Queens Tribune Community Pages by Michael Nussbaum

Astoria This Week

Planning Queens’ Waterfront Future

A sample of the map with the variedcolor markings. Astoria and Long Island City is close to her heart and those involved. “We live in the community,” she said. “We care a lot for it.” Ilana Teitel, also from GreenShoresNYC, said the group and The Trust for Public Land hope to involve the public as much as possible in the process. “We want to come out of here with a plan for the waterfront and we want [local residents] to get a sense as to what we are doing,” she said.

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connected either along the water or easily by road on land. In between those areas are industrial zones, vacant lots and apartment buildings. Some residents fear high rise apartments along the waterfront in those vacant lots or industrial sites will decrease the already limited access to the shoreline and interrupt views of Manhattan that many residents near the shore now enjoy. Also in the discussion was feedback on the popular kayaking program in Hallets Cove and the possibility of ferry service from Astoria or Long Island City to Manhattan and/or Roosevelt Island. Andy Stone, New York City Director for the Trust for Public Land, said after all the listening sessions are completed at the end of August, there will be two communitywide public hearings in September and one big town hall to present and discuss a plan in October. “We hope to come back to the public with a realistic plan based on their suggestions,” Stone said. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125. —Domenick Multiple attendees point out positive and negative features Rafter near the water front. One of the primary issues for locals was the lack of continuity on the waterfront; parkland and recreational areas such as Rainey Park, Socrates Sculpture Garden, Whitey Ford Field and Astoria Park are not directly

Tribune Photos by Domenick Rafter

GreenShores NYC and The Trust for Public Land have teamed up to improve the waterfront in Astoria and Long Island City, and they are getting people’s opinions on what they should focus on. All summer long, the groups are holding public listening sessions throughout the two neighborhoods aimed at finding out what residents like and do not like about the stretch of waterfront along the East River from Newtown Creek all the way north to Bowery Bay near LaGuardia Airport. At each listening session, representatives from both groups worked with local residents and park frequenters to identify problems and successes. Each meeting is focused on a certain area of the shore. On July 21, the focus was on the Upper Ditmars part of the Astoria near Bowery Bay and the Rikers Island Bridge; the Aug. 4 meeting was focused on Hallets Cove, Hallets Point and Astoria Houses. On Aug. 11, they held a listening session focused on Queensbridge Park, where local officials are fighting to get the long-neglected seawall replaced. Future meetings on Aug. 16 and 17 will focus on Hunters Point and Astoria Park respectively. At the meetings, the groups present satellite maps of the focus areas. Locals who take part in the meeting place stickers on the map: green for what is good, red for what is bad and blue for what they would like to do. They also discuss issues such as access to the waterfront, activities and means to get to these spots. Katie Ellman, president of GreenShoresNYC, said the waterfront in

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Bayside This Week

Digital Shift Puts His Words On Screen

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Jay Griffel shows of his electronic book.

Griffel had yet to get one published. “I published an untold number of magazines articles and essays,” he said, “several books for young adults and young children; but I had never brought in the big prize, the novel.” Submitting his fifth novel to a digital publisher, Stay Thirsty Media, resulted in another rejection, but they were interested enough to break their own rule and check out his “plan b” novel, “Forty Years Later,” which got the go ahead. A tale of remorse, adultery and redemption, “Forty Years Later” is about a man who missed his opportunity to go to Woodstock and always regretted it. Forty years after that first festival, he has the opportunity to take his original date to the anniversary show. “The fact that she’s sort of deranged, mad and a famous Hollywood screenwriter – and he was married – posed some inconvenience in his life,” Griffel said. The idea of second chances that is woven through the novel mirrors Griffel’s own path – from soaring career heights to the stunning low of unemployment, and back again. At first, hawking his digital book felt like a betrayal of his deepest love, actual books you hold in your hand. “I did feel like a loathsome huckster, someone who was willing to sacrifice the thing he loved most for a lowly buck,” Griffel said. What got him past that was his realization that books are merely a medium to transmit words, and technology comes and goes. “The first quarter of 2010, digital books

are up 250 percent with every expert in the world predicting that triple digit growth will continue for the unforeseeable future,” he said. “Ye olde neighborhood bookstore will be gone. Even the superstores may be gone.” But thanks to the digital revolution, which brought us the ability to read books via computer, e-reader or tablet, more people will have access to more books, Griffel said. In fact, “Forty Years Later” has been read by people on five continents, something that would be nearly impossible for a paperbound book of modest sales.

Even his consulting business has picked up. “Whereas nobody was answering my emails for consulting work for the first year of my unemployment, now I am getting inquiries,” Griffel said. “Hopefully I can ride that wave for the unforeseeable future.” “Forty Years Later,” is available for $9.99 from amazon.com for download onto computer, e-reader or tablet. Reach Reporter Jessica Ablamsky at jablamsky@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 124. –Jessica Ablamsky

Backing Ed:

Tribune Photo by Ira Cohen

Photo by Jessica Ablamsky

The very thing that cost Bayside bibliophile Steven Jay Griffel his job – the digital revolution – might be his salvation. After spending the better part of his life in publishing, working his way up the ranks from proofreader to vice president, Griffel was laid off. Although books have been created digitally for more than a generation, the end product was always paper-bound. When clients started requesting digital only, publishers did not know how to turn a profit. “Because I was a vice president, and a sixfigure kind of guy, I was kicked out,” he said. Finding his time unexpectedly free, Griffel took the opportunity to fulfill his dream of writing full time. “I have always been a novelist, but I’ve always been working my writing around the requirements of raising a family, having a wife and two children and being an executive,” he said. With numerous novels under his belt,

Assembly District 26 Democratic candidate Ed Braunstein received the endorsement of U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman and Sen. Toby Stavisky in his run to replace Ann-Margaret Carrozza, who is not seeking re-election after 10 years in the Assembly.

East This Week

Digital Shift Puts His Words On Screen

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Jay Griffel shows of his electronic book.

Backing Ed:

Tribune Photo by Ira Cohen

Photo by Jessica Ablamsky

Flushing This Week

Residents Complain About Venting "It'd be fine if you could close the window and that'd be the end of it," Raab said. "These are irritants. They may be carcinogens. I'm not a doctor, I don't know." The building is part of a larger complex which became a co-op more than 20 years ago, and is overseen by AK Management, according to Raab. The 56-year-old tenant tried to file a complaint with the building's managing agent, Robert Simone, to no avail, Raab said. Simone did not respond to phone calls. Raab reached out to numerous city agencies, desperately trying to file a complaint with the right people. Finally, the Dept. of Buildings visited last Friday, citing the vents as violations, claiming the building lacked proper interior exhaust systems in its kitchen areas. Raab said new neighbors, a majority of them Asian, have been installing range hoods above their ovens with an output sending the noxious fumes from their cooking out of their kitchen windows. The smells tend to be acrid, sour and generally unpleasant, Raab said. And they cause a host of issues. The elder Raab complained of tearing eyes, difficulty breathing, nausea, dizziness, soar throat and an increase in blood pressure. The conditions are a Clifford Raab shows one of the many vents particular concern for the 98-year-old, that are mounted in windows outside his who suffers from congestive heart failkitchen window. ure.

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Tribune Photo by Joseph Orovic

For Clifford Raab and his father Stanley, life at 144-41 Sanford Ave. stinks. Literally. The father-son duo has spent the better part of the last three years gassed by their neighbors' cooking. The culprit? A recent outbreak of vents pouring cooking fumes out of neighboring kitchens.

The smells can come at any hour of the day, starting in the morning all the way through midnight snacks. "Every night they put it on," Raab said. Neighbor Joan Strudwick complained of cabbage and fish smells seeping into her apartment up until 1 a.m. "I've got enough other problems I had to deal with," she said.

