Queens Tribune Epaper by Michael Nussbaum

Vol. 42, No. 30 July 26 - Aug. 1 2012

Page 34

Court Nixes Mayor’s Turnaround Plan Page 3

Business Owners Oppose New Soda Ban Page 11

Queens Workers Speak Out On Con Edison Q

Page 16

F B E H

A J W

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I N S I D E Deadline......................................................................3 This Week...................................................................5 Editorial......................................................................6 Not 4 Publication.......................................................8 Police Blotter...........................................................13 Focus........................................................................14 Trib Pix......................................................................18 Leisure......................................................................20 Queens Today..........................................................22 Classifieds................................................................25 Confidential..............................................................34

Former Assemblyman Arrested

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Jimmy Meng Charged With Wire Fraud By ROSS BARK AN Former Assemblyman Jimmy Meng, father of Congressional candidate Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing), was arrested Tuesday and charged with federal wire fraud after he allegedly accepted $80,000 that he claimed he would use to bribe prosecutors in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office. The 68-year-old Meng allegedly claimed he would use the bribe to reduce the prison sentence of an individual charged with state tax crimes. Federal investigators used the individual as a cooperating witness to record his conversations with Meng, in which they discussed the charged bribe scheme. According to the complaint, the investigation uncovered no evidence that Meng had any contact

with the Manhattan DA’s office, but instead planned to keep the money for himself. If convicted of wire fraud, Meng faces up to 20 years in prison. “As alleged in the complaint, Jimmy Meng sought to be a power broker in the halls of justice,” said Loretta Lynch, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District. “We will vigorously prosecute anyone who seeks to undermine public confidence Jimmy in our criminal justice system, whether through fraud or bribery.” Meng allegedly met with the witness several times between December 2011 and July 2012. The FBI recorded telephone calls and meetings where Meng discussed

the charged bribe scheme. In January, Meng allegedly met with the witness at Meng’s Flushing lumber yard and told the witness that if he received more than two years in jail for tax crimes the witness allegedly committed in 2011, the witness would get the money back with the exception of a $2,000 “errand fee.” Meng, according to the comMeng plaint, had told the witness that several assistant district attorneys were handling his case and could be bribed for $20,000 each, reducing the prison term. Meng told the witness to hide $80,000 in a fruit basket. “You can also pack a bag of

fruit,” Meng allegedly told the witness later. “Put in there $80,000.You just pack up some fruits and place some money in there. He won’t touch it. Suppose he packed inside right? – Hey, take it as a Christmas gift. This is very normal.” In July, Meng spoke on the phone with the witness, telling him to prepare the money for delivery to Meng’s lumber yard at 34-47 College Point Blvd. On July 24, they met under the surveillance of FBI agents near the lumber yard. As instructed, a fruit basket was filled with cash and handed to Meng. FBI agents arrested Meng after he accepted the cash. Jimmy Meng was an assemblyman in the Flushing seat now held by his daughter, though he served only one term in 2005 and 2006. Meng cited concerns about his

health when he chose not to run for a second term. Grace Meng, Jimmy Meng’s daughter who just last month won a four-way Democratic primary for the 6th Congressional District seat, released a comment late Tuesday afternoon, stressing she had no knowledge of the situation before the arrest. “I am shocked and deeply saddened by these allegations,” said Grace Meng in a statement. “I am independent of my father – always have been, always will be. Until more facts emerge and we have a better understanding of the situation, the only thing further I’ll say is that I urge my father to fully cooperate with all authorities.” Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com.

State: Not-For-Profit Overcharged DOE Brooklyn. The DOE pays tuition to Bilingual and the State Education Dept. oversees special education programs. Auditors found that Bilingual could not provide records to show that 26 employees had worked the time they were paid for. $233,368 was disallowed for those employees. Auditors also disallowed $107,380 paid to Bilingual’s assistant executive director, the former wife of its executive director. She was paid $369,081 from 2007 to 2009, though she actually performed the services of a payroll specialist. Bilingual officials may also have denied the City and State a sizeable amount of tax revenue by treating top officials of the school, as well as certain staff, as independent contractors rather than employees. Bilingual’s executive director, Cheon Park, received $730,546 in total compensation from 2007 through 2009, though only $108,270 was reported on his W-2 forms. The remaining $622,276 was paid to him as an independent contractor and was reported on the 1099 forms that were issued to him. Park admitted to investigators he did this intentionally because he had cash flow problems. Park’s exwife, Hyun Ham, charged thousands in interest expenses for bank loans she took out. In addition, Bilingual cost New York State nearly $190,000 in rental expenses for three buildings

unrelated to their program and about $60,000 in lease payments, gas, insurance and maintenance costs for three vehicles, including a Honda Odyssey with a rear entertainment system. Over $5,000 was misspent on children’s furni-

ture and cell phone expenses. DiNapoli recommended that SED recover all reimbursements made to Bilingual for “inappropriate” or “unsupported expenses and schedule regular training for Bilingual officials on SED protocol. He

also recommended people working under the supervision of Bilingual officials are treated as employees and not independent contractors. Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com.

Court Ruling Upholds Halt Of Turnaround Plan By V ERONICA LEWIN After six months of turmoil, Mayor Mike Bloomberg and the Dept. of Education may have to turn their backs on the turnaround plan – at least for now. State Supreme Court Judge Joan Lobis upheld an arbitrator’s decision on Tuesday that halted on the DOE’s plan to fire nearly 4,000 teachers in 24 “turnaround” high schools throughout the City. Tuesday’s ruling saved seven Queens high schools – Flushing, Newtown, Long Island City, William Cullen Bryant, August Martin, John Adams and Richmond Hill – from having to close down and reopen under new names with half of the original staff in September. The United Federation of Teachers, who called the turnaround plan a political move, celebrated this week’s ruling.

“We had a lot of faith that what we were saying was true and they agreed,” said James Vasquez, UFT district representative for Queens high schools. The city plans to continue to fight. “The Mayor and Chancellor will not allow failing schools to deprive our students of the high-quality education they deserve,” Corporation Counsel Michael Cardozo said in a statement. “Although we will, of course, comply with the judge’s ruling, we strongly disagree with it – and we will be appealing.” While the city can appeal the judge’s decision, the Appellate Division in New York City does not hold hearings during the summer months. This means that even if a hearing is scheduled for September, it is too late to impact staffing for the 2012-13 school year.

After UFT and the DOE failed to reach an agreement on teacher evaluations in January, Bloomberg announced his plan to close 33 Persistently Low Achieving schools in the city as a way to secure nearly $60 million in federal School Improvement Grant money. In order to be eligible for the funds, Bloomberg and the DOE had to implement one of several federally approved school improvement plans. After strong opposition from elected officials and communities across the city, the number of schools at risk was cut to 26 and then 24. Grover Cleveland High School in Ridgewood was given a last-minute save before the Panel for Educational Policy approved the plan on April 26. Reach Deputy Editor Veronica Lewin at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123 or vlewin@queenspress.com.

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 3

By ROSS BARK AN A Flushing-based special educational service overcharged the Dept. of Education by $1.5 million, paying employees for times they did not work, wasting thousands on children’s furniture and compensating a payroll specialist like an assistant executive director, according to a recent audit from State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. The audit of Bilingual SEIT and Preschool Inc., released on July 19, was referred to the Queens District Attorney’s office. Bilingual officials, through their attorneys, accepted most of the report’s conclusions and recommendations, though Bilingual declined to comment for this story. DOE did not respond to requests for comment as of press time. “Special education services are critical for thousands of children and every tax dollar meant for them should be spent on them,” DiNapoli said in a statement. “Sadly, my auditors have found that has not been the case at Bilingual SEIT and Preschool. As we have seen in several audits of special education providers, taxpayers are footing the bill for expenses they shouldn’t have to cover, noshow jobs and other perks. This cannot continue.” Bilingual, a provider of special education to about 700 disabled children, has preschools in Flushing, Elmhurst, Manhattan and

Pols Tussle Over Voting History By ROSS BARK AN The Republican City Councilman, like an unclogged Van Wyck Expressway or a Mets playoff berth, is a rarity in New York City. Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), only 27, lacks in Republican colleagues but not in ambition as he seeks to unseat a popular incumbent

with a last name that generations of Queens residents regard as a familiar part of the borough’s lore. But before Ulrich can challenge State Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. (DHoward Beach), the son of the deceased U.S. Rep. with the same name, he must fend off a primary challenger from his own party.

Until recently, Ulrich targeted Addabbo almost exclusively, and not his primary opponent, the Queens Republican-backed attorney Juan Reyes. Both will qualify for the ballot and clashed Tuesday over reports that Reyes had not voted in several crucial elections, including the 1997 mayoral elec-

Messer: Stavisky Filed Fraudulent Petitions By ROSS BARK AN John Messer, a Democratic candidate for State Senate, is alleging that his opponent State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) submitted fraudulent petitions that included the name of a deceased person. Jesus Palomino, a Jamaica resident, signed an affidavit swearing that his mother Ana Rita Palomino could not have signed Stavisky’s petition because she died in 2011. Online records indicate that a woman named Ana Palomino from Jamaica died on

Feb. 5, 2011, the same date that Palomino recalled his mother passing away. Messer alleged that, at the minimum, 10 of Stavisky’s petition carriers participated in “blatant fraud,” forging as many as 500 names. Messer said his campaign obtained at least 50 signed affidavits from people claiming they did not sign Stavisky’s petitions. The Board of Elections will hold hearings next week to determine whether Messer’s allegations are true. “The residents and families of

our community deserve better than to have their names forged and signed onto a petition for an electoral candidate for public office without their consent or knowledge,” said Messer in a statement. The 16th Senate District race pits Stavisky, who has served in the Senate since 2000, against Messer, an attorney who challenged her two years ago and was defeated. Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com

tion that won his boss, Rudolph Giuliani, another term. Reyes also missed votes in the 2000 presidential election and 2002 gubernatorial general election. The Reyes campaign said that Reyes’ work on Republican ballot security prevented him from voting in those elections, and instead called for a reformation of New York’s election laws. “How can anyone who doesn’t vote run for public office?” said Ulrich spokeswoman Jessica Proud. The Reyes camp returned fire, attempting to draw a contrast between Ulrich’s more moderate political stances, like his support of raising the minimum wage in New York State, and Reyes’ conservatism. Assembly Democrats backed the minimum wage hike but the Republican-controlled Senate scuttled the legislation. “Liberal Albany Democrats and Eric Ulrich are going to increase unemployment and hurt the neediest workers in our state with their plans to increase the minimum wage,” said Reyes in a statement, citing a study from the conservative Employment Policies Institute that said a hike would cost New York thousands of jobs. Other academic

studies have contested this claim, however. The stage is set for one of the stranger State Senate primaries in recent memory. State Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (RLong Island) is backing Ulrich, but his Queens Republican Party is not. Led by Phil Ragusa, the Queens GOP is in the midst of a civil war, spurred by former Councilman Tom Ognibene’s unsuccessful attempts to take over the party last fall. Ulrich is an ally of Ognibene’s and the Reyes campaign has sought to highlight his ties to John Haggerty, the brother of Ulrich’s former chief of staff, who was convicted of stealing $750,000 in campaign funds from Mayor Mike Bloomberg. “Ulrich is a very nice young man and makes a very good impression, he’s a good campaigner,” said political consultant George Arzt, presuming an Ulrich primary victory. “I still give Addabbo the edge, but it could be closer than he would like it to be. The idea for Ulrich is to come close. I don’t think he’s going to get wiped out by Addabbo.” Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com

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Page 4 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

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Queens This Week Forest Park Carousel To Host Concert Series There is more to Forest Park than a glittering carousel, though that is plenty to keep the boys and girls of Queens happy. NY Carousel Entertainment, which took over the legendary Forest Park Carousel, will be hosting concerts throughout the summer. On July 19, the Forest Park Summer Concert Series featured "Swingtime Big Band" at the George Seuffert Bandshell. On evenings after the concert series, park hours are extended 30 minutes. All concert patrons can go ride the carousel, where the magnificent lights dazzle in the summertime darkness. On July 26, stop by Forest Park to hear rock hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s put on by Wonderous Stories. A party tent and a reopened snack bar also compliment the carousel, which has sat in Forest Park since the 1970s. Shuttered in 2009 and recently reopened, the carousel is one of two left in the world created by legendary woodcarver Daniel Carl Muller. Carved in 1903, the carousel is New York's oldest operating carousel. For a list of events, visit nycgovparks.org. Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queens tribune.com. -Ross Barkan

Walk About To Raise Disabilities Awareness

Businesses Receive Repair Grants Grants have been awarded to small businesses in Howard Beach, Beach Channel and the Rockaways to compensate for damages incurred during Tropical Storm Irene last year. Up to $20,000 will be provided through the Business Flood Recovery Grant Program for businesses and organizations that sustained direct, flood-related damage. The Empire State Development Corporation will administer the money. "Southern Queens and the Rockaways were hit particularly hard by Hurricane Irene and as a result many of our small businesses and local organizations suffered devastating damage," said Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D- Far Rockaway). "This funding is a huge win for the organizations that are receiving them and especially for the community who benefits from the services they provide." The Business Flood Recovery Grant funding will attempt to help offset the costs of storm-related repairs and restoration of structures not covered by insurance or other public recovery programs. Roughly 1,000 applications were received for the grants and all awards are pending public hearings and final approval by the Public Authorities Control Board, which is expected to meet July 26.

