Volume 13 Issue No. 41 Oct. 12-18, 2012
PAGE 18
JFK RUNWAY EXPANSION:
PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen
SPARKS FLY
Southeast Queens residents express concern over plans to extend a runway at John F. Kennedy International Airport. By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 8.
Online at www.QueensPress.com
News Briefs 14-Year-Old Forced Into Prostitution In South Ozone Park
Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
Two 21-year-old men have pleaded guilty to sex trafficking for forcing a 14year-old girl to work as a prostitute in South Ozone Park, according to a press release from Queens District Attorney Richard A. Brown. According to the statement, on April 19, the victim met with defendant Evan Harrington and took her to a residence located at 135-38 123rd Street, where she met defendant Shaquan Gould. The two allegedly told the victim to engage in prostitution acts at the residence and to give all her earnings to them. On multiple occasions between April 19 and April 26, according to the charges, the victim told Harrington she no longer wanted to work for them anymore, but was told she could not leave and was struck in the face and body by Harrington. The victim managed to escape from the house on April 26 and contacted a relative, who eventually called police. Shaquan Gould of 135-38 123rd St. in Ozone Park and Evan Harrington of 658 East 234th St. in the Bronx both pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking on Oct. 8. before Supreme Court Justice Steven W. Paynter. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 23. Paynter indicated that he would sentence each of the defendants to an indeterminate term of three to nine years in prison. “The defendants in this case admitted to forcing a young girl to perform sexual acts with various men against her will. Sex trafficking is a serious and disturbing crime that my office continues to vigorously pursue and prosecute,” said Brown in the release. District Attorney Brown also noted that defendants’ guilty pleas marks the eighth number of sex trafficking convictions obtained by his office since November 2007.
Tragedy On Columbus Day Three South Ozone teens and one Jamaica team died in an early Mondaymorning car accident on the Southern State Parkway near Hempstead in Long Island. Investigators are still searching for a cause. According to reports, the group of teens, who were all close friends, were driving west on the Southern State Parkway around 3:40 a.m., close to exit 17 in Hempstead, when the 2012 Subaru Impreza swerved off the road and hit a stand of trees. The victims were identified as 17-yearold Neal Rajapa, 18-year-old Christopher Kan, 18-year-old Peter Kanhai, all of South Ozone Park, and 18-year-old Darian
Ramnarine of Jamaica. The driver, 17year-old Joseph Beer of South Richmond Hill, was taken to Winthrop-University Hospital to be treated a broken sternum. Beer was the only teen who survived the accident. Reports indicate that the driver was driving with his learner’s permit. Investigators are still waiting on toxicology reports.
Double Attempted-Murder Suspect Arraigned John Thomas, the man who is accused of shooting an NYPD sergeant and an acquaintance on two separate occasions, was arraigned at Queens Supreme Court on Thursday, Oct. 4. The defendant will be tried with two counts of first-degree attempted murder, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon and aggravated assault on a police officer. According to a statement released by District Attorney Richard A. Brown, in the first incident, John F. Thomas, 24, of 159-06 109th Avenue in Jamaica, approached a male acquaintance, Troy Cox, who was standing at the intersection of 111th Avenue and 167th Street around 6 p.m. on June 6, and fired seventeen shots. Cox suffered a gunshot wound to his right buttocks and a laceration to his right leg from a bullet that grazed him. In the second incident, NYPD Sgt. Craig Bier was shot while on patrol as part of an anti-gang unit after approaching the defendant at the intersection of 107th Avenue and Union Hall Street at approximately 10:30 p.m. on Aug. 8. Bier allegedly identified himself as an officer and Thomas proceeded to run. With Sgt. Bier in pursuit, Thomas allegedly pulled out 9 mm pistol and shot him in both legs. The weapon was tossed but later recovered by police. The officer was taken to Jamaica Hospital in non-life threatening condition and was released a few days later. On Aug. 9, police released a photo of the suspect and a $20,000 reward was offered for any information regarding his whereabouts. Exactly one month later, accompanied by his lawyer, Thomas surrendered to police at the Pep Boys parking lot on the corner of Liberty Avenue and Merrick Boulevard. Thomas’ lawyer, Ikiesha Al-Shabazz, could not be reached for comment before press time. Thomas is due to appear in court again on Nov. 28. If convicted of both crimes, Thomas faces 50 years to life in prison.
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Presstime
Protesters Gather Against Stop and Frisk BY ROSS BARKAN With the trial of several individuals who were arrested in a protest against the NYPD’s controversial “stop-and-frisk policy” set to begin Tuesday, supporters of the protest gathered in Queens Criminal Court to reaffirm their opposition to the Queens District Attorney and the anti-crime measure. On Nov. 19 of last year, protesters marched through Jamaica to demand an end to “stop-andfrisk,” a policy that allows police officers to stop, question and search people who are suspected of criminal activity. The policy has drawn fire from critics who argue it unfairly targets minorities. According to protesters, the
Nov. 19 rally ended at the headquarters of the 103rd Pct., which had been barricaded in anticipation of the protest. More than a dozen people were arrested in less than 10 minutes, after being led into the barricaded area by police officers, according to protesters. Last month, all of the protesters who were arrested were also charged with obstruction of governmental administration, a class “A” misdemeanor that could lead to a year in prison. “NYPD cops have killed innocent and unarmed people, including Ramarley Graham, Reynaldo Cueves in 2012,” said Carl Dix, a leading activist against “stop-andfrisk.” “Just days ago, Noel Polanco, another unarmed man, was killed in his car. NYPD stopped and frisked
an average of almost 2,000 people a day for the first six months of 2012. Yet the Queens DA is trying to send people who put their bodies on the line to stop this injustice to jail.” Four of the thirteen who were arrested in last November’s protest were tried on Tuesday. Among Queens elected officials, “stop-andfrisk” has been an especially contentious topic. While Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria), chairman of the Council’s Public Safety Committee, supports the measure, many Queens Democrats have questioned its effectiveness and whether minorities are unfairly targeted. A City Council public safety hearing grew heated Wednesday when Vallone and Councilwoman Helen Foster (D-Bronx) clashed over “stop-and-frisk,” with Foster telling
Vallone at one point, “Hey, hey, Peter, I don’t work for you. I am not one of your boys. You will not talk to me like that.” The Oct. 10 hearing allowed the City Council to discuss four bills that would amend and alter “stop-and-frisk.” The bills would require police officers, when conducting stops, to identify themselves, provide their name and rank, and explain the reason for the stop; it would also seek to add teeth to an existing ban on racial profiling and require that officers inform individuals of their right to refuse a search and obtain proof of their consent, if granted, in cases in which there is no other legal basis to search an individual. This week, “stop-and-frisk” also entered the public con-
sciousness again when The Nation, a left-leaning magazine, acquired an audio of three plainclothes police officers stopping a Manhattan teenager, searching him and calling a “f—ing mutt.” The video drew condemnation from many opponents of “stopand-frisk.” “We will put ‘stop-and-frisk’ on trial,” said Elaine Brower, who will be tried Oct. 22 for the 2011 Jamaica protest. “Stop-and-frisk’ is a major pipeline to mass incarceration and criminalizes Black and Latino people. It must be ended, not mended. We defend our actions, and will expose attempts to suppress nonviolent protest.” Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com.
Crime At 103 Up But Crime At 113 Down
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
40 grand larcenies, compared to 71 last year (a 43 percent decrease). The only major crime category in which the 113th experienced an increase was grand larceny auto. Sgt. Joann Gonzalez announced there were 26 cases of grand larceny auto compared to 21 last year. Despite the overall decrease, the 113th still had more criminal complaints than the 103rd for the month of September. Smith expressed concern that Southeast Queens is one of the most crime ridden areas in the Borough. The 108th (Woodside, Sunnyside, Long Island City) for example, reports one rape, 16 robberies, 11 felony assaults, 11 burglaries, 34 grand larcenies and 16 grand larceny autos for September – numbers significantly lower than the 103rd or 113th. In an effort to find a way to ease the crime rates in the neighborhood, Smith distributed a list of 27 “hot spots” in Southeast Queens – areas the 103rd, 113th and 105th have identified as particularly dangerous and notorious for crime. He noted that in order to combat crime, locals must be aware of
where the crime is occurring. Some of the hotspots include Guy R. Brewer Blvd., 109th to South Road, Sutphin Blvd., from 115th to Foch, Merrick Road between 126th and Baisley and
Parsons Boulevard, Hillside to Jamaica Avenue. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queens press.com.
Southeast Queens Hot Spots 1) 89th Avenue – 148th to 171st Street 2) Hollis Avenue, 199th to 205th Street 3) Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, 109th Street to South Road 4) Sutphin Boulevard and South Road 5) Sutphin Boulevard, 107th to 109th Avenue 6) 177th Street 106th to 104th Avenue 7) Merrick Boulevard, 109th to 110th Avenue 8) Parsons Boulevard, Hillside to Jamaica Avenue 9) Hillside Avenue 169th to 180th Street 10) Sutphin, Archer to Hillside Avenue 11) Farmers Boulevard btw. 109th and 113th 12) Farmers Boulevard btw. Murdock and 115th 13) Farmers Boulevard btw. Lindern and 118th 14) Farmers Boulevard btw. 121st Avenue and Nashville 15) Linden Boulevard btw. Farmers and 197th 16) Linden Boulevard btw. 199th and 204th 17) Hollis Avenue btw. 198th and Colfax 18) Merrick Boulevard from 108th to 110th 19) Merrick Road btw. 126th and Baisley 20) Guy R. Brewer Boulevard btw. Foch and Linden 21) Guy R. Brewer Boulevard btw. 108th and 109th 22) Sutphin Boulevard btw. Foch and 121st Street 23) Sutphin Boulevard from 115th to Foch 24) 134th and 137th on Brewer 25) 217th and Linden Boulevard 26) 243rd and Rosedale Shopping Center 27) Merrick Boulevard and Sutphin Boulevard
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
Police, civic leaders and concerned residents gathered at State Sen. Malcom Smith’s (DHollis) Operation Safe Southeast Queens meeting last Wednesday, in an effort to determine where crime is occurring most frequently and to discuss ways to combat the persistently high number of major crimes targeting the region. In the month of September, the 103rd has reported an increase in most major crimes. The areas the precinct encompasses (downtown Jamaica Business District, Hollis Park Gardens, Hollis, Lakewood, and Jamaica) have experienced five shootings in the span on 23 days for the month of September. Of those five shootings, arrests have been made in relation to three. None of the shootings were fatal. In September, the 103rd also reported four rapes, compared to two last year, 26 robberies, compared to 25 last year, 41 felony assaults, compared to 25 last year, 24 burglaries, compared to 14 last year and 37 grand larcenies, compared to 26 last year. The only major crimes in which the 103rd has not experienced an increase is in murder (zero
compared to zero last year) and grand larceny auto (four compared to six last year.) Although major crime is up, Captain Edward Grover of the 103rd noted that there is great police work being done in the area. “If you look at arrests associated with felony assault and burglaries, they have gone up,” he said. “The burglary arrest is almost up 30 percent for the year, so there is a lot of good police work that is being done. We are trying our best to combat these categories. It is difficult task and the folks at the 103 are doing the best they can.” Grover also added that grand larceny auto is down for the year. While the number of major crimes have increased at the 103rd, the numbers have decreased at the 113th (St. Albans, Hollis, Springfield Gardens, South Ozone Park, South Jamaica, Addisleigh Park and Locust Manor). The 113th has reported one murder, compared to three in 2011, no rapes, compared to three last year, 22 robberies, compared to 24 last year, 51 felony assaults, the same number as last year, 44 burglaries, compared to 50 last year and
$1.5 Million Grant For Transgender Women Of Color BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
The Community Health Care Network, a New York City-based nonprofit agency that runs 13 health centers, including one in Jamaica, became one of the nine organizations in the country to receive a $1.5 million five-year grant to provide services for transgender women of color. The Special Projects of National Significance grant, which was announced on Aug. 31, is titled Enhancing Engagement and Retention in Quality HIV Care for Transgender Women of Color – Demonstration Sites, and is provided by the Health Resources and Services Administration. The funding will support the design, implementation and evaluation of “innovative interventions to improve timely entry, engagement and retention in quality HIV care for transgender women of color living with HIV infection.” CHN’s goal is to identify and engage with transgender
women of color who are at high risk of infection or those who are unknowingly infected. Other medical services provided by CHN include outreach programs, education programs and group discussions. Although HIV/AIDS rates have been steadily decreasing among most populations, transgender women of color are at extremely high risk. Nearly 50 percent of this population is infected, and according to the Centers for Disease Control, 21 percent of those individuals are unaware that they are infected. These individuals account for more than 50 percent of all newly transmitted infections. Vice President of HIV Programs and Services, Dr. Luis Freddy Molano, expressed that it was extremely important to provide transgender women of color, an underserved community, a place where they can access necessary treatment and programs for HIV/AIDS and other health services.