But the Dept. of Buildings' visit left Raab with some hope that the situation would be rectified. "It's a long and hard battle and we're seeing progress finally," he said. Reach Reporter Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127. —Joseph Orovic

Crime Spike In 109th Pct Officers from Flushing's 109th Precinct are raising concern over a recent spate of crime in their jurisdiction. According to Crime Prevention Officer Anthony LoVerme, the Precinct has seen an increase in auto thefts and burglaries. Criminals have been breaking into homes day and night, through more conventional means, but also by pushing in air conditioning units. Thieves are also targeting Dodge Caravans, Ford Econoline vans, Honda Civics

and Accords as well as Toyota Highlanders and Rav4's. "If car owners have alarms, make sure they set it," LoVerme said, adding unattended property should not be left inside a car. The precinct is offering free Vehicle Identification Number etching, as well has residential and commercial property surveys to help residents deter criminals. To schedule an appointment for either, call (718) 321-2270. —Joseph Orovic

Send news to: Flushing This Week, Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

Forest Hills This Week

Musical Pulse Returns To Bandshell the audience will enjoy better views of the stage and better acoustics. "I think they did a solid job," said Alexander Blenkinsopp, spokesman for the Woodhaven Residents Block Association and member of Community Board 9. Renovations on the site began in December. Brand new steel benches made from recycled material replaced the old wooden green benches, which were rotting. The shell itself got a makeover, and new greenery was planted all around the site including new trees and shrubs. Blenkinsopp said the new benches were a huge improvement. "The old wooden benches were falling apart. I remember getting splinters from

sitting there," he said. The bandshell is known for not only hosting concerts and plays, but also for being a gathering spot for locals. "It's the cultural center of the community," Blenkinsopp said, noting that often neighbors meet on the benches to talk and local teenagers use the site as a recreational area for roller skating and skateboarding. The site, which sits only steps from Woodhaven Boulevard, reopened with great fanfare on Aug. 4 with a performance by Shirley Alston Reeves of the Shirelles. A full line-up of performances is slated for the rest of the summer until Sept. 1. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at

Photo by Domenick Rafter

For the first time this summer, a steady parade of headlights exited the woods of Forest Park along Forest Park Drive heading onto Woodhaven Boulevard after nightfall on Aug. 4. The cars were transporting spectators home from the grand reopening of the Seuffert Bandshell in Forest Park, which just finished undergoing a massive nine-month long renovation thanks to financial help from the Bloomberg administration, Borough President Helen Marshall and Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village). New benches face the 90-year old bandshell, which was coated with fresh white and blue paint. Besides the new aesthetics,

The newly renovated bandshell and benches in Forest Park. drafter@queenstribune.com or (719) 3577400, Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

Possible Hazard At Home Depot Site

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will undergo a detailed environmental study of a Superfund site located near a bustling Glendale shopping center. The DEC says the site may be hazardous to the public. The site, less than two-thirds of an acre in size, is located at 75-09 Woodhaven Blvd. in Glendale and his home to a Home Depot. It is listed as a Class "2" site on the State Registry of Inactive Hazardous Waste Sites, the database of Superfund sites in New York State. A Class "2" rating states that the site may be "a significant threat to the public health" The study that will be done is called a

"Remedial Investigation" and will be aimed at defining the nature and extent of contamination in off-site groundwater; characterizing the potential for off-site soil vapor intrusion in areas not yet evaluated; assessing the impact of any contamination on public health and the local environment; and providing information to support the development of a solution to the contamination problem. The investigation will begin with field work starting Aug. 16, and over the next two and a half months the DEC will install shallow and intermediate monitoring wells and soil vapor points to run the tests. The DEC will also collect groundwater and soil vapor samples to be analyzed. In late fall, the results

of these tests will determine the next phase and steps DEC will take. The DEC will later contact responsible parties, including former owners of the land, to assist in any and all cleanup, develop a plan with them and then move forward with instituting the plan. The site, located along the east side of Woodhaven Boulevard, just north of the LIRR tracks that connect Long Island City to Jamaica, is about halfway between Union Turnpike and Metropolitan Avenue. It is the former site of a steel warehouse, a knitting mill, and an office/warehouse, all of which occupied the site for more than 60 years. The building was demolished in 1997 to

make room for the Home Depot. The site sits adjacent to a new high school campus set to open next month, but the DEC says the school is not at risk because the school was constructed with a vapor mitigation system and depressurization system as part of an approved remedy for another Superfund site. All project documents will be available for the public to see at the North Forest Park branch of the Queens Library at 98-27 Metropolitan Ave in Forest Hills. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400. Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

Jackson Heights This Week

A Place For Plumbing Parts Since '81 “I like parts,” said Peter Alfano Jr., owner Instead of selling all of bits and pieces, the of Alfano Plumbing & Faucet Specialties Com- flush valves, flappers and ballcocks, he repany, which is known for hard-to-find plumb- tained most of his inventory and, seeing a ing parts throughout New York. need, decided to start up his This plumbing parts business own plumbing parts business. has been a mainstay in Corona “We went through a catafor 30 years providing the local logue and ordered one of evneighborhood and all of Queens erything,” Karla said. “So ‘sellwith intricate plumbing parts ing’ all of our junk was a good and specialized pieces. way to start a business.” The Alfanos thrive on hard Focusing mostly on faucet work, which has led to the sucparts, the Alfanos stock huncess of their shop, in business at dreds of drawers full of intricate the same location since 1981. pieces of plumbing systems Peter and Karla not only develthroughout their store, labeled oped the parts business, but also with numbers and meticulously raised their two children and stored. Karla has meticulously Peter and Karla built a life for themselves organized and catalogued these Alfano through their store. parts over the years, but Peter “I passed the time, had a roof over my doesn’t need to memorize the catalogue of head, educated my kids,” Peter said. pieces he has; with years of experience, he Peter Alfano Sr. started a plumbing ser- already knows where everything is. vice business in the 1920’s, and eventually In the late 1990s, Alfano was one of the first brought his son on board. Once Peter Jr. supply parts businesses to expand online, leadtook over, he wasn’t too happy with the ing the way for their competitors, and business plumbing industry and he decided he would has grown to the point where the industry has sell the business to one of his workers and modeled itself after Alfano’s standards. move upstate for a different kind of life. “I see numbers of parts and I think, ‘I However, left with the remnants of plumb- made up that number when we started online,” ing supplies that had accumulated over the Karla said. years, Peter decided he could sell off what The Alfanos run an eco-friendly business was left and take a little extra time to save up where the emphasis is on reconditioning and some money to realize his dream. reuse rather than throwing out. Customers The problem was, nobody wanted the who come in are known for wanting to repair parts; most of what he had was considered their existing sinks, and they know Peter can junk. Rather than give up, he realized that he make old parts into new ones with a little time was sitting on a golden opportunity. and a little tinkering.

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With the local area becoming a place immigrants call home more and more, the Alfanos appreciate their demographic, which fits right in with their reuse philosophy. “Our customers now come from a culture of fixing, not just buying things.” Peter said. Peter is content in his life as a plumbing parts business. “I like that this business is not competitive,” Peter said. “You had a drip for 20 years and you can wait another year. I like a slow process.” Their business hours reflect this mental-

ity, as they are closed on weekends and open until 4 p.m. on weekdays. Peter and Karla have seen the Corona neighborhood change over the many years they have been in Queens and come to embrace the diversity. “We love our customers,” Karla said, “You’ve got the whole world.” Reach Intern Rebecca Sesny at rsesny@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128. —Rebecca Sesny

Fighting Graffiti:

Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer, the Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce and Cit ySolve join forces with local communit y organizations to battle graf fiti throughout the communit y by launching a local Anti-Graffiti Campaign for Sunnyside, Woodside, Long Island Cit y, Hunters Point, Dutch Kills, Blissville, Astoria and Maspeth. Pic tured l. to r.: United Forties Civic Association President Don McCallian; 108th Precinc t Community Affairs Police Officer Maro Youssef; COMET President Roe Daraio; Woodside Tenant Association President Ann Cotton Morris; 108th Precinc t Lieutenant Wachter; Community Board 2 Chairman Joseph Conley; Community Board 2 Member Al Volpe; and Sunnyside Chamber of Commerce President Ira Greenberg.

South Queens This Week

Photo by Domenick Rafter

The newly renovated bandshell and benches in Forest Park. drafter@queenstribune.com or (719) 3577400, Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

Possible Hazard At Home Depot Site

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will undergo a detailed environmental study of a Superfund site located near a bustling Glendale shopping center. The DEC says the site may be hazardous to the public. The area, less than two-thirds of an acre in size, is located at 75-09 Woodhaven Blvd. in Glendale and his home to a Home Depot. It is listed as a Class "2" site on the State Registry of Inactive Hazardous Waste Sites, the database of Superfund sites in New York State. A Class "2" rating states that the site may be "a significant threat to the public health." The study that will be done is called a

of these tests will determine the next phase and steps DEC will take. The DEC will later contact responsible parties, including former owners of the land, to assist in any and all cleanup, develop a plan with them and then move forward with instituting the plan. The site, located along the east side of Woodhaven Boulevard, just north of the LIRR tracks that connect Long Island City to Jamaica, is about halfway between Union Turnpike and Metropolitan Avenue. It is the former site of a steel warehouse, a knitting mill and an office/warehouse, all of which occupied the site for more than 60 years. The building was demolished in 1997 to

make room for the Home Depot. The site sits adjacent to a new high school campus set to open next month, but the DEC says the school is not at risk because the school was constructed with a vapor mitigation system and depressurization system as part of an approved remedy for another Superfund site. All project documents will be available for the public to see at the North Forest Park branch of the Queens Library at 98-27 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400. Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