Breastplate Donation:

On July 24, congregants at Ahavath Sholom Synagogue in Forest Hills celebrated the replacement of valuable torah items that were stolen and never returned last month. Eugene Singer, who is not a member of the congregation, donated t wo Torah breastplates for the synagogue. A silver pointer, Torah breast plate, silver-coated plate and a ritual wine cup went missing on June 18. "We're looking to move on," said David Rodgers, office manager for the synagogue. Pic tured (from left) are Mendy Erez, Singer, Elisheva Safern, Eric Safern, Ephraim Arte and David Sitzer. Vinivi Real Ventures Inc. in Howard Beach was awarded, as well as Broad Channel Volunteers Inc. and Broad Channel Athletic Club in Broad Channel. Beach 124th Street Apartments Inc. in Belle Harbor will also receive a grant, pending approval. "We are pleased and grateful to learn that we have been chosen to receive this grant," said Broad Channel Athletic Club Senior Advisor Charles Ledogar. "Our facility was severely damaged during the hurricane and this funding will go a long way towards making field and court repairs so that our children can have safe playing surfaces to compete on." Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com. -Ross Barkan

‘Hope For Cure’ Debut A creative approach is being launched to support children's neuroblastoma cancer research - with the coming together of Hope For Cure. The Hope For Cure motorcycle ride will take place rain or shine on Aug. 5, with registration taking place at two locations. The event will consist of a live band, raffles and prizes and a barbecue. There is a registration and donation fee of $25 for riders and a $5 donation for passengers, with all tolls included. Those who do not wish go on the ride can purchase tickets for the barbecue only at $15. The first location, 9 am -10 am is located on 14th Avenue and 132nd Sreet, College Point. The second start point is from 10 a.m.

to noon at Empire Harley Davidson 8 Industrial Lane, New Rochelle in Westchester County. The tour will be concluding with a barbecue at Empire Harley Davidson and additional information is available by calling (914) 632-6743. Eddie Blascovich, the founder and creator, stated he hoped there would be ample support on the day. "I really do hope people come out and show their support on the day, this is one of the many events that will be held for children's neuroblastoma cancer research," he said. For information, email paint4cure@verizon.net. Reach Reporter Wayne Dean Doyle at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125 or wdoyle@queenstribune.com. -Wayne Dean Doyle -

Rogers Recognized For Fight Against Blindness Sherry Rogers, a Forest Hills resident, was given the Volunteer of the Year Award for the Northeast Region by the Foundation Fighting Blindness. The national nonprofit organization is committed to vision-saving retinal disease research and recognized Rogers, the president of the Foundation's New York City Chapter, for her dedicated fight against blindness. The award was presented in front of more than 500 people at the Foundation's VISIONS 2012 national conference Awards Dinner on June 30 in Minneapolis, Minn. Affected with a progressive genetic disease called retinitis pigmentosa, Rogers is losing her

physical vision but has not lost her volunteer's vision. The annual honor acknowledges how Rogers has greatly contributed to the fight against blindness since first taking on a leadership role with the chapter in 2007. In 2008, she started a networking group in Queens for people living with retinal disease, which has provided support for those looking to connect with others experiencing similar challenges. In addition, her "Vision Warriors" team has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the annual New York City 5K VisionWalk that unites hundreds in Central Park to support sight-saving research. Advancements in gene therapy and cellbased studies give Rogers and her family hope that a cure is in sight. "Without inspiring community leaders like Sherry Rogers, the Foundation Fighting Blindness would not be in the position we are todayactually restoring vision in human clinical trials," said Bill Schmidt, CEO of Foundation Fighting Blindness. "We are truly grateful for her ongoing drive to make a difference for the more than 10 million Americans living with retinal diseases." A total of nine individual member excellence awards and six group awards to chapters and VisionWalk events were presented for the second year at VISIONS 2012. The four-day conference united hundreds of visually-impaired attendees to learn about the latest developments in retinal research from world-class scientists, improve their skills for coping with low vision and meet others from across the country living with similar diseases. Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com. -Ross Barkan

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 5

Walking is more than just a method of transportation. It can be used to observe a new neighborhood, as a means of aerobic exercise and of course, the occasional public rally. On July 28, walking will be used to raise awareness of individuals with developmental disabilities in the fourth annual "Queens Walk About." Held by Independence Residences, Inc. (IRI), the walk about will take place at Cunningham Park in Fresh Meadows. In 1984, IRI was founded to serve adults with visual impairment, mental retardation, mental illness and emotional disturbances. Since then, the Woodhaven-based nonprofit agency has provided residential and community support services throughout all five boroughs and Nassau County. "We thought the walk would be a great way to bring awareness to the abilities and capabilities of people with disabilities," said Ray DeNatale, spokesman at IRI. After researching the history of

walk abouts, DeNatale says IRI found the long standing significance that is held in Australia, where natives use them to self-reflect and become one with nature. The Queens Walk About is open to the public. Opening ceremony will begin at 10 a.m. with Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (DMiddle Village) being honored as this year's Grand Marshal. IRI Partners Municipal Credit Union and Emblem will provide blood pressure screenings and the Luis Danvers Foundation will offer bone marrow swabbing. "We hope the walk will show the public that individuals with developmental disabilities are active and contributing members of their community," said DeNatale. "We hope to raise over $15,000 to help turn the dreams of the people we support into reality." For more information on the walk about, donations and registration, visit www.queenswalkabout.org. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@queens tribune.com. -Megan Montalvo

Edit Page In Our Opinion:

Abandon The Ban As his final term begins to wind down, Mayor Mike Bloomberg continues to attempt some drastic measures as a means to ensure his legacy, but things don’t seem to be going so well for him lately. This week, his plan to improve City schools – the muchwritten about “Turnaround” plan – was officially nixed by the courts. His “Stop-and-Frisk” proposals have taken a beating from civic groups and editorial boards. And now comes his proposed ban on sales of sugary drinks over 16 ounces within the City limits. Without even taking into account the negative effect this ban is likely to have on City businesses, the soda ban is a bad idea. Healthy living is something that everyone should strive to meet. But living a healthy lifestyle is a choice that we must make on our own. The government should not be trying to mandate what we can or can’t eat. If the mayor is concerned with the well-being of his constituents, perhaps he should try to focus on making City parks more available and more alluring to kids. Make physical education a more prominent aspect of City schools. Give us more opportunities to enjoy physical activity and get ourselves in better shape. Giving us these opportunities would go a long way toward increasing our health. Taking things away is not the answer.

In Your Opinion:

Page 6 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Win-Win? To The Editor, One would think that the Affordable Care Act mandate would be a win-win for both parties. After all, it was their concept and championed by the Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank based in Washington, D.C. Heritage’s stated mission is to “formulate and promote conservative public policies.” Our two parties are of one mind. The individual health insurance mandate originated in 1989 at the conservative Heritage Foundation. In 1993, Republicans twice introduced health care bills that contained an individual health insurance mandate. Advocates for those bills included prominent Republicans who today oppose the man-

date, including Orrin Hatch (RUtah), Charles Grassley (R-Iowa), Robert Bennett (R-Utah), and Christopher Bond (R-Missouri). In 2007, Democrats and Republicans introduced a bipartisan bill containing the mandate. Our two parties were still of one mind. In fact, on April 12, 2006, Gov. Mitt Romney signed the Massachusetts health reform law, commonly called “Romneycare” which required Massachusetts residents to buy health insurance coverage or face escalating tax penalties, such as loss of their personal income tax exemption. It was lauded by Republicans and Democrats alike; Unity at last…..not so fast. Enter President Obama. President Obama in fashioning his Affordable Health Care, used as a template, the health care plan

Michael Schenkler Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Queens County's Weekly Newspaper Group

Steven J. Ferrari, Managing Editor

Shiek Mohamed, Production Manager

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instituted in Massachusetts by Gov. Romney and which had been so positively acclaimed by both Parties. One could safely say that Obamacare is Romneycare. It appears that amnesia has set in. It is so sad to see such blatant hypocrisy, destructive partisanship and commitment to “No anything President Obama” even if it means voting against your own ideas. Rather they could proudly say, “See, we were so far ahead of the curve that Obama was forced to adopt our position.” Rather their incredible turn around on Health Care would make a ballerina’s pirouette, seem as if she had been rigamortised. Nicholas Zizelis Bayside

Cut Management To The Editor: It’s been weeks since Con Ed locked out its 8,000 union workers and replaced them with 5,000 managers. Since then, we’ve had frequent power outages and reductions during the worst heat wave in years. This is totally unacceptable. Con Ed wants to replace union workers’ guaranteed defined benefit pensions with risky 401 (k) plans, which the union fiercely rejects. I don’t blame them. Con Ed’s CEO, Kevin Burke, has an annual pay package of $11 million, plus a guaranteed $18 million pension. Would he replace his pension with a 401(k)? I doubt it. In his case, CEO stands for compensation excessively overpaid. New Yorkers have the highest utility rates of any city in the continental U.S. and the poorest service. Why isn’t Con Ed prepared for hot weather power demands? Don’t they know that summer comes every year. And why does Con Ed need 5,000 managers to supervise 8,000 workers? That breaks down to one manager for every 1.5 workers, which means its management level is much too top heavy. If Con Ed cut their management staff and slashed Burke’s compensation, we would have lower rates and better service. But don’t count on that happening. Veronica Lewin, Deputy Editor Marcia Moxam Comrie, Contributing Editor Reporters: Harley Benson, Wayne Dean Doyle, Ross Barkan, Megan Montalvo Interns: Asia Ewart, Cristina Foglietta Photographers: Ira Cohen, Michael Fischthal, Lee Katzman

Ira Cohen, Photo Editor Regina Vogel Queens Today Editor

Michael Nussbaum Executive V.P./Associate Publisher

Contributors: Melissa Hom, Michael VonDerLieth, Barbara Arnstein, Tammy Scileppi Art Department: Rhonda Leefoon, Candice Lolier, Barbara Townsend Webmaster: Shiek Mohamed Assistant to the Publisher: Ria MacPherson

As Abraham Lincoln said: “You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time. But you can’t con Edison.” Richard Reif Flushing

Growing Threat To The Editor, Senator Kirsten Gillibrand is taking notice of a serious problem in the New York City area. The threat of bird strikes against airplanes is very real and growing because bird populations around our airports are on the rise. The senator recently paved the way to allow the U.S. Department of Agriculture to cull Canada Geese near JFK Airport. This move has drawn a public outcry from animal rights groups across the country. Sen. Gillibrand has taken a first step in addressing this major public safety issue, but there is a way to reduce bird strikes in our area without culling geese. Right now, the City is constructing a major garbage transfer station in College Point, just 2,206 feet from the end of Runway 13/31 at LaGuardia Airport. The airport, which already has some of the highest number of bird strike incidents in the country, is about to become a less safe place. Bird strikes are sure to skyrocket once the city opens the North Shore Marine Transfer Station, which will process 3,500 tons of trash a day. The trash will then be taken on a barge, coming even closer to the runway. The danger is so pressing that Community Board 4 unanimously voted to oppose the transfer station because it is a danger to air travelers and Queens families on the ground. Captain Sullenberger, who famously saved 155 lives in the Miracle on the Hudson, also opposes the facility and lent his voice to an ongoing radio campaign to the stop the transfer station on safety ground. Former National Transportation Safety Board Chairman Jim Hall – the country’s foremost accident investigator – is also strongly opposed to the facility.

Gerry Laytin Director of Advertising and Marketing Shelly Cookson Corporate Advertising Account Executives Donna Lawlor Elizabeth Rieger Shari Strongin

Ronald Bakman Merlene Carnegie Joseph DelliCarpini Tom Eisenhauer

Maureen Coppola, Advertising Administrator Accounting: Leticia Chen, Elizabeth Mance

New York has the most congested airspace in the country. With numerous airports – including LaGuardia, JFK, Newark, Teterboro, Westchester, Stewart, MacArthur and others – it’s critical that we have an overarching strategy to address bird strikes and not deal with the problem in a piecemeal fashion. Leading bird strike experts agree that culling geese is nothing more than a band aid approach to solving a very complicated problem. This is a major public safety issue that demands a comprehensive solution that protects the airways above New York City. The consensus among bird experts is that a critical component to preventing bird strikes is stopping the construction of the garbage station near LaGuardia Airport. Congressmen Joe Crowley and Gary Ackerman have been strong and outspoken opponents of the facility. Assemblywoman Grace Meng and State Senator Toby Stavisky have also been fighting diligently in Albany to stop the misguided transfer station project. Sen. Gillibrand has acknowledged that bird strikes are a serious hazard to aviation. While I am both grateful and thankful to Senator Gillibrand for her leadership on this issue, I call on her to join her constituents, her colleagues in Congress, the State Legislature, Community Boards, Chamber of Commerce, the aviation community and bird strike experts in taking strong and immediate action to stop the building of the North Shore Marine Transfer Station Ken Paskar, President of Friends of LaGuardia Airport

Civic Vir tue? I support relocating the statue but most of all I support moving it to a hole in the ground, or the bottom of the sea where the female figures, if they are sirens, would be in their element. The sculpture is offensive to all women no matter how some rationalize it. Regina Alberty, Esq. Forest Hills

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Legislative Update All-American Act Assemblywoman Grace Meng has introduced legislation that would require all agencies, departments and commissions of New York State to purchase United States flags that were made domestically. The act, known as the “New York State All-American Flag Act,” states that “Only such flags of the United States of America, regardless of size, that are 100 percent manufactured in the United States, from articles, materials or supplies 100 percent of which are grown, produced or manufactured in the United States, may be acquired or used by agencies, departments and governmental commissions of New York State.” Meng called the issue a common sense one. “An American flag should be made in America. It is appropriate that the world’s most famous symbol of freedom is manufactured in a country that is free, right here in the United States,” she said. “It’s the least we can do to honor these Americans who fight to protect it every day and those who have lost their lives doing so. Although it is difficult to pinpoint exact sales figures, the U.S. Census bureau estimates that $5.3 million worth of American flags were imported from other countries in 2006, a figure that has remained relatively steady for the past several years. Last year, American flag imports were values at $3.6

million, with $3.3 million coming from China.

