended up raising her children in her parent’s old home, before selling it in 2004. Cabell studied child psychology at City College in Manhattan, but switched her course of study to Latin and English. Her academic plans changed when she married a man named Wally her junior year. She took a few classes at Queens College after having her two children – Patricia and Stephen – but found it difficult to be a mother
Constance Cabell and a student. After 17 years of marriage, she and her husband divorced. Still, Cabell said they remained good friends until his passing. Cabell’s community service resume is extensive. Cabell helped lobby to have York College “right where it’s needed” in Southeast Queens instead of be-
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
People The New York Army National Guard has announced the recent reenlistment of members in recognition of their continuing commitment to serve community, state and nation as part of the Army National Guard. Sergeant First Class Alvin Mohabir of South Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade. Sergeant Trace Campbell of Jamaica has reenlisted to continue service with the 222nd Chemical Company. Sergeant Brendon Williams from Richmond Hill has reenlisted to continue service with the 222nd Chemical Company. Sergeant Alberto Espinar of Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the 442nd Military Police Company. Sergeant Marco Accordo of Astoria has reenlisted to continue service with Company C (Medical), 427th Brigade Support Battalion.
Sergeant Andrew Rodriguez of Flushing has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade. Specialist Leroy Poole of Jamaica has reenlisted to continue service with the 133rd Quartermaster Support Company. Specialist Sung Shin of Oakland Gardens has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company 1-69th Infantry. Staff Sergeant Gregory Papadatos of Astoria has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1-69th Infantry. Local students have reserved placement for the fall 2012 semester at SUNY Oswego. They include: Jamaica: Helen Banjoko, Sholand Collins, Kyree Neal, Elizabeth Veliz. Queens Village: Christian
Brigati, Johnny Marquez. St. Albans: Malik Bogues Beauzile, Emmanuel Oziegbe. Springfield Gardens: Stephanie Smith. Army Pvt. Javonne S. Willis has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission and received instruction and training exercises in drill and ceremonies, Army history, core values and traditions, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, rifle marksmanship, weapons use, map reading and land navigation, foot marches, armed and unarmed combat, and field maneuvers and tactics. Willis is the son of Jenortta Willis of Queens Village and is a 2009 graduate of Flushing High School. Ashley Hines of Jamaica received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology during spring
Local students received degrees during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Villanova University in Villanova, Pa. Hollis: Kelly Escobar, Bachelor of Arts. Jamaica: Tahsin Choudhury, Bachelor of Arts. Tamara Jackson of Jamaica received a bachelor’s degree in
The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning scratch-off ticket and won a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more. Richard Clarke of Jamaica won $10,000 on the $5 Million Cash scratch-off game. Clarke’s winning ticket was purchased in Brentwood. Carmen Palmer of Laurelton won $25,000 on the $100,00 0,000 Spectacular scratch-off game. Palmer’s winning ticket was purchased in Manhattan.
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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.
A&E
Queens Celebrates Satchmo’s Birthday
BY MEGAN MONTALVO
For all his life, the late jazz great Louis Armstrong believed his birthday was on the Fourth of July. It was not until 1987, 16 years after his death, that a researcher discovered Armstrong’s baptismal certificate document-
ing his actual birthday one month later, on Aug. 4. Although the jazz legend may no longer be with us, his legacy and memories live on at the Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona. To commemorate his life, the museum will hold its annual free
Restaurant Review
Something For Everyone Monahan and Fitzgerald 214-17 41st Ave., Bayside (718) 279-4450 Hours: Sun. – Tue.: Noon – 11 p.m. Wed. – Sat.: Noon to Midnight Credit Cards: Yes, All Major
In addition to this show, Resorts World Casino will also commemorate Armstrong’s birthday with the unveiling of an art exhibit at 10 a.m. on Aug. 3, in the Fifth Avenue Casino Atrium. The exhibit will showcase iconic photos of Armstrong at his historic home in Corona with other legendary entertainers and in his global travels with his wife and his first love, his trumpet. “Though Armstrong was born in New Orleans, he chose to call Queens home,” said Michael Speller, president of Resorts World Casino. “Louis Armstrong’s contribution to jazz and the American landscape is unparalleled. We are thrilled to host this tribute to legend.” The Louis Armstrong House Museum is located at 34-56 107th St. in Corona and admission to the concert is free. Resorts World Casino is located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone
Students at York College Blue Notes Band will perform in honor of Louis Armstrong’s Birthday at the Louis Armstrong House Museum on Aug. 4 Park. For additional event information, visit louisarmstronghouse.org and rwnewyork.com. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com
Author Details Journey To Improve Community
BY MEGAN MONTALVO
Shaking hands with the President is something many have fantasized about, yet few have managed to accomplish. Community Board 4 Member George Onuorah can recall shaking President Barack Obama’s hand as if it were yesterday. On July 30, Onuorah recounted this story and many more from his political career at the Jewish Center of Jackson Heights for the signing of his book, “The Political Diary of a Rising Son.” As Onuorah addressed the crowd, he expounded upon his first time meeting the President. “I remember seeing Obama when he was first running for president,” said Onuorah. “I went up to him, shook his hand and said ‘My brother, you are going to do it.’” Like many residents of Queens, Onuorah’s story began in another country. Onuorah