West Queens This Week

Photo by Domenick Rafter

The newly renovated bandshell and benches in Forest Park. drafter@queenstribune.com or (719) 3577400, Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

Possible Hazard At Home Depot Site The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation will undergo a detailed environmental study of a Superfund site located near a bustling Glendale shopping center. The DEC says the site may be hazardous to the public. The area, less than two-thirds of an acre in size, is located at 75-09 Woodhaven Blvd. in Glendale and his home to a Home Depot. It is listed as a Class “2” site on the State Registry of Inactive Hazardous Waste Sites, the database of Superfund sites in New York State. A Class “2” rating states that the site may be “a significant threat to the public health.” The study that will be done is called a

“Remedial Investigation” and will be aimed at defining the nature and extent of contamination in off-site groundwater; characterizing the potential for off-site soil vapor intrusion in areas not yet evaluated; assessing the impact of any contamination on public health and the local environment; and providing information to support the development of a solution to the contamination problem. The investigation will begin with field work starting Aug. 16, and over the next two and a half months the DEC will install shallow and intermediate monitoring wells and soil vapor points to run the tests. The DEC will also collect groundwater and soil vapor samples to be analyzed. In late fall, the results

GERMAN for CHILDREN

www.German-American-School.org

Page 10 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

ADULT PROGRAMS AVAILABLE

Convenient Location In Queens Fresh Pond Road, Long Island

GERMAN AMERICAN SCHOOL

(212) 787-7543 or (718) 456-8706

of these tests will determine the next phase and steps DEC will take. The DEC will later contact responsible parties, including former owners of the land, to assist in any and all cleanup, develop a plan with them and then move forward with instituting the plan. The site, located along the east side of Woodhaven Boulevard, just north of the LIRR tracks that connect Long Island City to Jamaica, is about halfway between Union Turnpike and Metropolitan Avenue. It is the former site of a steel warehouse, a knitting mill and an office/warehouse, all of which occupied the site for more than 60 years. The building was demolished in 1997 to

make room for the Home Depot. The site sits adjacent to a new high school campus set to open next month, but the DEC says the school is not at risk because the school was constructed with a vapor mitigation system and depressurization system as part of an approved remedy for another Superfund site. All project documents will be available for the public to see at the North Forest Park branch of the Queens Library at 98-27 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400. Ext. 125. —Domenick Rafter

Astoria/L.I.C. CLOSEUP Serving Astoria, Long Island City and Steinway

Selective Memor y The Chocolate Factory kicks off its Fall 2010 season with “Selective Memory,” a new project by Chocolate Factory Artistic Director Brian Rogers. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased in advance via theatermania at (212) 352-3101 or on the web at chocolatefactorytheater.org. Conceived, directed and choreographed by Brian Rogers in collaboration with Madeline Best, “Selective Memory” is a real time video performance about nostalgia for relationships that never took place, events which never happened; a film which was never made, but which everyone remembers; exploiting the misappropriation of “real” sounds and images to confound, distort, remake and ultimately erase the truth. Selective Memory features Concept, Direction, Choreography and Sound by Brian Rogers; Creation, Performance, and Video by Madeline Best and Brian Rogers; Technology Design by Mike Rugnetta; Scenic Design by Brad Kisicki; Costume Design by Maggie Dick; and Lighting Design by Chloe Z. Brown.

Triple R Events Reduce, Reuse, Recycle presents free ping pong in Astoria Park on Aug. 15 from 1-7 p.m. during the 2nd Annual Astoria Water Walk organized by the Astoria Park Alliance. Three ping pong tables will be available for anyone to use, free of charge. Tables are constructed by Build It Green! NYC, a building materials salvage warehouse located in Astoria. This is the second year that Triple R and Build It Green! NYC have partnered to par-

ticipate in the Astoria Water Walks, a temporary street closure of Shore Boulevard between Ditmars Blvd and Hoyt Ave S. organized by the Astoria Park Alliance. Last year, over 120 people participated in Ping Pong in the Park. Avid players to first timers played ping pong with their friends and family - or were matched up with people waiting to play. Most games lasted twenty minutes, and there was often a wait list of those wanting to try a free game. Triple R Events provides ping pong paddles and ping pong balls.

Community House Relax, improve your health with meditation, every Thursday at 10 a.m. with Ronnie at the Queens Community House Kew Gardens, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

Water Walk The Astoria Park Alliance Presents the 2nd Annual Astoria Water Walk Aug. 15 from 1-7 p.m. at Shore Boulevard in Astoria Park. Astoria Water Walk brings the DOT’s successful Summer Streets Program to the Western Queens Waterfront. Spontaneous relaxation, as well as fun & games on Shore Blvd is expected and encouraged. All activities are free. Astoria Park is Western Queens’ largest park and features tennis courts, a running track, playgrounds, basketball courts, bucolic lawns and the City’s largest outdoor swimming pool. Its East River shoreline provides breathtaking views of the skyline and two bridges. It is heavily used by children,

families, boaters, cyclists, runners, and motorists and is home to fish, crabs, birds, and aquatic plants. For more information, email: greenshoresnyc@yahoo.com.

Men’s Workshop For Men Only workshop takes place on the fourth Wednesday of each month at 11:30 a.m. at the Kew Gardens Community Center, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202. Discussions will include eating right, health issues, physical fitness and much more. For further information, call (718) 2685960.

Food & Wine Gala Put your signature spin on a seasonal dish. If you think you can cook and would like to join acclaimed chefs Rocco Sacramone of Trattoria L’incontro in Astoria, and Andrea Beaman, natural foods chef, author, television host and contender on Bravo’s “Top Chef” Season One, on stage for a fall cooking challenge, join us at Dish du Jour Magazine’s 9th annual Food and Wine Gala. One VIP ticket holder will be chosen at random to bring their culinary skills to the table at the event and create a fall themed dish from five ingredients supplied on the spot! The chosen contender will win a $150 gift card, dinner for two at the notable Trattoria L’incontro, a personal coaching session for healthy living with Andrea, autographed copies of Andrea’s books and other prizes. Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from

the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Lung Cancer Join Team Lung Love at the Philadelphia Marathon, raising awareness and support for lung cancer. Join the team as it raises funds by attending an informational sessions at the Broadway Library, 40-20 Broadway, Astoria, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2-3 p.m. RSVP to teamlunglove2@gmail.com. For more information, visit teamlunglove.org or email info@lungcanceralliance.org Send Astoria Closeup News and Photos to: Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

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Bayside CLOSEUP Serving Bayside and Bay Terrace

Special Needs Group The Samuel Field Y is pleased to offer Project Child, an after-school program for children ages 5-15 with ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s syndrome, learning disabilities and high-functioning children on the Autism Spectrum. Project Child operates during the school year and is located in Bayside, NY at the Bay Terrace Center of the Samuel Field Y. Project Child offers high child-to-staff ratios and includes programming specifically designed to meet the needs of children with learning differences and special needs. Homework help and snack are provided daily, as well as educational and recreational activities. Project Child operates from 2:30-6 p.m. daily when school is in session. For more information, including fees and registration, contact Meredith Guberman at (718) 4236111, Ext. 228 or email MGuberman@sfy.org

Fight Lung Cancer Join Team Lung Love at the Philadelphia Marathon, raising awareness and support for lung cancer. Join the team as it raises funds by attending an informational sessions at the Broadway Library, 40-20 Broadway, Astoria, Saturday, Aug. 21, 2-3 p.m. RSVP to teamlunglove2@gmail.com. For more information, visit teamlunglove.org or email info@lungcanceralliance.org

Camera Club Flushing Camera Club will begin its summer digital photography program, geared towards the beginner in all of us. Participation costs $5 per session - don’t forget to

bring your camera and the manual. The group meets at Flushing Hospital’s auditorium, 146-01 45th Ave., every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

Boy Scouts A new Shomer Shabbat Boy Scout troop for boys ages 11-18 is starting at the Hillcrest Jewish Center. Are you ready to have fun while learning awesome skills like canoeing, leadership skills and rock climbing? For more information, contact Hillcrest representatives Harvey and Iris Schachter at (718) 969-1571. To find out more about scouting, go to beascout.org.

Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

quarters in the heart of downtown Jamaica in July. Now the agency will celebrate this momentous relocation with a special, onehour concert that is expected to attract hundreds of people, including elected officials, civic leaders, and neighborhood businesses. The list of confirmed performers and teachers reads like a Who’s Who list of current Broadway talent. Sean Bradford, Broadway in South Africa’s Executive Director and co-founder, was in “The Lion King” and is in the original cast of Broadway’s upcoming “The Scottsboro Boys.” Brandon Victor Dixon was nominated for a Tony Award for his performance in “The Color Purple.” He was also in “The Lion King” and will play Ray Charles in the upcoming “Unchain My Heart.” Frankie James Grande made his Broadway debut in “Mamma Mia!” Adam Kantor made his Broadway debut as Mark Cohen in “Rent” and appeared in the 2010 Pulitzer Prizewinning musical “Next to Normal.” “This event is a celebration of our longterm commitment to Queens and our strategy to provide comprehensive services to children and families,” said Christine Molnar, Safe Space President and CEO. “It will be a terrific show, and I am so excited to see our children performing with the stars from Broadway in South Africa.” For tickets, call (347) 441-2099.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org.

www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

Eastern CLOSEUP

Serving Fresh Meadows, Jamaica Estates, Hollis Hills, Oakland Gardens, Bellerose, Floral Park, Glen Oaks, Queens Village, Douglaston and Little Neck

Saint Rocco Our Lady of the Snows R.C. Churchlocated on 259th Street, between 80th Avenue and Union Turnpike, in Floral Park, invites all to the celebration of the Feast of Saint Rocco, the Patron Saint of the Sick. The Fiesta will be held on Sunday, Aug. 15, with a special Mass at 3 p.m. Father Patrick Longalong-Parochial Vicar at Our Lady of the Snows will be the main celebrant. Light refreshments will be served in the basement Green Room following the Mass. For more information, call Luz Rebong at (718) 217-9424, or e-mail her at sanroque.luzr@yahoo.com.

Jewish Lecture Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center, 193-10 Peck Avenue, on Aug. 15 presents Bunie Veeder discussing relationship between Jacob and Leah. Breakfast at 9:45 a.m., lecture at 10:30 a.m. Call (718) 3575100.

High Holiday Ser vices Temple Tikvah, 3315 Hillside Ave., New Hyde Park, has announced that a number of its services during the upcoming High Holiday period are open to the general public. Those services include: Saturday, Sept. 4, 9 p.m., S’lichot; Thursday, Sept. 9, 2 p.m., Family Community Rosh Hashanah Service geared to grades pre-K- 6, all are welcome; Thursday, Sept. 9, 3:45 p.m., Youth Community Rosh Hashanah, geared to grades 7-12, all are welcome; Saturday, Sept. 18, 2 p.m., Family

Community Yom Kippur Service, all are welcome; and Saturday, Sept. 18, 5:30 p.m., Yizkor Service Other High Holiday services can be attended with the purchase of a ticket. Call the Temple Office for information at (516) 7461120.

Camera Club Flushing Camera Club will begin its summer digital photography program, geared towards the beginner in all of us. Participation costs $5 per session - don’t forget to bring your camera and the manual. The group meets at Flushing Hospital’s auditorium, 146-01 45th Ave., every Wednesday at 7 p.m.

ested in purchasing a ticket or a journal ad for the Jefferson Democratic Club’s 100th Anniversary Dinner Dance, contact David Fischer by email at jeffersondems@gmail.com or by phone at (718) 224-4746.

Blood Dr ive Jefferson Anniversar y The Jefferson Democratic Club of Flushing will celebrate its centennial at its “100th Anniversary Dinner Dance” on Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 7 p.m. at Douglaston Manor, which is located at 63-20 Marathon Parkway. Honorees include Man of the Year, Hon. James J. Wrynn, Jr., Superintendent of the New York State Insurance Department; Legislator of the Year, Catherine Nolan, 37th Assembly District, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee; Woman of the Year, Rosemary Kelly, Director of Government Relations, North-Shore-Long Island Jewish Health System; Labor Advocate of the Year, Freddy Delligatti, Business Agent – Plumbers Union Local 1, Vice-President of the Queens Board of Business Agents. For more information, or if you are inter-

APEC is hosting a Blood Drive Thursday, Aug. 26, from 2-8 pm. at the Alley Pond Environmental Center, 228-06 Northern Blvd. for ages 16 and older. Pre-register by calling (718) 229-4000.

table at the event and create a fall themed dish from five ingredients supplied on the spot! The chosen contender will win a $150 gift card, dinner for two at the notable Trattoria L’incontro, a personal coaching session for healthy living with Andrea, autographed copies of Andrea’s books and other prizes. Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org.

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Flushing CLOSEUP Serving Flushing, Kew Gardens Hills, College Point, Whitestone and Briarwood

Camera Club The Flushing Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium of Flushing Hospital, at 146-01 45th Ave. on the first, third and fifth Wednesday of the month. Enter at 45th Avenue and Burling Street. We meet on the 1st, 3rd and 5th Wednesday of the month. For more information, contact (718) 441-6210 or flushingcameraclub.org

Voelker’s Shrew The Hip to Hip Theatre Company brings their new production of the Taming of the Shrew to the Voelker Orth Museum’s garden Thursday evening, Aug. 26, at 7:30 p.m. The program is offered admission free. Hip to Hip, a young Queens-based professional theater company, has been performing Shakespeare’s plays in parks throughout the borough. This season marks their first appearance at the Voelker Orth. Their 90-minute production of the Taming of the Shrew offers a lively production of this classic in a lovely setting the whole family can enjoy. The quintessential battle of the sexes—this send-up of the institution of marriage, the rifts between men and women and the rough journey toward love is full of disguise, deception and devilment. The play is directed by Elizabeth Carlson. For more information about Hip to Hip Theatre Company visit hiptohip.org.

Immigration Info Queens Library, in partnership with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, invites the community to a free information

session on applying for naturalization and U.S. citizenship. It will be held Thursday, Aug. 26, 6-8 p.m., at the Queens Library at Flushing, 41-17 Main St, near Kissena Boulevard. Admission is free. Topics will include how to obtain, complete, and file the documents to apply for naturalization; the timeline of events in filing the application; what to expect when you appear for an interview and what to bring; the naturalization testing procedure; the naturalization ceremony. A simulated interview will be held so participants have an idea of what to expect. For more information call (718) 990-0883.

Jew ish Lecture Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center, 193-10 Peck Avenue, on Aug. 15 presents Bunie Veeder discussing relationship between Jacob and Leah. Breakfast at 9:45 a.m., lecture at 10:30 a.m. Call (718) 357-5100.

Walking Tour The Tenth Annual Tour of Downtown Forest Hills is set for Sunday, Sept. 5, at 10 a.m. The group will meet at Austin Street and Continental Avenue for the two hour walk. This is a free tour! The architecture, history and demographics of the downtown district (Yellowstone Boulevard to Ascan Avenue and from Queens Boulevard to Austin Street) will be reviewed and analyzed. Historian Jeff Gottlieb, President, Central Queens Historical Association and Community Board 6Q (Forest Hills/Rego Park) Historian will lead the walk. Gottlieb is a New York City Licensed

Tour Guide. For further information contact Jeff Gottlieb at (917) 376-4496.

Exhibit Opening The Ascend Day Spa, located at 82-62 Austin Street, in Kew Gardens, exhibits artwork from local artists in an effort to give back to the community. Ascend is offering its space for a selection of works by abstract artist Frances Corona. The opening reception will be on Thursday, Aug. 12, at 8 p.m. Wine and Refreshments will be served. The exhibition will be on view through Oct. 11 during business hours. For more information call (718) 846-4601.

12-Step Program Nar-Anon Never Alone is a 12-Step support group for anyone affected by a loved one’s use and/or abuse of drugs. There are no dues or fees. Meetings are held at the VFW Hall in Whitestone, 19-12 149 St., every Thursday from 7:30-9 p.m. Newcomers are welcome. For further information, please contact Norma at (718) 217-0364.

One VIP ticket holder will be chosen at random to bring their culinary skills to the table at the event and create a fall themed dish from five ingredients supplied on the spot! The chosen contender will win a $150 gift card, dinner for two at the notable Trattoria L’incontro, a personal coaching session for healthy living with Andrea, autographed copies of Andrea’s books and other prizes. Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Free Salsa Classes Parsons Beacon will offer a free Adult Salsa Class open to all adults every Tuesday from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Anyone interested in registering please call (718) 820-0760.

www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

Forest Hills CLOSEUP Serving Forest Hills, Rego Park, Kew Gardens and Elmhurst

Jazz In Forest Hills Jazz Thursdays In August will feature Victor Lesser & Manhattan City Music, Guest Vocalist Mala Waldron on Thursday Aug. 19, 7-9:30 p.m. at 70th Road between Queens Blvd & Austin Street, Forest Hills. The series continues Aug. 26 with Gotham City Jazzmen at the same time and location. Both concerts are free and run by the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce. To learn more call Leslie Brown at (718) 268-6565 or e-mail fhchamber@aol.com.

ics of the downtown district (Yellowstone Boulevard to Ascan Avenue and from Queens Boulevard to Austin Street) will be reviewed and analyzed. Historian Jeff Gottlieb, President, Central Queens Historical Association and Community Board 6Q (Forest Hills/Rego Park) Historian will lead the walk. Mr. Gottlieb is a New York City Licensed Tour Guide. For further information contact Jeff Gottlieb at (917) 376-4496.