Jamaica Bay Bill Passes U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Middle Village) announced this week that a bill he sponsored to name the Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge visitor center after Sen. James L. Buckley passed in the House of Representatives. Turner said he believes that H.R. 5958 is an opportunity to recognize Buckley for his long list of contributions to New York. Buckley played a role in the creation of the Gateway National Recreation Area – an area spanning more than 26,000 acres over three boroughs and stretching all the way to Sandy Hook, N.J. – which houses Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge and its visitor center. “Sen. Buckley had the vision to create a national wildlife refuge in an urban area accessible to the millions of people in New York City as well as the millions of other residents of the New York metropolitan area,” Turner said. “Now, 40 years later, that vision has turned into the gold standard for urban park space with more than eight million annual visitors. Turner noted that Buckley’s environmental record stretched beyond New York, making him a national voice for environmental preservation.

LEGAL NOTICE

Notice of Formation of Rockaway Yummy LLC. Art. of Org. filed Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 02/03/2012. Office location: Queens County. SSNY Designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: The LLC, 16057 Rockaway Blvd, Jamaica, NY 11434. Purpose: any lawful activity. ___________________________________ MITCHELL MARCUS CONSULTING, LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 5/31/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 7535 210 th St., Apt. 3E, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364. General Purposes. ___________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: KAARI LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 05/07/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a

copy of process to the LLC, 35-21 IR 190 th St, Flushing, New York 11358. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of SOUTH QUEENS MEDICAL GROUP, PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 06/11/12. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of PLLC: 131-24 Rockaway Blvd., S. Ozone Park, NY 11420. SSNY designated as agent of PLLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the PLLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of Cardiff Bay Center, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State on 7/6/12. Office location: Queens County. Princ. bus. addr.: 266 Broadway, Ste. 502, Brooklyn, NY 11211. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: CT Corporation System, 111 8th Ave., 13th Fl., NY, NY 10011. Purpose: all lawful purposes. ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil

Court, Queens County on 7/ 18/12, bearing Index Number NC-000368-12/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, grants me the right to: Assume the name of (First) Colin (Middle) Navendra (Last) Persaud My present name is (First) Amir (Last) Ali aka Colin Navendra Persaud, aka Colin Persaud My present address is 149-50 120th Street, South Ozone Park, NY 11420-4015 My place of birth is Guyana My date of birth is August 12, 1981 ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on July 9, 2012, bearing Index Number NC-000344-12/ QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, grants me the right to: Assume the name of (First) Larissa (Middle) Lynn (Last) Petitto My present name is (First) Larissa (Middle) Lynn (Last) Mackay My present address is 94-10 214 th Pl., Queens Village, NY 11428 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is January 17, 1994

Avella Honors Skala On July 14, State Sen. Tony Avella presented Frank Skala with a New York State Senate proclamation on the occasion of his 75th birthday, and to recognize his contributions to the State of New York and his dedication to the community. A Bayside resident for 72 years, Skala attended P.S. 41 in Bayside, Bayside High School and Queens College, where he also received his Masters degree in education. In 1974, Skala founded the East Bayside Homeowners Association and has been its president ever since, staying true to its motto of working to preserve, protect and improve his hometown. An active alumnus of Bayside High School, Skala founded the Bayside High School New Alumni Association in 1992 and has been its president ever since. In 2003, Skala became a member of Community Board 11 after having attended most CB11 meetings in the 30 years before his appointment. He has attended every CB11 meeting since 2003, which may be a record for participation on the board. Skala is well-known throughout Bayside and the larger Queens community as a volunteer Santa Claus for the Bayside Business Association, which he has done for the past eight years.

Backpack Drive Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz has announced that she is hosting Volunteers For America’s “Operation Backpack,” a drive to collect backpacks and school supplies for children that live in the City’s homeless and domestic violence shelters. Koslowitz has placed her office, located at 118-35 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills, on the list of designated public drop-off locations. The drive continues through Aug. 10. For further information, visit www.operationbackpacknyc.org.

Three Strikes Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. has called on Albany to pass what he has called the “Three Strikes You’re In” law, which would require a mandatory jail term for individuals convicted of a third misdemeanor within 10 years. There is currently no mandatory jail term for a person convicted of multiple misdemeanor offenses, which include many violent crimes, including assault resulting in injury, domestic abuse and resisting arrest, as well as criminal trespassing, stalking, groping and drug possession. A substantial majority of individuals convicted of misdemeanors have at least one prior conviction, and a large majority has more than 10 prior convictions. As New York State law exists now, a person can commit any number of misde-

Tony Avella and Frank Skala. meanors and never face one mandatory day in jail. Gian Verdelli, a 61-year-old registered sex offender, was arrested on July 16 on charges he groped a woman aboard a Port Authority train on two separate occasions. Verdelli reportedly has 168 prior arrests on similar charges. Vallone introduced a resolution in 2010 calling on passage of the law, an action he said is long overdue. “These criminals are continually spitting in the face of the justice system due to lenient laws allowing them to avoid prison terms,” Vallone said, “The only way to prevent the problem of chronic misdemeanors is to eliminate ‘turnstile justice’ and teach these repeat offenders a valuable lesson.”

New Sand Coming Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder has announced that in response to his request and community efforts, the mayor has agreed to fund $3 million for sand replacement. Goldfeder recently sent a letter to Mayor Mike Bloomberg requesting additional funding to allow the Army Corps of Engineers to transfer some of the newly-acquired sand from the dredging of the East Rockaway Inlet to areas of the Rockaway Peninsula that were affected most by recent storms and erosion. “This is a huge victory for Rockaway residents living in constant fear of surging water,” Goldfeder said. “I thank Mayor Bloomberg for heeding our calls to give local families and businesses the protection and peace of mind they deserve.” In May, with the help of U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer, Goldfeder announced that the Army Corps of Engineers agreed to allocate $4.5 million for the dredging of the East Rockaway Inlet that would provide for hundreds of thousands of cubic yards of new sand. The Army Corps of Engineers agreed to place the dredged sand from Beach 26th Street to Beach 36th street. However, Goldfeder added that without additional funding, the hardest hit areas on the western portion of the Rockaway Peninsula would be ignored. Goldfeder said that while this was a good first step, it was only a temporary fix. “We need to fully fund the completion of the Rockaway beach study so that we may obtain and implement the rock jetties as a permanent solution,” he said.

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 7

LEGAL NOTICE

“James L. Bucklet served to protect his state, his country and the environment,” Turner said. “This is a fitting tribute to a man who spent most of his life sharing his intellect and his talent in an effort to serve others.”

Some Candidates Just Can’t Avoid Being Ugly

Page 8 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

By MICHAEL SCHENKLER I don’t get to set the rules in political campaigns – although at times I’d like to. I do, however, get to comment on the campaigns and when they break the rules I’d like to set. While I’d like to see most of the political dialogue on the issues, I believe it is fair to look at a candidate’s past, comment on their record and ethics and share with the public whatever may be relevant in the candidate’s background.

Voters appear to be less and less influenced by negative campaigns; however, negative campaigns don’t seem to be going away. As a matter of fact, what used to be called “negative research” and today is “oppo” or “opposition research” is a growing “profession” within the political consulting arena. Yup, truth be told, big boy (and girl) campaigns nationwide employ or retain opposition research professionals to get the dirt on their opponents and often on themselves so they know what their opponents may find. But at the end of the day, it is the candidate who decides if they want to conduct the campaign in the gutter. The tone of a campaign is set by a blending of morality, ethics and personality of the candidate and their consultants. When it gets real ugly, you can be pretty sure ugly people are behind it. SOME DIRT IS FAIR Now don’t get me wrong, I believe a candidate’s past is fair game. Their friends’, family acquaintances’ and consultants’ pasts are not. Character assassination is just plain ugly. Declare yourself running for public office, you’re fair game. If you’re not a candidate, and a campaign star ts slamming you personally, look for the ugly candidates and the ugly consultants behind it. That’s just my way of watch-

ing the playing field as the game of politics unfolds. If they start attacking people around the candidate, the attackers are usually just plain no good. A QUICK LOOK BACK Now, some background: In this column on May 17, I did a quick round-up of potential forthcoming races. In regard to the 16th Senatorial District I wrote: “And in north-central Queens, sit t ing Sen. Toby Stav isky has been redistricted into a seat with incumbent Sen. Tony Avella, but has chosen to run in a neighboring seat which has no incumbent. She faces a challenge from businessman/at torney John Messer. Messer, who is married to a Chinese woman and has commit ted $500,000 of his own money to the race, is expected to be very competitive in this district that is half Asian.” Two weeks later in a column titled “Elected Officials Can Get Ugly,” I explained without naming Sen. Toby Stavisky, that as a result of my column suggesting that she faces a tough race which she could lose, she showed another side of herself. At a public event, she was approached by my friend and colleague who had known her for decades. She turned her back on him. This was followed by the same rude behavior towards his wife, who had worked with has and known Toby for years. If someone doesn’t like what I write, they can send a letter to the editor. They can call me. They can if they wish write me off. But as I wrote in May: “When elected officials display hissy fits in public, conducting themselves with an air of entitlement and a holier-than-thou attitude, they not only alienate the public and the press, they bring disgrace on the office they hold. “Turn your back on someone in public, and the people should turn their backs on you.. MESSER V. STAVISKY Perhaps the hot test race of the season – this primary season – will be the aggressive effort of at torne y/busi ne ssma n John Messer to unseat Toby Stavisky, whose family has owned the 16th Senatorial Distr ict since Gar y

Ackerman vacated it to go to Congress in 1983 – nearly thirty years ago. Now there will be fireworks in this one – but again, I’m going to yell when people who are not the candidate get smeared, sullied and spat upon by candidates and consultants who are just plain rotten. ACCEPTABLE DIRT First, let’s look at acceptable sullying. Last Tuesday afternoon, the campaign of John Messer sent out a press advisory with the headline: “Senator Toby Ann Stavisky Designating Petitions Fraught with Irregularities and Fraud including Signature of Deceased Mother” Not only did it detail a number of egregious wrongdoings in the Stavisky petition operation, it attached to the online release, images of 51 Affitdavits of what it described as “petition fraud”: “A petition expert has examined the petitions,” the release explained, “and has pointed out the illegal and fraudulent practices. At present, it has been determined that, at a minimum, ten of the petition carriers for Senator Stavisky have participated in the fraud and blata nt forger y by signi ng the names of registered Democratic voters to the designating petitions to place Senator Stavisky on the ballot.” It pointed to the forgery of the signatures of two elderly registered voters having Alzheimer’s and living in a care facility far from their former residences. But as a longtime watcher of the pet ition process, it was the affidavit of Jesus Palomino swearing that his mother Ana Rita Palomino could not have signed Toby Stavisky’s on June 14, 2012, as indicated . She “passed away on February 5 2011.” Images of the petition and affidavit were included. There were as of last week, 51 challenges identified on the release and the Messer campaign is as of this writing, preparing its presentation to the Board of Elections a nd/or cour t claimi ng Toby Stavisky’s petitions are “permeated with fraud. It is unlikely that Stavisky will be knocked off the ballot – in judgment calls, the Board of Elections usually sides with the Democratic County organization, which is usu-

John Messer launches his campaign against Toby Stavisky, this past Sunday. ally with the incumbent, as it is in this case. Courts are usually loath to overturn such calls. AND JUST PLAIN UGLY But to me, the most telling thing about the Messer petition challenge was the vile response which came from Stavisky’s campaign. As printed in the Times/Ledger newspaper, a spokesperson for Stavisky said: “No one knows the facts here, but if anyone did anything illegal they should be arrested and prosecuted just like John Me sser’s co-worker a nd John Messer’s polit ical ally, who were prosecuted for identity theft and rape, respectively.” John Messer’s political ally referred to is a friend of mine and, while he did have a run in with the law more than five years ago, he pled guilty to misdemeanor charges and not “rape” as the Stavisky campaign has falsly accused. And his problems are just not relevent in this campaign and neither are former co-workers of Messer. They

are the ugly static that is used to distract from the fair issues raised by the Messer campaign. My friend who was slandered by the Stavisky campaign, today is a productive member of society who received treatment for a drinking problem, and has since voluntarily lectured to groups on the dangers of alcohol. He is working for the Messer campaign and is not a candidate. In a place where Bill Clinton is still number one – or damned close — and Anthony Weiner may just be the comeback kid, casting false aspersions at campaign staff, workers or consultants is just plain ugly and stupid. Certainly, I shouldn’t have to remind Stavisky’s political consultant, her son Evan of the Parkside Group, that especially in Queens County, one should never play the “guilt by association” card. Me, I want to see campaigns about candidates and issues and not ugliness. Shame on those who don’t. MSchenkler@Gmail.com

