Press epaper 083013

Volume 14 Issue No. 35 Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

PRESS Photos by Natalia Kozikowska

SLAM DUNK

NBA stars Royal Ivey and Nazr Mohammed shoot hoops with kids at a basketball clinic in Hollis.

By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 14.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

News Briefs Man Charged With Drunk Driving In Queens

A man has been charged with drunk driving after leaving the scene of an accident and causing a high speed chase that included driving against traffic and exceeding the speed limit.

Chance Deespina, a 31-year-old Staten Island resident, faces up to seven years in prison after he was charged with six counts related to the incident including two counts of second-degree assault, one count of first-degree reckless endangerment and one count of third-degree unlawful fleeing of a police officer in a motor vehicle.

According to a press release from Queens District Attorney Richard Brown’s office, Deespina sideswiped a vehicle on 106th Street and 109th Avenue in Queens at around 2 a.m. on Aug. 21. Shortly after, police saw him drive through a red light at a high speed, which triggered the police chase.

Deespina allegedly ran 10 red lights, drove on the opposite direction of a one-way street while trying to outlast the police and exceeded the speed limit by at least 80 miles per hour. According to the release, the chase allegedly ended when he drove his car right into another vehicle in Brooklyn. The cops allegedly detected a strong smell of alcohol on Deespina’s breath as well as bloodshot eyes and slurred speech.

Police also found two empty Corona bottle in his car, according to the release.

Deespina, along with others who were in his car, and the two police officers were taken to the hospital for treatment. Deespina suffered a broken hip as a result of the accident and remains hospitalized.

Arrest Made In Queens Village Man’s Death

Police arrested a Brooklyn resident after he allegedly shot and killed a man in Queens while attempting a robbery.

Robert Bullock was arrested earlier this week and charged with murdering Queens Village resident Mohammed Bilal.

According to published reports, Bullock shot Bilal while attempting to rob an internet café in the East

New York section of Brooklyn this past Tuesday and left the store without taking any possessions.

Law enforcement originally arrested Bullock for an unrelated robbery, before eventually charging him for killing Bilal.

Laurelton Man Arrested For Sexual Assault

A Laurelton man was arrested earlier this week in relation to a sexual assault in the South Jamaica Houses.

Jemmal Bryan, 29, was cuffed and charged with raping a 13-year-old girl inside of an elevator on Aug. 18, according to police.

Law enforcement said Bryan allegedly followed the teen inside the elevator before the alleged incident took place. They also said Bryan ran away from the scene when the girl screamed as the elevator got to her floor.

Famous Designer Dies In Jamaica Blaze

A famous designer who called South Jamaica home perished in a fire last week.

Charles Pollock, who was wellknown for designing the office chair, died at his home on 157th Street last week in Jamaica.

According to published reports, a blaze broke out in the designer’s home at about 7 a.m. on Aug. 20.

The fire broke out in the basement of the home and he was unable to escape the property. Pollock was pronounced dead at the scene. In addition to living in that Jamaica home, he also had his studio inside the residence.

According to the Dept of Buildings website, the house was illegally converted to a four-family property and had been issued six violations including a “work without a permit” violation. Reports said that the property’s landlord was also issued five violations related to the building including defective or exposed electrical wiring and illegal gas stove in the cellar. Illegally converting the house was also a part of the penalties given to the landlord.

Pollock gained fame for creating the Pollock Executive Chair, which is displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Brief Us!

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

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

D27 Candidates Discuss Platforms, Ideas

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Photo by Ira Cohen

Last week, all six Democratic candidates vying for Councilman Leroy Comrie’s (D-Jamaica) District 27 seat gathered at the Robert Ross Johnson Family Life Center in St. Albans to discuss their platforms and opinions with residents.

More than 100 constituents came out to hear what candidates Manny Caughman, Daneek Miller, Joan Flowers, Greg Mays, Clyde Vanel and Sondra Peedan had to say about issues affecting District 27.

After each of the candidates gave their opening statements, the moderator, Isa-Abdur-Rahman, fired his first round of questions about flooding in Southeast Queens.

In 1996, the Dept. of Environmental Protection purchased the Jamaica Water Supply and shut down the wells it operated. As a result, the water table began to rise and from 1996 to 2007, it rose approximately 35 feet. Each of the candidates were given two minutes

Manny Caughman and Joan Flowers discuss their platforms at the District 27 forum last week. to explain how they would work with the DEP to fix the problem before 2018 – when the Delaware Aqueduct will be closed and the City will need to find possibilities to provide drinking water to New Yorkers.

“I think I would sponsor some legislation to make sure that this occurs,” Flowers said. “The technology has been developed where the water

can be made very drinkable and very usable and we need to make sure that they are going to be pumping sooner than 2018.”

“The first thing I would do is rally the troops in the community so that the next time we go out to the DEP, we will go out 200-strong,” Mays said.

Vanel, like Mays, said he felt that advocacy was the solution.

Union Workers, Library Clash

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Unionized custodians say they are being treated dirty by the Queens Library Administration.

According to the Local 1321 of District Council 27, the library has been replacing union workers with lower-paid private contractors to clean the Central Branch in Jamaica.

Adding insult to injury, union leaders claim the cash-strapped library has been giving Administration employees hefty salaries and raises, which they speculate is being paid for by the library’s extra savings.

According to John Hyslop, president of Local 1321, since 2011 the library spent $2.7 million in nonunion administrative raises.

“These aren’t tax dollars, these are City funds,” he said. “The City should be supporting jobs with a decent salary and benefits and pensions and not hiring a private company that pays minimum wage with no benefits and then keep the profit.”

Hyslop also claims the Queens Library Administration gave $340,000 in raises to its non-union staff and between April 2011 and May 2012, the Queens Library

president and CEO earned $379,313 – citing the website Seethroughny. net as his primary source.

Although it has not been confirmed, Hyslop and union workers have heard rumors that these hiring practices are also being used at other branches.

“I’ve heard rumors that now they [private contractors] are now being used at Flushing [Library],” he told the PRESS of Southeast Queens.

But Joanne King, communications director for Queens Library, questioned the validity of those figures, arguing that “there is no way to determine that” and that the numbers sounded “odd.”

King, however, did not deny that a part of the library’s savings may have been allocated to staffers.

“It [the money saved] is part of the library’s operating budget and is used to provide public service,” she said in an email. “Every dollar is either allocated to books, to staff, to utilities or similar.”

Although Hyslop and union workers said they feel that hiring private contractors jeopardizes the quality of work, the Administration feels otherwise and defended their decision to hire hourly-rate contract cleaners to supplement full-time union custodians.

“In July, the Library increased the number of libraries being cleaned by hourly-rate contractors from 7 to 8,” the library said in an emailed statement. “The Library employs 71 full-time custodians who are valued members of the team and who provide a range of critical services above and beyond that of hourly-rate contract cleaners. No custodians have lost their jobs as a result of increasing hourly-rate contract cleaning.”

Local leaders have also chimed in on the debate. Last month, Councilman Daniel Dromm (DJackson Heights) wrote a letter to Galante, the library’s CEO and president, expressing his opposition to contract out custodial work instead of renewing contracts for union custodians.

“I truly believe in the Queens Library’s mission to serve all of our many diverse communities. However, I feel that your efforts undermine union jobs for these very same community members run counter to your mission,” the Councilman wrote.

Additional reporting by Joe Marvilli.

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

“When they were talking about splitting up the neighborhoods in this district, we called a meeting of advocacy. We were expecting a meeting of 40 people, and nearly a thousand showed up,” Vanel said. “That’s advocacy, that’s what we need and that’s what I would do.”

“I would propose a partnership at all levels of government and perhaps have some experts outside of government come in to solve this long-term problem,” Peeden suggested.

Miller, who said he has been struggling with flooding in his home, suggested that well water be used in a new, innovative way.

“What I would submit, in the interim, while we have this constant rise in our water tables, I think that there are some initiatives we can take right now,” he said. “One would be to take our commercial businesses, like bus depots, and have them use the well water.”

Caughman, a long-time aide to Assemblyman William Scarborough (D-Jamaica), who has led the battle against the DEP, touted his experience and knowledge with the particular issue.

“I was instrumental in doing something unprecedented – getting the City to loan the State $10 million.

Right now, as we’re speaking, we’re working on reverse seepage basins,” Caughman said.

Caughman was also the only candidate to mention the recent court ruling in which Exxon was order to shell out $105 million to clean up drinking water wells in Southeast Queens that it contaminated with the dangerous chemical, MTBE. “We want this $100 million to stay in Southeast Queens,” he added.

“When I’m City Councilman, I will make sure this money stays in Southeast Queens.”

In light of the recent Common Core exam scores, which revealed that School District 29, (which encompasses the majority of Southeast Queens), had the lowest exam scores in the Borough, education was also hot-button issue.

Miller, Peeden and Flowers all stressed the importance of better funding and preparation for teachers and students for the rigorous exam, whereas Vanel and Caughman stressed the importance of getting the parents and community more involved with the school system.

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

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Pols Call For Permanent Ferry service

By Luis GrOnda The Rockaway Ferry has been extended into next year and now two elected officials are calling on all mayoral candidates to support its permanent service.

Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) and Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park) are asking every candidate running for Mayor to sign a pledge backing the service that runs from the Rockaways to Manhattan.

Last week, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced that the ferry

would continue to run until Jan. 31, 2014. Although both Ulrich and Goldfeder said they were elated about that announcement, they are asking for the candidates’ support as the next Mayor will decide if the ferry will continue to serve commuters past early next year.

“Our constituents deserve permanent ferry service and the future Mayor of our great city is the only one who can guarantee that,” Ulrich said.

In a press release issued by Ulrich’s office, Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan) and Republican candidate Joe Lhota both

said they would support keeping the ferry full-time.

“When I’m Mayor, I’ll make that ferry permanent, and make sure it stays at the current $2 fare,” Quinn said in a statement.

“Making this ferry service permanent will make a big difference in improving the quality of life for New Yorkers,” Lhota said.

Dani Lever, a spokeswoman for Mayoral candidate Bill Thompson, said they would evaluate the service before making any permanent decisions on it.