grew up in Nigeria, where he first learned how to service his community as a member of the Boy Scouts. In 1981, Onuorah immigrated to the United States and soon began working as a journalist in Iowa. After spending a few years in the country, Onuorah decided to move to New York and continue his education. He attended York College, where he earned a degree in political science and journalism. Upon completing his education, Onuorah began working with former Councilwoman Helen Sears, predecessor to Councilman Daniel Dromm (DJackson Heights). He also went on to create his own non-profit organization, Youths International Inc., and has worked with the mentally challenged at Steinway Child and Family Services for over 10 years. Dromm, who officiated the signing, commended Onuorah for his work with his work with Youths
International, Inc. “Even though you were working on the other side for Sears,” joked Dromm, “There is no denying the tremendous amount of great work you have done for the community.” A self-professed Democrat, Onuorah claims that a large part of his success began as a volunteer effort. “Since becoming a boy scout in Africa, I had become accustomed to volunteering,” said Onuorah. “I always found it to be the best way to help improve the community.” “The Political Diary of a Rising Son” is a compilation of Onuorah’s writings inspired by his involvement in grassroots organizations and gives a comparative look at the varying political systems between countries in Africa and America. It is available for purchase on Amazon.com. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
With its atmosphere, coupled with great food and ice cold drinks, Monahan’s definitely ticks all the boxes. Many types of people love good food - but it is a difficult task to please everyone. But we all love an establishment with a homely feeling which greatly enhances your dining experience. The dining area was authentic in décor and oozed a sense of comfort; it was almost like sitting in an extremely large version of your living room. The oak trimmings were prominent and fresh, which complemented the overall visual asthenic of the establishment immensely. Now on to the food! Being a meat lover, the menu was plentiful. From a delicious 14-ounce New York strip steak, hand cut and cooked to your preference, to succulent medallions of chicken basked in sautéed garlic mushrooms and prosciutto with a splash of white wine topped with mozzarella cheese. Shepard’s pie is a personal favorite, and I was hesitant about ordering it, being that my mother is the absolute master.
Monahan’s simply did not fail. Ground sirloin encased in browned onions, carrots, peas in full bodied brown gravy to add the required moisture for a mind blowing versatile taste. Not to mention the sheer quality and excellence of the tuff led mash potatoes, a delightful browned skin layer holding this master piece together. Mother, I am sorry, you now have a rival in the Shepard’s pie department. Monahan’s had one more surprise for me, which is what brought me back here for more grub. The Irish cheese potato fries whisked me away in a nostalgic bubble, which at times seemed never ending; the portion just seemed to get bigger as I worked my way through it. The quality of these hand chopped potatoes was excellent, perfectly cooked. So what else does Monahan’s have to offer? In terms of menu, a wide range from excellent wings to half rack baby back ribs which quite literally fall off the bone, no joke. The starters menu also includes seafood dishes such as Fried Calamari and Cajun Shrimp. Standard salads are also plentiful and the portion sizes are more than enough. Seafood dishes to steaks and quality mouthwatering burgers and light salads. There really is something for everyone. –Wayne Dean Doyle
big band concert on Saturday, Aug. 4 at 2 p.m. as part of its Summer with Satchmo concert series. The performance will showcase a 30-piece band of musicians from the York College Blue Notes Summer Jazz Program. The tuition-free, auditiononly jazz performance program caters to upper-level high school students throughout the City. This weekend, the students will be playing classic movie theme songs from films like “Shaft,” “Finding Nemo,” “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Toy Story.” In addition to the blockbuster classics, the band will also play Armstrong’s hits “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans” and “Hello, Dolly.” “It’s a real honor to work with the Louis Armstrong House Museum,” said Tom Zlabinger, coordinator at York College Blue Notes Program. “The band has been practicing for over a month, and it’s going to be a rocking good time.”
Faith
Two Women, Dog Squat In Local Church Word
BY WAYNE DEAN DOYLE
The Queensborough Hill Community Church in Flushing has been taken siege by two women and their dog for more than a year and a half. Efforts made to remove the squatters have fallen on deaf ears, despite the involvement of police and the courts. Lawyers advising the church concluded the trio may not have to leave until there is an agreement reached by both parties about a date which is viable to vacate the place of worship. Despite this situation costing
the church $2,000 in legal fees, numerous court dates and eviction notices, these ladies failed to leave the church. A new eviction notice has been handed down outlining that the women and their dog must be out of the church on Friday August 3," Joseph IIIiagasch, a member of the church, said. IIIiagasch became involved when concerns in relation to the squatters were brought to his attention by the pastor. The church brought in the services of a social worker to assist them. After failed attempts to help the women, the social worker con-
cluded that "these were two very shrewd women and that it would be very difficult to get them out." According to Pastor Bill Hanousek, one of the women had been employed to clean the church and they just took it upon themselves to move into the church basement without permission for what they said was just a very short period of time, until they could secure a new residence. When a couple of months passed, with the tenants utilizing the bathroom, kitchen, and air conditioning, it became apparent to the church that these
women had no intention of leaving any time soon. The squatters have been living in the basement of the church in an extremely small 8x10 room, sleeping on a little mat. "This has been going on for more than a year and a half. In December 2011, the first eviction notice was given," Illiagasch said. "It's just gone on and on with the women saying they will be out in a week, then the week after, then the week after, it just needs to come to an end." Reach Reporter Wayne Dean Doyle at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125 or wdoyle@ queenstribune.com.