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Parking Garages Cause Concern For USTA

Page 10 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

By ROSS BARK AN If there was one song that would have never reached the lips of community board members at last week's Queens Borough Board meeting, it would have been "Drive My Car." The 1965 Beatles hit, bubbling with lyrics about love, stardom and, of course, driving cars, does not mention the mass transit that the Borough Board members believe should be emphasized in the United States Tennis Association's revamping of the tennis grounds at Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Last month, the USTA announced a redevelopment of their tennis grounds that they will fund themselves at a cost of nearly $500 million. A new Louis Armstrong stadium with a 15,000-person capacity will replace the current stadium, which holds 10,000 people. The Grandstand, seating 6,000, will be demolished and replaced with a stadium seating 8,000. Both stadiums will not change their names. Construction is estimated to begin at the end of 2013 and complete at the end of the decade. The USTA also proposed erecting two-story and three-story parking garages on existing parking

The garages, according lots, angering members to Zausner, would be of the Borough Board. built on existing parking While the USTA argued lots and not enlarge the the garages would adparking footprint. As of dress the paucity of parknow, the tennis center ing options for U.S. has a 200 car lot in its Open employees and northwest corner and a simply meet the parking 100 car lot in its northspace requirements east corner. Since the mandated by the USTA's parking will be free, lease with the City, memcommunity board members of community bers have a right to scruboards bordering the tinize the USTA, said tennis center feared that Juan Martinez, general the garages would only counsel for Transportaencourage more emtion Alternatives. ployees to drive to the "What we know, as a park, congesting nearby matter of economics, highways. The garages science, and common would add about 500 sense is that free parkspots. ing encourages people "I think building parkto drive," said Martinez. ing garages like this is "Even if it's free for the making a big mistake," driver, the consesaid Community Board An image of what the proposed tennis center expansion would look like. quences are not neces7 Chair Eugene Kelty. "Let them use more mass transit, pansion is necessary to remain com- be paid to participate in a tourna- sarily free for the community. There put more MTA buses on, more petitive internationally. ment and get paid more money in is pollution that comes with traffic trains, fix the stations, do whatever "You think about the Yankees, a purse working for that week than a n d o t h e r u n w a n t e d c o n s e you have to do." the Mets, the Nets, the Devils, Gi- he could potentially be paid at the quences." Reach Reporter Ross Barkan USTA Managing Director Daniel ants and Jets, they have all built new U.S. Open." Zausner defended the parking ga- facilities," he said. "Our biggest Community Boards 3,4,6,7 and at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rages and argued a tennis center ex- threat could be that a player could 8 all have jurisdiction over the park. rbarkan@queenstribune.com

Sex Offender Bill Proposed For Library Safety By MEGAN MONTALVO On playgrounds and schoolyards, children are free to run about and play, worry free. Parents entrust these locations to act as a safe haven and barrier from sexual predators. When it comes to indoor locations, some might argue that public libraries are the equivalent to a children’s playground. At the forefront of that argument is Council Member Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria) and Public Advocate Bill de Blasio, who have recently issued a call to ban sex offenders from the children’s sections of public libraries. Under current state law, public libraries do not share the same protection from sex offenders as schools and playgrounds. “Children’s rooms in libraries are really indoor playgrounds for growing minds,” said Vallone. “Our kids need every protection we can give them.” The officials worked together to issue a letter to Senate Majority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Long Island) and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan) on July 3 to request consideration for increased state legislation. The

proposal was prompted by an incident that occurred at the Flushing branch at 41-17 Main St. on June 23, wherein a 49-year-old Brooklyn man groped two girls, ages 6 and 9. “I can’t imagine what these parents are going through” said de Blasio. “I’m pushing for this law because any time I hear about an attack in our libraries, I think of my kids and how important it is to foster a safe and secure city for all our children.” Previous attempts to add a broad brush policy of banning sex offenders from libraries have been ruled unconstitutional. The proposed legislation outlined in de Blasio and Vallone’s letter would constitute a registered offender’s entrance into the delineated children’s rooms as a criminal offense. Vallone, who has been an outspoken advocate for the inclusion of security cameras in public libraries, says that it is suspected there may be other incidents of sexual abuse that are going unreported – a claim which is denied by Queens Library Spokeswoman Joanne King. Similar to last month’s incident, a middle-aged man victimized a 7

year-old girl at the Steinway branch at 21-45 31st St. in Astoria last year. Vallone met with the victim and her family after the incident and noted the parallels to the recent attack. “Last year the little girl was so

brave and gave a remarkable description,” said Vallone. “Nothing replaces the watchful eye of the parent, but we’re doing all that we can do to strengthen the legislation to protect children.” Due to the legislative calendar,

de Blasio says the earliest the public is likely to see action on the proposed legislation is over the winter. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@queenstribune.com

Concerns Over Beverage Ban Mount In Elmhurst By MEGAN MONTALVO In light of the recent sugary beverage ban proposal made by Mayor Bloomberg, many New Yorkers have all but kept quiet about the issue. While debate continues, Councilwoman Julissa Ferreras (DElmhurst) took the conversation to the streets of Elmhurst. On July 19, representatives from New Yorkers for Beverage Choices joined Ferreras as she marched down Junction Boulevard to speak with local business owners. As she made stops at a local pizzeria, deli, convenience store and coffee shop, each owner gave accounts of how their business would be they will be affected by the ban.

“We sell a lot of drinks that are 18 and 20 ounces,” said Abel Ahuatl, owner of Metro Star Coffee Shop, located at 32-11 Junction Blvd. “If I don’t sell those drinks, I’m going to lose a lot of business and cut back on employees.” Ferreras noted that while the proposal has caused much confusion amongst local small business owners, it could also potentially create an unhealthy rivalry between business owners. If passed, the proposed ban would be implemented in March 2013 and would place a cap on sugary drinks sold at a maximum size of 16 ounces for establishments containing a Dept. of Health letter

grade, including restaurants, delis and movie theaters. Drinks sold at grocery and convenience stores would be exempt from the ban. As an alternative to combat obesity, Ferreras asked that Bloomberg pursue other avenues of change, such as the allocation of more funding to the redevelopment of public parks. “There’s no one that wants to combat obesity in our community than I do,” said Ferreras. “The good intentions may be there, but I think we need to look at the full impact of this. It just doesn’t make sense.” Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 11

Page 12 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: AUSTRO TILE & STONE, LLC. Articles of organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 06/25/12. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 30--25 93 rd Street, East Elmhurst, New York, 11369. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. __________________________________ At an IAS Part 19, of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, County of Queens, held at the Courthouse, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 27 day of June 2012. ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE Index No. 8332-12 PRESENT: HON. BERNICE D. SIEGAL Justice In the Matter of the Application of KIN WAI LAM, Holder of One-Half of all Outstanding Shares Entitled to vote in an Election of Directors, Petitioner, -against- LAP FUNG SUN and MILESTONE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN INC. for the Dissolution of MILESTONE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN INC. a Domestic Corporation Respondents. UPON the annexed Petition of KIN WAI LAM, Petitioner, herein, duly sworn to on the 3rd day of May, 2012, the affidavit of KIN WAI LAM sworn to onthe 3rd day of May, 2012, the affirmation of HAROLD I. GUBERMAN, ESQ. dated the 7 th day of May, 2012, together with the exhibits annexed thereto, and upon all the prior pleadings and proceedings heretofore had herein, LET the Respondents show cause before this court at an IAS PART 19, Room 48, to be held at the Courthouse, located at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on the 15 day of August, 2012 at 9:30 AM of that date, or as soon thereafter as counsel can be heard, why an Order should not be made and entered herein: (A) Awarding Petitioner’s monetary damages in accordance with the demands of the Petition; (B) Dissolving the corporation known as MILESTONE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN, INC. (C) Upon the Fourth Cause of Action in the Petition appointing a Receiver for said corporation; (D) Ordering Respondents to provide a full accounting to Petitioner of all receipts, expenses, accounts receivable, debts and liabilities of MILESTONE KITCHEN

& BATH DESIGN, INC. (E) Awarding to Petitioner a counsel fee in the sum of $10,000.00 for the prosecution of this application; and (F) Granting Petitioner such other, further and different relief as to his court may seem just and proper, and it is further ORDERED that pending the hearing of this application the Respondents, and their agents, servants and employees are hereby enjoined and restrained from transferring any assets, whether real or personal property, except as necessary in the ordinary course of business or personal affairs and for full value. SUFFICIENT CAUSE APPEARING THEREFORE, LET service of a copy of this Order to Show Cause together with the papers upon which it is based by personal delivery upon LAP FUNG SUN, individual Respondent and upon MIESTONE KITCHEN & BATH DESIGN INC. pursuant to C.P.L.R. 311 (a)(1) including by service upon the Secretary of State, as a designated agent of the corporation and upon the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance by mailing a copy of this Order to it at Building 9, W.A. Harriman Campus, Albany, New York 12227-0125 by first class mail by July 6, 2012 and this Order to Show Cause, without the papers in support of same, shall be published at lest once in each of the three weeks before the return date of this Order to Show Cause in the following newspaper Queens Tribune to be completed on or before 8/8/2012 be deemed good and sufficient service. ENTER: Bernice Siegal J.S.C. HON. BERNICE D. SIEGAL Pursuant to Rule 130.1-(1) Harold I. Guberman __________________________________ NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT- COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE, ON BEHALF OF THE HOLDERS OF ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE TRUST 2007-2 ADJUSTABLE RATE MORTGAGE-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2007-2 Plaintiff, AGAINST CONRAD JONES, et al. Defendant(s) Pursuant to a judgment of foreclosure and sale duly entered March 28, 2012 I the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11435 on 8/10/ 2012 at 11:00 AM premises known as 2288 JAYDEE CT., FAR ROCKAWAY, NY

11690 a/k/a 2288 JAYDEE CT., FAR ROCKAWAY, NY 11691. All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the BOROUGH AND County of QUEENS, City and State of New York. Block 15663 and Lot: 37 Approximate amount of judgment $610,504.04 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment. Index # 29127/2009 Matthew M. Lupoli, Esq. Referee, Law Offices of Jordan S. Katz, P.C. - 395 North Service Road, Suite 401, Melville, NY 11747 JSK 12792 Dated: June 27, 2012 __________________________________ “Notice is hereby given that a license, number 1264329 for liquor has been applied for by Drunken Fish Inc to sell liquor at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 5235 Metropolitan Avenue, Ridgewood, NY 11385 for on premises consumption.” ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of 2 Iris Lane LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/12/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o The LLC, 45-25 47 th St., Woodside, NY 11377. Purpose: any lawful activity. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of EnergyReset, LLC Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) ON 04/10/2012. Office location: Queens County Principal Office of LLC: 199-85 Keno Ave, Holliswood, NY 11423 SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o EnergyReset, LLC at the principal office of the LLC Purpose: Any lawful activity. ___________________________________ El Chamo LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 5/1/12. Office in Queens County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o John Cheserie, 2519 33rd Ave. Ste #1, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: General __________________________________ 65-86 TERRACE COURT LLC, a domestic LLC currently known as 65-86 LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 5/29/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against

the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 59-05 59 th Dr., Maspeth, NY 11378. General Purposes. ___________________________________ Notice of formation of KMC GROUP LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on April 9, 2012. Office located in Queens. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 217-35 Peck Avenue, Hollis Hills, NY 11427. Purpose: any lawful purpose. __________________________________ TAXI REAL ESTATE SERVICES LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 4/9/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 25-11B 41 st Ave., Long Island City, NY 11101. General Purposes. __________________________________ DENTAL TEAM LLP a domestic LLP, filed with the SSNY on 5/22/12. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLP may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLP, 23-91 Bell Blvd., Ste. LL1, Bay Terrace, NY 11360. Purpose: Dentistry __________________________________ 2012 PALMETTO STREET, LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 6/6/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Davidov Law Group, P.C., 108-18 Queens Blvd., Ste. 704, Forest Hills, NY 11375. General Purposes. __________________________________ Notice of Formation of Twice Is Nice, LLC., Arts of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY SSNY on 4/2/2012. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 14-31 150th St., Whitestone, NY 11357. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to c/o Twice Is Nice., LLC, at the princ. office of the LLC. Purpose: Any lawful activity. __________________________________ MOROCCAN ADOPTION CONSULTATION SERVICE LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/22/2012. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY

shall mail process to: Fatiha Berger, 31-73 30th Street, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. __________________________________ Notice of Formation of Vindio Records, LLC, Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 2/7/12. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 20417 Hillside Ave., Ste. 314, Hollis, NY 11423. Purpose: any lawful activities. __________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 6/4/12, bearing Index Number NC-000287-12/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, grants me the right to: Assume the name of (First) Gina (Last) Looby My present name is (First) Gina (Middle) O (Last) YoungLooby aka Gina Olivet Young aka Gina Edward-Young aka Gina Olivet Edwards aka Gina O My present address is 63-93 Woodhaven Blvd, #6E, Rego Park, NY 11374 My place of birth is Brooklyn, NY My date of birth is February 26, 1971 __________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 6/25/12, bearing Index Number NC-000337-12/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, grants me the right to: Assume the name of (First) Gloria (Middle) Wing Yun (Last) Fraczak My present name is (First) Gloria (Last) Fraczak aka Gloria Ho My present address is 233-08 87 th Avenue, Queens Village, NY 11427-2703 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is December 13, 1986 __________________________________ IN THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS OF LEHIGH COUNTY, PENNSYLVANIA CIVIL DIVISION No: 2011C-2356 VIKING INSURANCE COMPANY OF WISCONSIN, Plaintiff, vs. PEDRO R. PAYANO, YOHANLY A. POLANCO, MARIA D. PAJARON, ANCIL TORRES, CAROLINE DE LO SANTOS, JHONNY DE LOS SANTOS, BELLA VILLEGAS, LAZANO, LAURA VELASCO, ANDRES GARCIA MARTINEZ, JUAN PERALTA, MIGUEL JUAN ARENAS, SAMUEL RIOS SANTIAGO, JOSE MANUEL DORANTES