Community House Free Concer ts The free summer concert series sponsored by Assemblywoman Margaret Markey is back again this year, with four more evenings of free outdoor musical entertainment still to come in local parks in August. Woodside, Wednesday, Aug. 18: Blue Angels performs at Windmuller Park, 52nd Street & 39th Drive. Rain date: Aug. 19. Maspeth, Wednesday, Aug. 25: Blue Angels performs at Frontera Park, 58th Avenue between Brown Place and 59th Avenue. Rain date: Aug. 26. For information about the concerts call Assemblywoman Markey’s district office at (718) 651-3185.

Relax, improve your health with meditation, every Thursday at 10 a.m. with Ronnie at the Queens Community House Kew Gardens, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

VIN Etching On Saturday, Aug. 21 at the Seuffert Bandshell parking lot in Forest Park, the NYPD will be conducting VIN etching in automobiles from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weather

permitting. Getting a VIN number etched in your vehicle can make it easier for it to be found if stolen. You may also be able to get a reduction in your car insurance. Call the 102nd Precinct at (718) 805-3217 for more information.

pling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org.

Send SouthCloseup News and Photos to: Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

Jackson Hts./Elmhurst CLOSEUP Serving Jackson Heights, Elmhurst, East Elmhurst, Corona

Immigration Info Queens Library, in partnership with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, invites the community to a free information session on applying for naturalization and U.S. citizenship. It will be held Thursday, Aug. 26, 6-8 p.m., at the Queens Library at Flushing, 41-17 Main Street near Kissena Boulevard. Admission is free. Topics will include how to obtain, complete, and file the documents to apply for naturalization; the timeline of events in filing the application; what to expect when you appear for an interview and what to bring; the naturalization testing procedure; the naturalization ceremony. A simulated inter-

view will be held so participants have an idea of what to expect. For more information call (718) 990-0883.

Community House Relax, improve your health with meditation, every Thursday at 10 a.m. with Ronnie at the Queens Community House Kew Gardens, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

“So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Broadway’s Safe Safe Space, an agency that serves at-risk children and families in Queens, announced that professional performers from Broadway in South Africa have agreed to participate in a free community concert at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center on Monday, Sept. 13, starting at 7 p.m. The stars will teach – and then perform with – youth from Safe Space’s programs. Safe Space moved to its brand new Headquarters in the heart of downtown Jamaica in July. Now the agency will celebrate this momentous relocation with a special, onehour concert that is expected to attract hundreds of people, including elected officials, civic leaders, and neighborhood businesses. The list of confirmed performers and teachers reads like a Who’s Who list of current Broadway talent. Sean Bradford, Broadway in South Africa’s Executive Director and

co-founder, was in “The Lion King” and is in the original cast of Broadway’s upcoming “The Scottsboro Boys.” Brandon Victor Dixon was nominated for a Tony Award for his performance in “The Color Purple.” He was also in “The Lion King” and will play Ray Charles in the upcoming “Unchain My Heart.” Frankie James Grande made his Broadway debut in “Mamma Mia!” Adam Kantor made his Broadway debut as Mark Cohen in “Rent” and appeared in the 2010 Pulitzer Prizewinning musical “Next to Normal.” “This event is a celebration of our longterm commitment to Queens and our strategy to provide comprehensive services to children and families,” said Christine Molnar, Safe Space President and CEO. “It will be a terrific show, and I am so excited to see our children performing with the stars from Broadway in South Africa.” For tickets, call (347) 441-2099.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org.

Send Jackson Heights Queens Closeup News and Photos to: Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

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www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

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South Queens CLOSEUP Serving Howard Beach, Hamilton Beach, Lindenwood, Ozone Park, Richmond Hill and Woodhaven

Vacation Bible School Come to the United Methodist Church, 112-14 107 Ave. S. Richmond Hill, Aug. 1617, 9 a.m. to noon, ages 3 to 18+ to enjoy water slides, Bible stories, games, arts & crafts, music, and snacks. To register, call (718) 843-4841 or (718) 845-6226. Registration is free.

Free Concer ts The free summer concert series sponsored by Assemblywoman Margaret Markey is back again this year, with four more evenings of free outdoor musical entertainment still to come in local parks in August. Woodside, Wednesday, Aug. 18: Blue Angels performs at Windmuller Park, 52nd Street & 39th Drive. Rain date: Aug. 19. Maspeth, Wednesday, Aug. 25: Blue Angels performs at Frontera Park, 58th Avenue between Brown Place and 59th Avenue. Rain date: Aug. 26. For information about the concerts call Assemblywoman Markey’s district office at (718) 651-3185.

Historian Jeff Gottlieb, President, Central Queens Historical Association and Community Board 6Q (Forest Hills/Rego Park) Historian will lead the walk. Mr. Gottlieb is a New York City Licensed Tour Guide. For further information contact Jeff Gottlieb at (917) 376-4496.

WRBA Town Hall As part of its mission to keep residents informed and have them participate in the civic process, the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association will hold a Town Hall Meeting Wednesday, Aug. 18 , 8 p.m. at the Woodhaven-Richmond Hill Ambulance Corp, 78-15 Jamaica Ave.

VIN Etching On Saturday, Aug. 21 at the Seuffert Bandshell parking lot in Forest Park, the NYPD will be conducting VIN etching in automobiles from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. weather permitting. Getting a VIN number etched in your vehicle can make it easier for it to be found if stolen. You may also be able to get a reduction in your car insurance. Call the 102nd Precinct at (718) 8053217 for more information.

For further information, call (718) 2685960.

Community House Relax, improve your health with meditation, every Thursday at 10 a.m. with Ronnie at the Queens Community House Kew Gardens, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

Exercise Class Every Monday at 10:15-11:15 a.m. and 1:15-2:15 p.m., tai chi with Elaine Fleischman, Every Wednesday and Friday at 10:15-11:15 a.m., chair aerobics with Charle Roemer every Thursday at 10:15-11:15 p.m., Project Staywell exercises with Irma Mains. If you are a senior center member, or are over 60 years of age, you are welcome to attend. Any questions, call the center at (718) 7388100. The Howard Beach senior center is located at 156-45 84th street (entrance on 85th street). The center is funded under contract to the New York City department for the aging and is open to anyone age 60 and over.

random to bring their culinary skills to the table at the event and create a fall themed dish from five ingredients supplied on the spot! The chosen contender will win a $150 gift card, dinner for two at the notable Trattoria L’incontro, a personal coaching session for healthy living with Andrea, autographed copies of Andrea’s books and other prizes. Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org.

www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

West Queens CLOSEUP Serving Sunnyside, Woodside, Maspeth, Middle Village, Glendale, Ridgewood

Parrot School Feathered Friends Parrot Adoption Services, Inc. (FFPAS), a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit parrot adoption and rescue organization located in Maspeth will conduct the second of a series of parrot education and care seminars, on Saturday, Aug. 14, at 11 a.m. The seminar will take place at the Maspeth Library, located at 69-70 Grand Ave. This seminar will focus of general care of parrots, including proper caging and feeding of various species. FFPAS has provided parrot fostering and adoption services since 2005, and has received recognition for the work we do with parrots, including a New York State Legislative Commendation, presented to us by former New York State Senator Serphin Maltese in

April, 2008. Please do not bring any birds to the library.

Free Concerts The free summer concert series sponsored by Assemblywoman Margaret Markey is back again this year, with four more evenings of free outdoor musical entertainment still to come in local parks in August. Woodside, Wednesday, Aug. 18: Blue Angels performs at Windmuller Park, 52nd Street and 39th Drive. Rain date: Aug. 19. Maspeth, Wednesday, Aug. 25: Blue Angels performs at Frontera Park, 58th Avenue

between Brown Place and 59th Avenue. Rain date: Aug. 26. For information about the concerts call Assemblywoman Markey’s district office at (718) 651-3185.