“It is faith alone, in Christ alone, which alone moves God, when you are alone.”
-Rex Rouis
Notebook St. John’s University
Prof To Pen History Of St. John’s University Dr. Frank Brady, bestselling author and long time professor, has started writing a history of St. John’s University. Dr. Brady said he suggested the idea to President and Shepard of St. John’s, the Rev. Donald Harrington, who agreed right away and thought it was necessary. Brady, a Queens native, has been teaching at St. John’s for 32 years and says he has seen it grow. “I was captivated by the whole story,” he said. “I am hon-
“People are going to be surprised and delighted of how St. John’s succeeded in educating people from around the world.” – Dr. Frank Brady
ored to chronicle the story.” Brady is co-writing the biography with his wife Maxine. The couple plans to split the interviewing and writing of the biography in half. “If we were not writing it together, I would not have taken it on,” Brady said. They are both bestselling authors who have written biographies before. Brady’s recent biography, “Endgame: The Spectacular Rise and Fall of Bobby Fischer,” about the chess prodigy, was a bestseller and Maxine is the associate editor of the Tobin College Review of Business. Brady is the chairman of the mass communications department at St. John’s, teaching communication arts and journalism. He has also taught at New York University, Columbia University and City College. St. John’s was founded in 1870 in Brooklyn and has a unique history. Brady said St. John’s was originally formed to educate immigrants of New York. “It is amazing how it pulled itself together with such
little money,” he said. “I believe in the mission of St. John’s and what they are doing,” Brady said. In 1933, St. John’s changed from a college to a university when they began to offer advanced degrees. It then spread across the country and then the world. There are now St. John’s University campuses in Queens, Long Island, Staten Island, Rome and Paris. “It is a biography of an institution, what makes it tick,” Brady said. Brady is currently researching for the biography of St. John’s and will begin writing soon. He says he will continue to research doctrines, letters and archives of St. John’s. Brady said he is planning on interviewing numerous people including faculty and alums who provide interesting information and stories. Brady already has people in mind that he wants to interview for the book. He said he plans to interview famed basketball coach Lou Carnesecca, who
years, will also be interviewed. Brady said people interested in reading both history and how an institution succeeded will enjoy the biography. Many graduated students from St. John’s have gone on to great careers. Brady says that the outcome, what happens to students after graduating from a university, of St. John’s has resulted in numerous students now working in government, many as judges and even one in Parliament. Other graduates have become Olympic and professional athletes, Fulbright scholars and CEOs. “People are going to be surprised and delighted of how St. John’s succeeded in educating people from around the world,” Brady said. The sale date for the book is set for December 2014, but it could come out sooner, Brady said. Photo Courtesy of St. John’s University
Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
BY CRISTINA FOGLIETTA
Dr. Frank Brady brought St. John’s to the Final Four. He said he plans to interview former Gov. Mario Cuomo, who attended St. John’s for both his undergraduate and law school educations. He plans to interview former Academic Vice President Paul Medici and former Dean of the School of Pharmacy Andrew Bartilucci. Jack Franzetti, a professor at St. John’s in his late 80s who has been with the institution for 50
Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL
Send typed announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.
SINGLES SINGLES SOCIAL Sunday, August 5 2-6 at the Rego Park Jewish Center, 97-30 Queens Blvd. $10. Refreshments, music. 4591000.
PARENTS KIDS BRAIN POWER Saturday, August 11 Maxim i z e Yo u r C h i l d ’ s B r a i n Power at 2:30 at the Flushing library.
FLEA MARKETS YARD SALE Saturday, August 11 yard sale and book sale at Church in the Gardens, 50 Ascan Avenue, Forest Hills.
HEALTH
PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturday, August 4 learn how to communicate effective 10-12:15 at the Elmhurst Hospital Conference Room A-1-15. 424-9754. SUNNYSIDE WRITERS Monday, August 6 at the Sunnyside library at 6:30. CENTRAL QNS ACADEMY Monday, August 6 Central Queens Academy Charter School board of trustees meeting 7-9:30 in Elmhurst. 212-437-8351. SEASIDE ART CLUB Monday, August 6 at the Seaside library at 1:15. HAM RADIO CLUB Tuesday, August 7 Emergency Communications Service meets in Briarwood. 357-6851.
WRITING GROUP Wednesdays, August 8, 15, 22, 29 Seaside Writing Group at the library at 3. DIST. ED. 26 Wednesday, August 8 a t MS74, 61-15 Oceania Street, Bayside, room 121. STAMP CLUB Thursdays, August 9, 23, 30 Queens Stamp Club at the Forest Hills library at 5:45. 98 TH STREET BLOCK T h u r s d a y , A u g u s t 9 98 th Street Block Association meets at the East Elmhurst library at 6. WRITING GROUP Thursdays, August 9, 26, 23 Shut Up and Write Meetup Group at 6:30 at the Broadway library.
EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS SOCIAL MEDIA Saturday, August 4 Far Rockaway library. Register. PHOTOGRAPHY Saturdays, August 4, 11, 18, 25 at the Langston Hughes library at 11. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, August 4, 18, 25 learn to communicate effectively at Elmhurst Hospital. 646-748-8290. KNIT & CROCHET Saturdays, August 4, 11, 18, 25 at the Peninsula library at 10. KNIT & CROCHET Monday, August 6 at the Douglaston library at 4. SOCIAL MEDIA Monday, August 6 at the Arverne library. Register. CHESS CLUB Monday, August 6 at the Bayside library at 6. FLOWER ARRANGEMENT Monday, August 6 at the Woodside library at 6. Limited supplies. BALLROOM DANCING Monday, August 6 at the Forest Hills library at 6:30. ECO JEWELRY Tuesday, August 7 at the Astoria librar y. Register.
SENIORS BASIC COMPUTERS Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 basic computer skills for seniors at 10 at the South Ozone Park library. INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, August 9 at the Flushing library. Register. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Friday, August 10 M c G o l d r i c k l i b ra r y. 3 3 5 7547.
LEARN CHESS Tuesdays, August 7, 21, 28 at the Rosedale library at 4. ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Tuesdays, August 7, 21, 28 at the Seaside library at 4. SMALL BUSINESS Tuesday, August 7 at the Central library at 7. KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays, August 8, 22, 29 at the South Ozone Park library at 1. WEARABLE ART Wednesday, August 8 at the Douglaston library. Register. BEADING 101 Wednesday, August 8 at the South Ozone Park librar y. Register. WATERCOLOR Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the National Art League.969-1128. MOCK INTERVIEWS Thursdays, August 8, 16, 23, 30 at the Central library. Register. ECO JEWELRY Thursday, August 9 at the Sunnyside library. Register. SOCIAL MEDIA Thursday, August 9 at the Central library. Register. LEARN CHINESE Thursdays, August 9, 16, 23, 30 at the North Forest Park library at 5:30. DOLL MAKING Thursday, August 9 at the Arverne library at 6. EVENING CRAFTS Thursdays, August 9, 23, 30 at the Fresh Meadows library at 6. WIRE SCULPTING Thursday, August 9 Woodhaven librar y. Register. CPR TRAINING Friday, August 10 at the Central library. Register.
ENTERTAINMENT WORLD CASINO 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park. Free admission. GOLDEN DRAGON Through August 4 Queens Theatre in the Park. 7600686, ext. 105. FILM FESTIVAL Through August 5 at the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. 777-6888. FIND THE FUNK Saturday, August 4 12-2 at the Central librar y. Register. DRAGON BOAT Saturday and Sunday, August 4, 5 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at 11:45 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park Lake. 760-3141. MAGICIAN Saturday, August 4 at the Jackson Heights library at 2:30. STEEL SENSATION Sunday, August 5 at 3 at the Central library.
MISCELLANEOUS FARMERS MARKET Fridays 8:30-4:00 at Dahlia Avenue off Main Street, Flushing. GREEN MARKET Through November 18 Douglaston Greenmarket at the LIRR station, 235 th and 4 1 st Avenue. www.grownyc.org/follow. BATTLE OF BANDS Entries through August 31 for Resorts World Casino’s Battle of The Bands. talentscouts@rwnewyork.com MEET THE LIBRARIANS Wednesdays, August 8, 15 meet the Steinway librarians at 3 so they can answer questions, recommend library materials and more.
RELIGIOUS TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM Fridays, August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Shabbat Summer Service at 8. Wednesday, September 5 Open House 6-8. Fridays, September 7, 14, 21, 28 Shabbat Services at 8. Saturday, September 8 Selichot Service at 8 followed by ice cream social. Sunday, September 9 Open House 9-11. Temple Beth Sholom, 171-39 Northern Blvd., Flushing. 463-4143. REFORM TEMPLE Tuesday, August 7 Open House at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills, 71-11 112 th Street 6-8.