VENTURA, HELLEN CEBALLOS, MAYELIN CACERES VICIOSO, RAMSIS P. PINA, WILLIAM M. SOSA, JR., GEORGE VASQUEZ, and LAURA VELASQUES. Defendants. Notice to YOHANLY A. POLANO; ANCIL TORRES; BELLA VILLEGAS LAZANO; LAURA VELASCO (VELASQUES); ANDRES GARCIA MARTINEZ; MIGUEL JUAN ARENAS; SAMUEL RIOS SANTIAGO; JOSE MANUEL DORANTES VENTURA; MAYELIN CACERES VICIOSO; WILLIAM M. SOSA; and GEORGE VASQUEZ; NOTICE Take notice Viking Insurance Company of Wisconsin has filed a Complaint for Declaratory Judgment against you in the Court of Common Pleas of Lehigh County, Pennsylvania at Docket No.: 2011-C2356 in which it alleges that it does not owe insurance coverage for an automobile accident that occurred on or about April 28, 2010. If you wish to defend, you must enter a written appearance personally or by attorney and file your defenses or objections in writing with the court. You are warned that if you fail to do so the case may proceed without you and a judgment may be entered against you without further notice for the relief requested by the plaintiff. Yu may lose money or property or other rights important to you. YOU SHOULD TAKE THIS PAPER TO YOUR LAWYER AT ONCE. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE A LAWYER, GO TO OR TELEPHONE THE OFFICE SET FORTH BELOW. THIS OFFICE CAN PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT HIRING A LAWYER. IF YOU CANNOT AFFORD TO HIRE A LAWYER, THIS OFFICE MAY BE ABLE TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION ABOUT AGENCIES THAT MAY OFFER LEGAL SERVICES TO ELIGIBLE PERSONS AT A REDUCED FEE OR NO FEE. Bar Association of Lehigh County Lawyer Referral Service 1114 West Walnut Street Allentown, PA 18102 Telephone: (610) 433-7094 Meghan A. Moran, Esquire ZIMMER KUNZ, P.L.L.C. 600 Grant Street Suite 3300 U.S. Steel Tower Pittsburgh, PA 15219 Attorney for Plaintiff

You Can E-Mail Your Legal Copy to legals@queenstribune.com To Place Your Legal Advertisement or call the Tribune at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 149

Compiled by STEVEN J. FERRARI

Queens ROBBERY PATTERN: The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the following individual wanted in connection with five robberies in Queens. The suspect is described as an African-American male, approximately 6-foot, 170 lbs. The suspect displays a handgun and demands money from his victims. The five robberies include: • July 3 at 2:50 p.m., in front of 110-02 Guy Brewer Blvd. • July 9 at 10:15 p.m. inside a Howard Johnson’s, 153-95 Rockaway Blvd. • July 10 at 11:45 p.m. inside a Subway, 252-18 Rockaway Blvd. • July 15 at 6:10 p.m. inside Cambria Car Wash, 208-15 Linden Blvd. • July 17 at 1:30 p.m. inside C Town, 195-09 Jamaica Ave. The public can submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers’ website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIP577.

110th Precinct ONGOING INVESTIGATION: At approximately 11:20 p.m. on July 21, NYPD

113th Precinct ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION: At approximately 10:08 p.m. July 21, in front of 11950 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, NYPD responded to a 911 call of a bike injury. Upon arrival, officers discovered the victim, Dave Thomas, 33, who had been injured while riding his ATV on the sidewalk. EMS also responded and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. A preliminary investigation determined that the male was driving an ATV on the sidewalk, southbound on Merrick Boulevard, when he struck a metal pole. RAPE ARREST: On July 17 at approximately 11 p.m., plain-clothed officers assigned to the Anti-Crime Team observed a gray 2005 Hyundai Accent fail to stop while traveling on 114th Drive at the intersection of Newburg Street. The driver ignored officers’ demands to pull over and fled, before abandoning the vehicle in the vicinity of Ovid Place and Dormans Road. The officers pursued the suspect through the rear yards of several residences before he was apprehended on Keeseville Avenue. The suspect was found to be in possession of a loaded .25 caliber firearm. Upon further investigation, the suspect, Emmanuel Elmore, 25, was found to be wanted for a rape in Jamaica on April 20. It was also determined that the vehicle he was driving was reported stolen on July 8. Elmore was charged with rape, criminal possession of a loaded firearm, reckless endangerment, fleeing from an officer in a motor vehicle, criminal possession of stolen property (vehicle), grand larceny of an auto, aggravated unlicensed operator, unlawful possession of marijuana and failure to stop at a Stop sign.

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 13

103rd Precinct FATAL ACCIDENT: At approximately 3:18 a.m. on July 22, NYPD responded to a 911 call of a vehicle accident on Atlantic Avenue, near the intersection of the Van Wyck Expressway. Upon arrival, officers determined that a 2008 black Mercedes Benz SUV, occupied by eight individuals, was traveling eastbound on Atlantic when the vehicle struck a concrete station just east of the Van Wyck. The collision caused the vehicle to flip and roll over, subsequently coming to a rest on the passenger side and igniting in flames. FDNY and EMS personnel responded. Upon extinguishment of the fire, five victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Three additional victims were removed from the scene and transported to Jamaica Hospital, where they are listed in stable condition. No other vehicles were involved in the accident. There is unknown criminality suspected at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

responded to a 911 call of an unconscious male in front of 127-40 Willets Point Blvd., Flushing. Upon arrival, officers observed a 39-year-old Hispanic male unconscious and unresponsive. EMS also responded to the location and pronounced the male dead on the scene. There were no apparent signs of trauma and no visible signs of injury.

Queens Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE Lyndsey Creed and Andrea Palma of Flushing were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at SUNY Potsdam. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Fairfield University in Fairfield, Conn. They include: Beechhurst: Jillian Delaney. Flushing: Michael Ballesty, Ashley Churchill. Whitestone: Samantha Viscovich. Sarah E. Kuehl, a 2004 graduate of Archbishop Molloy High School and the daughter of Ernest Kuehl of Bayside, along with fellow sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise formed a Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions committee. CSADD is a peer-topeer mentoring program geared toward assisting sailors in making positive decisions in all areas of their lives.

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Johnny R. Marquez of Queens Village was awarded a $17,600 merit scholarship to recognize past academic achievement and potential for success from SUNY Oswego. Marquez is a 2012 graduate of Flushing High School. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Villanova University in Villanova, Pa. They include: Flushing: Kevin Garcia, Sung Lee, Robert Verrone. Whitestone: Helen Lin, Paul Masi. Andrew Cho of Flushing was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Pa. Michelle Lee of Whitestone and Jiali Yu of Flushing were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Cornell University in Ithaca. Local students received degrees during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Rochester Institute of Technology. They include: College Point: Su Lu, Bachelor of Science in economics and Bachelor of Science in media marketing.

Flushing: Julio Espinal, Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degree in computer science. Whitestone: Michael Scionti, Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering. Michael Formato of Whitestone was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at SUNY Cortland. Ronald Milesh of College Point won $67,538 in the New York Lottery’s July 9 Take Five drawing. The winning ticket was purchased at Shree Stationery, 815 College Point, College Point. Dana Walsh Sivak of Bayside has joined the law firm Genser Dubow Genser & Cona in Melville as an associate. Michael Marden of Bayside was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Buffalo State College. Army Reserve Pvt. Marco D. Gutierrez has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. Gutierrez is the son of Marion Alvear of Jackson Heights and is a 2007 graduate of Bayside High School. Local students received degrees during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at the College of Saint Rose in Albany. They include: Bayside: Kristin Butler, Linda Lefton, Candice Cmar. Rebecca Ng of Bayside received a Master of Public Health during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. Caroline Couce of Bayside was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Drew University in Madison, N.J. Sarah E. Kuehl, a 2004 graduate of Archbishop Molloy High School and the daughter of Ernest Kuehl of Bayside, along with fellow sailors aboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise formed a Coalition of Sailors Against Destructive Decisions committee. CSADD is a peer-topeer mentoring program geared

toward assisting sailors in making positive decisions in all areas of their lives. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Villanova University in Villanova, Pa. They include: Bayside: Helen Chen, Brian Kim, Maria Sauer.

Gift Of Reading:

Kevin Carton of Bayside was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Pa. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Cornell University in Ithaca. They include: Bayside: Andrew Huang, Andrew Kim, Ping Hua Wang. Local students received degrees during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Rochester Institute of Technology. They include: Bayside: Lisa Meyer, Bachelor of Science degree in applied arts and sciences; Junxia Xu, Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in computer science; Priscilla Yin, Bachelor of Science degree in game design and development. Martin Laskin of Douglaston won $10,000 on the $5,000,000 Cash scratch-off game from the New York Lottery. Laskin’s winning ticket was purchased in Westbury. Laurie Casado of Bellerose received a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Conn. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at the University of Delaware in Newark, Del. They include: Bellerose: Lyana Labrada, Elyssa Noblesala. Floral Park: Joseph Ryan. Douglaston: Sonya Bhalla. Little Neck: James Wolfin. Oakland Gardens: Michelle Shapiro. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Marist College in Poughkeepsie. They include: Bellerose: Nadia Ackbarali, Arthur Sonnick. Little Neck: Laura Matelsky. The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the

Children at the Queens Library in Whitestone enjoyed free story and craft programs underwritten by Vallo Transportation. Pictured (back row, from left) with children who participated in the program are Ralph Potter and Denise Pisapia, Harriet Novet, Linda DeSabato, Nonyem Iloabachie and Vinny Fattizzi. Lottery’s live drawings. The following winners received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more. Candida Santana of Floral Park won $20,142 on the June 27 Take Five drawing. Santana’s winning ticket was purchased at the C-Town Supermarket, 14236 Foch Blvd., Jamaica. Air Force Airman Karamjeet Singh 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. Singh is the son of Dhanjit Singh of Glen Oaks and is a 2010 graduate of Martin Van Buren High School, Queens Village. Timothy Chan of Douglaston was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at SUNY Potsdam. Morgan Sapulsky of Bayside was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at SUNY Cortland. Brian Biscotti of Floral Park and Steven Teixeira of Bellerose were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Villanova University in Villanova, Pa.

Benjamin Chu of Queens Village was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. Zarela Zachariah of Floral Park and Noble Abraham of Queens Village were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Pa. Shaliya Dehipawala of Bellerose and Bin Bin Fan of Fresh Meadows were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Cornell University in Ithaca. April Bourne of Queens Village received an advanced graduate certificate in strategic training during spring 2012 commencement ceremonies at Rochester Institute of Technology. Steven Jecewiz, both of Bellerose, were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2012 semester at Providence College in Providence, R.I.

Send your people news to: Queens Focus, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Rd. Whitestone, NY 11357

Four Slow Zones Announced In Queens By MEGAN MONTALVO In a borough where the road is shared between motorists, bicyclists and pedestrians, harmony can often be hard to maintain. When a collision occurs, the result can be tragic. On July 10, Mayor Mike Bloomberg and the Dept. of Transportation announced plans to try to minimize traffic tragedies by implementing 13 new slow zones

throughout New York City. Queens will receive four of the zones in the communities of Corona, Jackson Heights, Elmhurst and Auburndale. Consideration for the announced slow zone locations were approved by the DOT based on an evaluation of crash history, community support and proximity of schools, senior centers and daycare centers. The zones will be marked by a

prominent blue gateway at all streets entering the area, with signs noting the 20 mph speed limit, which is 10 mph less than is currently allowed. Speed bumps and the stenciling of “20 MPH” eight-foot-long letters will also be added onto the streets within the zone. Of the four neighborhoods chosen in Queens, Corona will be the first to implement the zone in August. The zone will span .26 square

Health, Wealth & Zen Expo At Queens Crossing Queens Crossing and the Queens Tribune will co-sponsor a Health, Wealth & Zen Expo 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Aug. 4 at Queens Crossing, 136-17 39th Ave., Flushing. The event will feature lectures and exhibits designed to help people gain the knowledge they need to live healthy and stress-free lives while still maintaining a balance between money and serenity. The expo will feature educational semi-

nars on health care, financial planning and stress management. Lectures will take place at Crossing Art, on the ground floor of Queens Crossing, and exhibits will take place on the second floor in the Mudan Banquet Hall. Topics will include the latest procedures, research and drugs; how to buy health insurance; investing for retirement and in real estate; planning estates and finances; and investing in bonds and stocks.