Julissa Morales “A lot of transgender women do not receive any type of medical care at all,” Molano said. “It is very difficult for these individuals to receive any treatment because currently there are so few centers in the city that provide that type of medical care.” Molano also noted that it is often difficult for members of the transgender community to receive proper treatment because they are often faced with a vari-
ety of prejudices when attempting to access health care services. “Unfortunately, in society, the transgender community is at the bottom of the scale,” he said. Julissa Morales, an ethnic transgender female, has been visiting Jamaica’s CHN for a little over two years. She travels all the way from New Jersey to receive treatment at the center because she feels that they are accepting of the transgender community – something she said is a rarity. “I feel welcome there. For being transgender, I’ve been to other places and it was just awkward,” Morales said. “I think the most important thing is we do exist. A lot of people neglect us. It’s just important – there are so many of us out there that need health support. A lot of times we don’t have the money or don’t feel comfortable going to the doctor.” Morales is just one of more than 100 patients who receive treatment at Jamaica’s CHN since 2011. The center prides it-
self on their unique family oriented healthcare approach. Elizabeth Howell, Vice President of Development and Public Relations for the center, said CHN serves individuals regardless of their age, ethnicity and sexual preference. “I think that’s what makes us so unique because the transgender program is integrated into the family program,” she said. “We will work with all patients even if they are uninsured. We will do cost based on income. It is part of our mission to not turn anybody away. If they don’t have income we will work with them so they have a place to receive treatment.” To learn more about the Community Healthcare Network, you may visit www.chnnyc.org or call Jamaica’s CHN at (718) 6577088. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@ queenspress.com.
Tensions Abound At Candidates Forum
BY JOE MARVILLI
On Oct. 9, St. John's University held the first of two "Meet the Candidate" nights as part of its "Participate '12" program. Featuring candidates for the New York State Legislature, the Belson Moot Courtroom at St. John's School of Law was about half-full with 35 students. The attendees were State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) and his opponent Joseph Concannon, who are running in the 11th Senate District, State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) and her opponent J.D. Kim, who are running in the 16th Senate District, Assembly candidates Nily Rozic and Abe Fuchs, who are running in the 25th Assembly District and Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Little Neck), who is running unopposed in the 24th Assembly District. Hostilities reached a peak during a disagreement over a campaign measure by Concannon against Avella. Recently, Concannon's campaign had started leaving robocalls attacking Avella for attending the Muslim Day Parade in Manhattan, which featured some radical dialogue that cause the senator to walk out on the event. When questioned about it, Concannon
said, "He sat through the first speaker, who basically tore the U.S. Constitution into shreds. He went into the second speaker and remained there as that speaker started talking about something about her bomb and things of this nature. Then he finally got up and he left. If that's who he wants to hang around with, then I'm going to point that out." "Mr. Concannon should know that there are Muslims in the Senate district, there are Muslims in this City who are Americans. They have the same wishes and desires that the rest of us have," Avella replied. "I'm happy I went to the parade and I think it was appropriate that I walked out when anti-American, antiIsrael and anti-Semitic comments were being made. Mr. Concannon should be ashamed of himself." Several audience members applauded at the conclusion of Avella's response. Tensions were also heightened during the candidates' discussion on ideas for economic growth. Though Kim's ideas about unshackling small businesses from government bureaucracy were well-received, the student crowd turned against him when it came to minimum wage. The State Senate contender suggested lower-
ing the minimum wage for part-time and student workers in order to offset an increase for those working full-time to support their families. "If you look at the system as a whole, it enables businesses to raise the wages for regular workers who need it," said Kim. Many students in the crowd showed a mix of incredulousness and unhappiness at his remarks. Both Weprin and Rozic agreed that raising the minimum wage would be part of their agenda. Weprin focused his economic ideas on expanding industries in New York. Rozic looked at a clear government as a means of combating economic waste. Besides the economy, one of the top concerns for the panel and the audience
was increasing accessibility to higher education. Avella believed that making CUNY tuition-free would be a big help to relieving student economic pressure. While it would cost $800 million to do so, the senator said legalized gambling income would offset the costs. Stavisky discussed the lack of college preparedness, saying "Education should be a seamless transition between pre-K and college or post-graduate. Fuchs believed that the country was undergoing a "college bubble." To battle this, He suggested a return to vocational training in public schools, offering an alternative to college. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 3577400, Ext. 125, or at jmarvilli@queenstribune.com.
Family Seeks Answers After Shooting BY MEGAN MONTALVO
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5
Unfair, unjust and atrocious -These are the words that local residents are using to describe a recent officer-involved shooting that took place near LaGuardia Airport last week. On Oct. 4, reports surfaced that a 22year-old Army National Guardsman was fatally shot by a detective on the Grand Central Parkway. According to police, while behind the wheel of a black 2012 Honda Fit Hybrid, the driver, identified as Noel Polanco, had cut off two Emergency Service Unit Apprehension vehicles and began to tailgate a third car when a sergeant and detective stopped him. At the scene, Detective Hassan Hamdy, a 14-year veteran, fired the single shot at Polanco’s torso. While there are conflicting accounts as to whether or not Polanco put his hands up, as he was ordered to do, no weapon was found in the car. Two female passengers accompanied Polanco, one of which was an off-duty NYPD officer who told officers she had not witnessed anything as she was sleeping in the back seat. Minutes before the police stop, the three friends were spotted leaving the Ice Lounge nightclub in Astoria, where the second female passenger worked. On Saturday morning, Polanco’s distraught mother, Cecilia Reyes, stood with Rev. Al Sharpton at the National Action Network headquarters in Harlem to plea for a thorough inquiry in her son’s shooting. “I’m not going to give up until I get justice,” Reyes said. “I want answers.”
The day before Reyes’ plea, the family had received a visit at their Queens home by Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, who is currently pushing for a grand jury investigation of Hamdy’s use of force. Earlier this year, Hamdy had been hailed as a hero for rescuing civilians from a fire. However, during his time of service, he had also been at the center of two lawsuits that accused him of civil rights violations and police brutality. Although the grand jury is yet to be confirmed, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said both his office and the NYPD is conducting an internal investigation. “The events surrounding that which occurred early yesterday morning on the Grand Central Parkway in East Elmhurst are being investigated by my office and the New York City Police Department’s Internal Affairs Division,” Brown said in a statement released Friday. “The public can be assured that the investigation will be full, fair and complete. Until the investigation is concluded, my office will refrain from making any further comment.” While Polanco’s friends and family are currently awaiting an official answer from the investigations, on Sunday night, they came together for a night of remembrance at the Ice Lounge. As his loved ones held a vigil in front of the nightclub to help raise money for his grieving family, they recounted found memories of the slain soldier. Memorial pictures and votive candles have been placed at the site in his honor. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com.
OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens Managing Editor:
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Editorial No Place For Hate Though everyone has a right to free speech, the arrival of the Golden Dawn Party on the shores of Queens is a troubling development. For those who don't know, Golden Dawn is a far right, extremist political party that has won 18 seats in the Greek parliament. The party is xenophobic, anti-Semitic and is now planning to open new headquarters in Astoria, the historic home to Queens' thriving Greek population. Elected officials and religious leaders rightfully denounced the news that Golden Dawn was coming to Queens. It is important to speak out against hatred in all forms so we do not repeat the mistakes of the past. It would be silly to equate Golden Dawn's surge to the rise of Nazi Party in the 1930s, but we must be vigilant against political organizations that readily espouse notions of racism and discrimination. A political party "for Greeks only," as members wrote on a box of clothing that was going to be delivered to those suffering in Greece, is not a political party for Queens. Queens is a diverse borough that has always welcomed people of all races and creeds. There should be no place here for a political party that shuts its doors to that acceptance.