Community House Relax, improve your health with meditation, every Thursday at 10 a.m. with Ronnie at the Queens Community House Kew Gardens, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

L’incontro, a personal coaching session for healthy living with Andrea, autographed copies of Andrea’s books and other prizes. Guests of the culinary extravaganza will stroll from tasting table to tasting table sampling savory bites and luscious desserts from the best restaurants, bakeries and other delicious food purveyors! Participating restaurant chefs will share cooking tips, and there will be demonstrations like cake decorating. There will be spirits on hand to provide liquid courage to cooks-in-waiting anticipating the “So You Think You Can Cook” contender. Foodies in attendance will also sample superb wines and outstanding craft beers. The Cuisine of Queens & Beyond Food and Wine Gala and So You Think You Can Cook? 5 Ingredient Fall Food Challenge wil be held at Astoria World Manor, 25-22 Astoria Blvd., Tuesday, Sept. 21, 6-9 p.m. VIP Tickets are $75 per person and include the eligibility to be chosen as the cooking contender, special seating section, and gift bag. Tickets to attend are $55 in advance and $65 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 777-7918 or visit dishdujourmagazine.com.

Drug Aid Narcotics Anonymous hold meetings throughout Queens every day. For the helpline, call (718) 932-6244. You can also visit them online at westernqueensna.org. Send Western Queens Closeup News and Photos to: Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

Need

CASH? We Buy:

Highest Prices Paid! We paid $115 for just this little bit of unwanted jewelry

Steinway Mini Mall

(888) GOLD-PAYs

No guessing games! Our prices are posted on location daily!

28-41 Steinway Street

(888) 465-3729

www.queenstribune.com • Aug. 12-18, 2010 Tribune Page 15

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VOTE JOHN A. MESSER N E W Y O R K S TAT E S E N AT E - D I S T R I C T 1 6 FOR

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It’s Up To You - New York

ote TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14TH

Page 18 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

DEMOCRATIC PRIMARY

JOHN A. MESSER FOR

NEW YORK STATE SENATE - DISTRICT 16

STRONG NEW LEADERSHIP TO MOVE NEW YORK FORWARD

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Page 32 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Astoria/L.I.C. Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE...PEOPLE..PEOPLE... “Astoria is not only home to the best gyros, souvlaki and baklava, but to one of the most beautiful playgrounds in Queens,” said Benepe. “Efxaristo (thank you) to a $1.5million allocation by Council Member Vallone, this playground honors the culture of its Greek neighbors with the white stucco, orange and blue-colored equipment and a beautiful seathemed spray shower. Athens Square Park’s comfort station is currently being upgraded thanks to $500,000 from Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and she allocated another $100,000 has been allocated to build a fence around that playground that was requested by the community.” Parks Commis“Athens Square Park sioner Adrian Benepe Air Force Airman Luis F. Morales has always offered a truly joined Councilman Peter Vallone, Jr., Queens Deputy Borough unique space for our community,” said President Barry Grodenchik and Commu- Vallone. “We have now expanded on that by nity Board 1 Parks Chair Richard Khuzami giving our kids the opportunity to brush up to cut the ribbon on $1.5 million on improve- on their Greek philosophy while playing in a state-of-the-art playground.” ments to Athens Square Park.

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Air Force Airman Luis F. Morales 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. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. Morales is the son of Guadalupe Pena of Long Island City. The airman is a 2009 graduate of Forest Hills High School.

“Today’s ribbon cutting with Parks Commissioner Benepe and Councilman Vallone celebrates the rebirth of this gem in our borough’s network of parks and the legacy of ancient Greece,” said Queens Borough President Marshall. “Athens Square Park is a unique oasis in an urban environment. New fencing will provide greater security after dark and increase safety, while protecting equipment.” The $1.5-million renovations to the playgrounds were funded thanks an allocation by Council Member Peter Vallone, Jr. Commissioner Benepe also Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. helps a child across the play announced that more equipment at Athens Square Park. $600,000 in improvements were appropriated by Borough Presi- Both playgrounds, one for tots and the other dent Helen Marshall to upgrade the park’s for children up to 12 years old, feature blue comfort station, which will open at the end of and orange, to reflect Greece’s famous blue the summer. The Borough President also sky and seas while the orange represents the allocated money for a community-requested terracotta roofing that is popular in the counfencing that would allow the playground to try. Olive branches, fishing boats and sea creatures that are native to Greece are feabe locked at night. Given that this area of Astoria has a large tured at spray showers. Quotations from Greek population, the playgrounds were Greek philosophers can be found around the designed to imitate the country and culture. play areas.

Bayside Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . . PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE ...PEOPLE . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE.. PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE . . .PEOPLE... The following local residents were among Premier Service: 1,336 students from the State University of

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Sharon Zen, owner of the Allstate agency located at 188-01 Northern Blvd., has been designated a Premier Service Agency for 2010. This designation, awarded to agents who have consistently demonstrated excellence in delivering an accessible, knowledgeable, and personal customer experience, is being presented to Zen for her commitment to putting the customer at the center of her agency’s work.

New York College at Oneonta who earned Dean’s List honors for the Spring 2010 semester. Charlotte Barrett, a resident of Bayside; Keith Govier, a resident of Bayside; Nicolette Teta, a resident of Bayside; Christine Sito, a resident of Bellerose; Brian Logar, a resident of Breezy Point; Stacey Castillo, a resident of Corona; Curtis Walker, a resident of Corona; Justin Greene, a resident of Douglaston; Dania Valdes, a resident of East Elmhurst; Christina Badroe, a resident of Far Rockaway; Nickeema Cox, a resident of Far Rockaway; Curtis Frederick, a resident of Far Rockaway; Joseph Prio, a resident of Flushing; Adam Slifkin, a resident of Flushing; James Turck, a resident of Flushing; Alyssa Bryant, a resident of Fresh Meadows; Julie Dzurita, a resident of Glendale; Samantha Gelb, a resident of Little Neck; Dina Ahmed, a resident of Long Island City; Jesse Leisenheimer, a resident of Maspeth; Caitlin Wenzel, a resident of Middle Village; Dana Weingart, a resident of Oakland Gardens; Katherine Lawrence, a resident of Rockaway Beach; Jennifer Sanders, a resident of St. Albans; Andrew Tejada, a resident of Springfield Gardens; Angela Amedeo, a resident of Whitestone; Danielle Davaros, a resident of Whitestone; and Jose

Confesor, a resident of Woodside. To qualify for the Dean’s List, undergraduate students must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while carrying a course load of 12 semester hours or more. The following students who attend Pace University in New York the Dean’s list in the spring of 2010: Effie Ho from Bayside was selected for Dean’s List First Honors; Caleb C. Lee from Bayside was selected for Dean’s List First Honors; Michael F. D’Angelo from Bayside was selected for Dean’s Second Honors; Jarvis Ho from Bayside was selected for Dean’s Third Honors; and Marinos Iacovou from Oakland Gardens was selected for Dean’s Third Honors. The following local residents were named to the Dean’s List at SUNY Cortland for the Spring 2010 semester: Michael Wolfin, a senior biology major from Little Neck; Jeanie Lam, a junior community health major from Bayside; Eric Dillon, a senior communication studies major from Kew Gardens; Lisa Cuiman, a senior childhood education major from Floral Park; Lauren Hagen, a junior childhood education major from Middle Village; Judy Haggerty, a senior childhood education major from Middle Village; Anna Yoo, a junior childhood education major from Bayside; Carmela Laya, a senior early childhood and childhood education major from College Point; Morgan Sapolsky, a junior early childhood and childhood education major from Bayside; Stephanie Vitale, a junior early childhood and childhood education major from Ozone Park; Helena Ingersoll, a senior early childhood and child-

hood education major from Glendale; Daniel Silverman, a senior geographic information systems major from Bayside; Jessica Ruocco, a senior kinesiology major from Bayside; Christine Russo, a junior psychology major from Middle Village; Victoria Pelaez, a senior Spanish major from Woodside; Gregory Abdallah, a senior sport management major from Jackson Heights; and Kaitlyn Touhey, a sophomore therapeutic recreation major from Rockaway Park. Three Oakland Gardens residents have recently been named to the Dean’s List at Boston University for the Spring semester. Students recognized for this honor include: Rickey Liang, Diana K. Tong and Jane E. Whang. Army Reserve Spec. Thomas A. Importuna has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received instruction in drill and ceremony, weapons, rifle marksmanship qualification, bayonet combat, chemical warfare, field training and tactical exercises, marches, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, traditions, and core values. Importuna is a 1990 graduate of Holy Cross High School, Flushing.