Experts in the field of meditation and stress management will also be on hand to teach how to build confidence and advise how to do a makeover. For information or to RSVP, contact Mervin Fong at (718) 7130255 or Jennifer Chen at (212) 359-0853 or visit www.hwzexpo.com. Look for the special Health, Wealth & Zen Expo special section in next week’s Queens Tribune.

miles and will allot 13 speed bumps to the streets bordered by 34th Avenue to the north, 108th Street to the east, Roosevelt Avenue to the south and Junction Boulevard to the west. The area has averaged more than 33 injuries per year and contains two schools as well as 10 pre-kindergarten, daycare and Head Start centers. Councilwoman Julissa Ferreras (D-Elmhurst) said that with the announcement, many of her constituents can breathe a collective sigh of relief. “Corona is an over populated neighborhood with a lot of seniors and children,” Ferreras said. “Drivers are always in such a hurry to get where they need to be, I think they often tend to drive way over the speed limit.” Ferreras says that in addition to the added safety the slow zones will bring, she also hopes that motorists will have more time to notice the small businesses in the area. Slow zones for Jackson Heights, Elmhurst and Auburndale will be implemented in 2013. The DOT will continue to accept requests for Slow Zones from local communities and will present them to Community Boards for approval once

Slow zones will be implemented in four Queens locations, beginning with one in Corona in August. the application process is re-opened in 2013. Bayside Hills, North Bayside, Harding Heights and Hollis Heights are among the Queens neighborhoods awaiting approval from the DOT for slow zones. Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@queens tribune.com.

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By WAYNE DEAN DOYLE The struggle between 1,400 Queens union workers and Consolidated Edison is causing concern throughout Queens, after the company put forward the recommendation that employees should increase their contributions for health-care plans from 17 percent for the first year of the contract to 24 percent by the fourth year. The company locked out workers at the beginning of July after failing to reach an agreement on health care and pension costs with the union. The two have been in a standoff for more than three weeks during one of New York’s hottest summers. Con Edison recently stated that the United Workers Union Association Local 1-2 has refused proposals from the company to end the dispute. Allan Drury, a spokesman for Con Edison, said the workers were compensated fairly. “Union workers from Queens Local 1-2 make good wages and get a lot of overtime. They receive solid benefits and have a pension and a 401-k.They deserve every bit of that,” Drury said. John Melia, a spokesman for Local 1-2, called the company’s statement “lies of the highest form,” and refuted the claim that the union was delaying the situation’s end. “Negotiations are going nowhere, they are offering absolutely nothing for our workers and that’s a fact,” Melia said. He stated that Local 1-2 are some of the most highly skilled and safest workers in the world, “the men and women of Local 1-2 have been dedicated and effective first responders during the city’s toughest times.” Melia spoke of their members being out there in freezing cold, sweltering heat and the worst of natural disasters. Members of Local 1-2 worked tirelessly to restore gas and electric to the City after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, Melia said. That work, he noted, resulted in many workers contracting illnesses related

Photos by Sam Fraing

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Queens Employees of Con Edison Make Their Voices Heard cer ned,” Cuomo said. “I urge both parties to strongly encourage an expeditious resolution, and to emphasize that both Con Ed and the union will be held accountable by the people of the state if their failure to settle the dispute contributes to service disruptions or impacts safety.” Public Advocate Bill de Blasio said, “Con Ed needs to answer basic questions on service, brownouts and inspections during this lockout. Enough is enough — the longer New Yorkers are forced to wait on a fair contract with Con Ed’s workers, the more our quality of life and public safety are put at risk.” “I urge you (Con Edison) to move swiftly to negotiate a fair contract with your workers so they can get back to work and we can ensure the safety and satisfaction of all New Yorkers,” concluded de Blasio. In response, Drury said, “The Public Advocate would be better served addressing his letter to the union leadership, which forced the work stoppage by refusing to provide us with ad-

Local 1-2 President Harr y Farrell addressing the rally. equate notification of a strike so that we can operate the system safely and reliably for 9 million New Yorkers.” Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) has also expressed her concerns with the lockout. “Con Ed’s attack on their 8,500 members is an attack on all working families. I stand with our utility workers, Local 1-2, and demand an immediate end to this lockout.” Reach Reporter Wayne Dean Doyle at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125 or wdoyle@ queenstribune.com.

Con Edison workers rally in Union Square. to the destruction at Ground the median for executives in the company’s peer group,” Drury Zero. “The men and women of Lo- said. cal 1-2 put their lives on the line 24/7 to keep NYC powered, to Officials Speak keep the City’s economic engine Gov. Andrew Cuomo sent out running, to immediately respond a statement this week urging when the power system breaks both parties to come to some down,” Melia said. “Our struggle sort of agreement soon. with Con Edison is a last ditch “This lockout has gone on struggle for a dignified middle long enough. Elected state and class life. Like most New York- city officials are rightfully coners, our members have endured these tough economic times.” A Local 1-2 wor ker from Queens, who wanted to remain anonymous, highlighted other aspects and implications the lockout is having on his family. “Look at the price of living and inflation. Overtime is also not part of our pay and should never be talked about like it is, when you work overtime it’s to get ahead and pay bills. What people are also forgetting is that is more time away from my family, that’s not a perk,” he said. Kevin Burke, the CEO of Con Edison who has remained out of the limelight during the lockout, earned $29 million in the last three years, plus benefits. When the issue of earnings was raised with Drury, he said the incentive portion of executive compensation is paid by shareholders, not ratepayers. “The executive officers’ target cash compensation, target longterm incentive, and target total Local workers display a united front during a rally in Union Square earlier this month, protestdirect compensation was below ing what they consider unfair treatment from Con Edison management.

www.queenstribune.com â&#x20AC;˘ July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 17

Touring Queens

Ribbon Cutting

NYC & Company, New York City’s official marketing, tourism and partnership organization, recently escorted a group of more than 20 tour operators throughout Long Island City and Astoria to familiarize them with many of the hotels and attractions in the area.

Elected officials and officials from Elmhurst Hospital Center celebrated the opening of a new treatment area, financed by Councilman Danny Dromm and the Council’s Queens delegation. The new 13-bed unit will be used to treat patients with chest pain. Photo by Ira Cohen.

May The Mets Be With You

Page 18 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Darth Vader (left) and his Stormtroopers greet fans at Citi Field during Star Wars Night on Monday, before the Mets game against the Nationals.

Citi Shore

pix

Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

With Honors

Mets mascot Mr. Met traded in his baseball bat for a lightsaber when he met the team of Stormtroopers during Star Wars night.

Star Wars characters mingle with fans before the game. Photos by Ira Cohen.

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder honored Fay Gross with a New York State Assembly proclamation on her retirement from the Young Israel of Wavecrest and Bayswater senior program, and for well over 20 years of faithful and devoted service to the community.

Nicole “Snooki” Polizzi, one of the stars of MTV’s “Jersey Shore,” made an appearance at Citi Field for a photo shoot. Photo by Ira Cohen.

www.queenstribune.com â&#x20AC;˘ July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 19

Leisure

Muslim Hoops League Continues Expansion By ROSS BARK AN The basketball league Muhammad Iqbal founded catalogs field goal percentages, shows video highlights and maintains power rankings, ESPN-style, throughout the season. If players curse even once, they receive a technical foul. Professional athletes, usually of the foul-mouthed variety, may not fit in so well. Yet score s of people are tr ying

is a symbol of their faith. For the championship game, a local imam led prayers, and Iqbal wants the league to stress Islamic values like “brotherhood, loyalty and family.” “I felt that a lot of Muslim youth weren’t being productive,” said the 21-year-old Iqbal, who grew up in Jamaica. “I love basketball. It’s the perfect platform for them to meet new people, net work. People can help each other out.” Iqbal poked around at local mosques looking for players. He had visions for a league beyond simple pick-up basketball at a random local park: he wanted referees, statistics, a website, even sponsorships. His parents were at first skeptical of his vision and he was just beginning his studies at St. John’s University. School would have to be balanced with his ambitions. But Iqbal wanted a place where people in his community could come together, play basketball and forge new bonds. Convincing the children of immigrants, or even immigrants

to squeeze into the Crescent Basketball League, a Queens-based amateur hoops league that recently wrapped up its four th season. With five age divisions, it is open to virtually anyone of any skill level. First founded as a way to engage the Muslim youth of Queens, the league welcomes players of all races, faith and creeds, but stays grounded in its Islamic routes. The crescent moon, for some Muslims,

Good Food, Good Company Heights. He knew how to treat his clienteles, which on this night was quiet, laid back and even romantic, filled with couples of all different age groups. Even though I was dining solo, I was not alone; my lovely host (and co-owner) Patricia stopped by and kept me company from time to time and even forced me to have de sser t… a cold a nd creamy specialty called a Don Boca Juniors is a n Pedro (two scoops of chocolate Argentinean steakhouse, named ice cream, covered in walnuts and for one of the most successful laced with rum), which led to more conversation with football teams, not only i n A r g e n t i n a , b u t RESTAURANT a slight buzz. She gave me t he stor y of the around the world. It’s restaurant’s seven-year said that the owners history and how everyhave a close relationship thing here is made fresh with the team and its daily, even my dessert. color ful i nter ior cerOver at another tainly proves that. Even table, Sal, from Middle if you were blindfolded Village, was celebratand walking on Queens ing a milestone, his Boulevard (which I 91st birt hday. He was don’t recommend), your nose and taste buds would more animated than most teenlead you to their door. The aroma agers I know. In a vigorous conwafting through the neighbor- versation he told me he’d worked for the Board of Education as a hood is “unmis-steak-able.” Steak. We’re talking steak, school teacher, served in World churrasco and entrana, (sirloin War II and set tled in Middle Viland skir t) bife de chorzio and lage under the GI Bill. He told me that he’d been to de lomo (shell steak and filet mignon) and dozens of other main Salerno’s and Gottlieb’s and all courses, like pork ribs, chicken the rest, but that Boca Junior’s m a r s a l a a n d e i g h t d i f f e r e n t was now his favorite. Along with the staff and the choices of seafood, including food, I assured Sal that he had apricot salmon. Carnivore that I am, my job made my night. He paid me the wa s to d e m o l i s h a p e r fe c t l y same compliment, and as we cooked shell steak (medium rare, shook hands, he made me promplease), which I did under the ise to join him next year for the w a t c h f u l e y e o f m y w a i t e r, celebration of number 92. So F r a n c o , a f o r m e r r e s t a u r a n t who am I to argue? In 30 years owner, himself with a resume that or so, maybe I’ll return to Boca’s included Tio Pepe in the Village and do the same thing! -T.J. Eisenhauer and Armando’s in Jackson

ral Park, said he used his high school basketball experience to mentor players who had not played much basketball before. “One of the main things I’ve got out the league is a sense of brotherhood,” Chaudhary, a star ter for the championship Hornets team, said. “I’ve met so many great people that I’ve made friends with for life.” Iqbal’s goal is to raise enough money for the league so he can waive registration fees and make it completely free. He wants to expand beyond the 13 teams to accommodate long waiting lists of potential players. For now, registration is ongoing for the fifth season and there are softball and flag football Crescent spin offs underway. All games are held at the Queens High School of Teach ing in Bellerose. For more information, visit crescentbasketball.com/jr Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or rbarkan@queenstribune.com.

Queens Zoo Becomes Wi-Fi Hot Spot By WAYNE DEAN DOYLE The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Queens Zoo, New York City Parks & Recreation, and AT&T have collaborated to offer free Wi-Fi service at the Queens Zoo Guests with smart phones and other mobile Internet devices will be

REVIEW

now able to use the Wi-Fi service to find the answers and information about animals and also allow guests to share photos with their friends, look up animal facts and more. “S o o f ten, our v isit ors are amazed by the animals they see here at the Queens Zoo and want to learn more about them,” Dr.

Tribune Photo by Ira Cohen

Page 20 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Boca Juniors Argentinean Steakhouse 81-08 Queens Blvd, Elmhurst 11373 (718) 429-2077 CUISINE: Argentinean HOURS: Open 7 Days 12 Noon- 12 Midnite CREDIT CARDS: Yes DELIV ERY: No PARK ING & CATERING: Yes

themselves, to embrace athletics was sometimes a difficult task. Iqbal played basketball and cricket while at Stuy vesant High School in Manhat ta n, using h is experiences as a student-athlete to convince players to make his idea a reality. Crescent Basketball grew from a cash-strapped eight-team affair to a 13-team league looking to expand even further. The second-season finals were televised by N Y1, making Iqbal into a local celebrity. Local pharmacies sponsored this past season and were able to treat the two teams that reached the championsh ip to a free dinner. Breakdowns of individual games, videos, message boards and in depth statistical profiles set the league apar t. “Basketball can serve as the universal language,” Iqbal said, pointing out that the league now has players hailing from 20 different countries and speaking 15 different languages. Saffi Chaudhary, a point guard in the league from Flo-

Queens elec ted officials at the announcement of the Wi-Fi Hot Spot at the Queens Zoo.