SALON SUNDAY Sunday, August 5 artists working in any media bring slides at 2 at Flushing Town Hall. Free. 463-7700, ext. 222. LIVE JAZZ & R&B Sundays, August 5, 12, 19, 26 live jazz and r&b 6-10 at Déjà vu, 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. AUCTION & LUNCH Sunday, August 5 Sisterhood Auction and Luncheon with Temple Beth Sholom. 463-4143. MOVIE MADNESS Monday, August 6 at the Pomonok library at 5. ROCK AND ROLL Monday, August 6 at the Flushing library at 6:30. SALSA Mondays Resorts World Casino holds Monday Night Salsa events. Lessons 7:30. 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone ark. 215-2828. Free. CHESS CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 21 at the Woodhaven library at 2. JAZZ Tuesday, August 7 at 7 the LIC Waterfront, 49 th Avenue and Center Blvd. POPULAR DIVAS Tuesday, August 7 at the Whitestone library at 3. JEOPARDY TRIVIA CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 21, 28 at the Seaside library at 3:30. OUTDOOR CINEMA Wednesdays, August 8, 15, 22 at the Socrates Sculpture Park in LIC at 7. 9561819. METROPOLITAN OPERA Thursday, August 9 at Socrates Sculpture Park at 7. OLDIES R&R Thursday, August 9 at the Bellerose library at 2. OPEN MIC Thursday, August 9 at the Flushing library at 6:30. MOVIES UNDER STARS Thursday, August 9 “The Help.” Cunningham Park at 8. FOREST PARK Thursday, August 9 Stayin’ Alive (Bee Gees tribute) at 7:30. Forest Park Bandshell. KOOL & THE GANG Friday, August 10 at the Resorts World Casino in Jamaica at 8. Free. PASSPORT FRIDAYS Friday, August 10 Taiwan. Dance and music program begins at 6:30, films at 8. Queens museum of Art. 592-9700. DANNY WELLINGTON Friday, August 10 Dandy Wellington and His Band perform 8-10 at Flushing
Town Hall. $25 with table seating available. Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222. GAME DAY Fridays, August 10, 24 at the Seaside library at noon. SUMMER IN GARDEN Fridays, August 10, 17, 24, 31 explore the galleries of the Noguchi Museum in LIC 5:30-8:00. 204-7088. NIGHTCLUB SONGS Friday, August 10 at the Hollis library at 3. FAMILY FILM Friday, August 10 at the Queens Village library at 3. DANDY WELLINGTON Friday, August 10 Dandy Wellington and His Band at F l u s h i n g To w n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700, ext. 222. CHESS CLUB Fridays, August 10, 17, 24 at the Auburndale library at 3:30. JUG BAND Saturday, August 11 at the Flushing library at 2. FULTON QUARTET Saturday, August 11 Forest Hills library at 2 and 4. DUKE ELLINGTON Saturday, August 11 Fresh Meadows library at 2:30. GREEN FILM Saturday, August 11 “Flow” shown at the Steinway library at 3. MOVIE NIGHT Saturday, August 11 “Niagara” will be shown at the Adult Fellowship Movie Night with potluck dinner at 6. Church in the Gardens in Forest Hills. 268-9142. SECOND SUNDAY Sunday, August 12 Andy Akiho performs at the Noguchi Museum at 3. $10. Adult admission. 204-7088. PLANET MUSIC Sunday, August 12 Tango Argentina. Dance lessons at 1, concert at 2 at Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.
TALKS WINDSOR PARK Monday, August 6 “The Language of Flowers”at 2 Windsor Park library. PENINSULA Monday, August 6 “Winesberg, Ohio” at 6:30 Peninsula library. GLENDALE Thursday, August 9 “Little Women” Glendale library at 6:30. WINDSOR PARK Thursday, August 9 “Madonnas” at 6:30 Windsor Park library.
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
ZUMBA Monday, August 6 at the Seaside library. Register. INTRO YOGA Mondays, August 6, 13 Laurelton librar y. Register. CANCER SUPPORT Mondays, August 6 Franklin Hospital. 516-256-6478. HEALTH CARE Tuesday, August 7 Health Coverage and the Small Business at 6 Flushing library. WELL SPOUSES Wednesday, August 8 well spouses or partners of the chronically ill and disabled meet at St. Charles Rehab Center in Albertson at 7. 516-829-8740. MEDITATION CLUB Thursdays, August 9, 23 at 5:15 at the Bellerose library. ZUMBA Thursday, August 9 Rochdale Village library and Woodside library. Register.
MEETINGS
Queens Today YOUTH DINOSAUR STORY TIME Monday, August 6 at the Seaside library at 1:30. MAGICIAN Saturday, August 4 Mario the Magician at 2:30 at the Jackson Heights library. MOVIEMAKERS CLUB Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 Woodhaven library at 4:30. HARRY POTTER BOOKS Mondays, August 6, 13 at the Woodhaven library at 2. MOVIE MONDAYS Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 Ridgewood library at 1. ARTS & CRAFTS Monday, August 6 at the McGoldrick library at 2. CHESS CHALLENGE Monday, August 6 at the Poppenhusen library at 2. READER BOYS Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 St. Albans library at 2. STAINED GLASS Monday, August 6 at the Broadway library at 2:30. MAKE & TAKE CRAFT Mondays, August 6, 13 at the Central library at 3. READING BUDDIES Monday, August 6 at the McGoldrick library at 3.
Floors
TEENS
BOOK CIRCLE Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 Ridgewood library at 3. READ TO A DOG Mondays, August 6, 13 North Hills library. Register. WII TIME Mondays, August 6, 13 at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y. Register. BOARD GAMES Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Ozone Park library at 4. READING PRACTICE Mondays, August 6, 13 for those in grades 1-2 at the Corona library at 5. CHESS CLUB Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Bayside library at 6. SCIENCE TEAM Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 at the Corona library at 6. GAME NIGHT Monday, August 6 at the Glendale library at 6. SHSAT MAT PREP Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 McGoldrick librar y. Register. T WILIGHT TALES Monday, August 6 at the North Hills library at 6. PJ STORY TIME
Floors
Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 at the Central library at 7. CRAFT KIDS Mondays Flushing at 3. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at 4 Douglaston/ Little Neck library. BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 Ridgewood library at 1. EXPLORING PLANTS Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 Astoria library at 1:30. READING CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 at the Astoria library at 2. READ TO ME Tuesdays, August 7, 21, 28 at the Broadway library at 2. STAINED GLASS Tuesday, August 7 at the Broadway library at 2. STORY & CRAFT Tuesdays, August 7, 14 at the Central library at 2. FASHION DESIGN CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 at the Corona library at 2. READ TO A DOG Tu e s d a y s , A u g u s t 7 , 1 4 Douglaston library. Register. LEARN THE DRUMS Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 at the LIC library. Register.