“Bill Thompson supports and

would continue the ferry service to the Rockaways, but would evaluate ridership as well as meet with the community before making long-term decisions,” she said in an email.

The Bill de Blasio, John Liu and Sal Albanese campaigns also said they support making the ferry permanent.

The ferry, located at Beach 108th Street and Beach Channel Drive in the Rockaways, costs $2 to ride, cheaper than the $2.50 subway fare.

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

Queens undocumented youth speak Out

By Trisha sakhuja Hopeful young undocumented immigrants shared their stories with Public Advocate candidate Reshma Saujani and Assemblyman Francisco Moya (D-Jackson Heights) at a town hall titled, “DREAMers for Reshma,” on Aug. 22 at the Jewish Center of Jackson Heights.

“When I think about who inspires me, it’s the DREAMers,” Saujani said. “They have so much to lose—so much more to lose than all of us [with status]—but they are

out there fighting everyday.”

When Razeen Zaman, 23, a resident of Jackson Heights, said she found out at the age of 14 that she and her family are undocumented immigrants, she was angry and confused, but was asked to remain silent about her status.

She also found out that she would not be able to apply for a work permit, a driver’s license or receive financial aid for college like all of her other friends were doing at the time.

Zaman said she wanted to continue her education after high school

and never thought otherwise. Therefore, she did not allow her status to come in the way of her 4.0 grade point average during her time at Sarah Lawrence College or her admission to law school.

Now a campaign organizer for the New York State Youth Leadership Council, Zaman was one of the first undocumented youth to transcribe what is now the NYS Dream Act. “Oppression is not my permanent condition,” Zaman said. “Being public about your status is the safest thing to do because you build trust

and community around your story.”

Zaman, along with 15 undocumented youth, traveled by foot for nine days to Albany from the City to advocate for the Dream Act, as a grassroots effort not common to many.

She said they all had to express the urgency of passing this bill because their parents did not “cross the oceans for their kids to be denied the right for education.”

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@ queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

Quinn Stops In To Talk Mayoral Run

BY JOE MARVILLI

Photo by Luis Gronda

Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan) stopped by the PRESS of Southeast Queens office to discuss her campaign and her goals for the City if she is elected Mayor.

During her visit on Aug. 27, the mayoral candidate talked about everything from education to Stop and Frisk, from flooding to her temperament.

Quinn spent some time touching on Queens-specific issues, such as flooding in Southeast Queens. Quinn has been involved in the problem, as she said her office helped put together various meetings with the Dept. of Environmental Protection and local elected officials. While she said she did not know enough to comment specifically about the closing of Station 6 until 2018, which has exacerbated flooding in Southeast Queens, she did say that a solution needs to be reached quickly.

“If people think that there is a flooding problem and the City is not addressing it, of course they should put pressure on City agencies,” she said. “Just saying you’re going to flood for the next four years is not a reasonable answer.”

Moving to Citywide education,

Quinn argued against the Bloomberg administration’s constant closing of schools, believing that while closures may occasionally be necessary, it is being done far too frequently and without a good system in place.

“I think the problem is that school closings have become almost the policy, as if that’s something to be proud of. What I would do as Mayor is put a red flag warning system, so two or three years out, you know a school is having challenges,” Quinn said. “We spent $20 to $30 million a year closing schools.

Quinn sat down with the PRESS editorial Let’s take some of that money and board to talk about her Mayoral run. invest in programs that we can put in place to save the school.”

Quinn outlined a plan that would As Council Speaker, Quinn has move away from the City’s policy been at the center of the Stop and of teaching to the test and would in- Frisk debate, particularly the steps volve all facets of the student’s life to taken this year to rein the policy in, improve all the schools in the City, through the Community Safety Act especially the weaker ones. and the creation of an inspector genIn addition to getting parents more eral for the NYPD. While some cominvolved in the process, Quinn would munity leaders and elected officials introduce a teacher training program have said that these moves would where a senior teacher takes a break harm public safety, Quinn disagreed. from the classroom to partner with “Some folks have said that the first-year teachers and give them hands- choice has to be between being the on assistance. Throughout her first safest big city in America or keeping term, Quinn said she would look into people’s civil liberties intact. That lengthening the school day as well. does not have to be the choice at all,”

she said. “The independent police monitoring legislation we passed last week will make sure we can be both those things.”

Despite her stance on Stop and Frisk, Quinn thought Police Commissioner Ray Kelly did a good job overall and would consider keeping him on if he agreed to cut back on that program. In an effort to improve communication between neighborhoods and the police, Quinn would hire 1,600 new officers, giving the force more time to engage with the community.

A personal issue for Quinn that has come up during this year’s election cycle is her temperament, which has been described as overly aggressive. Quinn did admit that she could be loud and pushy, she said it was sometimes necessary to get things done for the people of New York.

“You want a New Yorker who’s tough. You want a New Yorker who’s pushy,” Quinn said. “You want a Mayor who’s tough enough to lead. You want a Mayor who’s smart enough to listen. You also want a Mayor who’s compassionate enough to care.”

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

JOAN FLOWERS will: • fight for needed jobs in our community • restore excellence to our schools • protect senior services • fight for better health care access for all

VOTE DEMOCRATIC – TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 10TH Phone: 718-213-Joan (5626) | www.joanflowers2013.com 223-09 Linden Blvd. Cambria Heights, NY 11411 Paid for and authorized by Joan Flowers for the 27th District, 223-09 Linden Boulevard, Cambria Heights, NY 11411

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Editorial

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

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja

Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Alan Goldsher Director of Marketing Maureen Coppola Advertising Administrator Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Shari Strongin Wazeer Ali

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

Queens Borough President Democratic Primary

Queens is the fastest growing County in the City, and as we look toward an uncertain financial future, the Borough requires a strong, independent voice that will fight to ensure that Queens gets its fair share in comparison to the rest of the City.

We have no doubt that both Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. and former Councilwoman Melinda Katz would serve as strong advocates for the people of Queens. But only one of these candidates stands out more as an independent leader, whose voice will be heard not just in Queens, but throughout the City.

While we disagree on some issues – Stop and Frisk being an important example – Peter Vallone Jr. has spent his time as a City Councilman doing what he believed was right to fight for the people of Queens. Melinda Katz is a capable candidate, who has proven herself extremely knowledgeable with regards to zoning and land use. However, her strong connection to and dependence on real estate developers in both this campaign and her previous campaign for Comptroller gives us some pause.

As Borough President, we believe Vallone will ensure Queens has someone who will stand above the crowd and have his voice heard at City Hall.

The PRESS of Southeast Queens endorses Peter Vallone Jr.

District 27 Democratic Primary

The person who wins this seat has some big shoes to fill, taking over for the term-limited Leroy Comrie, who has spent the past 12 years working to better the lives of District 27. The district needs someone who can match Comrie’s dedication to his constituents.

For the last two decades, Manuel Caughman has shown a commitment to solving problems within Southeast Queens, and we believe he will continue to solve problems within the district as a member of the City Council. His work as an aide to Assemblyman William Scarborough gives him the legislative experience needed to provide the help needed for his community and his time working on environmental issues and

with the youth of Southeast Queens gives him the knowledge of areas that need help within the district.

In a crowded field of qualified candidates, Caughman stands above the rest.

The PRESS of Southeast Queens endorses Manuel “Manny” Caughman.

District 28 Democratic Primary

Too often over the last year, our elected officials have been caught up in controversy, and the end result has been disastrous for Southeast Queens. The area needs to choose a representative who will look out for its constituents and not his own pockets. The incumbent in this race has been tied to a number of controversial officials and has previously had his powers stripped because of it. This is not behavior that should be rewarded with another term.

Attorney Hettie Powell is a fresh face within the district, but in a crowded field of candidates, she has made a distinct impact as a coalition-builder who will work hard for the district.

Her work with youth and civic organizations in the area shows a dedication to improve the quality of life within the district and throughout the Borough.

We believe she will provide the leadership necessary to move the district out from the dark cloud it has been under in recent years.

The PRESS of Southeast Queens endorses Hettie Powell.

District 31 Democratic Primary

Earlier this year, Donovan Richards won a close and divisive special election to represent the people of his district. In the six months since he has been in office, he has fought diligently for his constituents and continued to represent a diverse district, which covers parts of Southeast Queens and the storm-ravaged Rockaways.

Given the work he has done in the last half-year, we believe Richards deserves a full term to see what he can do for the district.

The PRESS of Southeast Queens endorses Donovan Richards.

Another LGBT Person Killed For Being “Different” A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Every parent fears the loss of a child, and this past weekend, that nightmare became reality for Delores Nettles when her transgendered 21 year-old was beaten to death for being a man living as a woman.

Islan Nettles was not bothering anyone. The fashion design student was simply going about her business down Eighth Avenue when a group of miscreants started yelling derogatory names at her. And yet that was not enough. One member of the group proceeded to beat her and never stopped until it was too late.

The promising student was rendered brain dead and passed away in a hospital.

How very, very sad that this mother now has to bury her child, simply because he chose to live as a woman and someone else acted like a brute about it.

No one human being is better than another regardless of how perfect some may think they are. It is not our place to judge and persecute those perceived to be different from us based on color, religion, sexual orientation and gender identity. It is our duty to “love one another,” corny and outdated as that may sound in these crazy times.

If we were to follow “The Golden Rule” and treat others the way we would like to be treated, we could not look at our fellow beings and visit such violence upon them. I am not aware of having any transgendered family members; but

if I did, I would want them to be treated with respect and at the very least, to be left alone to be safe. And if that were me, I would want to be treated fairly as well. My blood boils when I see some misguided person take it upon him/herself to exact punishment.

Earlier this year, a gay man was shot right in the face as he went about his business in Manhattan. To paraphrase abolitionist and former slave, Sojourner Truth, “Ain’t he a person too?” Everyone is some mother’s child. Can we think about how our mothers would feel if someone were to do that to us?

We live in a city where an openly gay person is running for mayor, and yet some people still refuse to accept that LGBT people are part of our city’s fabric as well.

Regardless of how we may feel about sexual differences from a religious perspective, we still have to accept that everyone has a right to be safe and to be treated fairly in the “land of the free.”