Scot t Silver, director and curator of animals, said. “Our mission is to connect people to wildlife. WiFi allows us to enhance that connection.” The initiative is one of 26 locat ions where AT&T is funding free Wi-Fi as part of a par tnership with the Bloomberg administration. The program kicked off with an event on July 19 at the zoo, attended by elected officials including Borough President Helen Marshall, Assemblymen David Weprin and Francisco Moya and Councilmen Mark Weprin and Dan Halloran. “AT&T is always looking for new ways to connect people around New York and help them enjoy all that the city has to offer,” said Marissa Shorenstein, president, AT&T New York. “Through this partnership, we are able to offer Zoo visitors a truly interactive and shared experience – from learning about the animals to connecting with their friends and family.” Reach Reporter Wayne Dean Doyle at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125 or email wdoyle@queens tribune.com.

66 years later and our relationship is really working out. It doesn’t take a lot of effort, but every time you’ve enjoyed one of our products, you’ve allowed us to support one of our many causes such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Since 1946, we’ve partnered with the Clubs to help provide a haven where kids can learn and grow in a safe environment. This long-standing national partnership has produced programs such as Triple Play, which has helped more than 1 million kids learn the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition since 2005. Locally some 180 Boys & Girls Clubs in New York State benefit more than 200,000 kids. It’s just another thing we’re doing to help make the communities we all live in a little bit better. To learn more about what we’re doing and why we’re doing it, join us at livepositively.com

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 21

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send typed announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.

TALKS

Page 22 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

STEINWAY Monday, July 30 “Moonwalking with Einstein: The Art and Science of Remembering Everything” discussed at 6:30 at the Steinway library. GROUP DISCUSSION Friday, August 3 “The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay.” Flushing library at 1.

HEALTH HEALTH FAIR Saturday, July 28 11-5 at the New Covenant Church of Christ (Baptist), 206-14 100 th Avenue, Queens Village. Blood pressure screenings, diabetes, arthritis, info, more. CHAIR YOGA Saturday, July 28 a t t h e Sunnyside library at 2. WAITANKUNG Sundays at 2. Total-body workout. Flushing Hospital/ Medical Center. Free. Jimmy 7-10pm 347-2156. ZUMBA Mondays, July 30, August 6 at the Seaside librar y. Register. ZUMBA Monday, July 30 at the East Elmhurst library and the L a n g sto n H u g h e s l i b r a r y. Register. INTRO YOGA Mondays, July 30, August 6, 13 at the Laurelton library. Register. TAI CHI Mondays and Thursdays at 11 at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 670-1695. $5.

CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Tuesdays Western Queens Caregiver Network in Sunnyside. 5:306:30. 784-6173, ext. 431. Also, 3:30-4:30 Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 2 0 8 - 1 1 2 6 : th A v e n u e , B a y s i d e . 6 3 1 - 1 8 8 6 . Va r i ous services at the Queens Communit y House, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road. 2685960, ext. 226. AUTISM Tuesdays Qualit y Services for the Autism Communit y holds workshops for families and friends of autistic children and adults. 7-AUTISM, ext. 1219. DAY TOP Tuesdays support for family and friends of those affected by substance abuse. 1-8002Daytop. CHAIR YOGA Wednesday, August 1 introduction to chair yoga at the Hillcrest librar y. Register. OA Wednesdays Overeaters Anonymous at the Howard Beach library at 11.

Queens Today

MISCELLANEOUS

SENIORS

MEETINGS

FARMERS MARKET Fridays 8:30-4:00 at Dahlia Avenue off Main Street, Flushing. GREEN MARKET Through November 18 Douglaston Greenmarket at the LIRR station, 235 th and 4 1 st Avenue. www.grownyc.org/follow. BATTLE OF BANDS Entries through August 31 for Resorts World Casino’s Battle of The Bands. talentscouts@rwnewyork.com MEET THE LIBRARIANS Wednesday, August 1 meet the Steinway librarians at 3 so they can answer questions and more. TATTOO PARLOR Friday, August 3 temporary tattoos Seaside library at 10.

CORNER CAFÉ Weekdays 10-2 at SNAP of Eastern Queens Senior Center, 80-45 Winchester Blvd., building 4, Queens Village. STAY WELL Mondays at the Central library at 10 and Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst librar y. Learn how special exercise and relaxation techniques make a difference in your life. CAREGIVERS Tuesdays Caregivers Support group at 3:30-4:30 Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 26 th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886. WII GAMING Thursday, August 2 at the Fresh Meadows library at 2.

SUNNYSIDE WRITERS Mondays, July 30, August 6 at the Sunnyside library at 6:30. FLUSHING CAMERA Wednesdays, August 1, 15, 29 Flushing Camera Club at Flushing Hospital. 4790643. BEREAVEMENT Wednesdays, August 1, September 5 Bereavement Support Group at Holy Family in Fresh Meadows at 7:30. 969-2448. TOASTMASTERS Wednesdays, August 1, 15, September 5, 19 learn the art of public speaking at the Voices of Rochdale Toastmasters Club in Jamaica. 978-0732. MEN’S PRIDE GROUP Thursdays, August 2, 16, September 6, 20 Queens Pride House Men’s group 79. 429-5309. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, August 4, 18, September 1, 15, 29 learn how to communicate effective 10-12:15 at the Elmhurst Hospital Conference Room A-1-15. 424-9754.

HEALTH SINGLES SINGLES SOCIAL Sunday, August 5 2-6 at the Rego Park Jewish Center, 97-30 Queens Blvd. $10. Refreshments, music. 4591000.

ZUMBA Wednesdays 6:30-7:30 Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 670-1695. $10 class. FEARLESS FRIDAYS Friday, August 3 at the Pomonok library at 4:30.

EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS POWERPOINT Saturday, July 28 a t t h e Central library. Register. MICROSOFT WORD Saturday, July 28 a t t h e Central library. Register. URBAN CHICKENING Saturday, July 28 at 10:30 at the Steinway library. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, July 28, August 4, 18, 25 learn to communicate effectively at Elmhurst Hospital. 646-748-8290. KNIT & CROCHET Saturdays, July 28, August 4 Peninsula library at 10. METRIX LEARNING Saturday, July 28 at the LIC library at 4. Monday, July 30 at 1 at the Central library. Friday, August 3 at the Central library at 1. Learn about free online training through Metrix Learning, including certifications in Office, Quickbooks, Adobe. KNIT & CROCHET Monday, July 30 at the Douglaston library at 4. Bring your own needles and yarn. ONE-ON-ONE COMPUTER Monday, July 30 assistance at 1 Far Rockaway library. COMPUTER BOOT CAMP Monday, July 30 at the Far Rockaway library. 327-2549 register. BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, July 30, August 6

FLEA MARKETS

Vo e l ke r - O r t h M u s e u m i n Flushing. $4. 359-6227. SWING DANCE Wednesday, August 1 West Coast Swing Dance at the Flushing library. Register. COMMUNICATION SKILL Wednesday, August 1 at the Central library at 10. SOCIAL NETWORK Wednesday, August 1 at the Central library. 990-5176. KNIT & CROCHET Wednesday, August 1 at 1 at the South Ozone Park library. FREE E-BOOKS Wednesday, August 1 at the Douglaston library. Register. TABLE TENNIS Wednesday, August 1 at the Seaside library at 4. HOME BUDGET Wednesday, August 1 making a home budget in Excel at the Central library. Register. BASIC COMPUTER Wednesday, August 1 at the Woodside library at 10:30. WATERCOLOR Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the National Art League.969-1128. MOCK INTERVIEW Thursday, August 2 at the Central library. Register. E-BOOKS Thursday, August 2 at the Central library. Register. INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, August 2 Ozone Park library. Register. CUSTOMER TRAINING Thursday, August 2 at the Central library. Register. LEARN CHINESE Thursday, August 2 North Forest Park library. Register. EVENING CRAFTS Thursday, August 2 at the Fresh Meadows library at 6. INTRO INTERNET Thursday, August 2 at the Central library. Register. BASIC COMPUTER Thursday, August 2 at the Rosedale library at 6:15. INTRO COMPUTERS Friday, August 3 at the Central library. Register. INTRO WORD Friday, August 3 at the Flushing library. Register. KNIT & CROCHET Friday, August 3 at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30 and at the Peninsula library at 12:30. SOCIAL MEDIA Saturday, August 4 at the Far Rockaway library. Register. PHOTOGRAPHY Saturday, August 4 at the Langston Hughes library at 11. BEGINNERS EXCEL Saturday, August 4 at the Central library. Register.

www.queenstribune.com • July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 23

RUMMAGE SALE Saturday, July 28 9-5 and Sunday, July 29 10-4 at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, J a m a i c a A v e n u e a n d 8 8th Street, Woodhaven. SUMMER RUMMAGE Thursday, August 2 Bellerose Jewish Center 9-4 at the Bellerose Jewish Center, 254-04 Union Turnpike, Floral Park. FLEA MARKET Thursday, August 2 at the Windsor Park library at 11. Rain date August 9. FLEA MARKET Thursdays-Sundays MFM flea market at 221-01 Merrick Blvd., Springfield Gardens. THRIFT SHOPS Saturdays at Trinit y United Methodist Church, 86-02 108 th Street, Richmond Hill. 347-251-8583. Saturdays 11-4 at Bargain Boutique Thrift Shop, Queens Baptist Church, 93-23 217 th Street, Queens Village.465-2504. First and Third Wednesdays through June at Grace Church, 14-15 Clintonville Street, Whitestone. 7676305.

Forest Hills library at 6:30. JOB SEARCH Monday, July 30 Job Search Open Lab at the Arverne library at 5:30. INTRO COMPUTERS Monday, July 30 at the Central library at 9:30. COMPUTER BASICS Monday, July 30 at the Glen Oaks library. Register. RESUMES & COVER Monday, July 30 Microsoft Word for resumes and cover letters at the Central library. Register. BASIC COMPUTER Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Rosedale library at 10:30. BASIC COMPUTER Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Arverne library at 10:45. ONE-ON-ONE COMPUTERS Tuesday, July 31 assistance at the Far Rockaway library. 327-2549 register. SMALL BUSINESS WORK. Tuesday, July 31 small business workshops at the Central library. 990-5148 register. INTRO EMAIL Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Queens Village library. Register. INTRO COMPUTERS Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Ozone Park library. Register. CHESS CLUB Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Woodhaven library at 2. CREATE EMAIL Tuesday, July 31 at the Central library. Register. MEDITATION Tuesdays 7:30 at the Free Synagogue of Flushing, 4160 Kissena Blvd. 961-0030. INTRO COMPUTERS Tu e s d a y e ve n i n g s a t t h e Central library. Register. OPEN LAB Tuesdays 2-5 at the LIC library. KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays Windsor Park library at 2. PRACTICE LABS Tuesdays Arverne library at 10:30. GET YOUR YARNS OUT! Tu e s d a y s a f t e r ev e n i n g Minyan at 8, knitters, crocheters, needlepointers, and others meet at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 2637000, ext. 200. ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Tuesdays at the Seaside library at 4. LEARN & CREATE Wednesday, August 1 summer garden discovery and planting. Wednesday, August 8 Art and storybooks. Wednesday, August 15 Honey bees and honey harvest program. 2-3:30 at

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Queens Today

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT Page 24 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Queens Today

YOUTH SUMMER READING Contact local libraries. QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and pre-school programs and more. Contact local branches. TENNIS PROGRAM Tu e s d a y s a n d T h u r s d ay s through August at Pomonok Park. 347-4178156. SCIENCE PLAYGROUND Through December 31 at the Hall of Science. 6990005. DOWN BY THE BAY Saturday, July 28 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. ANIMAL CARE Sunday, July 29 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. For ages 8-12. MOVIEMAKERS CLUB Monday, July 30 at the Woodhaven library at 4:30. HARRY POTTER BOOKS Monday, July 30 at the Woodhaven library at 2. Ages 8-15. KIDS CAN COOK Monday, July 30 at the Broadway library. Register. PJ STORY TIME Monday, July 30 at the East Elmhurst library at 6. READ TO A DOG Monday, July 30 at the North Hills library. Register. BABY & ME Monday, July 30 at the Bayside library at 10:30. READ TO ME Monday, July 30 at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30. ANT FARM IN CIT Y Monday, July 30 at the Steinway library. Register. DINOSAUR STORY TIME Monday, July 30 at the Seaside library at 1:30. READER BOYS Monday, July 30 at the St. Albans library at 2. MAKE & TAKE CRAFT Monday, July 30 at the Central library at 3. BOOK CIRCLE Monday, July 30 at the Ridgewood library at 3. WII GAMES Monday, July 30 at 3 at the Windsor Park library. CHESS CLUB Monday, July 30 at the Bayside library at 6. PJ STORY TIME Monday, July 30 at the Central library at 7. EXPLORERS Starting Monday, July 30 APEC Explorers at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 2294000, CRAFT KIDS Mondays at the Flushing library at 3.