Floors
TENNIS PROGRAM Tu e s d a y s a n d T h u r s d a y s through August at Pomonok Park. 347-4178156. MAGICIAN Saturday, August 3 Mario the Magician at the Jackson Heights library at 2:30. MOVIE MONDAYS Monday, August 6 at the Flushing library at 2. HARRY POTTER BOOK Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 Woodhaven library at 2. CHESS CLUB Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 at 6 Bayside library. EFFECTIVE TEENS Monday, August 6 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens at the Pomonok library at 3. YU-GI-OH! Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Seaside library at 2. NH GAZETTE Mondays, August 6, 13 North Hills Gazette newsletter at the North Hills library. Register. ART CLUB Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Seaside library at 1:15. BOARD GAMES
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Mondays, August 6, 13, 20, 27 Astoria library at 2. MOVIE NIGHT Mondays, August 6, 13 at the Lefrak Cit y library at 3. SCIENCE LAB Mondays, August 6, 13 South Jamaica library at 4. MOVIE MONDAYS Mondays, August 6, 13 at the Flushing library at 2. MOVIEMAKING Mondays, August 6, 13, 20 Woodhaven library at 4:30. MOVIE MADNESS Mondays, August 6, 13 at the Pomonok library at 5. DISCOVERY SCIENCE Monday, August 6 at 6 at the Corona library. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays Douglaston/Little Neck library at 4. TEEN TUESDAYS Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 Bay Terrace library at 3. JEOPARDY TRIVIA Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 Seaside library at 3:30. TEEN GAMING Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Fresh Meadows library at 4. ORIGAMI
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Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 Seaside library at 4. CHESS CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21 Woodhaven library at 2. ECO JEWELRY Tuesday, August 7 at the Astoria librar y. Register. CRAFT & THINGS Tuesdays, August 7, 14 at the Lefrak City library t 3. KINDLE BOOK CLUB Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 read “The Hunger Games” at 3 at the Ridgewood librar y. CRAFT TIME Tuesdays, August 7, 14, 21, 28 Ozone Park library at 4. MANGO MATH Tuesdays, August 7, 14 at the Pomonok library at 4. LEARN CROCHET Tuesday, August 7 at the McGoldrick library at 4:30. CARTOONING CLUB Wednesdays, August 8, 15, 22 Corona library at 11. RESUME WORKSHOP Wednesday, August 8 at the LIC library at 1:30. ANIME SUMMER Wednesdays, August 8, 15 at the Flushing library at 2.
A native of Mumbai, Diana moved to the U.S. in 2005 to pursue a Master’s Degree at the University of Southern California. “I came here to work,” she said. “I worked out there for a year, and I decided to continue my physical therapy work in New York because, well, who doesn’t want to come to New York?” She finally decided to go into modeling after she won a local pageant. “I applied, and as luck would have it, I won,” she said. After venturing into modeling, Diana has been able to take on a few offers that came her way, including some fashion ramp shows, working on a documentary that played at a Sikh film festival. When not hard at work or in front of the lens, Diana can be found at the movie theater at Parsons and Archer in Jamaica or hanging out in nice weather in the north end of Bayside. She’s done research in biokinesiology and sports therapy; Diana has also learned Braille, sign language and is working on her Spanish. Maybe there’s a cricket or football (soccer) league in Queens that can use a multilingual therapist. She’d be into it. “I love sports, it doesn’t matter what kind,” she said.
Models Of Queens
The Horror! Middle Village native David Lee Madison stopped by the PRESS offices last week to talk about his upcoming film, “Mr. Hush”, set for a DVD release on Aug. 7. David wrote and directed the horror flick, about a devoted husband and father who has been marked by evil and darkness. The film stars horror icons Stephen Geoffreys (“Fright Night”), Brad Loree (Michael Myers in “Halloween: Resurrection”) and Steve Dash (Jason in “Friday The 13th Pt. 2”). Madison said his movie is “a great throwback” to some of the great horror movies of the 1980s. While he was here, Madison filmed some scenes for an extended cut of the 2010 film “Emerging Past,” the haunting story of a Trib photographer, written and directed by Thomas Churchill, who also served as a producer for “Mr. Hush.” The scenes featured Trib
"Mr. Hush" is available this weekend reporters and editors going about the business of putting out a newspaper. The release of the extended cut of Emerging Past is yet to be determined. But “Mr. Hush” will be avialalbe as of this weekend via Netflix Red Box and major DVD outlets. Boo!