What we all have in common is our humanity. We all want to be safe and to have the same opportunities to dream and have access to fulfill those dreams. Islan Nettles just wanted a fair shot at life.

Upon graduation, she would no doubt have been a contributing member of our city, paying taxes and creating jobs.

Her mother’s dream must have been to see her child reach this goal and to outlive her.

It is a painful reality but if we “get up, stand up” (thanks, Bob Marley) and help them fight for their right to be free, it will help.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Baisley Housing Tenants Demand Repairs

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA The first time Hettie Powell saw some of the living conditions in the apartments at the Baisley Houses in Jamaica, she was in complete shock.

“I know you can live with some disrepair in your apartment but when you walk in and you put your head up and you see that big gaping hole in the ceiling – that is a shock,” Powell said. “The apartments we have gone in are really bad and there is no way anyone should be living in those conditions and expected to pay rent.”

For years, residents of the Baisley Houses have been asking to no avail for the New York City Housing Authority to make repairs to their apartments. While some have seen progress, others are still waiting to hear from the City agency.

So earlier this week, on Wednesday, Powell, a candidate for the District 28 Council seat, along with New York Communities for Change and frustrated tenants held a press conference to demand that NYCHA be accountable for failing to provide safe living conditions.

Clogged piping, massive holes in the ceiling, peeling paint, mold, flooding in sinks, nonfunctional toilets and broken stoves were just some of the problems Powell spotted when she surveyed 10 apartments in the NYCHA housing unit, located at the corner of Sutphin Boulevard and Foch Avenue.

Even those who have been fortunate enough to see some sort of repair work being done have been living in a state of limbo, Powell said.

“We had one woman who had to take them to court to get the repairs

done – and it is still not fixed properly and completed,” she said.

In one particular instance, a mother, who has a baby suffering from cancer and a son who suffers from asthma, lives in an apartment with corroded walls, mold and no working stove or sink.

“It’s completely egregious,” she said. “When you look at the ceiling of her apartment, there is a big hole.

She said she had repeatedly told them [NYCHA] that her son has cancer and can not be exposed to those living conditions and still, nobody came.”

Although Powell has not been in direct contact with NYCHA, she said residents are getting little answers as to when relief will be on its way.

“All they are saying it’s because they have a backlog in terms of the amount of repairs and they don’t

have the manpower,” she said. “They don’t really know when their apartments are going to be fixed. NYCHA has not given them answers.”

And the less-than-desirable living conditions are not just occurring in the Baisley projects, Powell explained. Tenants of the South Jamaica NYCHA houses have been struggling with many of the same issues.

“I have gone to the South Jamaica Houses, too, and they are in the same situation. Their apartments are also in disrepair,” she said. “NYCHA has to step it up. These conditions are not acceptable.”

NYCHA could not be reached for comment as of press time.

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

NYc Labor: United To create change For All

BY VINceNT ALVAReZ Each Labor Day, we pay tribute to the hardworking men and women who keep our city up and running.

Whether they educate our children, construct and protect our buildings, run City agency operations, or maintain the City’s aging infrastructure, we salute their commitment to providing quality, dignified service.

It’s no secret that this has been a turbulent year for working people.

Throughout our country, the rights and benefits of working people have been under attack. From Michigan, to Chicago, to New Jersey, working people have had to fight to ensure that they get what they need to get by.

Workers in the City are continuing to fight for increased safety regulations at construction sites, and fair wages and benefits for the workers who provide vital care services for our city’s aged and infirm. And as local schools prepare to open their doors for students, teachers and other municipal employees are still without a valid contract.

Despite these challenges, however, we have continued to make strides for workers. For the first time ever, New York City car wash workers signed a union contract, and fast food workers are fighting back for fair wages and the right to organize for the protections of a union, without retaliation. In addition to these organizing efforts, Labor is united and standing up to pay tribute to workers, and to help elect candidates who will make sure that working men and women get the wages and benefits they need to make ends meet.

This year, with the upcoming elec-

tions, major changes are on the horizon. Union members have been hitting the streets, and supporting the candidates we believe will deal fairly and creatively with working people and their union leaders. We understand that the votes that are cast this fall will undoubtedly change our city’s political landscape, and we want to ensure that Labor and union members have a true seat at the table.

While we may not all agree on who will be the best new mayor, we have made 49 unified endorsements in City races. These endorsements of these candidates signify a cohesive labor movement, committed to standing up for the folks who support working people. We are supporting the candidates who will address workers’ needs day in and day out, and who will best represent workers’ interests. Just this year alone, the City Council has stood up and supported measures designed to help improve the health, safety and freedom of working people. Labor’s goal is not just to elect politicians, but to pass pro-worker budgets and policies, aimed at protecting the rights of all working people.

For far too long, the needs of working New Yorkers have been placed on the back burner, while corporations and business interests have been allowed undue influence on the way our city is run.

It is about time that all working people got a say in the political process. Our efforts this Labor Day are utilizing the strength and resources of everyday, hardworking people, for the benefit of working New Yorkers. That’s the difference between

Labor’s efforts, and the pro-big business PACs, accepting exorbitant amounts of money from corporations seeking even greater influence in City politics.

We are confident that the candidates we are supporting will do right by working people. We have had 12 years of an administration that has chosen to favor the interests of the wealthy over the needs of everyday

working people and their families.

All of our elected officials must deal fairly with all workers because, after all, it’s our working people who make New York the greatest city in the world.

Vincent Alvarez is president of the New York City Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO, which represents more than 300 unions and 1.3 million workers in the New York City Metropolitan area.

Thompson Unveils Workforce Training Plan Earlier this week, Mayoral hope- the creation of a chief jobs officer ful Bill Thompson released a plan to oversee training programs; force to strengthen New York City’s work- the Dept. of Education to adopt emforce during an event at the Finishing ployment-based outcomes to worker Trades Institute in Long Island City. education curriculum; and use BusiThompson’s plan would put thou- ness Improvement Districts and nonprofits to create neighsands of New Yorkers back borhood anchors. to work through increased “Bill Thompson employee preparation knows that in order to funding, forcing the Dept. strengthen the City’s of Education to adopt emeconomy, we need to ployment-based outcomes make sure that our workto its curriculum and reing men and women are orienting job training to armed with the skill set provide workplace skills to to fill jobs,” Joe Ramavulnerable New Yorkers, glia, business manager including those who had of District Council 9 once been incarcerated. of the Union Painters “New Yorkers continue Mayoral hopeful, and Allied Trades, said. to face economic chalBill Thompson.

“That’s why he wants to lenges and so many of our increase funding for eduneighbors are trapped and underemployed in jobs with no ben- cation preparation and improve the worker education curriculum – comefits,” Thompson said.

Specific points from Thompson’s mon sense ways to make sure all New workforce development plan include Yorkers are working New Yorkers.”

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

pix

Job Fair

Ballin’ With LL Cool J

Photos by Ira Cohen

Rapper, actor and Southeast Queens native LL Cool J was on hand at the ninth annual Jump & Ball Tournament on Aug. 24 at Daniel O’Connell Park in Hollis. The tournament was co-sponsored by State Sen. Malcolm Smith.

Hundreds of Southeast Queens residents braved the heat last week to seek new opportunities at a job fair sponsored by State Sen. James Sanders, held at the Jamaica Multi-service Center. About 30 employers were on hand to speak to people about employment opportunities.

A First Lady Welcome Photo by Ira Cohen

First Lady Michelle Obama kicked off the U.S. Open festivities on Saturday, during the annual Arthur Ashe Kids Day event at the Billie Jean King Tennis Center in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Police Blotter

the NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance identifying these two suspects wanted for a grand larceny that took place at 2:45 p.m. on Aug. 20. the suspects used a stolen credit card to make three unauthorized transactions at a Waldbaum’s, located at 133-11 20th Ave., and a target, located at 135-02 20th Ave.

112th Precinct

Rape

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying a suspect wanted for a rape.

At approximately 10 p.m. on Aug. 23, the victim, a 52-year-old female,

was exiting the R train on 63rd Drive and Queens Boulevard when the suspect began asking for her name and phone number. The victim refused and walked to a pharmacy on 63rd Drive. The suspect followed the victim into the store and started to harass her inside the store. After

the suspect left the store, the victim left the pharmacy while the suspect stood waiting outside for her.

The suspect followed the victim, and, in front of 63-45 Saunders Street, the suspect grabbed her, threw her down a flight of steps and raped her.

The suspect then removed the victim’s cell phone and purse. EMS transported the victim to an area hospital.

The suspect is described as a Black male in his 20s, 5-foot-7 with a moustache. The suspect told the victim his name was “Junior.”

114th Precinct

Assault on a Police Officer

At 4:18 p.m. on Aug. 22, a 49-year-old Asian woman was walking southbound on 79th Street when the suspect, a white male in his 60s who had exited a black Ford pickup, approached her and forcibly removed her pocketbook. The victim chased the suspect back to the truck and was subsequently dragged by the truck as

it fled. The victim received minor injuries and refused medical attention at the scene.

It was later discovered, after obtaining the license plate of the Ford, that the truck was reported stolen on Aug. 20 from West Palm Beach, Fla., and that a .38 caliber revolver was in the truck when it was stolen.

Later on Aug. 22, at approximately 8:50 p.m., officers observed the truck traveling southbound on Crescent Street, in the vicinity of Broadway. The uniformed officers attempted to pull the truck over. Shots were fired and one of the officers was struck by the truck as it fled the scene. Both officers were removed to Cornell Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries, where they were treated and released.

The vehicle was later found on 24th Street, in the vicinity of 37th Avenue. During a canvass of the area, a cell phone was discovered and the suspect was identified as Gary Sarback, 61, of Lake Worth, Fla.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Borough Beat

City Planning approves Willets Point Project

By Trisha sakhuja

entirety in late June, which entails cleaning up the site, constructing retail development, office and residential units, while building on its close proximity to the sporting venue with access to mass transit. Of those units, 35 percents will be affordable for low-

income families.

Within the next 50 days, the City Council will vote on plans to redevelop the Willets Point area.