Letters
Photo Editor: Ira Cohen Reporters: Harley Benson Natalia Kozikowska Ross Barkan Megan Montalvo Joe Marvilli
Frustration To The Editor: Spout a falsehood loud enough, and often enough, and not only do people start to believe it, but they start spreading it around in a similar fashion. Shutting your eyes,
or burying your head in the sand to avoid being politically incorrect, will absolutely not get anyone even close to finding a real solution to the problem! The fact of the matter is that teachers become frustrated, even
Letters exasperated with the apathy of their students and their unwillingness to perform their part of the education equation. Teachers, in the vast majority, come into teaching full of knowledge and training and motivation. When they see the gross lack of cooperation by their students and the student's parents, as well as the education hierarchy, they become disenchanted. They are the bearers of blame for the inadequacies of parents and the society at large to see that children come to school ready and willing to learn so that not only is teaching taking place, but so is learning! Dave Shlakman, Howard Beach
Height Of Hypocrisy To The Editor: State Comproller Thomas DiNapoli's recent critical audit of the MTA and its impending fare hikes is the height of hypocrisy! As a member of the State Assembly from 1986 to 2006, he faithfully voted for every budget put forward by New York State Democratic Speaker Sheldon Sil-
ver which was also adopted by the Republican controlled State Senate and signed off by the Governor. Each year, DiNapoli and friends refused to adopt the appropriate levels of direct financial assistance to support past and current MTA Five Year Capital Programs going back decades shortchanging them by billions of dollars. DiNapoli and colleagues insisted that the MTA raise billions by borrowing. This has resulted in a greater reliance of bonding, which in turn eats up a greater percentage of the MTA's budget on interest costs to support debt service payments. In turn, this has resulted in the fare hikes he is so quick to demagogue. Does DiNapoli even use the Long Island Rail Road from his Great Neck home to Penn Station and switch to Amtrak for his journey to Albany? Does he even own and use a Metro Card on subways and buses? Perhaps he prefers to leave millions of ordinary New Yorkers behind and have taxpayer funded staff member drive him around town? Larry Penner, Great Neck
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Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
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Two Politicians, One Hotly-Contested Seat A Personal Perspective BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Who would’ve thought that two nice politicians from Queens who attend the same Catholic Church and have both served in the same Council seat would be locked in an epic battle over a Senate seat even while the incumbent is still a freshman and is not mired in scandal? State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-Howard Beach) and Councilman Eric Ulrich (RHoward Beach) are engaged in a winner-take-all campaign for the 15th Senate District. Ulrich is a rising star in the Republican Party and the old guard sees him as the great hope for the party not only in Queens, but potentially in the entire state and beyond if he plays his cards right. Everyone from Rudy Giuliani to Mitt Romney knows who “this kid” is. In fact, he’s New York City chair for the Romney presidential campaign and State Sen-
ate Republicans are completely vested in Ulrich’s candidacy in order to help retain control of the State Senate. The irony is that Addabbo unseated Republican Serphin Maltese for the same seat four years ago when the Senate Democrats wanted and won control. These things have a way of coming around but usually not this quickly. Ulrich is very wellfunded, very likable and very youthful. It’s a winning combination. But Addabbo, who boasts a veteran name in Queens politics, starting with his father, the late Congressman Joseph P. Addabbo, Sr., is also a charming, hardworking pro who isn’t exactly Quasimodo and Methuselah either. People like Joe and he doesn’t take anything for granted. Someone said not long ago that in politics the way you get your seat is the same way you lose it. If you get it by term limits, you’ll lose it to term lim-
its. If you get because someone got indicted or convicted, you’ll lose it because you got indicted or convicted. It’s a very ominous prediction but we do know that with term limits it is a fact of life. However, the race between the current and former Councilmen is neck and neck and if Ulrich should defeat Addabbo, it would give some credence to that assertion. Addabbo won by defeating Serf Maltese to help the Democrats and Ulrich was recruited to run to get the seat back into Republican hands to help that party. Politics is cyclical and at times, very much like karma. The Ulrich machine is so well funded he has been running TV commercials for weeks now. He can afford to pay for that. The incumbent on the other hand was able to get Gov. Andrew Cuomo to make a rare endorsement. It was two designer names in Queens politics standing to-
gether. Some say Cuomo’s endorsement came under duress though so that’s not good. But an endorsement from the popular governor can’t hurt… we hope. The good thing for Ulrich is even if he loses this race, he still has his Council seat since he did not need to give it up to run for Senate. Interestingly, if Addabbo loses, he could turn around and run for Ulrich’s Council seat, which was his from 2002 through the end of 2008 when he won the Senate seat. He’d probably win that again; but he may not want it as it’s hard to “go home again.” It’s like “trading places” or musical chairs. The Obama vs. Romney race is the one to watch nationally; but the Addabbo vs. Ulrich is no less exciting in Queens. This is edge-of-your-seat stuff for political junkies. Some of us can hardly wait for Nov. 6 to see how it shakes out, this hometown race.
You Can Trust Our Neurosurgery Program. After All, Other Hospitals Do. Why should you trust North Shore University Hospital for neurology and neurosurgery? Just ask any of the other area hospitals that sent more than 1,200 patients our way last year. They know U.S. News & World Report just ranked us among the nation’s top 50 hospitals for neurology and neurosurgery. They know we’re at the forefront of research into neurological diseases and disorders, receiving more than $2.5 million in grants from the Department of Defense for innovative approaches to brain trauma surgery. And they know every patient they send our way will be treated by our exceptionally experienced and capable team of physicians. They know. And now you do too. To learn more or schedule an appointment, call the Cushing Neuroscience Institute at 516-562-3822, email us at neuro@nshs.edu, or visit neurocni.com
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
Port Authority In The Hot Seat
Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
The Port Authority’s runway extension plan at John F. Kennedy Airport was met with fierce opposition by Southeast Queens residents who argue the project was not only poorly advertised, but will be detrimental to the quality of life in their community. If the proposal passes, the Port Authority would build an additional 728 feet to runway 4L/ 22R, one of JFK’s four runways, 460 feet of which would be relocated north towards residential neighborhoods like Springfield Gardens, Laurelton and Rosedale. The project is scheduled to be finished by Nov. 15, 2014. More than 200 locals attended a public hearing at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church last Thursday, protesting the draft environmental assessment and demanding the Port Authority reopen the comment period. While residents argued the $500 million project would increase noise pollution and create adverse environmental impacts, reps from the Port Authority claim the project is simply a safety precaution required by the Federal Aviation Administration and claimed that their studies prove there will be “no
PRESS photo by Natalia Kozikowska
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
More than 200 locals attended a hearing to discuss a proposed runway expansion. significant impact” on the community. The hearing, which was led by Barbara Brown, chairwoman of the Southeast Queens Alliance, began by placing the Port Authority under fire for poorly advertising the open comment period. “The problem is the people who knew about this project are not the people sitting here,” Brown argued. “Why didn’t we know about the plan when we are the people closest to the airport?” she asked. Federally mandated to advertise the open comment period with the press, the Port Authority took out an ad with New York Newsday, a newspa-
per that Brown and other civic leaders claimed is not popular among Southeast Queens locals. Following allegations that the Port Authority did not do enough to bring the open comment period to the attention of affected locals, Brown and a very vocal crowd disagreed with the findings in the draft environmental assessment which stated there will be “no significant impact” on the community and called for an Environmental Impact Statement. “We are concerned about this runway moving to the north because to the north means to us,” Brown said. “We hear these planes over our homes every few
An artist’s rendition of the expansion.
minutes and this will only make it worse,” she added. Laurelton resident, Vivika Richards, echoed Brown’s statement, claiming the noise pollution is already out of hand. “I can’t even sit down and enjoy dinner and a conversation with my family. Every two minutes there’s a plane flying over my house. If they [the Port Authority] go through with this, it’s only going to get worse and worse,” she said. Edward Knoesel, Environmental Programs Manager at the Port Authority, addressed the concerns by claiming that their studies suggest that locals will not be able to perceive any difference in noise levels. “We looked at what would happen to the noise in the community and if the increase in noise is not at a level of 1.5 decibels, it is not seen as a significant impact,” Knoesel said. He claimed that their study, conducted by Landrum and Brown, concluded a change of 0.7 decibels – a change unperceivable to the human ear. Director of Government Relations for the Port Authority, Brian Simon, sympathized with locals claiming that, as a resident of Springfield Gardens himself, he agreed with the comments made but wanted to make it clear that the Port Authority is simply mandated by the FAA to make these changes as a necessary safety measure taken to accommodate larger plane sizes and to reduce the number of flight delays. Simon continued to plea with locals to examine the positive things the Port Authority and the airport have done for the community. “The economic impact of this airport is tremendous,” he argued. “Thirty-five thousand people work at that airport every single day…[there are] 150,000 indirect jobs. The economic output directly per year is $10 billion.” In addition to noise pollution, Southeast Queens residents expressed concern that the expansion project would also call for the trimming, and in some cases the removal, of trees in Idlewood Park in Rosedale. For
many in attendance, this was a new development that was first brought to their attention at the hearing. Resident of Springfield Gardens, Terry Simmons, admitted he was shocked to learn the Port Authority had such plans. “I came here because I wanted to fight to decrease the noise coming from the airport. I had no idea they had plans to chop down trees too,” Simmons said. “Now we aren’t just talking about noise, we are talking about the environment. When is it going to stop?” he asked. Brown was also vocal about her feelings regarding the Port Authority’s plans to remove trees from the neighborhood. “Those trees are helping us debunk air pollution from the airport,” she argued. Her statement was followed by large applause from the crowd. Knoesel did his best to ease the crowd’s concerns by reassuring residents that the agency will do its best to compensate for the removal of the trees and by promising to work side by side with the Department of Environmental Protection for the best possible solution. “We are working with the Parks Department and we identified what may need to happen and we will work with the Parks Department to gain the proper permit and approval and more importantly to any litigation or restitution that the parks require of the Port Authority,” Knoesel said. “We are expecting that the park will have us replace trees outside that area.” Despite not being able to come to a happy medium, Simon reassured residents that their comments will not be ignored. He announced that the Port Authority has reopened the comment period and encouraged the crowd to express any concerns they may have. To view the Draft Environmental Assessment or to leave a comment regarding the expansion project, visit http:// www.air por tsites.net/ jfk_Runway_4L-22R_EA/ Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queens press.com
Police Blotter Compiled by STEVEN J. FERRARI
102nd Precinct Robbery Police are seeking the public’s assistance in locating a suspect wanted in connection with an armed robbery that occurred on Sept. 20 at approximately 12:20 p.m. on a Manhattan-bound E train at the Jamaica/Van Wyck subway station. The suspect grabbed a female victim’s cell phone, exited the train and fled the station on foot. The victim chased the suspect but stopped when the suspect threatened the victim with a firearm. The suspect is described as a Black male in his 30s, 6-foot-3 and 215 lbs., with close-cut black hair. He was last seen wearing dark-colored clothing. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers’ website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by
texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.
Homicide On Oct. 6 at 2:25 a.m., police responded to a report of shots fired in the vicinity of 102nd Street and Jamaica Avenue. An investigation revealed that a victim, a 17-year-old Hispanic male, suffered a gunshot wound to his torso and a second victim, a 21year-old Hispanic male, suffered a gunshot wound to his back. Both victims were transported to Jamaica Hospital. The first victim is listed in stable condition. The second victim, identified as Michael Tineo of Brooklyn, died. There have been no arrests made and the investigation is ongoing.
109th Precinct Investigation On Oct. 3 at approximately 10:35 a.m., police responded to
a report of a male found lying on the ground, unconscious and unresponsive, at 137-14 Oak Ave., in Kissena Park. Upon arrival, officers were informed that a Parks Dept. landscaper found an unidentified male, fully-clothed and badly decomposed. EMS also responded and pronounced the male dead at the scene. There were no obvious signs of trauma and no identification was found on the body.