Not Affordable Housing Diana Pinto Home: Woodhaven Age: 29 Height: 5’ 7" Weight: 120 Stats: 34-25-34
From Queens Tofunds East End Style his Rush Philanthropic Arts
Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 3-9, 2012
Two kids born in Queens years ago, shared the cover of this week's Hamptons Magazine, as each hosted a major fundraiser for their favorite charity. Friends and Hampton regulars, Designer Donna Karan and Hip Hop impresario Russel Simmons were the weekend East End headliners. She for “Super Saturday 15” a luxury shopping event fpor Ovarian Cancer Research Fund and he for “Arts For Life Gala,” which
Foundation for inner city youths. She was born in Forest Hills on Oct 2, 1948, as Donna Ivy Faske and he hails from Hollis, born Oct 4, 1957.
Queens’ priciest condo has officially hit the market. A two-story waterfront penthouse in Long Island City is going for $3.25 million. The threebedroom, four-bathroom penthouse is up for sale at The View, the roughly 180-unit condo developed by TF Cornerstone. Such a high price is expected to bring a lot of attention. . . and very rich people.
Confidentially, New York . . .
Movin’ On Up The world said goodbye to Sherman Hemsley last week, the man who graced our television screens for 12 years as the opinionated George Jefferson. We first met George on “All in the Family” as the neighbor of the bigoted Archie Bunker in Astoria. After finally getting a piece of the pie, the Jeffersons fled Queens and moved on up to the Upper East Side. We can only hope that Hemsley has found a new deluxe apartment in the heavenly skies.
Sherman Hemsley
Want to be a PRESS cartoonist? Submit your toons to: MSchenkler@Gmail.com
What A Man Peter Vallone has been playing the super hero. The Councilman who we called Batman two weeks ago, was out last weekend, saving little girls from drowning at the Jersey Shore - there just is no stopping this animated politico. The councilmember’s brother has even claimed the aging "Hasselhoff on a Harley," can walk on water. Many of the Vallone fans took to Facebook, after Pete boasted “Holy crap my brothers and I just had to save 2 girls swimming after the beach closed and lifeguards were gone scary stuff but everyone’s ok thank God. Keep an eye on your kids people the ocean is nuts right now and don’t swim without the guards!” Wonder if he wears a mask in the water.
What’s Up AUG. 4 AUG. 5 Walkers For Wellness Club Open Studio Looking for a fun way to improve your health? Join the Walkers for Wellness Club at New Hope Lutheran Church of Jamaica. Under the guidance of a Walking Leader, you will walk two to three times each week at a comfortable pace with others along routes throughout Southeast Queens. The club is open to walkers of all ages and abilities. The walking schedule is Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 8 a.m. Walkers meet at New Hope Lutheran Church, located at 167-24 118th Ave. T-shirts and pedometers will be provided. Contact Thurkessa Brown at (917) 553-1089 for more information.
Adults with special needs are welcome to explore self-expression through art in an open studio atmosphere. There are two 45-minute sessions available. Session one begins at noon; session two begins at 1p.m. Chaperones are required to stay with their groups / individuals and are responsible for the group and individual participant’s behavior. Registration is required. For registration or information about this program, contact Mitra Dejkameh at (718) 592-9700, Ext. 136 or mitra@ queensmuseum.org. This free event will be held at the Queens Museum of Art, Flushing Meadows Corona Park, at noon.
Capoeira The Eastern Queens Alliance invites you to learn the basics of this exciting Martial Arts for from ancient Brazil with Eric Fungo. He will focus on some of the basic Capoeira movements, including “escapes” and “attack.” Capoeira helps you develop core strength, tone muscles, improve reflexes, flexibility and agility. No poor experience necessary. For additional information or directions, call (347) 824-2301 or email info@ easternqueensalliance.org. This free event will be held at Idlewild Cricket Field in Idlewild Park Preserve, 223rd Street and 148th Avenue, from 9:15 to 10:30 a.m.
Advanced Canoeing
Learn how special exercises and relaxation techniques can make a difference in your life. This free event will be held at Queens Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 10 a.m.
Networking Affair Simply To Empower is presenting a grand business networking affair. It’s time to make new major connections while building business relationships with other business professionals. Guests are invited to spotlight your business. Attend with your business cards, and leave with the contact information of business professionals who can help take your business to new levels, provide referrals and exposure. Sponsors and vendors are welcome. Admission is $10. For additional information, visit www.thestepnetwork. eventbrite.com, contact Sherise Patterson at (718) 289-4080 or simplytoempower@gmail.com. This event will be held at Jamaica Export Centre, 157-11 Rockaway Blvd., from 6:30 to 9 p.m.
Film Screening As part of A Better Jamaica’s Family Movies in the Park series, “Spider-Man” will be screened. Written by Stan Lee (Marvel comic book) and Steve Ditko.
AUG. 7 Walkers For Wellness Club See Aug. 4 listing. At 7 p.m.