COOKING CLUB Tuesday s, July 31 at the Pomonok library at 3. Ages 6 and up. SCAVENGER HUNT Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Windsor Park library. Register. EXPLORING PLANTS Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Astoria library at 1:30. STORY & CRAFT Tuesday, July 31 at the Central library at 2. MYSTERY BOOK CLUB Tuesday, July 31 at the Seaside library at 2. ARTS & CRAFTS Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e North Hills library. Register. READ TO ME Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Cambria Heights library at 2:30. Pre-school-K. ORIGAMI Tuesday, July 31 at 4 at the Seaside library. READ TO A DOG Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Douglaston library. Register. CHESS CLUB Tu e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Woodhaven library at 2. STORY & CRAFT Tuesday, July 31 at the Central library at 3:30. Tickets available at 1. THEATRICKS Wednesday, August 1 at the Pomonok library at 10:30. READ TO ME Wednesday, August 1 at the Glendale library at 11. LITTLE DREAMERS Wednesday, August 1 at the Auburndale library at 10:30 For those 18-36 months. FAMILY FUN Wednesday, August 1 at the Broadway library at 10:30. DREAM BIG Wednesday, August 1 at the Lefrak City library. Register. ECO ORIGAMI Wednesday, August 1 at the Astoria librar y. Register. READER BOYS Wednesday, August 1 at the St. Albans library at 1. BULLETIN BOARD Wednesday, August 1 at the Auburndale library at 3. SUPERHERO Wednesday, August 1 at the Bayside library at 3. PUPPET MAKING Wednesday, August 1 at the Pomonok library at 3. BOARD GAMES Wednesday, August 1 at the Auburndale library at 4. GAME DAY Wednesday, August 1 at the Howard Beach library at 4. ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesday, August 1 at the Seaside library at 4. TODDLER CRAFT Wednesdays in the summer at the Briarwood li-

ENTERTAINMENT brary at 10:30. TIMELESS TALES Wednesdays at 10 at the Central library. S TORY T I M E Wednesdays at the Seaside library at 11. GAME DAY Thursday, August 2 at the Bay Terrace library at 1:30. PRIMARY COLORS Thursday, August 2 at the Seaside library t 2. ARTS & CRAFTS Thursday August 2 at the North Hills library. Register. GOING GREEN Thursday, August 2 at the Sunnyside library at 3. GAME TIME Thursday, August 2 at the North Hills library at 3:30. GAME DAY Thursday, August 2 at the Woodhaven library at 4. SHSAT MATH PREP Thursday, August 2 at the M c G o l d r i c k l i b ra r y. 4 6 1 1616. T WILIGHT TALES Thursday, August 2 at the Douglaston library at 6:30. Limited space. PJ STORY TIME Thursday, August 2 at the Whitestone library at 6:30. GAME TIME Thursdays during the summer at 3 at the Bayside library. COMPUTERS FOR KIDS Friday, August 3 at the Hillcrest library. Register. READ TO ME Friday, August 3 at the Sunnyside library. Register. GAME DAY Friday, August 3 at the Central library at 2. READER BOYS Friday, August 3 at the St. Albans library at 2. BOOK CLUB Friday, August 3 at the Woodhaven library at 2. MAGIC WORKSHOP Friday, August 3 at the Woodhaven library at 3. BOOK BUDDIES Friday, August 3 at the Bayside library at 4. CHESS CLUB Friday, August 3 Windsor Park library. Register. READ TO ME Fridays in the summer at 3 a t t h e B r i a r wo o d l i b ra r y. Ages 3-7. KIDS ACTIVITIES Fridays at 3:30 at the Briarwood library. GAME DAY Fridays Windsor Park at 4. CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale library at 3:30. . CUB SCOUTS 351 Fridays at St. Nicholas of Tolentine. Boys in grades 15. 820-0015.

WORLD CASINO 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park. Free admission. GOLDEN DRAGON Through August 4 the Golden Dragon Acrobats perform at Queens Theatre in the Park. 760-0686, ext. 105. POW WOW Friday, Saturday and Sunday, July 27, 28, 29 Queens Count y Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park. $10 adults, $5 children. 347FARM. ICE THEATRE Saturday, July 28 ice dancing ensemble at 7 at World Ice Arena in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. Free. JAMAICA DRUM JAM Saturday, July 28 a t t h e Central library at noon. Register. BLUES Saturday, July 28 Eddie Lee Isaacs and His Blues Guitar at 2 at the Broadway library. ROCK & ROLL Saturday, July 28 a t t h e Flushing library at 2. GERSHWIN Saturday, July 28 Forest Hills library at 2 and 4. CHICAGO BLUES Saturday, July 28 Cambria Heights library at 3. SALT WATER FISHING Sunday, July 29 at the World Fair Marina, Pier 1 at 11. 760-3141. FAMILY STAGE Sunday, July 29 SummerStage Kids Queens at Springfield Park at 4. CONCERT & FILM Sunday, July 29 Taj Weekes and Adowa at Springfield Park at 7. PLANET MUSIC Sunday, July 29 Haitian Beats. Dance lessons at 1, concert at 2 at Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222. LIVE JAZZ & R&B Sundays, July 29, August 5, 12, 19, 26 live jazz and r&b 6-10 at Déjà vu, 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. FOREST PARK Sunday, July 29 Q u e e n s Symphony Orchestra presents “La Traviata” at 5. Forest Park Bandshell. NEW PLAYS Sunday, July 29 “The Perfect Bride.” at the Creek and Cave, 10-93 Jackson Avenue, LIC. $7. www.ThePlatformGroup.org AMER. SONGBOOK Monday, July 30 at the Rego Park library at 2:30. VIVA LAS VEGAS! Monday, July 30 at the

Windsor Park library at 6. MILLION $ QUARTET Monday, July 30 at the Douglaston library at 6:30. ROCK & ROLL Monday, July 30 at the Flushing library at 6:30. CHICAGO SOUL Monday, July 30 at the Lefferts library at 6:30. CHESS CLUB Tu e s d a y, J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Woodhaven library at 2. JEOPARDY TRIVIA Tuesday, July 31 at the Seaside library at 3:30. MOVIE NIGHT Wednesday, August 1 7-11 at Elmhurst Park, 57th avenue between 74 th street and 80 th Street. 760-3141. JAZZ JAMS Wednesday, August 1 a t F l u s h i n g To w n H a l l 7 - 1 0 . $10. 463-7700, ext. 222. SUMMER CONCERT Wednesday, August 1 Queens Symphony Orchestra performs “La Traviata” at 7 at St. John’s Great Lawn. Bring blankets. Rain location TBA 990-1912. MOVIES UNDER STARS Thursday, August 2 “Three Musketeers.” Cunningham Park at 8. TAROT READING Thursday, August 2 at the Seaside library at 6. SCRABBLE NIGHT Thursday, August 2 at the Bellerose library at 6:30. GAME TIME Thursday, August 2 at the North Hills library at 3:30. GAME DAY Thursday, August 2 at the Woodhaven library at 4. GAME DAY Friday, August 3 at the Seaside library at noon. PASSPORT FRIDAYS Friday, August 3 West Indies. Queens Museum of Art. 592-9700. FIND THE FUNK Saturday, August 4 12-2 at the Central librar y. Register. DRAGON BOAT Saturday and Sunday, August 4, 5 Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at 11:45 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park Lake. 7603141. MAGICIAN Saturday, August 4 at the Jackson Heights library at 2:30. STEEL SENSATION Sunday, August 5 at 3 at the Central library. SALON SUNDAY Sunday, August 5 artists working in any media bring slides at 2 at Flushing Town Hall. Free. 463-7700, ext. 222.

TEENS MOVIE MONDAYS Monday, July 30 at the Flushing library at 2. HARRY POTTER BOOK Mondays, July 30, August 6 Woodhaven library at 2. MOVIEMAKERS CLUB Monday, July 30 at the Woodhaven library at 4:40. CHESS CLUB Monday, July 30 at 6 at the Bayside library. BOOK TALK Monday, July 30 “Who Moved My Cheese” for teens Hollis library at 3:30. SHSAT MATH PREP Monday, July 30 McGoldrick library. EFFECTIVE TEENS Mondays, July 30, August 6 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens Pomonok library at 3. YU-GI-OH! Mondays, July 30, August 6 at the Seaside library at 2. NH GAZETTE Mondays, July 30, August 6 North Hills Gazette newsletter at the North Hills library. Register. TEEN TUESDAYS Tuesday, July 31 at the Bay Terrace library at 3. POKE MYTHOLOGY Tu e s d ay , J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Bayside library at 3. CS SPINNERS ART Tu e s d ay , J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Broadway library at 3. JEOPARDY TRIVIA Tuesday, July 31 at the Seaside library at 3:30. TEEN GAMING Tu e s d ay , J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Fresh Meadows library at 4. ORIGAMI Tuesday, July 31 at the Seaside library at 4. CHESS CLUB Tu e s d ay , J u l y 3 1 a t t h e Woodhaven library at 2. ANIME SUMMER Wednesday, August 1 at the Flushing library at 2. SUPERHERO ROLE Wednesday, August 1 at the Bayside library at 3. FREE E-BOOKS Wednesday, August 1 at the Douglaston library at 4. GAME TIME Thursday, August 2 at the North Hills library at 3:30. JEOPARDY WII Thursday, August 2 at the Windsor Park library at 3:30. GAME DAY Thursday, August 2 at the Woodhaven library at 4. GAME DAY Friday, August 3 at the Seaside library at noon. HAPPY HOUR Friday, August 3 at the Flushing library at 2. BOOK BUDDIES Friday, August 3 at the Bayside library at 4.

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Home: Astoria Age: Mid 20’s Height: 5’5 Weight: 128 Stats: 34-26-39

Models Of Queens

Magarita Dominguez

Brains & Beauty A self-professed workaholic with a real zest for business, Magarita Dominguez is a sexy, creative and focused ball of fire who sees the sky as the limit. Of course Magarita loves all the usual antics someone in her mid-20s loves, but as she explains, her body is her profession, so staying in shape is her main objective. Dominguez has been modeling on and off for 10 years and also obtained her degree in communications after being awarded a full scholarship from Fordham University. “I guess I had the brains, but I also have the looks so the two go well together in this line of work,” she said. Margarita loves to shop and hang out in Astoria, where she enjoys a little shopping and lounging within the abundance of local restaurants. “I am keeping busy with my event planning company, modeling and working out, but for now I am really pleased with the way things are going for me, I have so much more to offer.”

Page 34 Tribune July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

It’s a Diehl,“Handle Kidd! it like a man, take re-

Jason is he Kidding?

Not long after he signed with the New York Knicks, point guard Jason Kidd made headlines when he crashed his Cadillac Escalade into a telephone pole on his way to his home in the Hamptons and was arrested for drunk driving. Kidd got a taste of what playing in New York really means – lots of press scrutiny. Thankfully, he didn’t have to go through it alone. New York Giant David Diehl, who was arrested on the same charge last month after leaving an Astoria bar, had some words of advice for the baller.

Giftalicious Goodies

Douglaston can you handle this? Little Neck can you handle this? Giftalicious, the Douglaston retail store, which evokes Beyonce’s hit song “Bootylicious,” was the site of Councilman Dan Halloran’s inaugural LIRR community meeting. Amongst tiny trinkets and dainty doilies, the councilman addressed pressing public concerns. Hey Dan, did you pick up a last minute anniversary present on the way out?

sponsibility, and make sure you help others move forward and make sure they don’t make the same mistake,” Diehl said. Sage words from a wise, experienced man.

Nelly, Joe Jonas, Gloria Estefan and John Rich were scheduled to mentor four contestants from our area as they compete in CW-11's "The Next" being filmed at The Paramount Theater in Huntington, LI.

The L.I. Paramount Rocks Not very far from Queens, stands the almost year-old Paramount Theater in Huntington. Long Island’s hottest live venue was the site, where at press time, Wednesday evening July 25, throngs of music fans from Metro New York were lining up to see the filming of “The Next,” CW 11’s “American Idol” type offering. Judges Gloria Estefan, John

Rich, Nelly and Joe Jonas were scheduled to be on hand for the shoot. Each music icon had 72 hours to groom one contestant. All four then battle it out head-to-head and in the end, one winner is chosen to represent the area in the live finals where the winner is rewarded with a recording contract from Atlantic Records.

What’s In A Name? Since vehement opposition from Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. wasn’t enough to stop the Queensboro Bridge from being named after Mayor Ed Koch, the outgoing Councilman is trying to

Confidentially, New York . . .

make sure landmarks aren’t named after politicians – unless they’re dead. No, he's not threatening to kill anyone. Vallone said his legislation would ban City landmarks from being named after living politicians because city property should not be used for political gain. The Daily News found this interesting since it’s nearly impossible to throw out garbage in Astoria without seeing “Sponsored by Council Member Peter F. Vallone Jr.” on a receptacle. Will the bill apply to city trash cans, too?

Presley Party Elvis has not left the building. On July 17, an Elvis Presley impersonator swiveled his sexy hips for a pool party for singles at the Samuel Field Y at Bay Terrace. The party was for people aged 60 and over and featured Brian Weldon, an Elvis impersonator from Long Island. Everyone was all shook up.

www.queenstribune.com â&#x20AC;˘ July 26 - Aug. 1, 2012 Tribune Page 35

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