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@ queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

U.S. Open Underway Photo by ira Cohen

The City Planning Commission voted in favor of a much-debated development project across the street from Citi Field, where auto shop owners have run their small businesses as a group for decades.

The soon-to-be built mega-mall along 126th Street and mixed use complex development is undertaking Phase One of its process, put forth by a $3 billion private investment by the Queens Development Corp, a joint venture of Sterling Equities and Related Companies.

During the CPC’s public meeting on Aug. 21, the 13-member panel voted in favor of the project.

“Willets Point is on its way to becoming remediated and ultimately becoming an active and inviting destination,” Chairwoman Amanda Burden said.

The only board member to vote against the project was Michelle de la Uz, who questioned the need to build another mega-mall, especially at this location, which legally is a public park and is in close proximity

to the Sky View Center.

Ivan Contreras, a community organizer for the Queens Housing Coalition, said they were expecting to hear more recommendations from the commissioners in regards to the affordable housing portion of the redevelopment project.

“Maybe they don’t care about what is going on in the Borough,” Contreras said. “We still have no legal guarantee and only hear verbal agreements about affordable housing.”

Aside from the lack of affordable housing portion of the redevelopment plan, de la Uz also criticized the “questionable and weak” attempts to relocate more than 100 minorityowned small businesses.

Marco Neira, the president of the Sunrise Co-Op, said the rent payouts provided by the additional $3 million fund put in place by the Economic Development Corp. is not nearly enough to survive.

“They say they will pay for relocation and our rent costs for up to a year, but it is still not enough,” Neira said.

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall approved the project in its

roger Federer prepares for a return during his first round match against Grega Zemlja on aug. 27. Federer won in three sets. The u.s. Open continues through sept. 9.

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Best Of Queens 2013 Old Country Bagel 162-26A Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach Amy Marino, Ozone Park Bakery Violet’s Bake Shop 189-9 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens Greenwood Quality Bakery 111-2 Liberty Ave., South Richmond Hill Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven Sugar Bun Bake Shop 156-22 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach Amy Marino, Ozone Park Bar Sly Fox Inn 177-23 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside

Iguanas Mexican Grill & Cantina 179-11 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows Angel DeMonte, Long Island City Breakfast Ivan’s Coffee Shop 93-27 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven Burgers Bell Diner 215-25 73rd Ave., Oakland Gardens Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside Butcher A to Z Kosher Supermarket 186-05 Union Tpke, Fresh Meadows Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens

Photo by Ira Cohen

Food & Dining Bagels Bagel Oasis 183-12 Horace Harding Expy, Fresh Meadows Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside

City Rib in Jamaica.

Coffee Shop Bell Diner 215-25 73rd Ave., Oakland Gardens Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside

Manor Delicatessen 94-12 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven

Ivan’s Coffee Shop 93-27 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven

Ragtime Gourmet Marketplace 157-48 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach Amy Marino, Ozone Park

Ben’s Best Kosher Delicatessen 96-40 Queens Blvd., Rego Park Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens

Diner Bell Diner 215-25 73rd Ave., Oakland Gardens Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens Avenue Diner 91-06 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven Cross Bay Diner 160-31 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach Walter Pinkman, Ozone Park Esquire Diner 105-45 Cross Bay Blvd., Ozone Park Amy Marino, Ozone Park Pizza DeAleo’s 90-10 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven Sally Scognamiglio, Woodhaven Sofia’s Pizza 112-15 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park Walter Pinkman, Ozone Park Aldo’s Pizza 137-01 Cross Bay Blvd., Ozone Park Amy Marino, Ozone Park Seafood Lenny’s Clam Bar 161-03 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach Amy Marino, Ozone Park Steak London Lennie’s 63-88 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park

Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside Joe Marziano, Astoria City Rib 89-04 Parsons Blvd., Jamaica Walter Pinkman, Ozone Park Ethnic Food Asian Wah Hing Kitchen 73-12 Bell Blvd., Oakland Gardens Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside Annie Chan’s 190-11 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens King Yum 181-08 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows Gene Mancuso, Flushing B. Riordan Indian Usha Foods 255-03 Hillside Ave., Glen Oaks Angel DeMonte, LIC Haveli 116-29 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens Italian Anthony’s Italian Restaurant 222-02 Union Turnpike, Oakland Gardens Emily Hoffenberg, Bayside Conti’s Ristorante 249-11 Northern Blvd., Little Neck Mark Koppelman, Oakland Gardens Il Baco 253-24 Northern Blvd., Little Neck Henry Simmons, Astoria Aldo’s Pizza 137-01 Cross Bay Blvd., Ozone Park Amy Marino, Ozone Park

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

PUT CARE ON YOUR CALENDAR IN SEPTEMBER Every month you’ll find new programs to help you stay healthy, get well and live better.

All classes are FREE and open to the public.

Come join us at EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care and together we can make our community a healthier and happier place.

206-20 Linden Blvd.

Cambria Heights

4

Wednesday

5

Thursday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Dining Diversity Nutrition Class 10:30–11:30 am

6

Friday

EHNC Community Partnership 9:30–11:00 am

©EmblemHealth Inc. 2013, All Rights Reserved.

7

Saturday

Healthy Living With Diabetes 10:30 am–1:00 pm Summer Fitness Workout 5:00–6:00 pm

9

Monday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon–1:00 pm National Alliance on Mental Illness - NEW 5:30–7:00 pm

11

Wednesday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am

12

Thursday

14

Saturday

Meditation 2:00–3:00 pm

Summer Fitness Workout 5:00–6:00 pm

16

Monday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon–1:00 pm National Alliance on Mental Illness - NEW 5:30–7:00 pm

18

Wednesday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am

19

Thursday

Cell Phone Literacy for Older Adults 10:30–11:30 am Dining Diversity Nutrition Class 6:00–7:00 pm

20

Friday

Come Talk to Greg: One on One Support for Caregivers Call for appointment

11:00 am–4:00 pm

21

Saturday

Relaxing Massage - NEW 2:00–3:00 pm Summer Fitness Workout 5:00–6:00 pm

23

Monday

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 www.EHNC.com Noon–1:00 pm National Alliance on Mental Illness - NEW 5:30–7:00 pm

24

Tuesday

25

Wednesday

26

Thursday

28

Saturday

30

Monday

Stork Nest Prenatal Program - NEW 5:45–7:00 pm Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Managing Your Blood Pressure Medication 12:00 Noon–1:00 pm Medicare 101 10:30–11:30 am *A sales person will be present with information and applications.

For accommodation of persons with special needs at sales meetings call 1-800-447-9169, daily from 8 am–8 pm. For the hearing and speech impaired, call TTY# 711, daily from 8 am–8 pm.

Caregivers Support Group 2:00–3:30 pm Stork Nest Prenatal Program - NEW 5:45–7:00 pm Summer Fitness Workout 5:00–6:00 pm Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon–1:00 pm National Alliance on Mental Illness - NEW 5:30–7:00 pm

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

HIP and GHI are EmblemHealth companies. Y0026_123535 Approved 5/29/2013 Group Health Incorporated (GHI), GHI HMO Select, Inc. (GHI HMO), HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP), HIP Insurance Company of New York and EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC are EmblemHealth companies.

EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC provides administrative services to the EmblemHealth companies.

For more information and to RSVP visit us at ehnc.com or call 1-866-539-0999

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

A&E

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Last weekend, NBA point guard Royal Ivey returned to his hometown in Hollis to re-launch his annual threeday summer workshop, the “Defending Your Dream” skills clinic.

For six years, the NBA star and his parents, Rod and Jennifer Ivey, have been giving back to the community with the clinic that not only helps kids perfect their basketball skills, but also stresses the importance of education, respect, discipline and teamwork.

In addition to playing in competitions and running drills, the children, ages 8-14, have access to a number of workshops like character building and career guidance, nutrition counseling and financial literacy.

“I wanted to do something that catered to life skills and basketball,” said Ivey, who played for the Philadelphia 76ers last season. “Life is not just about basketball – there are

other things. It’s about the essentials like nutrition, eating right and educating the kids.”

Ivey, who grew up in Hollis and attended Benjamin Cardozo High School in Bayside, said that when he was younger, there were not a lot of workshops like this available in his community. This is why, he said, he was motivated to start the free clinic at the Hollis Playground.

“There are no outlets [in Southeast Queens] for our kids in the summertime to go out there and enjoy themselves and to learn and have fun,” he said. “This is the way that I can give back. Just putting the smiles on the kids’ face – I have fun with it and that puts joy in my heart.”

Michael Harvey, an 11-year-old Hollis boy, is just one of many children who return to the clinic year after year to brush up on his basketball and life skills.

“I joined this program because it’s

NYHQ Commmunity Art Garden Growing

BY JOE MARVILLI

Photo by Joe Marvilli

display are Nicole Manfield, in-patient physical therapy supervisor, and Anita While visiting a hospital can be a Liu-Chen, administrative director for foreboding experience, New York Hos- rehab. pital Queens is using art to brighten up “The rehab department decided to their patients’ days. do this as a team-building exercise. Half The hospital held a reception on our department is new so it was a great Aug. 21 to celebrate the completion way for us to get to know each other betof the first phase of its ter,” Manfield said. “It’s Community Art Garden. wonderful that it’s now Around 75 pieces of arthanging up on the hallwork line one wall in the way, so a lot of patients radiology corridor, offerand other employees ing inspirational paintings stop by to look.” for patients and employees “I actually did it with to enjoy. Given its success my three-year-old son with patients, NYHQ is at home. It was a lot starting phase two, giving Artwork from patients, em- of fun,” Liu-Chen said. more artists the chance to ployees and members of the “Patients love it. It’s show their creativity. community have brightened uplifting, it’s inspiraDuring the reception, up the walls of NYHQ. tional, it gives them blank 12-inch-by-12some positive feeling inch canvases were given while coming to a hosout to all who wanted them, whether pital setting.” they were hospital workers or just Liu-Chen added that the departpeople wandering in for other reasons. ment is thinking about having patients When finished, the pieces captured paint a canvas as part of their physical certain themes, including healing, rehab sessions. compassion, health, wellness, diversity, Anyone who wants a chance to paint community and Queens. The art has can grab a canvas at the Department been a big hit with all who have seen of Volunteer Services office, Monday it so far. through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“Patients, employees, visitors, they’ve The paintings and a signed release form all been in awe. They’ve all stopped and must be submitted by Sept. 30. For more commented,” Kerry McHale, public information, call (718) 670-1125 or visit affairs and marketing coordinator at www.nyhq.org/call-for-artists.