112th Precinct Investigation On Oct. 3 at 10:50 a.m., police responded to investigate an aided case at 70-20 108th St., Apt. 10E. Upon arrival, police were met by the building superintendent, who stated that he had entered the apartment after getting a complaint of a leak. Two women were discovered on the floor of the apartment unconscious and unresponsive. Both females were pro-
nounced dead at the scene. No signs of trauma or forced entry were found and an investigation is ongoing. The women were identified as sisters Leah Roth, 88, and Ilene Roth, 79.
114th Precinct Robbery/Assault The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance identifying the following individuals wanted in connection with a robbery/ assault. On Aug. 18 at 4:30 a.m. opposite 49-10 25th Ave., two Black males approached a 34year-old Hispanic male, displayed a firearm and removed the victim’s gold necklace. During the course of the robbery, the suspects shot the victim in the leg before fleeing the location. The first suspect is described as 5-foot-9, 180 lbs., with braids and wearing a white T-shirt. The second suspect is de-
scribed as 5-foot-10, 180 lbs., wearing an orange T-shirt. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). All calls are strictly confidential.
Grand Larceny The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the following individual wanted in connection with a grand larceny. On Sept. 4 at approximately 1 p.m., a female victim had her pocketbook removed from under a desk. A short time later, on the same day, unauthorized purchases were made on the victim’s credit and debit cards at the Sagapo Jewelry store, located at 31-15 Steinway St. The suspect is described as a Black female in her 30s with black hair. She was last seen wearing a pink shirt. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477).
Borough Beat
MLS Unveils FMCP Stadium Proposal BY MEGAN MONTALVO
An artist’s rendering of what the proposed Major League Stadium will look like at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. the string of recent proposals made for FMCP land, including the MLS stadium, Willets Point shopping mall and United States Tennis Association expansion. Organized by the Fairness Coalition of Queens, a group of nonprofit religious and community organizations, the meeting attracted local soccer leagues who clarified in countless testimonies and protest signs that they “want to play soccer, not watch soccer.”
In conjunction with the town hall meeting, the coalition also launched an online petition at change.org to ask Mayor Mike Bloomberg to take their comments into consideration before green lighting the plans. Though the petition has more than 500 signatures, MLS officials remain positive that the proposed stadium is in the best interest for the public as it aims to attract tourism, boost the local economy and redevelop an unsightly are of park land. “There’s been a lot of misinformation out there,” Garber said. “I can look back and remember when I went to the 1964 World’s Fair at the park, but unfortunately, that is no longer what it looks like today. We’re going to make it better.” In addition to the stadium construction, MLS plans to improve the turf on all existing soccer fields and implement new volleyball courts.
Dispelling past town hall rumors that parking lots will also be included in the deal, Garber confirmed that “not one blade of grass will be used for parking.” He said the league hopes to use the parking lot at Citi Field along with spots under the Van Wyck Expressway overpass. To avoid scheduling conflicts with Mets games and the US Open, the league would work with Major League Baseball and the USTA. Though MLS is still shopping for an owner for both the new team and the new stadium, the design team behind the Brooklyn Barclays Center - SHoP Architects - has already signed on for the initial phases of construction. If passed by the City, MLS hopes to break ground by 2014 with opening date as early as 2016. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com.
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
Amidst a series of town hall meetings, debates and public scrutiny, one Flushing Meadow Corona Park plan is slowly inching its way towards its goal. On Oct. 5, Major League Soccer announced that it could strike a deal with the City for a 35,000seat stadium as soon as next month. “We chose Flushing Meadows Corona Park because it’s the world’s park. This is a project we have been dreaming about since the league was founded,” MLS Commissioner Don Garber said. “Queens is the world’s borough and soccer is the world’s game.” According to Garber, the proposed development would take up 10 to 13 acres of land on what is now known as the closed-off Fountains of Planets, with the exclusion of one acre of adjacent grass land, and is expected to generate up to 2,300 construction jobs.
Priced at $300 million, the soccer stadium is projected to be the most expensive in North America. Current plans call for a 25,000-seat stadium, but the league hopes to receive approval for a larger one with an eye to expand in the future. Once completed, officials expect to generate 160 full-time positions as well as 750 parttime jobs, which MLS said will primarily go to local unions and residents. “Our goal is to raise a sense of pride in the community,” Garber said. “We looked at a lot of sites and we believe that Queens and Flushing Meadows Corona Park was right for us.” While Garber attests to maintaining a vision that would benefit the Borough, many community leaders are calling the development proposal a “land grab.” Last week, more than 300 residents attended a town hall meeting in Jackson Heights to protest
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Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson
Huge Success
Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica recently held its second Multicultural Housing Expo and Financial Fitness Day at York College. Pictured (from left) are Jason Jeffries, Shoma Cooper, NHSJ accountant; Haydee Amiama, NHSJ program assistant; Lordeas Braxton, board of directors; Cerinelly Disla, NHSJ foreclosure program manager; Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Maurice Muir, Queens Legal Services; Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica), and Patricia Kerr, NHSJ program director.
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
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New Addition
Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and State Sen. Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) tip their helmets to progress on expansion of the South Queens Boys and Girls Club addition in Richmond Hill. The new addition, which replaces a wing built in 1947, will house a new education center, gym and administrative space.
Stand Up For Dad Councilman James Sanders (DLaurelton) made a surprise appearance at a ceremony celebrating the renewed commitment of fathers. The Fathering Initiative Stepping Up ceremony took place at Forestdale in Forest Hills.
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Profile
Cure Violence Of South Jamaica
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
The community of South Jamaica has long been struggling to find a way to keep violence off the streets. In an effort to tackle senseless shootings and deaths in one of Queens’ most crime ridden areas, Cure Violence has opened an office on Sutphin Boulevard and aims to help individuals prone to crime turn their lives around. Cure Violence was originally founded in Chicago in 1995. The group takes a public health approach to violence by treating it as a psychological disease. In an effort to keep guns off the street, the organization helps high risk individuals find jobs and provides them with the tools necessary to earn their GED. South Jamaica native Erica Ford has been an advocate of crime prevention for more than
Volunteers of Cure Violence raise money at their barbeque on Oct. 8. 20 years. Her experiences growing up in South Jamaica have given her the motivation and courage she needed to start a Cure Violence chapter in Queens. “The friends that I grew up
with in the 80s were victims of the crack epidemic. They were either killed, locked up, or were mothers at home with four or five kids,” she said. “I felt like I had to provide something for the
children of those individuals.” After successfully lobbying $500,000 to start Cure Violence from the City Council, Ford opened an of f ice at 111-12 Sutphin Blvd., a block she said is notorious for its violence. “That’s why we are here on this corner in particular,” she said. In 2008, 23-year-old Darkim Spellman was shot on the corner of 111th Avenue and Sutphin Boulevard, where the Cure Violence office currently stands. His mother, KimberlyPrecious Spellman, is now heavily involved with the program and its message. “It gives a mom like me hope that it will strengthen the community as a whole and bring the young people together where they have a forum, like here at Cure Violence, and can talk about it,” she said. “We can find solutions to the problems ….we
need to bury the beef before the young people pick up the guns,” she added. Outreach supervisor of South Jamaica’s Cure Violence Chaz Williams has witnessed the program change lives. Williams, who served 15 years in prison for violent offenses, now acts as a “credible messenger” and talks to young people about his experiences with crime in hopes to deter them from a similar lifestyle. “I understand where they are coming from,” Williams said. “Maybe if I had different opportunity like this, I would have chosen a different path.” For more information regarding Cure Violence, visit www.peaceisalifestyle.com or call (646) 258-0936. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@ queenspress.com.
Jamaica: Abrie Moise. St. Albans: Simmone Alexander. South Ozone Park: Eriana Perry. Springfield Gardens: Celestial Joseph, Julien McCall.
ter School in Jackson Heights. Daniel Joseph Graham, a graduate of Saint Francis Preparatory School in Floral Park. Anna N. Proios, a graduate of Loyola School in Corona. Yvonne Morel, a graduate of Nightingale-Bamford School in Ozone Park.
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
People The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings, receiving a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more. Cheryl Lopez of Jamaica Estates won $33,890 on the Sept. 18 Take Five drawing. Lopez’s winning ticket was purchased at Benny & Sons Grocery, 70-01 Myrtle Ave., Glendale. Dhanragie Cazabo of Richmond Hill won $10,000 on the Aug. 8 Powerball drawing. Cazabo’s winning ticket was purchased at Shanta Convenience, 115-18 Liberty Ave., South Richmond Hill. The New York Lottery announced Lucille Wyke of Rosedale won $25,000 on the Lottery’s $1,000,000 Payday scratch-off game. Wyke’s winning ticket was purchased in Elmont. Semonti Zaman of Jamaica
has enrolled at the Georgia Institute of technology in Atlanta, Ga., for the fall 2012 semester. Zaman is a mechanical engineering major. As part of their “Teach Children to Save” Essay Contest, Astoria Federal Savings has named 14 local Queens students as winners at their respective Astoria Federal Savings Queens branch. The contest, which is in recognition of Financial Literacy Month, asks children ages 5-12 to complete the statement: “If I save a lot today, in the future I could…” The winners include: Hillside: Afia Anjum, 10. Air Force Airman Kyron J. Stephenson graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eightweek program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and
basic warfare principles and skills. Stephenson is the son of Regina White of Rosedale. Air Force Airman David A. Ortiz graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Ortiz is the son of Tania Padilla and David Ortiz of Fresh Meadows. Brittany Edwards of St. Albans received a Bachelor of Science in applied sociology during summer 2012 commencement ceremonies at Buffalo State. Local students enrolled at The College of Saint Rose in Albany for the fall 2012 semester include:
Osuntoki Mojisola of St. Albans received a Doctor of Philosophy degree in arts and sciences during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies from Union Institute & University in Cincinnati, Ohio. Tiffany Carter of Queens Village has enrolled at Bryant University in Smithfield, R.I., for the fall 2012 semester. Colgate University has announced the names of local students who have enrolled at the university for the fall 2012 semester. They include: Jessica Benmen and Julie Wan, graduates of Hunter College High School in Queens Village. Sabrina Tzing Mun Yap, a graduate of Renaissance Char-
Matthew Chu of Little Neck enrolled at Lake Forest College in Lake Forest, Ill., for the fall 2012 semester. Alexander Anhwere-James of Fresh Meadows received a Bachelor of Science degree in urban regional analysis and planning during summer 2012 commencement ceremonies at Buffalo State. Capital One Bank announced the expansion of its commercial banking team with the appointment of Miriam Tanenbaum of Great Neck as market executive, head of Long Island and Queens middle market commercial banking.