Send your people news to: Bayside Focus, Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

Eastern Queens Focus

The following area students recently achieved high honors or honors for the Spring Term at The Loomis Chaffee School: Freshman Gregory Duverg’H of Long Island City achieved Honor Roll; Junior Bianca Polycarpe of Fresh Meadows achieved High Honor Roll; Sophomore Kevin Caba of Ridgewood achieved Honor Roll; Senior Tristina Bryant of Laurelton achieved Honor Roll; and Freshman Sakirat Akadri of Jamaica achieved High Honor Roll.

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

The following local residents were among 1,336 students from the State University of New York College at Oneonta who earned Dean’s List honors for the Spring 2010 semester. Charlotte Barrett, a resident of Bayside; Keith Govier, a resident of Bayside; Nicolette Teta, a resident of Bayside; Christine Sito, a resident of Bellerose; Brian Logar, a resident of Breezy Point; Stacey Castillo, a resident of Corona; Curtis Walker, a resident of Corona; Justin Greene, a resident of Douglaston; Dania Valdes, a resident of East Elmhurst; Christina Badroe, a resident of Far Rockaway; Nickeema Cox, a resident of Far Rockaway; Curtis Frederick, a resident of Far Rockaway; Joseph Prio, a resident of Flushing; Adam Slifkin, a resident of Flushing; James Turck, a resident of Flushing; Alyssa

Bryant, a resident of Fresh Meadows; Julie Dzurita, a resident of Glendale; Samantha Gelb, a resident of Little Neck; Dina Ahmed, a resident of Long Island City; Jesse Leisenheimer, a resident of Maspeth; Caitlin Wenzel, a resident of Middle Village; Dana Weingart, a resident of Oakland Gardens; Katherine Lawrence, a resident of Rockaway Beach; Jennifer Sanders, a resident of St. Albans; Andrew Tejada, a resident of Springfield Gardens; Angela Amedeo, a resident of Whitestone; Danielle Davaros, a resident of Whitestone; and Jose Confesor, a resident of Woodside. To qualify for the Dean’s List, undergraduate students must earn a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while carrying a course load of 12 semester hours or more. Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Conn., has announced the Dean’s List for the spring semester. To receive this honor, a student must achieve a 3.6 grade average, based on a 4.0 scale. The following students from our area made the spring 2010 Dean’s List: Michael Giaccio of Malba, Meaghan Kennedy of Glendale, Jennifer McCabe of Douglaston, Emilie Rosano of Kew Gardens, Kristen Trufelli of Bayside, Patrick Walsh of Jackson Heights and Melissa Wolf of Richmond Hill. The New York Lottery recently announced

Photo by Bob Harris

PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . . PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . QCC 7th Biennial Luncheon: .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE ...PEOPLE . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE.. PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE . . .PEOPLE...

The Queens Civic Congress (QCC), an umbrella group of approximately 100 civic associations held its 7 th Biennial Luncheon in Antuns Caterers. Eastern Queens civic leader and QCC Exec. Vice President Richard Hellenbrecht received the Queens Civic Award for Outstanding Community Service. City Comptroller John Liu, former president of the North Flushing Civic Association and a member of the QCC, was given the Queens Civic Congress City Leadership Award and delivered the Keynote Speech. Shown are (l. to r.): public officials Borough President Helen Marshall, Queens D.A. Richard Brown, U.S. Senator Charles Schumer, QCC President Patricia Dolan and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer.

the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings between July 25, 2010 and July 31, 2010. The following winners each received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more. Kangnok Lee of Fresh Meadows who won $44,133 on the Take Five drawing of July 22. Lee’s winning ticket was purchased at the Meadow Cards & Gifts at 61-46 188th

St. in Fresh Meadows; Averyl Smart of Rosedale who won $77,765 on the Take Five drawing of July 27. Smart’s winning ticket was purchased at the 7-Eleven at 910 West Merrick Road in Valley Stream; and Ji Yoon of Whitestone who won $10,000 on the Powerball drawing of July 28. Yoon’s winning ticket was purchased at the Linden Place Food at 32-21 Linden Pl. in Flushing.

Flushing Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . . PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . Adult Learners: .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE ...PEOPLE . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE.. PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE . . .PEOPLE... Christie Sheng, owner of the Allstate agency located at 39-01 Main St., has been recognized by Allstate Insurance Company for high standards in customer satisfaction, customer retention and profitability. Sheng is now among the top Allstate agencies in the nation in auto, property, commercial insurance and financial service sales.

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Army Col. Stanley Q. Tunstall Sr. is one of an elite group of officers inducted into the 2009 Officer Candidate School (OCS) Hall of Fame at a ceremony held in the Marshall Auditorium, Infantry Hall at Fort Benning, Columbus, Ga. Induction into the OCS Hall of Fame is the single highest honor the OCS can bestow upon its past graduates. Eligibility calls for officers who have either attained the rank of colonel, Medal of Honor recipients, or those who have distinguished themselves in civilian occupations. The Hall of Fame recognizes leadership excellence in both military and civilian public service. Inductees are chosen by a committee composed of the OCS battalion commander, the 11th Infantry Regiment commander, the chief of staff of the U.S. Army Infantry School, the chief of staff of the U.S. Army Infantry Center, and the assistant commandant of the Infantry School. Tunstall, a fire protection division chief, is regularly assigned to the Pentagon, Wash-

ington, D.C. He is the son of Charles L. and Marian F. Tunstall of Atlanta, Ga. His wife, Claudine, is the daughter of Mable Hicks of Queens. The colonel graduated in 1974 from Southwest High School, Atlanta, and earned a master’s degree in 1985 from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles. Army Reserve Spec. Thomas A. Importuna has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Waynesville, Mo. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier received instruction in drill and ceremony, weapons, rifle marksmanship qualification, bayonet combat, chemical warfare, field training and tactical exercises, marches, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, and Army history, traditions, and core values. Importuna is a 1990 graduate of Holy Cross High School, Flushing. Berkeley College President Dario A. Cortes, PhD, is proud to announce that Seung Won Baek of Flushing received a Bachelor’s of Business Administration in Fashion Marketing and Management degree at the 2010 Berkeley College Commencement Ceremony, held Friday, April 30, at the IZOD Center in East Rutherford, NJ. Baek

Judy Trupin (l. to r.), Assistant Manager, Queens Library’s Adult Learner Program; Leann Tannuzzo, Senior Vice President/Director of Retail Banking & Investment Sales, Flushing Bank; Theresa Kelly, Senior Vice President/ Business Banking Director, Flushing Bank; Peter Wayne, Associate Director, Queens Library Foundation.

was a student at the New York City Midtown Campus. Flushing Bank donated more than $13,000 in support of an introductory computer learning program for senior adults in Long Island City. Hosted at the Jeanne Elmezzi Adult Learning Center (ALC) in Queens Library’s Long Island City community library, the Flushing Bank’s “Computers for

Seniors Program” will enable senior adults residing in Long Island City to acquire basic computer skills. The Jeanne Elmezzi Adult Learning Center provides tutoring, classes, a computer laboratory, materials and book resources, a conference room, self-study areas, and listening stations, all of which are designed to help adults learn to read and speak English, obtain a GED, and improve their literacy skills.

Forest Hills Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . . PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE ...PEOPLE . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE.. PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE . . .PEOPLE...

Glen Bonderenko, North Shore Animal League America’s VP of Development, presents a Gold Award to Nan Keblas of Forest Hills, for volunteering 208 hours over the past year.

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

North Shore Animal League America honored more than one hundred of its dedicated volunteers at its annual Volunteer Appreciation Brunch in April. Our nation celebrated National Volunteer Week and this

year’s theme was “Celebrating People in Action.” The actions of the Animal League volunteers have truly been inspirational, and their generosity and compassion brings so much love and care, each and every day, to orphaned animals awaiting permanent homes. The incredible efforts of the Animal League’s volunteers throughout the year help save the lives of over 18,000 dogs, cats, puppies and kittens, by spending 29,303 hours bathing, feeding, walking and giving them lots of affection. They also help with rescues, participate in its annual Pet Adoptathon and other events and assist with matching potential adopters with the perfect pet companion. North Shore Animal League America awarded 105 volunteers for their extraordinary service: five Special Service Awards, nine Platinum Awards for volunteers who donated 300 hours or more, 22 Gold Awards for 200-299 hours, and 73 Silver Awards for 100-199 hours. Air National Guard Airman Shafraz A. Gadwah 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

Concert:

principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. He is the son of Hannah Arjune and brother of Asif Gadwah, both of Richmond Hill. Gadwah is a 2004 graduate of Richmond Hill High School.

Send your people news to: Forest Hills Focus, Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

Jackson Hts./Elmhurst Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE...PEOPLE..PEOPLE...