NYHQ, said. “The response has been Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) overwhelmingly positive.”

357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenAmong the artists whose work is on stribune.com.

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

NBA Guard Royal Ivey Returns to Hollis

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith talks to a crowd of kids at Royal Ivey’s annual skills clinic.

great and it teaches me many skills, like the fundamentals of the game,” Harvey said. “The reason why I like this game is because it makes me more active and more focused.”

In addition to running drills and playing with Ivey this past weekend, the kids got another surprise– a special visit from ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith and Chicago Bulls center Nazr Mohammed.

Smith, who also grew up in Hollis,

similarly stressed the importance of having programs like this available for kids, like Harvey, in his community.

“I think we need more for the kids to do. The more they are doing other things, the less they are off the streets,” Smith explained. “Things like this encourage volunteers and people to give up their time and effort to really talk to these kids and have an impact in their lives. Those are the kinds of things that saved me.

I was part of a program like this.”

“There are so many kids out there that don’t have a family encouraging them – they are in the streets and they are not doing the things they are supposed to do,” he added. “When you see something like this, you realize there is hope for our younger generation and that we have to be the ones to help.”

To learn more about the Royal Skills Basketball Clinic, visit www. royaliveybasketballcamp.com.

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

Badminton Booming At College Point Court

BY JOE MARVILLI If you head over to 119th Street in College Point, you would find what looks like the offices and warehouses of the JAD Corporation. However, behind one of these doors lie not boxes, machines or equipment.

Instead, you will find the College Point Badminton Court.

The court, found at 20-24 119th St., came into existence due to the interest of JAD CEO and president Joseph Dussich, an empty warehouse with the right dimensions and a growing fan base in Queens for the sport.

College Point Badminton Court has been open for four years. In that time, it has added more than 1,000 members, according to one of the owners, Kevin Ng. He attributed this success to the organization’s three tournaments each year, their open courts available for rental and badminton’s growing influence among the Asian population.

“We have members from New Jersey, from Connecticut. We even have people from Virginia, because of our reputation,” Ng said. “Right now, in America, new immigrants from the Asian countries really love this sport and we try to promote it.”

Dussich had an open warehouse that was not in use as part of JAD’s manufacturing. While visiting San Francisco, he became intrigued by a badminton court with which one of his friends was involved. He said he also felt the popularity of the sport was booming in the Asian community, partially due to China winning the Gold Medal in badminton in the 2008 and 2012 Olympics.

The biggest challenge when trying to create a badminton court is having a space big enough in height and width with no obstructions, like columns, in the middle. Luckily for Dussich, his available warehouse fit federation regulations.

“I spoke with the owners of the business and I liked what they had to say. They were community-minded. I’m very community-minded,” he said.

With many kids in College Point and Flushing just a bus ride away, the court’s success has been good for the surrounding neighborhoods as well.

“It’s a great community activity,” Dussich said. “It keeps you in good shape, keeps you off the streets and it’s very competitive.”

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

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Faith

Church Embraces American And Caribbean Culture On Saturday, Sept. 7, the Springfield Gardens Church of the Nazarene will hold its annual “Caribbean-American Cultural Evening,” featuring live music, a fashion show and plenty of different ethnic foods.

The event, which has been a tradition for 16 years, first grew out of necessity for the congregants who were struggling financially.

“Because of this, the church would periodically have to put out a lot of money and sometimes, the church did not have the money to put out,” explained Pastor Leroy Pascall. “So we decided to do a fundraiser, but we wanted to do something that would involve the entire congregation.”

So the idea for a Caribbeanthemed evening was born.

“When you are raising funds, you need to do it in such a way that represents us and people in the community,” Pascall said. “We looked into the culture of all of the countries that is representative of the church.”

There will be a number of activi-

ties available for children “We want to make sure and adults. Attendees the community is conwill get a chance to watch nected,” he added. “Half of a fashion show and live what makes a community musical performances of is that relationship. When different musical genres. the relationship breaks It has proven to be very down, everything in that successful in the past community breaks down, with more than 600 atso what you want to do is tendees at last year’s work on that relationship to event. a healthy place.”

But perhaps the most The Caribbean-Ameriexciting part of the evecan Cultural Evening will ning, Pascall said, is the be held at the Birch Early wide range of food availChildhood Center, across able from different coun- Last year, more than 600 people came out to the Caribbean- the street from the SpringAmerican Cultural Evening hosted by the Springfield Gar- field Gardens Church of tries.

“We will have food dens Church of the Nazarene. the Nazarene, from 3-8 p.m. from Panama, El SalThe Birch School is located vador, Trinidad and Toat 145-02 Farmers Blvd., Jabago, from Guyana, from Barbados, nity and bring different cultures to- maica.

Antigua and we have food from Ja- gether.

Tickets to the event are $20 for “That’s what we want to do – keep adults and $10 for children. For maica – practically every Caribbean country,” he said. “But we are also everybody under one roof,” the Pas- more information about the event, going to have food from America, tor said. “It is very cultural, very call the church at (718) 528-0983 or from down South, because many of relaxing and they [the congregants] visit www.springfieldnaz.org. can get to know each other all while our congregants are from there.”

Reach Reporter Natalia KozikowsThe idea, Pascall said, is to cel- having the same opportunity to ex- ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or ebrate diversity within the commu- press their cultural heritage.” nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

Photo courtesy of www.springfieldnaz.org.

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Notebook qshso

QSHSO Students Learn Computer Science For the last eight months, Queens Satellite High School for Opportunity in Jamaica has been working with the training program Coding4Success to equip select students with foundational knowledge in computer science and expose them to career opportunities in the industry.

Beyond the initiative focused on science, technology, engineering and mathematics, the partnership aims to help students in Southeast Queens identify new, potentially uncovered passions in computer science and coding. More than 25 students from QSHSO have enrolled in the spring and summer sessions.

Many of the participants had very little knowledge of what the computer science field was like before the workshops, but upon graduation, many students exhibited an interest in pursuing knowledge.

The modules, which are delivered over the course of six to eight weeks, provided QSHSO students with a hands-on lesson and learning

plan that has them writing changing the situation, one and understanding code high school at a time.” on day one. By the end of Given Coding4Success’ the program, each of them mission to help students in has built their own web underserved communities, page and robots using cirQueens Satellite High School cuit boards. for Opportunity was an obviThe program is being ous choice. taught by volunteers from QSHSO is a revitalized, tech-based businesses and ‘second chance’ transfer Hunter College students. school that provides a rigorParticipants also have ous and enriched educational access to state-of-the-art opportunity for over-aged stuequipment at Google, With the helping of Coding4Success, students at Queens dents obtain their high school since technology at the Satellite High School for Opportunity learn about com- diploma, gain work and life high school is limited. puter science for free. experience, as well as prepare Both Google and Teach for college. for America have been inQueens Satellite High strumental in making the program a in a press release. “We wanted to get School for Opportunity is located at success by providing the computers, at the problem at its root – there is 162-02 Hillside Ave., Jamaica. For not enough awareness about careers more information about the school, work stations and resources.

Coding4Success was started by a in computer science – particularly at visit www.qshso.org. team of young techies interested in underserved schools with minority For more information about Codseeing a blossoming developer and students.” ing4Success, visit www.Coding4Suc“This perpetuates inequities in cess.org. tech community in New York City.

“Simply put, we did not see enough education as well,” the release read.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowsstudents going into college to study “We’ve been seeing the lack of com- ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or computer science despite the huge puter science across all these expe- nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ need for such skills,” the group said riences but feel empowered to start nkozikowska Photo provided by Kristy Nguyen.

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

DEMOCRAT FOR CITY COUNCIL

Let’s do this!

Let’s make New York City Council District 27 the best it’s ever been.

To volunteer, visit http://www.gregmays2013.com/volunteer or contact volunteer coordinator Lourdes December at (917) 710-6991 or lourdes@gregmays2013.com.

927( ,1 7+( '(02&5$7,& 35,0$5< Â&#x2021; 78(6'$< 6(37(0%(5 7+

*5(*­6 %,2*5$3+< Born at Jamaica Hospital to educators Fred and Luby Mays, Greg Mays was raised in St. Albans with his four brothers â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jeffrey, Peddy, Bobby and Michael. Greg graduated from P.S. 15, I.S. 59, Bayside High School, Howard University (BBA) and Harvard Business School (MBA).

WHAT GREG HAS DONE )RU WKH ODVW VL[ \HDUV *UHJ KDV UXQ WKH QRQ SUR´W WKDW KH VWDUWHG LQ -DQXDU\ $ %HWWHU -DPDLFD DEHWWHUMDPDLFD RUJ

Jamaica311

http://www.jamaica311.com/

Jamaica311 Home & Events Hurricane Sandy Resources Subscribe to Jamaica311

Welcome to Jamaica311! We're to Jamaica, what 311 is to New York City.

Jamaica311's home page will always feature events taking place here in Jamaica.

Things change frequently, so it is a good idea to visit this page as often as possible to stay up to date. Alternatively, give us your e-mail address -- click on the "Subscribe to Jamaica311" button in the navigation bar to the left -- and we'll send you a bi-weekly e-mail that features links to upcoming events.

Youth Sports Organizations

Easy Event Registration

Local Media Contacts

Attract Attendees & Sell Out Your Event Using Eventbrite. Learn More!

Eventbrite.com

City/State/National Youth Programs Community Resources Venues Available for Rent Public Safety and Security

ABJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Family Movies in the Park provides an inexpensive means by which family and community ties are renewed.

ABJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jamaica Reads deploys senior citizens to work with 1st graders struggling with their reading skills.