A&E
Louis Armstrong House Gets Curator BY MEGAN MONTALVO For David Reese, it truly is “What a Wonderful World.” Last week, the former curator of Gracie Mansion and resident director of Gunston Hall, joined Louis Armstrong House Museum as its first curator. Though he is no stranger to the art world, Reese said his new position at LAHM is one that he finds truly exciting, as he had always been a listener of Armstrong’s music. “I am honored to be appointed curator of the historic home of one of America’s greatest musicians, and thrilled to have a new role in the cultural life of New York City,” Reese said. With a background in architectural history, Reese will assume responsibility for the historic site’s interpretation, operation and preservation in his newly-formed role. In his previous work, Reese served as
museum director of Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Gardens, curator of Gracie Mansion and chief officer of the Gracie Mansion Conservancy and resident director of Gunston Hall, the historic home of George Mason. In addition to his in-field work, Reese also authored “American Beaux Arts, 1870-1926” from “The Elements of Style, a Practical Encyclopedia of Interior Architectural Detail,” which was published in New York and London. At LAHM, Reese will oversee three capital projects including a Partners In Preservation project to restore Louis’s Garden. “Louis lived an amazing life,” Reese said. “I had always been a fan of his, but now, I get to really learn about him in such a special way.” From the portrait of Louis painted by Tony Bennett to a golden trumpet that was gifted to Armstrong by King George V of England, everything within LAHM
Restaurant Review
Just Wing It Planet Wings 132-07 14th Ave., College Point (718) 357-7777 www.planetwings.com CUISINE: Wings, Sandwiches, Mexican DELIVERY: Yes CREDIT CARD: Yes, all major KIDS MENU: Yes
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
With football season finally getting into gear, it’s important to have the right foods for game time. Chicken wings are usually a perfect choice to go along with some gridiron action, and Planet Wings is a great choice to provide them. “The wing business has really been on the rise,” owner Haris Syed said. “We offer something different from the usual delivery options.” The Planet Wings menu offers 24 different flavors of wings, ranging from the traditional (medium, hot, BBQ) to more exotic options (Jamaican Jerk, Leapin’ Lizard, Oriental Sesame). The options continue when you need to choose how many. Depending on how big your party is, Planet Wings has you covered, with choices ranging from five to 100 pieces. Syed noted that the wings are made with top-of-the-line Bell & Evens chicken, and each dish is made fresh-
to-order, which can be a rarity in many quick serve fast food dining establishments. “You will always get fresh food here,” Syed said. Looking at the menu options, I was intrigued by the Leapin’ Lizard wings. Advertised as a medium-heat choice, it sounded like the perfect pick for a Tuesday lunch. The Leapin’ Lizard was a tangy wing sauce with the slightest bit of hot aftertaste that made the tastebuds tingle. I’m looking forward to a chance to try some of the other available wing f lavors, including Hot BBQ and Butter Garlic. Not wanting to give the short shrift to the rest of the menu, I decided to try a cheesesteak. Topped with onions, peppers and mushrooms, the cheesesteak was an excellent companion to the wings. With the option of making the meal a combo with fries and a soda, the sandwich and burger options are a top notch choice for a filling meal on the go. In addition to the wings and the sandwiches, Planet Wings has a “Planet Mexicana” menu as well, offering Mexican favorites like tacos, burritos and nachos, which would definitely compliment the wings on game day. - Steven J. Ferrari
Ladies of Croatia and Austria. While Reese is still transitioning into his new role, the LAHM executive team said they are looking forward to using his experience to support its institutional mission of preserving and promoting the cultural legacy of Louis Armstrong. “We are thrilled to have a museum professional of David’s caliber on our team,” said David Reese has been named the first curator of the LAHM Executive Director Michael Cogswell. “David brings Louis Armstrong House Museum in Corona. decades of experience to guide still embodies the life of the late Louis Armstrong House Museum as we enter the next phase of our strategic Armstrong to this day, Reese said. “In similar museums, sometimes we plan.” The Louis Armstrong House Museum have to question if an item is an original piece. When it comes to Louis’ house, is located at 34-56 107th St. in Corona there is no question,” Reese said. “I have and is open every Tuesday – Friday from never seen such a delicious example of 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends from noon original pieces. Everything is still exactly – 5p.m. It can be found online at www.LouisArmstrongHouse.org. as it was when Louis lived here.” Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) Within his first week, Reese has already had the opportunity to host sev- 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ eral prominent visitors, including the First queenstribune.com.
Faith
Lights, Camera, Action At Episcopal Church BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Since the 1950s, the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection has been hosting an annual parish fair. This year’s popular two-day event, which will be themed “Lights, Camera, Action,” will feature a bake sale, treasure sale, Chinese auction, antique sale, book sale,
games for children and a dinner at the end of the night. Camille Masihdas, a long time parishioner at the church, particularly enjoys the fair because she feels that it brings the community together. “I like to see the different people that come in. It’s a time when everybody can get together
Word But the Lord stood by me and strengthened me, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed and all the Gentiles might hear it. So I was rescued from the lion’s mouth. -2 Timothy 4:17
and help the church,” Masihdas said. There will be a wide variety of items for sale at the event, including antiques, collectables, jewelry, baked goods, raffle tickets, books and clothing. All proceeds from the event will go towards the Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Masihdas said. Linda Meeth, a parishioner at the church and annual volunteer for the parish fair, explains that the event is very popular among locals because they enjoy the many different sales and activities. The Episcopal Church of the Resurrection will host an annual parish street “I think they [parishiofair on the first weekend in November. ners] like the entire event because we have the auction, a raffle, where an iPad is the big Resurrection’s annual parish fair Resurrection is located at 85-09 prize, and we serve a very nice will be held on Saturday, Nov. 3 118th St. in Richmond Hill bedinner that people enjoy,” she from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. and tween 85th Avenue and Hillside said. According to Meeth, the Sunday, Nov. 4 from 12 to 3 p.m. Avenue. For additional informamost popular sales at the annual and will be open to the general tion, call (718) 847-2649. parish fair are the book sale, be- public. There is no entrance fee Reach Reporter Natalia cause the prices are fairly low, but there will be a $15 charge for Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@ dinner. and the bake sale. The Episcopal Church of the queenspress.com. The Episcopal Church of the
Notebook Hillcrest High School
Hillcrest Senior Strives to Make a Difference Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA A resident of Springfield Gardens, Breana Channer has been named Senior Class President at Hillcrest High School. The heavily-involved 16-yearold will be responsible for coordinating all of the senior activities for the Class of 2013, acting as a liaison between her peers and the school administration. Channer has long been an active student at school. Among her list of past activities include representing Hillcrest at the annual High School Fair in Francis Lewis High School, assisting during the open house for prospective students at Hillcrest and
Breana Channer volunteering at several marches and marathons like the annual March of Dimes Walk, a walk for breast cancer awareness and the
New York Half Marathon. When asked why she enjoys participating in walks and marathons, Channer replied, “I just enjoy being a part of something bigger than myself.” Channer has also been involved in many afterschool activities. She was a member of Hillcrest’s tennis team her sophomore year and was yearbook assistant her junior year. The senior currently takes part in the Queens Community House leadership and character building programs held at her high school. Despite having so many activities on her plate, the star student still manages to find the time to study and do well in
school – something she considers of utmost importance. Channer has taken a College Now course in Anthropology and has taken Advanced Placement college level courses in chemistry, calculus, English literature, English language and U.S. history. She was in the PreMed Institute at Hillcrest and was on the Pre-Med Committee her freshman year. The honor student has a 97.35 GPA and dreams to someday work in the medical field. “I always said I wanted to be a doctor, but I want to work in the medical field. That is where my interest lies,” she said. Outside of school, Channer is also heavily involved in her
church community. She is a Seventh Day Adventist Pathfinder in her Queens Faith Temple, where she is a Leader in Training and Youth Secretary. She even participated on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic sponsored by her church. “I helped to paint churches and a school and we helped in rebuilding some churches. We also handed out gifts – a back to school package to kids,” she said. “It’s always good to help others who are not as fortunate as I am. That is my drive to help people,” she added. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@ queenspress.com.
What’s Up OCT. 13 Second Chance Job Fair The Queens Chapter of the National Action Network and the York College Male Initiative Program will be hosting a Second Chance Job Fair- working with individuals who have a criminal record. Learn about entrepreneurship workshops, re-entry citi-wide programs, employment opportunities, resources and much more. The event will be held at the York College Gymnasium from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. York College is located at 160-02 Liberty Ave. in Jamaica. The event is free. For additional information, visit www.nationalactionnetwork.net or contact the Queens Chapter NAN at 855-2326724 or mysecondchance2012@yahoo.com.
11th Annual Harvest Festival The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation will be presenting an afternoon of cookoffs, cooking demos, live music, free food tastings and other fun for the entire family. Partake in arts and crafts, make a scarecrow, decorate a pumpkin and have your face painted. There will be magic shows, colorful clowns and cowboys too. The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 160th Street, just north of Jamaica Avenue.
2012 College and Career Fair
Elmer H. Blackburne Democratic Club Weekly Phone Bank The Elmer H. Blackburne Democratic Club is organizing a
OCT. 15 Stay Well The Queens Library Central Branch will be hosting a class to teach locals about special exercises and relaxation techniques. The class will start at 10 a.m. and is free. Queens Central Library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. (between Jamaica and Hillside Avenues.)
Greater Jamaica Development Corporation Annual Gala The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation will be celebrating 45 years. The GJDC gala will honor Dennis M. Walcott, Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education. The gala will begin at 6 p.m. For additional information including the price, call Anne Taibleson, Director of Resource Development at call (718) 291-0282 Ext. 126.
OCT. 16 “Romance and Ruin” The Chapel of the Three Sisters will be presenting “Romance and Ruin,” a special presentation of classical music featuring Lesley Zlabinger, soloist as soloist and Catherine Frank as pianist. The program will include: the song cycle “Frauenliebe UndLeben” by Robert Schumann; three songs by Claude Debussy (“Nuit d’etoiles,” “Voice que le printemps,” and “Paysage sentimental”); the secular cantata “Lucrezia” by G.F. Handel; and four songs by Mozart (“Ridente la calma,” “Warnung,” “Als Luise die Briefe,” and “An Chloe”). The event will start at 7 p.m. and is free. The Chapel of the Three Sisters is located at 94-15 159th St. in Jamaica.
Small Business Workshop Queens Central Library will be hosting a workshop at 7 p.m. to teach locals on how to develop their ideas into a business plan. In this workshop on Tuesday evenings, participants will learn
about creating a demand for their productsetting goals and objectives, budgeting and timelines, identifying resources and networks. For further information, visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-0746. The workshop is free. Queens Central Library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. (between Jamaica and Hillside Avenues).
These mock interviews let you make mistakes before they count. You will learn how to prepare for your interview, successfully deal with difficult questions and follow up properly after the interview. Space is limited and you must schedule an appointment in advance. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 990-5148, (718) 990-5176 or visit the Job Information Center at the library. The course will begin at 9 a.m. and is free.