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

Queens dentist Chad P. Gehani has been elected President Elect of the New York State Dental Association. The association is one of the largest state constituents of the American Dental Association and represents more than 13,000 of the state’s dentists. Gehani is slated to serve as the association’s president in 2011. Gehani is an active participant in organized dentistry. He is a past president of the Queens County Dental Society, a local component of NYSDA, and was a member of the NYSDA Board of Governors and its Executive Committee. He has served on the national level as a delegate to the American Dental Association and is a member of the American Dental Association CounChad P. cil on Membership and Committee on International Programs and Development. Gehani is well-known for his work collaborating with ethnic and international dental groups. He is a past president of the Indian Dental Association and is currently the association’s Executive Director. He is a past

director of the Greater Long Island Dental Meeting and has lectured extensively throughout the world. He is associate clinical professor of endodontics at New York University College of Dentistry and attending endodontist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center. Gehani is a graduate of the University of Bombay, India and has completed post graduate training in Endodontics at Columbia University. He was elected to fellowship in the American College of Dentists, the International College of Dentists and the Pierre Fauchard Academy. Gehani practices endodontics in Jackson Heights. Several local residents took part in internships Gehani this summer through SUNY Oswego’s Experience-Based Education Program. They are Giuseppe A. DeCaro, Jr. of East Elmhurst, a senior marketing major (Tattoo Seen, The Bronx); Rufaro C. Matombo of Fresh Meadows, a junior broadcasting and mass communication major

(WBLS/WLIB Radio, New York City); and Stephen F. Green of Rosedale, a junior theatre major (WWW.MSGVarsity.com, Woodburg). The Experience-Based Education Program at Oswego places students in internships and career awareness opportunities that allow them to earn college credits while garnering valuable “real life” experience. Last year, more than a thousand Oswego students took part in experiential learning while working at hundreds of businesses, nonprofit agencies and government offices, not counting the hundreds of student teachers working in area schools. Admission to SUNY Oswego is competitive. U.S. News named the college a “TopUp-and-Coming School” for 2010 and includes it in its annual guidebook “America’s Best Colleges.” The Princeton Review counts Oswego among “The Best Northeastern Colleges.” Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Conn., has announced the Dean’s List for the spring semester. To receive this honor, a student must achieve a 3.6 grade average, based on a 4.0 scale. The following students from our area made the spring 2010 Dean’s List: Michael Giaccio of Malba, Meaghan Kennedy of Glendale, Patrick Walsh of Jackson Heights and Melissa Wolf of Richmond Hill. Army Spec. Vanessa A. Davila has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in ba-

sic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises. She is the daughter of Argenis Davila of Jackson Heights. Davila graduated in 2001 from St. Francis Preparatory School, Fresh Meadows, and received a bachelor’s degree in 2008 from John Jay College, New York City. Army National Guard Pvt. Jasmin J. Hinnaoui has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills, military weapons, chemical warfare and bayonet training, drill and ceremony, marching, rifle marksmanship, armed and unarmed combat, map reading, field tactics, military courtesy, military justice system, basic first aid, foot marches, and field training exercises. Hinnaoui is the daughter of Luz Montoya of Houston, Tex., and niece of Edward Montoya of Elmhurst.

Send your people news to: Jackson Heights Focus, Queens Tribune, 174-15 Horace Harding Expy., Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

South Queens Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE Concert: PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE...PEOPLE..PEOPLE...

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Air National Guard Airman Shafraz A. vice with the Headquarters and HeadquarGadwah graduated from basic military train- ters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade; ing at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Specialist Jaime Aragon from Floral Park Texas. has reenlisted to continue The airman completed an service with the Company intensive, eight-week proF, (Forward Support Comgram that included training pany, Infantry) 427th Briin military discipline and gade Support Battalion; Serstudies, Air Force core valgeant 1st Class Junior ues, physical fitness, and Alexander from Rosedale basic warfare principles and has reenlisted to continue skills. service with the Early Entry Airmen who complete Eement, 369 Sustainment basic training earn four credBrigade; Sergeant Lashima its toward an associate in Turner from Rockaway applied science degree Beach has reenlisted to conthrough the Community tinue service with the HeadCollege of the Air Force. quarters and Headquarters He is the son of Hannah Company, 369th SustainArjune and brother of Asif Air National Guard Airman ment Brigade; Sergeant Shafraz A. Gadwah Gadwah, both of Richmond Steve Henriquez from Hill. Gadwah is a 2004 graduMiddle Village has reenlisted ate of Richmond Hill High School. to continue service with the 206th Military Police Company; Sergeant Ryan Jalim from Brigadier General Patrick A. Murphy, Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue serThe Adjutant General, announced the recent vice with the 206th Military Police Company; reenlistment of members of the New York Staff Sergeant Celeste Brevard from Army National Guard in recognition of their Bellerose has reenlisted to continue service continuing commitment to serve commu- with the Headquarters, 27th Finance Mgmt nity, state and nation as part of the Army Co.; Sergeant 1st Class Jose Medina from National Guard. Arverne has reenlisted to continue service Sergeant 1st Class Carl Robinson from with the Headquarters and Headquarters Ridgewood has reenlisted to continue ser- Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade; Ser-

The Queens County Savings Bank was a major financial contributor toward the success of the recent Queens Jewish Music Concert held in Freedom Square Park, Kew Gardens Hills. Involved in the production were (l. to r.); Concert Producer/Queens Jewish Historical Society President Jeff Gottlieb, Queens County Savings Bank Vice President/Branch Manager Ronna Katz and Assistant Branch Manager Stella Borukh. geant Martha Greene from Laurelton has reenlisted to continue service with the Early Entry Eement, 369 Sustainment Brigade; Specialist Alberto Wilen from East Elmhurst has reenlisted to continue service with the Detachment 1, Company B, 1-69th Infantry; Specialist Jose Bautista from Bayside has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-142d Aviation; and Staff Sergeant Kang Sin from

Flushing has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters, 106th Regiment (Regional Training Institute).

Send your people news to: South Queens Focus, Queens Tribune 174-15 Horace Harding Expy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365

West Queens Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE...PEOPLE..PEOPLE... Air Force Airman Glenda C. Perez 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. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. She is the daughter of Jose Perez of Elmhurst. Perez is a 2009 graduate of Newtown High School, Elmhurst.

Page 34 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 • www.queenstribune.com

While some lucky out-of-school youth will look forward to exciting camps or trips, many more will find themselves with few structured activities, parents who are working all day – and too much time to get into trouble. The Variety Boys & Girls Clubs of Queens is working with the people of Sunnyside and Woodside to offer young people a safe, positive place to spend the summer months while also working on a long-term partnership to introduce a sustainable after school program in our own neighborhood. A group of concerned area residents have organized and taken the lead in identifying area leaders and philanthropists to make this

project work. The Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens which has been serving local youth since 1955 in Long Island City, is working closely with this group lead by Vincent Renda. “While we recognize there is great need, we need help, and believe the Variety Club with support from Boys & Girls Clubs of America can guide us to eventually having our own neighborhood Boys & Girls Club,” said Mr. Renda. “Programs that keep our youth focused on education, career and leadership development are essential to build our communities,” said State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli. “In today’s economy, many parents are left looking for inexpensive alternatives to help their children stay busy and safe. Programs that keep children off the streets and focused on skill development promote self sufficiency and independence.” The Executive Director at the Variety Boys & Girls Club, Terry Hughes, speaks to the great impact Clubs have on kids, “Boys & Girls Clubs, with trained youth development professionals know how to mentor today’s youth. Young people need and want relationships with caring adults while navigating through difficult transitional years. More Clubs are needed across New York City and across America really. We need more groups like the Sunnyside people who are willing to organize and obtain the necessary resources to offer opportunity to our kids.

Insurance Award:

Congratulations to Ray Alvarez, Account Executive at Petschauer Insurance, on achieving the AAI (Accredited Advisor in Insurance) professional designation. This designation is recognized and respected throughout the propertycasualty insurance industry. Pictured l. to r.: Erwin Petschauer, VP, Hedi Fox, President and Ray Alvarez.

More people need to invest in our future, our children…” Boys & Girls Clubs offer quality programs in five core categories; 1.) Sports, Recreation & Fitness 2.) The Arts 3.) Character & Leadership Development 4.) Health & Life Skills 5.) Education and Career Development. They follow a basic youth development strategy which fosters a sense of belonging, a sense of usefulness, a sense of influence and

a sense of caring amongst all of their members. The Variety Boys & Girls Club of Queens is open Monday through Friday 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., for children ages 6-17 and Saturday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For specific information and fees, or information on how to get involved with this project, please contact the Club at (718) 728-0946 or email Terry Hughes, thughes@vbgcq.org.

Page 36 Tribune Aug. 12-18, 2010 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com