Youth Development Organizations

Upcoming Neighborhood Events: It is always a good idea to call to confirm all of the information in the listed activities!

Networking Networking is the development of professional relationships, and in todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s competitive market is one of the best ways to find a job. Through networking, you can exchange information with others about job opportunities, interesting organizations and up-andcoming industries. This workshop teaches the basics of networking and how to improve your job-search techniques. For more information, please call 718-990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center. Class code JR190 When: Friday, July 19th - 10:00 am Where: Queens Library - Central Branch - 89-11 Merrick Boulevard (between Jamaica and Hillside Avenues) How Much: Free

ABJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jamaica311.com is a website and accompanying e-blast that features community activities.

Political Clubs Non-Profit

Education Services Houses of Worship Schools

Senior Resources

Business Resources Employment Resources

Open MIC Night!

ABJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jamaica Ball is a collective fundraiser for more WKDQ ORFDO QRQ SUR´WV

Be there when Distinguish! hosts an open MIC night at the Afrikan Poetry Theatre.

When: Friday, July 19th - 7:00 pm Where: Afrikan Poetry Theatre - 176-03 Jamaica Avenue How Much: $7

B.Y.O.B.B. to a Fundraiser for Manny Caughman

Health Resources

Greg is a past President of the Addisleigh Park Civic Organization (APCO).

Rita Williams and Company are hosting a B.Y.O.B.B. fundraiser for Manny Caughman's District 27 New York City Council run. For tickets and info please contact: Rita Williams at (917) 576-7436 or wbionicwoman@aol.com; Clinton Long at (917) 655-1586 or qnssuboa1@aol.com; or Friends of Manny Committee at (718) 809-6354 or (718) 581-9328. If you can't attend, then please make a contribution to: "Friends of

$V &KDLU RI &% ­V 3DUNV &RPPLWWHH *UHJ LV DGYRFDWLQJ IRU a skatepark and more year-round facilities.

Cultural Institutions

Hobbyists/Enthusiasts Housing Resources

1 of 37

Protecting the VA Hospital site as APCO President.

Three administrations of APCO leadership.

7/21/13 5:41 PM

Tree planting with the Justice Community Program.

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s My Park Day at a local community garden.

WHAT GREG WILL DO Education

Community Safety & Security

Senior Citizens / Housing

â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Early Literacy Efforts â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Middle School Arts Offering â&#x20AC;˘ Expand High School College/Career Guidance

â&#x20AC;˘ End Stop and Frisk â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Community Policing â&#x20AC;˘ Address Flooding Issues â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Beacon Program Sites

â&#x20AC;˘ Protect Senior Centers â&#x20AC;˘ Help Prevent Foreclosures â&#x20AC;˘ Encourage the Growth of Affordable Housing

Economic Development

1RQ 3UR´W +HDOWK

Health and Wellness

â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Entrepreneurship Training â&#x20AC;˘ Provide Training and Job Support for Court Involved Youth and Adults â&#x20AC;˘ Fight for Fair Wages

Â&#x2021; +LUH $ 1RQ 3UR´W 6SHFLDOLVW WR $VVLVW /RFDO 1RQ SUR´WV â&#x20AC;˘ Expand Support for Libraries Â&#x2021; +HOS 1RQ 3UR´WV 6HFXUH )XQGLQJ

â&#x20AC;˘ Expand HIV/AIDS Awareness â&#x20AC;˘ Promote Healthy Living and Eating â&#x20AC;˘ Provide Activity Vouchers for Kids in Financially Challenged Families

SEE THE EVIDENCE OF GREGâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S SERVICE AT GREGMAYS2013.COM/VIDEOS PAID FOR BY GREG MAYS 2013

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Profile

Mocha Moms: Giving Support To Moms Of Color After she gave birth at the age of 40, Karen Taylor Bass struggled.

“I had taken a break from corporate America and was going through post-partum depression,” Taylor Bass said. “I was going to therapy and trying different things to make me feel better.”

In her search for balance in her life, Taylor Bass’ husband suggested she attend a support group he stumbled upon while browsing online – Mocha Moms.

“I went to the support group and it helped with everything. It helped me cope and change and really overcome post-partum,” she said. “I began to realize that there were so many like-minded moms who had gone through similar things.”

Today, Taylor Bass is co-president of the same local chapter that helped her overcome many of the challenges that come with being a new mother.

Mocha Moms is a nonprofit organization with 53 chapters across the nation, with its Queens chapter in Cambria Heights. The group aims to

Photo provided by Karen Taylor Bass

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

of programs, including workshops that teach new moms to breastfeed, workshops that work on preserving marriages and post-partum depression support groups. Mothers are allowed to bring their children, and for the duration of the meetings, volunteers take care of them Members of the Queens Mocha Moms chapter cel- nearby.

The Cambria Heights ebrate at the Annual Black Marriage Gala. chapter, which just celebrated 11 years earlier empower mothers of color, much like this month, places a lot of imporTaylor Bass, who have chosen not to tance on issues that are relevant to work full-time outside of the home the Southeast Queens community. in order to devote more time to their Most recently, the Mocha Moms families.

Queens chapter hosted a tele-semi“Motherhood is not easy,” Taylor nar/podcast on the Common Core Bass said. “The biggest challenge I exam and education. see is that moms want time off and “We had so many parents, ina break. Sometimes, all the moms cluding myself, that were just trying want to do is talk about their week or to understand Common Core and have a glass of wine – it’s really that what we needed to know about the simple. It’s being able to take off that curriculum,” Taylor Bass said. “As cape for two hours and just be who a group, we decided to have this you were prior to children.” podcast and we couldn’t believe Mocha Moms offers a range the traction. Moms from Detroit to

New York were thanking us.”

Other signature programs of the Queens chapter include: “Mom’s Night Out,” the “Annual Black Marriage Gala,” the “Skating for a Cure” breast cancer fundraiser, the “Get Fit with Mommy and Me” yoga class and the “Annual Family Park Gathering.”

Mocha Moms Queens meets quarterly at the St. David’s Episcopal Church, located at 117-35 235th St., Cambria Heights. Prospective members are welcome to attend a membership meeting on Saturday, Sept. 21, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. There is a yearly $50 membership fee.

Mocha Moms does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethnicity, sex, socio-economic level, education or religion. All are welcome to join.

To learn more about Mocha Moms and its services, visit www.

MochaMomsQueens.org or email mochamomsqueens@yahoo.com.

You may also visit their national website at www.mochamoms.org.

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

People Vishnick McGovern Milizio LLP recently announced that Constantina Papageorgiou has joined the firm as an associate in the estate and trust area. Papageorgiou received her juris doctor degree from St. John’s University in 2011.

Nicki Choffel of Bellerose has been named a member of the 2013 Hofstra women’s soccer team. Choffel is a senior midfielder.

Army Reserve Pvt. Aziza A. Galloway has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises.

Galloway is the daughter of Andrea Harrison of Laurelton.

Ashlei Alexander of Springfield Gardens received a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism during summer 2013 commencement ceremonies at Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, N.C. Army Cadet Paul A. Welch has graduated from the Army ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) Leader’s Training Course at Fort Knox, Ky. The four-week course is a leadership internship for cadets that can lead to the ultimate goal of becoming an Army officer. College students experience and examine the Army without incurring an obligation to serve in the Army or ROTC, and are eligible to receive two-year college scholarship offers and attend the Advanced ROTC Course at their college.

Welch is the son of Margaret Whyte of St. Albans.

Army Cadet Caleb Jean has graduated from the Army ROTC (Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) Leader’s Training Course at Fort Knox, Ky. Jean is the son of Marie A. and Marie S. Jean of Rosedale and is a

2009 graduate of Math, Science, Research and Technology in Cambria Heights.

Local students have enrolled in SUNY Oneonta for the fall 2013 semester and have recently begun their studies at the school. They include:

Hollis: Alexandra Windland.

Queens Village: Christian Ovalle, Kharina Rivera.

Rockaway Park: Alexander Kaufman.

Springfield Gardens: Osamede Osagie.

St. Albans: Adia Watts.

Talking Issues

Councilman Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gardens) recently met with a group of student interns from Korean American Civic Empowerment to discuss community and legislative issues affecting the council district.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

Queens Today YoUtH

Section editor: reGinA VoGeL

Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!

tALKS SALArY neGotiAtion Friday, September 6 Central library at 10.

PArentS BAcK to ScHooL Saturday, August 31 10-1 at 98th Place and 57th Avenue, Corona. Backpacks, supplies, entertainment, face painting and more.

Rain location St. Pauls, 98-16 55 th Avenue. 2053881.

teenS SAt PrActice Saturday, August 31 Ridgewood library. Register. tUtorinG Saturday, August 31 Bayside library at 10. cHeSS cLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2.

YU-Gi-oH tu e s d ay, S e p te m b e r 3 Flushing library. Register.

ScrABBLe cLUB thursdays, September 3 through october 15 East Flushing library at 3:30. needLeWorK cLUB tuesdays, September 3 through october 15 Bayside library at 4.

Knit & crocHet cLUB tuesdays, September 3, 17, october 1, 15 Steinway library at 5. oPen Mic thursday, September 5 Flushing library at 6:30.

AcQc SUPPort Wednesdays Teen Peer Support Group for those to u c h e d by H I V / A I D S .

Ages 14-16. 896-2500. coUnSeLinG Call 592-5757 free counseling at the Forest Hills Community House.

VAc YoUtH SQUAd The Glen Oaks Volunteer Ambulance Corps is looking for new members 1418. 347-1637.

QUeenS LiBrArieS M a ny b ra n c h e s o f t h e Queensborough Library offer toddler and pre-school programs and more. Contact local branches. tUtorinG Saturday, August 31 Bayside library at 10.

LeArn to GroW Saturdays, August 31, September 7, 14, 21, 28 Steinway library at 3:45.

BAcK to ScHooL Saturday, August 31 10-1 at 98th Place and 57th Avenue, Corona. Backpacks, supplies, entertainment, face painting and more.

Rain location St. Paul’s, 9816 55th Avenue. 205-3881. cHeSS cLUB Saturdays at the Flushing library at 2.