OCT. 17 Queens Library Women’s Health Community OCT. 19 Conference J-CAP Fall 2012 Golf Queens Central Library will be Outing hosting their first ever women’s heath conference. The schedule is as follows: 11 a.m. - Welcome; 11:15 p.m. - Keeping Your Heart Strong; 12:15 p.m. - Managing Everyday Stress; 1 p.m. - Lunch Break where lunch will be provided; 1:45 pm - Cancer Prevention: What You Can Do To Lower Your Risk; 2:45 p.m. - Healthy Relationships: Sex, Sexuality & Intimacy. Starting at 2:30 p.m., there will be free health screenings available (blood pressure, blood glucose & body mass index) and the opportunity to schedule an appointment at the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center. The conference is free. For additional information, visit http:// www.queenslibrary.org/event/ womens-health-communityconference or contact Savitri Seupersad at (718) 990-5154 or sseupersad@queenslibrary.org.
Genealogy for Beginners Queens Central Library will be offering a course to teach residents about researching their family’s history. In this two-session workshop, Diane Warmsley explains the process, including where to find vital records and the many resources available to help them in their research. Part I - Genealogy Basics, at Central Library Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m.; Part II - Beyond Vital Records, at Central Library, Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m. The course is free.
OCT. 18 Mock Interviews Queens Central Library will be teaching residents how to perfect their interviewing skills.
The Queens Village Committee for Mental Health for J-CAP Junior Committee is presenting its Fall 2012 Golf Outing to benefit J-CAP Veterans Programs. The psychological and physical stresses suffered during recent and past military conflict and terrorism have caused more and more U.S. Armed Services veterans to abuse alcohol and other drugs. With this in mind, J-CAP created a service track within their residential drug treatment program and designed it to meet the unique needs of veterans as they relate to substance abuse and mental health issues. For additional information, call Aaron Rothschild at arothschild@jcapprograms.com or (718) 712-1100 x527. You must register by Oct. 3. The outing will begin at 1 p.m. and cost per ticket is $159. Ticket includes a game of golf, a cart, all contests, a boxed lunch and a dinner buffet. The outing will be held at Clearview Park Gold Course located at 202-12 Willets Point Blvd.
ONGOING Mobile CPR Program FDNY EMS instructors will come out to your site to conduct the CPR training using your facilities. The Be 911 Compressions Only CPR Program is brought to you free of charge by FDNY and NYC Service. The goal of the program is to train as many people as possible in basic CPR skills. In addition, participants will be briefly educated on the automated external defibrillator (AED) used to try and revive a person suffering from cardiac arrest. Though this program
does not certify any participants, the FDNY and NYC Service believe increasing the knowledge of how to save a life is far more beneficial. The program welcomes all ages, as long as the individual can demonstrate competency in retaining the required skills. Appointments can be made Monday through Friday during the hours of 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Classes may be approximately 20 minutes depending on the size of the group. For group registration of 10 or more participants or further information, contact the FDNY’s CPR Training Unit at Telephone Number (718) 281-3888.
Group Sessions Clergy United for Community Empowerment, Inc. Group Sessions are located at 89-31 161st St., 10th Floor, Jamaica, for the community on various topics such as Domestic Violence, Mental Health, Substance Abuse intervention, Decision Making, Condom Use, High Risk Behaviors leading to HIV, and self – esteem awareness. All group sessions offer light snacks and beverages. Group sessions are open to the public. Round-Trip Metro Card reimbursement is available at the end of each completed session. For further information call (718) 297-0720. All services are free. Please call for next group date.
HIV Awareness Clergy United for Community Empowerment provides intervention and curriculum-based prevention education sessions on HIV/ AIDS, to reduce risk behaviors that lead to HIV transmission. Services are located at 89-31 161st St., Jamaica. Call (718) 2970720 ask about our presentation to adolescents and men/women of color. Services are available Tue.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Merrick Flea Market A flea market has opened at 221-02 Merrick Blvd. On sale are a wide range of items, including household items, jewelry and clothing. The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
The Commission on Social Action is hosting a free college and career fair this week. It will include representatives from SUNY, CUNY, historically black colleges and universities, private universities and colleges, technical schools, non-profit organizations and different branches of the military. The event will be held at Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral located at 110-31 Merrick Blvd. from 12 to 5 p.m. For additional information, visit www.allencathedral.org, or contact Vivian McMillian at (917) 620-6590 or vm978@gmail.com.
phone bank to support President Barack Obama. You must bring your own cell phone and a charger. The phone bank will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. For additional information, contact host James Howard at (718) 525-4033.
Queens Today 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!
MISCELLANEOUS FARMERS MARKET Fridays 8:30-4:00 at Dahlia Avenue off Main Street, Flushing. FARMERS MARKET Saturdays through November 17 8-4 at Roy Wilkins Park, Merrick and Baisley Blvds. GREEN MARKET Sundays through November 18 Douglaston Greenmarket at the LIRR station, 235 th and 4 1 st Avenue. www.grownyc.org/follow.
Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
RELIGIOUS TEMPLE BETH SHOLOM Friday, Oc tober 12 Shabbat Services at 8. Sunday, October 14 Adult Education at 9:30. $3. Friday, Oc tober 19 Shabbat Services at 8. S a t u r d ay, O c t o b e r 2 0 Shabbat Services and Torah Study at 10. Friday, Oc tober 26 Shabbat Services and Junior Congregation at 8. Saturday, Oc tober 27 Shabbat Services and Torah Study at 10. Sunday, October 28 breakfast and discussion of summer trip to Israel. $3. At 9:30. Temple Beth Sholom, 171-39 Northern Blvd., Flushing. 463-4143. CENTENNIAL Sunday, Oc tober 21 Centennial Celebration at 10:30 at St. Luke’s Church, 85 Greenway South, Forest Hills.
THEATER DINNER/THEATRE October 20 interactive theater performance at All Saints. $45. 229-5631. AUDITIONS Mondays and Tuesday, October 22, 23 for “Pajama Game” with the Marathon Theater Group.
EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS GENEALOGY Saturday, Oc tober 13 at noon at the Langston Hughes library. SEWING CLASSES Saturdays 12-3 at Maria Rose International Doll Museum in St. Albans. 2763454. SCRABBLE CLUB Saturdays at 10 at Count Basie Jr. HS. 886-5236. HISTORY OF PHOTO Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 History of Photography: A MoMA Teleconference at the Queens Village librar y. Register. POETRY WRITING M o n d ay, O c to b e r 15 Woodhaven librar y. Register. INTRO COMPUTERS Monday, October 15 Introduction to computers and the internet at 10:30 at the Fresh Meadows library. WRITE SHORT STORY Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22 Wr i t i n g Yo u r S h o r t Stor y, from Creation to Publication Steinway library. Register. US CITIZENSHIP Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 Pathway to US Citizenship at 5 at the Rego Park librar y. BEGINNERS FRENCH Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 at 5 at the Woodhaven librar y. START UP! Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22 Business Plan Competition at 6:30 at the Central library. BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29, November 19, 26 a t 6:30 Forest Hills library. BLOGGING FOR FUN Monday, Oc tober 15 at the Peninsula library at 6:30. SMALL BUSINESS Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, 23, 30 at the Central librar y. Register. JOB READINESS Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, 23, 30 Woodside library at 6. INTRO WORD Tuesday, Oc tober 16 Flushing library at 10 McGoldrick librar y. Register. WEARABLE ART Tuesday, Oc tober 16 at the LIC library Register. QUICKBOOKS Tuesday, Oc tober 16 at the Flushing library at 6. COMPUTER CLASS Tuesday, Oc tober 16 at the Sunnyside library. Register. COMPUTER BASICS Wednesdays, Oc tober 17, 24, 31 at 10:30 at the Arverne library. GENEALOGY Wednesday, October 17 at the Central library at 6:30. INTRO EMAIL
We d n e s d a y, O c t o b e r 1 7 Pomonok library. Register. INTRO INTERNET Wednesday, October 17 at the Windsor Park library at 11:30. MICROSOFT OFFICE Thursdays, October 18, 25, November 1 at the Arverne library at 10:30. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 7-10 at the Bay Terrace Jewish Center. 423-6426. $50. FICTION WRITING Thursday, Oc tober 18 at the Langston Hughes library at 5:30. LEARN CHINESE Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 at the North Forest Park library at 5:30. ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 Seaside library at 5:30. INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, Oc tober 25 at t h e O z o n e Pa r k l i b r a r y. Register. COMPUTER TUTORING Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 a t t h e Wo o d s i d e l i b ra r y. Register. MOCK INTERVIEWS Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 Central library. Register. RESUME WRITING Friday, Oc tober 19 Resume writing and mock interviews at the Arverne library at 1. COMPUTER CLASSES Starting Oc tober 19 computer basics and email basics at the Central Queens Y o n 1 0 8 th S t r e e t i n F o r e s t Hills. 268-5011, ext. 160. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, Oc tober 20, 27 at Elmhurst Hospital. 646748-8290 information.
DINNER NETWORKING LUNCH F r i d ay, O c to b e r 2 6 9 0 t h Annual Salute to Commun i t y L e a d e r s N e t wo r k i n g Luncheon in Flushing. 6852802.
ENVIRONMENT IT’S MY PARK Saturday, Oc tober 20 Girls Scout Troop 4491 and residents will landscape, clean and plant at McDonald Park, Queens Blvd. at Yellowstone Blvd. 997-7014 if you want to help! INDOOR COMPOSTING Saturday, Oc tober 20 Putting Your Kitchen Scraps to Good Use at 10:30 at the Steinway library. GARDENING CLUB Saturdays help with our vegetable and shade garden at the Steinway library at 4.