National Night Out The 113th Precinct Office of Community Affairs and the 113th Precinct Community Council invite one and all to the 2012 National Night Out. Come on out if you are interested in taking back the night. For more information call Vivian McMillian, Police Officer Ferguson or Police Officer Duhaney at (718) 7121627. This free event will be held at Baisley Pond Park, Rockaway Boulevard at Sutphin Boulevard, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Small Business Workshop Do you have an idea for a business? Learn the ins and outs of starting and managing your own successful small business. In this workshop you will learn about developing business plans, creating a demand for your product or service, setting goals and objectives, budgeting and timelines, and identifying resources and networks. For further information, visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-5148 or (718) 990-5176. This free event will be held at Queens Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 7 p.m.
Film Screening As part of A Better Jamaica’s Family Movies in the Park series, “Spider-Man” will be screened. Written by Stan Lee (Marvel comic book) and Steve Ditko. Directed by Sam Raimi. The movie is rated PG-13. This free event will be held at Brookville Park, Brookville Boulevard at 143rd Avenue, at 8:05 p.m.
AUG. 8 Resumes and Cover Letters Participants will learn how to get started, types of resumes, what to include and not include
and tips for making your resume and cover letter stronger. For further information, visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-0746. This free event will be held at Queens Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 1 p.m.
Film Screening A Better Jamaica’s “Family Movies in the Park” is presenting the classic movie “Jaws.” Written by Peter Benchley. Directed by Steven Spielberg. This free event will be held at Baisley Pond Park, Foch Boulevard at Long Street, at 8:04 p.m.
AUG. 9 Walkers For Wellness Club See Aug. 4 listing. At 7 p.m.
Mock Interviews It takes practice to perfect your interviewing skills. Mock interviews let you make mistakes before they count. In this workshop, you will learn how to prepare for your interview, successfully deal with difficult questions, and follow up properly after the interview. Space is limited. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 990-5148 or (718) 9905176. This free event will be held at Queens Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 9 a.m.
Film Screening A Better Jamaica’s “Family Movies in the Park” is presenting the classic movie “Jaws.” Written by Peter Benchley. Directed by Steven Spielberg. This free event will be held at Saint Albans Park, Merrick Boulevard at Sayers Avenue, at 8:02 p.m.
AUG. 10 Outreach and Assistance Are you a young woman between 17-24 years of age and need assistance in applying for housing, completing college applications, financial aid or just need assistance and don’t know where to turn? The Daughters of Isis Foundation is available for support. For additional information, visit thedaughters ofisisfoundation.org, or contact
Simone Williams at (347) 7311721 or isis.staff@gmail.com. This free event will be held at Young Queens Loft, 148-14 Liberty Ave., 2nd Floor, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Classic Film Fridays Friday’s feature is “Pretty Woman” (1990) (R) (117 Minutes). When millionaire wheelerdealer Edward enters into a business contract with Hollywood hooker Vivian, he loses his heart in the bargain in this charming romantic comedy. Can the poor prostitute and the rich capitalist live happily ever after? This free event will be held at Rufus King Park, Jamaica Avenue at 153rd Street, at dusk.
ONGOING CPR Training The FDNY Mobile CPR Training Unit will hold regularly scheduled free CPR classes in all five boroughs. The first Tuesday through the fourth Tuesday and the fourth Thursday of every month there will be Borough CPR training sessions in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens. Training is free to anyone over the age of 14. The goal of this program is increase the number of people in New York City trained in bystander CPR Each class lasts 1 hour and participants in the class learn basic CPR skills from a member of the FDNY Emergency Medical Service. Volunteers for the class follow along using the CPR Anytime Personal Learning Kit, which features an instructional DVD and an inflatable mannequin. All participants are able take home the kit at the end of class and asked to pledge to use the kit to show five of their family members and friends how to perform CPR. This class teaches basic CPR technique and is not a certification course. In Queens, the classes will be held the fourth Thursday of every month at EMS Station 54, 222-15 Merrick Blvd. In addition, please visit www.nyc.gov/ cprtogo for New York Sports Club locations offering free CPR classes starting in January. Please visit www. fdnyfoundation.org or call (718) 999-2413 for more information.
Aug. 3-9, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19
NYC Parks trained Urban Park Rangers will lead you on canoe adventures that range from the gentle waters of protected lakes, to the challenging open waters of rivers and bays. On an Urban Park Ranger canoe program, go from novice to expert in one just one summer. Children 8 and up are welcome. Registration required; visit: nyc.gov/ parks/rangers/register. The intensity level of this particular program is considered advanced. Experience is required. For additional information, contact the Urban Park Rangers at (718) 8462731. This free event will be held at Idlewild Park, Huxley and Craft Avenues, at 11 a.m.
AUG. 6 Stay Well
Directed by Sam Raimi. The movie is rated PG-13. This free event will be held at Cambria/Cabbell Park, Francis Lewis Boulevard at 120th Avenue, at 8:06 p.m.
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MINUTES NOT HOURS AWAY www.rwnewyork.com
In Queens, near JFK Airport at Aqueduct Racetrack. Take or Q37. Free shuttle at Jamaica/Sutphin Boulevard Station @ Archer Avenue. Shuttle access via LIRR or trains. 6SGOE[E] &SYPIZEVH .EQEMGE 2= 'EPP XSPP JVII Must be 18 years of age or older to play the New York Lottery Games. Please play responsibly.