LeArn to GroW Mondays, September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 LIC library at 2 and Astoria library at 3:30.

ArtS & crAFtS tuesdays at the North Hills library at 2:15. nAtUre KidS tuesdays Sunnyside library at 3:00 and Woodside library at 4:15.

LeArn to GroW Wednesdays, September

eXHiBit QUeenS HiStoricAL tuesdays, Saturdays and Sundays Queens Historical Society at Kingsland Homestead, 144-35 37th Avenue, Flushing. 939-0647, ext. 17. $2 seniors and students, $3 adults.

BAYSide HiStoricAL tuesday-Sunday Bayside Historical Societ y, 3521548. 11-4. $3 donation.

LoUiS ArMStronG Guided tours at the Corona museum. $8 adults, $6 seniors, students, groups.

478-8274.

AntHroPoLoGY The Anthropology Museum of the People of New York and the Armenian Cultural Educational Resource Center Gallery at Queens College. 428-5650.

Li ArcHiVeS L aGuardia and Wagner Archives display various exhibits exploring the history of NYC. LaGuardia Community College. 4825709. Free.

ALLeY Pond ctr Variet y of exhibits and a chance to see nature upclose in the mini-zoo and aquarium. 229-4000.

KinG MAnor Pre-Hampton 19th century get-away Village, Jamaica Village, at King Manor Museum, in the middle of King Park. $2 adults, $1 children. By appointment only. 206-0545.

entertAinMent

4, 11, 18, 25 Steinway library at 3:45 and Broadway library at 5:15. crAFt tiMe thursday, September 5 Howard Beach library at 3:30. crAFt tiMe Fridays Ozone Park library at 3.

ArtS & crAFtS Fridays Briarwood library at 4. East Flushing Register.

Ozone Park at 3.

GAMe dAY Fridays Windsor Park at 4. cHeSS cLUB Fridays Auburndale library at 3:30 and Windsor Park library. Register.

SeniorS onGoinG eVentS SoUtH ASiAn Alternate Saturdays Selfhelp BR-PS Senior Center in Flushing. Indian-style activities, lunch. 886-5777. dUPLicAte BridGe Mondays Lunch, lesson and congenial play. Pride of Judea. 423-6200.

StAY WeLL Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst library. Learn how special exercise and relaxation techniques make a difference in your life. cAreGiVerS tuesdays Caregivers Support group at 3:30-4:30 Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 26 th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886.

Men’S cLUB We d n e s d ay s 1 0 - n o o n Men’s club for those over 65 at the Central Queens Y in Forest Hills. 423-0732.

BAYSide SeniorS Movies, health presentations, Zumba, chair yoga, W i i b ow l i n g , st ro l l e r s , line dancing, duplicate bridge, Senior Sing, duplicate Bridge, low-impact aerobics, tai chi, basic computer, advanced computer, social dancing and more.

CCNS Bayside Senior Center, 221-15 Horace Harding Expressway, Bayside.

225-1144.

dAnce iSrAeLi FoLK Mondays 7:15-9:45 at Hillcrest Jewish Center, 182-02 Union Turnpike. $10 session. 380-4145.

Line dAncinG M o n d ay s 6 : 3 0 - 9 : 3 0 a t Kowalinski Post 4, 61-57 Maspeth Avenue. $7. Cake and coffee. 565-2259. coUntrY Line Wednesdays 7-10 at the STARS Building, 8 Coleman Square, Howard Beach. $10.

PLAY 4 AUtiSM Sunday, August 31 day of fun, awareness, food, games and more at St. Margaret’s Church, 66-05 79 th Place, Middle Village 11-4. 894-3400.

SinG ALonG tu e s d ay, S e p te m b e r 3 Queens Village library at 2.

BinGo tuesdays 7:15 American Martyrs Church in Bayside.

464-4582. tuesdays 7:15 (doors open 6) Rego Park Jewish Center. 459-1000. $3 admission includes 12 games.

HeALtH PLAY 4 AUtiSM Sunday, August 31 day of fun, awareness, food, games and more at St. Margaret’s Church, 66-05 79th Place, Middle Village 11-4. 894-3400.

YoGA Saturdays through September 8 9:30-10:30 and 11-12 and Sundays 10-11.

Socrates Sculpture, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC. tAi cHi Sundays through September 9 11-12 at Socrates Sculpture, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC. MetAStAtic BreASt Mondays 1:30-3:00 at Adelphi School of Social Work. 516-877-4314.

YoUnG BreASt Mondays young women with breast cancer meet 7-8:30 at Adelphi School of Social Work. 516-8774314.

YoGA StretcH tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24 Richmond Hill library at 5:30.

PiLAteS tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24 Queens Village library at 5:45. tAi cHi Wednesdays, September 4, 11, 18 McGoldrick library.

Register.

GentLe YoGA Wednesdays, September 4, 11 Woodside library.

Register.

SHAPe UP nYc Fridays, September 6, 13, 20, 27 Briarwood library at 11:30. dAnce FitneSS Fridays, September 6, 13, 20, 27 Richmond Hill library at 5:30.

SUPPort GroUPS AA tuesdays at 8 at Grace Lutheran Church in Astoria.

520-5021. Also, 520-5021 24 hours, 7 days a week.

AL-Anon 457-1511. nAr-Anon 1-800-984-0066.

ScrABBLe tuesdays Fresh Meadows library at 2 and East Flushing library at 3:30.

SonGS oF itALY Wednesday, September 4 Flushing library at 6. oPen Mic thursday, September 5 Flushing library at 6:30.

SinAtrA Friday, September 6 Sunnyside library at 2.

LoUiS ArMStronG

Friday, September 6 East Elmhurst library at 7.

GAMe dAY Fridays 4:30 Woodhaven library.

GAMe PLAYerS cLUB Fridays 2 Hillcrest library.

LocAL oPerA Saturday, September 7 Flushing library at 1:30.

AMericAn MUSic S a t u r d ay, S e p te m b e r 7 Forest Hills library at 2:30.

MeetinGS cAndidAteS ForUM tu e s d ay, S e p te m b e r 3 NA ACP Jamaica branch will hold a Candidates Forum at Majorit y Baptist Church, 115-21 Farmers Blvd., Jamaica at 7.

Knit & crocHet tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24 Windsor Park library at 2. needLeWorK cLUB tuesdays,. September 3, 10, 17, 24 Bayside library at 4.

Knit & crocHet tuesdays, September 3, 17 Steinway library at 5.

ScrABBLe cLUB tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24 Bellerose library at 5:30. cHeSS cLUB tuesdays Windsor Park library at 5:30.

BereAVeMent Wednesdays, September 4, october 2 Bereavement Support Group at Holy Family in Fresh Meadows at 7:30. 969-2448. onGoinG MeetinGS GArdeninG cLUB Saturdays in the Steinway library courtyard at 4. orAtorio SocietY Mondays at 7:45 at Temple Beth Sholom in Flushing.

279-3006. Auditions required. coMMUnitY SinGerS Mondays Community Singers start rehearsals for their spring concert at 8 at Messiah Lutheran in Flushing.

658-1021.

GLee cLUB tuesdays Bayside Men’s Glee Club rehearses at 7:30 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 214-35 40 th Avenue, Bayside. 961-6852.

ScrABBLe cLUB tuesdays at the East Flushing library at 3:30.

Men’S cLUB Soccer tuesday evenings Forest Hills Jewish Center 8-9:30.

263-7000.

FM cAMerA tuesdays Fresh Meadows Camera Club. 917-6123463.

FH SYMPHonY Wednesdays the Forest Hills Symphony Orchestra rehearses at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 516785-2532. eMotionS Anon.

Wednesdays 7:30 Victoria Congregational Church, 148 th Street and 87 th Avenue, Briarwood. Support group for a variety of troubling emotions.

edUcAtion/GAMeS/crAFtS JoB SeArcH Mondays free job search and computer help every Monday 11-2 at the Astoria library.

BridGe Mondays except holidays 12-4 at Pride of Judea in Douglaston. Lesson & play $10. Partners arranged.

423-6200.

AdULt cHeSS Mondays and thursdays Queens Village library at 5:30.

MicroSoFt eXceL tu e s d ay, S e p te m b e r 3 Arverne library. Register. coMPUter cLASS tuesdays, September 3, 10, 17, 24 Woodside library at 5:45.

JoB reAdineSS tuesdays, September 3, 10,

17, 24 Woodside library at 5:45.

Get YoUr YArnS oUt! tuesdays after evening Minyan at 8, at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 2637000, ext. 200.

MocK interVieWS Wednesdays, September 4, 11, 18, 25 Flushing library at 1:30.

BeGin coMPUterS Wednesdays, September 4, 25 Windsor Park library at 11:30.

WAtercoLor Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the National Art League.969-1128.

BeLLY dAncinG thursday, September 5 7:30 at the JCC, 10-31 J a c k s o n Av e n u e . 6 0 9 0066.

Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 21

What’s Up AUG. 31 Metrix Learning Metrix Learning is a self-directed online learning program offering multiple learning tracks in a single platform. In this free orientation session, you will learn about training through Metrix, including certifications in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks and Adobe. Register online, by phone at (718) 990-8625 or at the Job Information Center. The class code is CC230. The program is free and will begin at the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m.

Borrowing eBooks The library has many popular books available in an electronic format from its website. Bring your own Kindle, Nook, iPad or other e-reader along with your USB connecting cable to learn how to download free eBooks from the library. Register online, by phone at (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center. The class code is CC240. The free program will begin at 2 p.m. at Queens Central Library.

SEPT. 3 Small Business Workshop Learn how to take an idea and develop it into a business plan in Queens Library’s small business workshops.

For further information, please visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-0746. The class code is JR310. Registration is not required.

The free workshop will kick off at 7 p.m. at the Queens Central Library.

SEPT. 4 StartUP! Business Plan Competition The Queens Economic Development Corporation will begin its eighth annual Queens StartUP! Business Plan Competition at the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m.

The competition gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to strengthen their business knowledge, learn about business trends and gain insights into starting and growing a business, as well as offering an introduction to the resources available to them from Queens Library.