ENTERTAINMENT MOVING IMAGE Through October 14 Films of Kenji Misumi. Oc tober 12-December 30 “See It Big” films. Oc tober 19-27 Raya Martin Retrospective. Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria. 412. Adults. 777-6800. GUERNICA 75 Through Oc tober new compositions by acclaimed young flamenco guitarist and composer Daniel Casares at Thalia Spanish Theatre in Sunnyside. 729-3880. AMAZING MAIZE MAZE Weekends through Oc to ber 28 at the Queens Count y Farm Museum, 7350 Little Neck Parkway, Flor a l Pa r k . 3 4 7 - FA R M . $ 9 adults, $5 children. PUMPKIN FAIR Saturday, October 13 11-6 on 46 th Street, Sunnyside. Music, balloon animals, puppets, exotic dishes, great bargains, more. ASTORIA JAZZ BAND Saturday, Oc tober 13 featuring Fred Staton at the Steinway Reformed Church at 3. Saturday, November 3 with the 16 piece Astoria Big Band at Steinway Reformed Church at 3. 917667-5331 ticket information. RECEPTION Saturday, Oc tober 13 reception for the “For the Birds!” exhibit at the Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38 th Avenue, Flushing from 2-4. COMMUNITY FAIR Saturday, Oc tober 13 the Cross Island YMCA will host its 1 s t A n n u a l C o m m u n i t y Fair, Auction and Carnival 11-6. 238-10 Hillside Avenue, Bellerose. JAPANESE DANCE Saturday, October 13 Japanese Classical Dance at 2 at the Flushing library. ECHOING VOICES Saturday, October 13 musical presentation of stories of American immigration at 2:30 at the Fresh Meadows library. STORY TELLING CONCERT Sunday, October 14 at the Central library at 1. WOODHAVEN ST. FEST Sunday, Oc tober 14 32 nd Annual Wonderful Woodhaven Street Festival 12-6 on Woodhaven’s Jam a i c a A v e n u e f r o m 8 0 th Street to Woodhaven Blvd. MUSICA REGINAE S u n d ay, O c to b e r 1 4 E n semble Epomeo performs at Church in the Gardens, 50 Ascan Avenue, Forest Hills at 5:30. Reception follows. $20 adults. 894-2178. HISPANIC HERITAGE
Sunday, Oc tober 14 NYSCI celebrates Hispanic Heritage at the Hall of Science. 699-0005. TONY ORLANDO S u n d a y, O c t o b e r 1 4 a t Queensborough Communit y College. 631-6311. LIVE JAZZ & R&B Sundays, Oc tober 14, 21, 28 live jazz and r&b 6-10 at Déjà vu, 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. TURKISH FILM Monday, Oc tober 15 Turkish film with English subtitles and then a discussion at 2 at the Fresh Meadows library. SKATEBOARD VIDEO Tuesday, Oc tober 16 Skateboard Video Night at 5:340 at the Peninsula library. OLYMPIC HIGHLIGHTS Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, 23, 30 Olympic Highlights at 4 at the Seaside library. CARD PART Y Tuesday, Oc tober 16 Sisterhood of Bay Terrace Jewish Center’s Luncheon Card Part y. 229-6877. $20 in advance. JOHNNY MERCER We d n e s d a y, O c to b e r 1 7 tribute to Mercer at 1:30 at the Bay Terrace library. SOUTH ASIA ON FILM Wednesdays through April 25 at 4:30 at the GodwinTe r n b a c h Museum at Queens College. 997-4747 for titles and other info. FILM FESTIVAL Thursdays, October 11, 18, 25 “Crisis and Leadership: State of the Union” films 25 at Queens Museum of Art. 592-9700. AMERICAN BLUES T h u r s d a y, O c t o b e r 1 8 American Blues and More at 2 at the Whitestone library. ITALIAN HERITAGE Thursday, Oc tober 18 at 5 and 6:30 at the Howard Beach library. Astoria Historical Societ y. 278-0700.
EXHIBIT FOR THE BIRDS! Through November 18 “For the Birds! Fanciful Follies for Our Feathered Friends: at the Voelker Orth Museum, 149-19 38 th Avenue, Flushing. 359-6227. THREE GENERATIONS Through January 12 three generations of the Aguilera Family at Queensborough CC. 631-6396. MUSEUM OF ART Through January 6 “Caribbean” Crossroads of the Wo r l d , ” “A d a B o b o n i s : Stages, Mountains, Water” Queens Museum. 592-9700.
PARENTS HOW TO TALK TO KIDS Monday, October 15 “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk” at 5:30 at the LIC library.
SENIORS SENIOR FITNESS Through November 2 tennis, yoga, fitness walking at Astoria Park, Cunningham Park, Flushing Meadows and Roy Wilkins Park. Call 7606999 for times and activities. AARP 3334 Mondays, Oc tober 15, November 19 AARP 3334 meets at St. Kevin’s, 195 th S t r e e t a n d 4 5 th A v e n u e , Flushing. 224-0478. BASIC COMPUTER Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, 23, 30 at the South Ozone Park library at 10. WII GAMING Wednesdays, Oc tober 17, 31 at the Fresh Meadows library at 2. WORD Wednesday, Oc tober 17 at the Lefrak Cit y library at 11. STARS Wednesdays Senior Theatre Acting Repertory at the Hollis library at 11:15. ELDER LAW Thursday, Oc tober 18 Everything You Always Wanted to Ask an Elder Law Attorney 9:30-11:00 at the Samuel Field Y, 58-20 Little Neck Parkway. Light breakfast. STAR PERFORMS Friday, October 19 at 2 at the Queens Village library. November 16 at noon at the Cross Island YMCA, 238-10 Hillside Avenue, Bellerose. Senior Theater Acting Repertory performs drama, music and comedy selections. HOWARD BEACH Fridays in Oc tober digital camera class. Sunday, October 14 defensive driving. $17 AARP members, $19 others. 156-45 84 th Street. 738-8100. FREE LUNCH Saturday, Oc tober 20 All Saints Church in Richmond Hill. 849-2352 reservations. HORIZONS CLUB T h u r s d ay , O c t o b e r 2 5 staged readings by Belles Players perform for Horizons, 12:30 at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills, 7111 112 th Street. Bring lunch. 3 includes coffee and cake. WALK-A-THON Friday, Oc tober 26 10-1 Selfhelp Communit y Services will hold its first Annual Walk-a-thon at Kissena Park in Flushing to benefit Senior Citizen programs and services. 559-4367.
Queens Today YOUTH
MEETINGS TABLE TENNIS CLUB Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 Seaside library at 1:30. SUNNYSIDE WRITERS Monday, Oc tober 15 at the Sunnyside library at 6:30. REPUBLICAN CLUB Tuesday, Oc tober 16 Rego Hills Republican Club 28 th AD meets at the Sizzler, 10027 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills at 7:30. 102 ND PRECINCT Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, November 20 102 nd Precinct Communit y Council meets at 8 at Moose Hall, 87-34 119 th Street. TALK OF THE TOWN Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, November 6, 20, December 4, 18 learn the art of public speaking at 7:15 in St. Albans. 640-7092. AUBURNDALE CIVIC Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, November 20 Auburndale residents meet at St. Kevin’s, 4521 194 th Street at 7:30. AMER. LEGION Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, November 20, December 18 Post 131 meets at 8 at 10-20 Clintonville Street,
HEALTH
November 7, 21, December 5, 19 learn the art of public speaking at t he Voices of Rochdale Toastmasters Club in Jamaica. 978-0732. FLUSHING CAMERA Wednesdays, Oc tober 17, 31 Flushing Camera Club at Flushing Hospital. 7490643. KNIGHTS OF PY THIAS We d n e s d a y, O c t o b e r 1 7 Queensview Lodge 433 in Whitestone. 917-754-3093. MEN’S PRIDE GROUP T h u r s d a y s , O c to b e r 1 8 , November 1, 15, December 6, 20 Queens Pride House Men’s group 7-9. 429-5309. CORVETTE CLUB Thursday, Oc tober 18 National Afro-American Corvette Club meets at Roy Wilkins Park and Recreation Center, 17701 Baisley Blvd., Jamaica. 347744-0819.
TALKS DREAMLAND S a t u r d a y, O c to b e r 1 3 “Dreamland: Adventures in the Strange Science of Sleep” at 2:30 at the Forest Hills library. FLUSHING BOOK Saturday, Oc tober 13 “To Read Is To Live” at 3 at the Flushing library. OBAMA OR ROMNEY? Sunday, October 14 “Who is Better for Israel” at the Re f o r m Te m p l e o f F o re s t Hills, 71-11 112 th Street at 10:30. Register 261-2900. JEWS OR GREECE Sunday, Oc tober 14 “ The Jews of Greece and the Holocaust: Their Untold Story” at 1 at Kupferberg Holocaust Center at Queensborough Communit y College. 2815770. ARCHITECTURE AND YOU Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29, November 5 at the Flushing library at 6:30. AUDIO BOOK CLUB Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 Seaside library at 11. EYAL PRESS Monday, October 15 journalist Eyal Press will talk about his new book “Beautiful Souls” at the Central Queens YM-YWHA in Forest Hills. $6. 67-09 108 th Street. 268-5011, ext. 151. KOREAN BOOK CLUB Monday, Oc tober 15 at 1 at the McGoldrick library. FOREIGN DEGREE Monday, October 15 “Maki n g Yo u r F o re i g n D e g r e e Count in the US” at 5 at the East Flushing library. SEASIDE BOOK CLUB Monday, October 15 “Ol-
ive Kitteridge.” Monday, November 12 “Remains of the Day.” Monday, December 17 “Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night Time.” 5:30 at the Seaside library. FOREIGN NURSES Monday, Oc tober 15 seminar for Nurses Trained Outside the USA at 6 at the Forest Hills library. ELDER LAW Thursday, Oc tober 18 Everything You Always Wanted to Ask an Elder Law Attorney 9:30-11:00 at the Samuel Field Y, 58-20 Little Neck Parkway. Light breakfast. AUTHOR TALK Thursday, October 18 Sara Y. A h a r o n s p e a k s a b o u t “From Kabul to Queens” at the Kew Gardens Hills library at 1:30. INVESTOR EDUCATION Thursday, Oc tober 18 at 5:30 at the Forest Hills library. LITERARY SOUP Thursday, Oc tober 18 “Of Mice and Men” discussed at 5:30 at the Queens Village library. NEW TEACHERS S a t u r d a y, O c t o b e r 2 0 “ What Every New Teacher Should Know” at 11:30 at the Central library. MODERN ARCHITECTURE Saturday, Oc tober 20 at the Fresh Meadows library at 2:30. ASTORIA HISTORICAL Saturday, October 20 “The Cuban Missile Crisis” history roundtable at 1. Free. Greater Astoria Historical Societ y, 35-20 Broadway, 4 th floor, LIC. 278-0700.
THINGS THAT GO BUMP Saturday, Oc tober 13 at 3 at the Ridgewood libra ry. Wednesday, Oc tober 17 at 3 at the North Hills library. M o n d ay, O c to b e r 2 9 a t 3:30 at the Maspeth library. Things That Go Bump in the Night: Multicultural Scary Stories. STORY TELLING CONCERT Sunday, Oc tober 14 at 1 at the Central library. BABY & ME Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 Bayside library at 11. SEASIDE CRAFT Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 at the Seaside libra ry. Register. IPAD STORY TELLING Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 ie: at the North Forest P a r k l i b r a r y. Re g i st e r a t autisminitiatives@queensmuseum.org to register. POP-UP CARDS M o n d ay, O c to b e r 1 5 a t 4:30 at the Central library. Wednesday, Oc tober 17 at the South Ozone Park lib ra r y. Re g i st e r. M o n d ay, Oc tober 22 at 4:30 at the Central libr a ry. Monda y, Oc tober 29 at 4 at the East F l u s h i n g l i b ra r y. O r i g a m i Pop-Up Cards and Books. NEW WORD PROJECT Tuesday, Oc tober 16 for those 6-12 at 4:30 at the Central library. SHSAT PREP We d n e s d a y, O c to b e r 1 7 SHSAT Prep for those 11-13 at the Central library at 4. WIGGLY WORM BINS Wednesday, Oc tober 17 at 4:30 at the Astoria library. PRE-SCHOOL STORYTIME We d n e s d a y, O c to b e r 1 7 Maspeth library at 12:30. FALL CRAFT/ACTIVIT Y Wednesdays, Oc tober 17, 24, 31 at the East Flushing library Register. FAMILY STORY TIME Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 Bay Terrace library at 11:30. CAVE WRITING T h u r s d a y, O c t o b e r 1 8 South Hollis library at 4:30. PING PONG… Every Thursday ping pong, board games and coloring at the Seaside library at 4. WHO TOOK CHEESE? Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 8-12 year olds will read “Who Took my Cheese?” at the Central library at 4:30. ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 at the Seaside library at 5:30. CRAFT TIME Thursday, Oc tober 18 at the Howard Beach library at 3:30. TOTE BAGS Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25
at 4 at the Ridgewood library. Thursday, November 8 at 4 at the LIC librar y. Wednesday, November 14 at 4 at the LIC library. Back to School Tote Bags. SPELLING BEE Thursday, Oc tober 18 for grades 1-6 at the Hollis library at 4:30. KIDS STORY TIME Friday, Oc tober 19 at the Arverne library at 11. PRESCHOOL CRAFTS Friday, Oc tober 19 at the Sunnyside library. Register. BOOK BUDDIES F r i d a y s , O c to b e r 1 9 , 2 6
Fresh Meadows library at 4. READ TO ME Fridays this autumn for those 3-7 at the Briarwood library at 3. FAMILY STORY TIME Saturday, Oc tober 20 at the Flushing library at 11:30. BAYSIDE HISTORICAL S u n d a y, Oc tober 21 Bayside Historical Societ y will host a Kids Walk-in Craft Workshop “A Step Back in Time” for those 6-12 from 12-2. 352-1548. $5 per child. 208 Totten Avenue, Fort Totten.
TEENS STORY TELLING CONCERT Sunday, Oc tober 14 at the Central library at 1. HOMEMADE MOVIE Monday, Oc tober 15, Tuesday, October 16, Thursday, Oc tober 18 Lefrak Cit y library at 4:30. Three week contest to write and produce a homemade movie. POETRY EVENT Monday, Oc tober 15 at the South Ozone Park library at 4. Also on Thursday, October 18 at the Hillcrest library at 4:30. WINNING COLLEGE PLAN Monday, Oc tober 15 Creating a Winning College Admissions Plan at 5 at the Pomonok library. PERFECT PILLOW Tuesday, October 16 at the Rochdale Village library at 3:30. Also at 4:30 at the Pomonok library. Wednesd ay, O c t o b e r 1 7 a t t h e Rochdale Village library at 3:30 and the Pomonok library at 4:30. SKATEBOARD VIDEO Tuesday, October 16 at the Peninsula library at 5:30. RECYCLED JEWELRY Wednesday, Oc tober 17 at 4 a t t h e A st o r i a l i b ra r y. Wednesday, Oc tober 24 at 3:30 at the Woodside library. ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25, November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 at the Seaside library at 5:30. TOTE BAGS Thursdays, Oc tober 18, 25 Back to School Tote Bags at 4 at the Ridgewood library. ITALIAN HERITAGE Thursday, Oc tober 18 celebrate Italian Heritage Month with music and crafts at the Howard Beach library at 5. BOOK BUDDIES Fridays, October 19, 26 at the Fresh Meadows library
at 4. HALLOWEEN BLOOD FEST Saturday, Oc tober 20 music, magic, movies and more at noon at the Flushing library. OPEN MIC Sunday, Oc tober 21 at the Central library at 2.
FLEA MARKETS OUTDOOR FLEA Saturdays and Sundays through November 25 94:30 at St. Nicholas of Tolentine, Parsons Blvd. and Union Turnpike, Jamaica. PUMPKIN FAIR Saturday, Oc tober 13 11-6 on 46 th Street, Sunnyside. Music, balloon animals, puppets, exotic dishes, great bargains, more. TREASURE SALE Saturday, Oc tober 20 at Holy Family School, Utopia Parkway and 75 th Avenue, Flushing. 10-6. Household, books, more. AUTUMN BOOK & FLEA Saturday, Oc tober 20 9:303:30 and Sunday, Oc tober 21 1 1 : 3 0 - 3 : 3 0 b a k e a n d book sale at Church of the R e s u r r e c t i o n , 8 5 - 0 9 1 1 8 th Street, Kew Gardens. FALL FESTIVAL Saturday, Oc tober 20 kids activities, treasures, baked goods, snack bar, thrift shop, books and more 10-4 at Grace Episcopal Church, 1415 Clintonville Street, Whitestone. CRAFT & VENDOR SALE Saturday, November 3 104 in the school gym at P S 1 1 3 , 7 8 - 2 3 8 7 th S t r e e t , Glendale. Visit Santa, refreshments. HOLY BAZAAR December 1 All Saints’ Holly Bazaar 9-4. 214-35 40 th Avenue, Bayside.
Oct. 12-18, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17
ZUMBA Monday, Oc tober 15 register at the Arverne library. INTRO YOGA Mondays, Oc tober 15, 22, 29 at the Baisley Park library. Register. ART THERAPY Tuesday, Oc tober 16 Art Therapy Group for Cancer Patients and Survivors 45:30 at the Queens Museum of Art. 592-9700. HEALTHY FOODS Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, 23 Healthy Foods, Healthy Families at Lucille Rose Daycare Center. 990-5197. MENTAL ILLNESS We d n e s d ay, O c t o b e r 1 7 National Alliance on Mental Illness meets for Nar-Anon at 7:30. Caring and sharing meeting at 6. Zucker Hillside Hospital, Sloman Auditorium, 266 th Street and 76 th Avenue, Glen Oaks. 3477284. RECOVERY INT. Thursdays, October 18, 25, November 1 Recovery International meets at the Forest Hills library at 2:30. COOKING T h u r s d ay, O c to b e r 1 8 Healthy Puerto Rican cooking at 5:30 at the Steinway librar y. ZUMBA Thursday, October 18 at 6 at the Baisley Park library.
Whitestone. 767-4323. BEREAVEMENT Tuesdays, Oc tober 16, November 20, December 18 Bereavement Support Group at Holy Family in Fresh Meadows at 7:30. 969-2448. SEASIDE WRITING Wednesday s, Oc tober 17, 24, 31 Seaside library at 1. TRAVEL CLUB Wednesday s, Oc tober 17, 24 Seaside library at 3. CONVERSATION CLUB Wednesday s, Oc tober 17, 24, 31 at the Seaside library at 5:30. CLINTON DEMOCRATS We d n e s d a y, O c t o b e r 1 7 Clinton Democratic Club meets at Vallone and Vallone L L P, 2 5 - 5 9 Fr a n c i s Le w i s Blvd., Flushing. 428-7285. TOASTMASTERS Wednesday s, Oc tober 17,
Flushing-born Jessicka Juanita Mars has been modeling since she was 15-years old. Her career blossomed after a friend recommended her to an agency, City Model and Talent in Central Islip. “My friend started doing some modeling and suggested I do it because she liked the way I looked in pictures,” she said. It wasn’t long after Mars began working in the industry that she made the difficult decision of putting her career on hold and focusing on her studies. “I really just needed to focus on high school,” she said. After taking a two-year break, Mars was eager to pursue her dreams once more. She began modeling again at 18, when she began to prepare for National American Miss, a beauty pageant held in New York City. Mars, a fashion merchandizing major at The Art Institute, is passionate about style and fashion. In her spare time she enjoys reading fashion magazines and drawing sketches of different outfits. “I love to draw and sketch,” she said. “I’m trying to build something up with that and my modeling career.” The Queens native, who now lives in Bellerose, loves making trips across the borough. She particularly enjoys linking up with old friends and visiting Astoria’s Steinway Street and shopping at Queens Center Mall.
Pursuing Her Dream Jessicka Juanita Mars Home: Bellerose Age: 19 Height: 5’7" Weight: 132 Stats: 34-29-39
The Bigger They Are… Once again, David slew Goliath, only this time the battle took place in a Queens elementary school. John Webster, a gym teacher at PS 330 in Elmhurst, has filed a notice of intent to sue the City after he suffered injuries to his knee and ankle after an altercation with a student – a 6-year-old student at the school. According to a report, the student began attacking the 220-pound former college football player after the teacher tried to discipline him for some “I grew up in Queens so it feels like I’m at home again. Everyone in Queens is really nice – the environment is really nice,” she said. If given the chance Mars would
Another WalkenHey,Adventure all you Christopher
Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Oct. 12-18, 2012
Enjoy Free Speech For fans of Coca-cola, the “Enjoy Coke” slogan is all too familiar. The mantra is almost a way of life to some. Yet, one clever high-schooler thought she could take it one step further by sporting, at school, an “Enjoy Vagina” tee designed in a similar fashion. When administrators at Newtown High in Elmhurst took one look at the bisexual teen’s Tshirt, she was told she had two choices. Either change or go home. The 15-year-old refused to change and called the teachers hypocrites for using the word in class. While citing her right to free speech, we at QConf thought it would only be fitting to mention to similar-minded fans of the organ, there are also "Enjoy Vagina" hoodies and tank tops available for online purchase.
Walken fans! Get set for another film appearance from your favorite actor. The Astoria-born celeb has a new movie coming out on Oct.12, “Seven Psychopaths.” The flick stars Colin Farrell as Marty, a struggling writer trying to complete his screenplay. His best friend, Billy (played by Sam Rockwell), is a part time dog thief who wants to help Marty out any way he can. So he teams up with partner-in-crime Hans (played by Walken) to steal a gangster’s beloved dog. In case it is still unclear, this movie is a comedy and looks to be a hilarious one at that. With lots of critical acclaims and someone like Walken in the middle of it all, this seems like a fall film not to be missed.
Who We Are QConf is edited by: Michael Schenkler. Contributors: Ross Barkan, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Steve Ferrari, Megan Montalvo, Mike Nussbaum, Natalia Kozikowska You can reach us by email at Conf@QueensTribune.com
love to work as a full-time model. “I feel comfortable in front of the camera, that moment is my moment. I feel glamorous and pretty. It boosts up my self-esteem,” she said.
Gym teacher, John Webster horseplay with other students. The student also reportedly attacked a security officer and another teacher during the incident.
The Best Dosa in Town
If you’re looking for the tastiest dosa in New York City, you are not alone! A new movie aired last weekend all about the hunt for the best version of the Indian crepe-like A crispy, savory pancake from South India meal, and featured Queens prominently. Confidentially, New York . . . “Dosa Hunt” was directed by Stereogum editor Amrit Singh and features several indie musicians running around the City in a tumultuous search for the delicious dish. Their journey takes them to two different locales in Queens. The group stops in Flushing’s Dosa Hut and in a particularly funny segment, runs around Jackson Heights’ supermarket, Patel Brothers, grabbing ingredients while on the phone with their moms. The assembly contains band members from Vampire Weekend, Neon Indian, Yeasayer and Das Racist. Those who attended the weekend screening at Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg were treated to free dosa and samosa. Let’s hope one of the Queens businesses won the contest! Email submissions to MSchenkler@gmail.com
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