Resumes and Cover Letters Make your resume and cover letter the best they can be by learning about how to get started, the different types of resumes, what to include and not include and tips for making them stronger. The workshop takes place at 10 a.m. at Queens Central Library. For further information, please visit the Job Information Cen-

ter or call (718) 990-0746. The class code is JR130.

Beginners’ Sewing Circle for Women (in Bengali) Learn how to turn sewing into a career and earn money working for yourself. The free class will take place in the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m. Bring your friends.

Mock Interviews Mock interviews teach you how to prepare for an interview, successfully deal with difficult questions and follow up properly after the interview.

The mock interviews will take place on the main floor of the Queens Central Library, in the Job Information Center. Space is limited and appointments are made on the hour. The class code is JR180 and registration is required.

To register, call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center.

Movie Night Join the Queens Central Library for a free screening of the romantic comedy-drama movie, “Admission,” at 6 p.m. This adaptation of the novel by Jean Hanff Korelitz stars Tina Fey and Paul Rudd.

SEPT. 5 Introduction to Pinterest Pinterest is a new, vastly popular social media site that allows you to save images and links you find on the Internet, creating a virtual “pin board” of your interests. Learn about the next big thing in online sharing and marketing in this introductory workshop at the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m. Basic computer skills and knowledge of the Internet are required. Registration is required as well. You can register online, in person at the Job Information Center or by calling (718) 990-8625. The class code is CC130.

Codecademy Lab Codecademy is a free online platform for learning computer languages such as Python, HTML/CSS and Ruby. Use time provided in Codecademy Lab to practice coding and collaborate with other learners. The event will run from noon to 1 p.m. at the Queens Central Library. For more information, call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center.

You Have a Green Card; Get More!

If you have your green card, you might be ready to get the full benefits of citizenship, which will allow you to vote in your next local, state and

national elections as well as enjoy many other opportunities. This free event, which is in Spanish, will take place at the Queens Central Library from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.

SEPT. 6 Introduction to the Internet Learn the basics of the Internet, including how to search for and browse websites and how to navigate the Internet safely in the first session of this free two-part Internet class. Registration is required for the workshop. To register, please call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center, or do so online.

The class code is CC110. The course starts at 9:30 a.m. at the Queens Central Library.

Salary Negotiations Before you start negotiating with a prospective employer about salaries, you need to find out how much you and the job are worth. Learn how to negotiate in this free workshop at the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m.

For more information, call the Job Information Center at (718) 9900746. The class code is JR300.

Introduction to Computers In this workshop for beginners, learn essential computer terminology, how to use a mouse and touchpad, basic keyboarding skills and how to use folders, files and programs. No prior skills are necessary.

Registration is required and can be done by calling (718) 990-8625 or visiting the Job Information Center.

The class code is CC100. The class will take place at the Queens Central Library at 9:30 a.m.

SEPT. 15 Sickle Cell Community WalkA-Thon The Queens Sickle Cell Advocacy Network Inc., will present its Annual Sickle Cell Community Walk-A-Thon, where locals all come together to walk to help raise awareness and education for Sickle Cell Disease. Come and support this worthy cause because by walking together we can make a difference. To register, visit www.eventbrite. com/event/6873852879/efblike and check out their Facebook page – www. facebook.com/Qscan. For further information, contact Gloria Rochester at (718) 712-0873 or email her at sicklecellwalk@verizon.net.

Metrix Learning Metrix Learning is a self-directed online learning program offering multiple learning tracks in a single platform. In this free orientation session, you will learn about training through Metrix, including certifications in Microsoft Office, QuickBooks and Adobe. Register online, by phone at (718) 990-8625 or at the Job Information Center. The class code is CC230. The program is free and will begin at the Queens Central Library at 1 p.m.

ONGOING SUMMER PROGRAMS 9th Annual Jump and Ball Tourney

Open Lab

Early Exposure to Tennis Tryouts

During Open Lab at the Queens Central Library, you can search for a job, practice your computer skills or edit your resume. The free lab runs from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-8625.

SEPT. 7 Introduction to the Internet Learn the basics of the Internet, including how to search for and browse websites and how to navigate the Internet safely in the first session of this free two-part Internet class. Registration is required for the workshop. To register, please call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center, or do so online. The class code is CC110. The course starts at 2 p.m. at the Queens Central Library.

State Sen. Malcolm Smith (DJamaica) announced that he will be kicking off the 9th Annual Jump and Ball summer tournament. The event, a basketball and double-dutch tournament, will take place every weekend from Saturday, Aug. 3, through Sunday, Sept. 1.

Youth and Tennis Inc. will present their “Early Exposure to Tennis Program” for children ages 4-8. Tryout dates are on Aug. 17, Aug. 24 and Aug. 31 at 10 a.m. The tryouts will be held at the Roy Wilkins Tennis Courts located at the intersection of 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard.

Scholarships and partial scholarships will be available for the talented youth. For more information, call (718) 658-6728.

WHAT’S UP WITH YOU? Send your community events to the PRESS for a free listing at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357.

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

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

Q

Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 30 - Sept. 5, 2013

CONFIDENTIAL

Heroes and Villains

A mailer released by Melinda Katz’s Queens Borough President Campaign paints her opponent as right-wing super villain.

The flyer calls Councilman Peter Vallone Jr., “Conservative Man,” which is a play on a flyer sent out by the Vallone campaign, which portrayed himself as a superhero fighting for the future of the Borough.

The literature criticizes the Councilman for seeking out the Conservative Party support for his campaign, which Katz has attacked Vallone about prior to this mailer being sent out.

This QConf reporter wonders if either of these Vallone superheroes can get into the upcoming Justice League movie.

We can only imagine how they

Too bad there aren't any phone booths left in Queens... would look on the big screen with Ben Affleck, Henry Cavill and company.

school, "Trump University," calling the institution an "elaborate bait-and-switch" on unsuspecting students.

Trump, who received word of the suit over the weekend, called Schneiderman a hack, and questioned, "What government agency ... has ever brought a suit on a Saturday?"

Trump may want to focus less on timing and more on his school's curriculum...

Back on the Big Screen Looks like Martin Scorsese does not ‘depart’ far from what he’s good at.

This time, the Queens-born Academy Award-winning director is producing yet another mafia film starring, you guessed it – Robert De Niro. The new movie marks the ninth time the two have collaborated.

Tony Deyo

Shattered Dreams

Donald Trump At It Again Queens' richest son can't seem to keep himself away from controversy, which is probably just the way he likes it.

Business mogul and reality TV star Donald Trump has turned a potential legal battle into a war of words with the state Attorney General.

Earlier this week, reports indicated that AG Eric Schneiderman was suing Trump's investment

COMEDIANS OF QUEENS

"The Family," which hits theaters Set. 20, follows De Niro and his family, who has to enter the witness protection program after snitching to feds about all of his mobster crime buddies.

If this movie is anything like "Goodfellas" or "The Departed," the future of De Niro’s character is not looking too good…

Who knew the Mayor of New York dreamt of becoming a pianist?

While Mayor Michael Bloomberg’soffhandedremarks Bloomberg suggesting NYCHA residents should b e f i n g e rprinted upon entering their buildings caused an outburst of criticism, he kept a low profile while visiting a new workspace studio for performing and visual artists.

He watched a dance number by a modern dance troupe on Tuesday after the ribbon cutting ceremony of Spaceworks in Long Island City, where he recalled a story about trying to convince his parents to pay for piano lessons.

He promised his parents he would practice every day, but had no luck convincing them of his conviction. But maybe his dream may come true after his term comes to an end this year.

Here at QConf, we can’t help but wonder what could have been: imagine the “Piano Men” tour, Mikey Bloomberg and Billy Joel.

Billy was right. Sometimes a fantasy is all you need…

Oh, MTA...

Photo by Steven J. Ferrari

A number of straphangers headed for Flushing-Main Street on the 7 train Tuesday morning were forced to walk down Roosevelt Avenue when signal problems stopped all trains at Willets Point.

A number of walkers could see a 7 train (seen at left) stopped at the tunnel entrance by the Sky View Center.

Who knows, maybe this is all part of Mayor Bloomberg's initiative to get people to walk more instead of taking public transportation...

Comedy had always been an attractive medium to Tony Deyo, but he never knew how to get into it.

When he moved to Austin, Texas, though, he found the opportunity that would launch his career.

“I saw that there was a comedy class at the club there. I knew that if I was ever going to try, that was the time to do it,” he said. “The class got me on stage, which I think is always the biggest hurdle.”

From those days in a comedy class, the Virginia-born Deyo has quickly become a comedy favorite, having performed at the HBO Aspen Comedy Festival, on the Bob & Tom Radio Show and on SiriusXM Satellite Radio. His clean act, influenced by Jerry Seinfeld, has been a big hit with audiences.

After leaving Austin, Deyo moved to Greensboro, NC and then to Astoria, a neighborhood that he said has a thriving comedy community.

“In Astoria, I can throw a rock and hit two comedians' apartments,” he said.

“When you're surrounded by incredibly talented people, it really makes you want to work harder.”

That hard work paid off

when Deyo was selected to perform at the HBO Aspen Comedy Festival in 2007.

Being surrounded by about 50 comedians added some pressure for him to do well, but it mostly just increased his enjoyment of the experience.

“Festivals are a lot of fun because of the comedians you get to meet and hang out with,” Deyo said.

While Deyo has a ton of experience on the road and on the radio, he is about to embark on a new journey in his career: his first television appearance. Deyo will perform on CONAN on Sept.

9. He had been sending videos of his work out to late night shows for a couple of years before the TBS talk show chose him.

“I started by sending a nine-minute video, and from that, he picked the jokes he thought would work well on the show,” Deyo said. I recorded just those jokes again in Philadelphia. He liked the set, and then it was just a matter of finding a date.”

Deyo will also be appearing at the Laughing Devil Comedy Club on Sept. 19 at 8 p.m. For more information, visit www.tonydeyo.com.

Who's Got Talent Got Talent? Talented individuals of all kinds should email editor@queenstribune.com to be featured in a future edition of QConfidential.

QConf is edited by: Steven J. Ferrari Contributors: Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Trisha Sakhuja, Michael Schenkler.

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