Queens Tribune Epaper by Michael Nussbaum

Vol. 41, No. 39 Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011

Page 46

Business Boom:

FORMULA FOR SUCCESS Tribune Photo by Ira Cohen

Despite the drastic effects the recession has had on the nation and most of New York City, Flushing has continued to grow, thrive and gain jobs, according to State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli. By Domenick Rafter…Page 3

MANAGING MONEY IN QUEENS

A Special Pull-Out Section, Pages 17-32

E Q H S A J

What Is Credit?.........Page 17 Managing Credit........Page 18 Home Loans..............Page 21 QEDC Helps Business...Page 22 Visit

Networking..............Page 24 Credit Unions............Page 24 Realtor Advice..........Page 24

Car Loans................Page 25 Tax Deductions..........Page 27 The Property Market...Page 28 How To Budget..........Page 30

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Queens Deadline

Flushing Grows Despite Recession By DOMENICK RAFTER While the nation and the world have endured the greatest economic crisis since the Great Depression, some in Flushing were wondering “what recession?” According to a recent study done by State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli, Flushing was one of the few places in the city – and perhaps the country – left almost completely unscathed by the recession. DiNapoli announced the results of the study last Thursday at the Sheraton LaGuardia East Hotel in Downtown Flushing. “We’re here to celebrate a neighborhood that is thriving,” DiNapoli said. He appeared with Flushing’s state and city representatives as well as representatives from the New York City Economic Development Corporation and former Flushing BID chairwoman Mabel Law. “Flushing saw a 38 percent growth in

business from 2000 through 2009, far surpassing the 5.7 percent growth in the rest of the city,” DiNapoli said. But even after the financial crisis in 2008 sent the country into recession, Flushing’s economy still prospered. The neighborhood saw job growth every year since 2005, even in 2009 when the rest of the country lost over a million jobs. In 2010, while job growth was tepid nationwide, Flushing saw growth of more than 3 percent. Wages, stagnant nationwide, grew 16.5 percent in the last decade. “We have not felt the dire effects of the recession as many other neighborhoods in the city have,” said Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) DiNapoli’s study points to immigration and development as the reasons behind Flushing’s success. More than half of Flushing’s residents are foreign-born; 40

percent of the neighborhood’s population is Chinese. Many of these immigrants have opened small businesses, which account for more than 90 percent of Flushing’s commercial activity. “The immigrant spirit is a key factor toward the economic success in Flushing,” DiNapoli said. Development was also a key to growth. Projects like Sky View Center, New World Mall and Queens Crossing have also added to the neighborhood’s economic development, at least commercially. But Flushing’s prosperity is not without its consequences. DiNapoli’s study, which was put together over the course of three months using Census data and statistics from the U.S. Dept. of Labor, confirms the neighborhood’s growth has placed a burden on its infrastructure, including transportation, schools and housing, much of which, especially on the transportation end, needs updating. “[The LIRR station] is a third world train station,” said Councilman Peter Koo (R-Flushing), who said visitors from China, which has

a state-of-the-art train system, are often surprised by how dilapidated and antiquated the station is. The 7 train station at Main StreetFlushing is the busiest in the city outside of Manhattan, and often lines waiting for buses on Main Street can stretch for a block. Schools in the neighborhood have suffered from overcrowding because of the rise in families coming to Flushing both from outside America and other parts of the country, DiNapoli said. Affordable housing is also an ongoing problem. While celebrating his neighborhood’s success, Koo added that more could be done, including getting rid of what he called “nuisance fines” on small businesses and unnecessary regulations. He also endorsed the city’s ongoing attempts to transform neighboring Willets Point. “We need to change [Willets Point] from an iron triangle to a research triangle,” he said. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400 Ext. 125.

Photo by Ira Cohen

Dual GOP Meetings Show Rift In Queens

At the opening in July of Sky Foods inside Sk y View Center, Flushing’s ecoomy seemed well poised to absorb another massive supermarket, signs of a healthy economy.

EDC Sits On Funds, Projects Stalled: Liu funds may be well-intentioned, but they ignore the disbursement restrictions EDC is legally bound to follow, and many are infeasible or simply not in the best interest of the City’s taxpayers. We will continue to ensure that all of the funds are wisely invested in the neighborhoods for which they were intended.” A large chunk of the money, approximately $8.9 million, is meant to improve the Hudson River Rail Yard in the Bronx. The cash set aside for Kaufman Astoria Studios has lain unused as a result of a binding legal agreement and can only be spent on the preservation of the studios or improvement of the surrounding areas, according to the EDC. The agency said moving the funds over to the City’s coffers requires the approval of the U.S. Dept. of the Interior. Liu’s audit also found the EDC has failed to collect $725,720 owed by Keyspan, now National Grid, which was intended to benefit the community near the energy company’s Long Island City power plant. Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 3

By JOSEPH OROV IC The City’s Economic Development Corporation has allowed $9.3 million intended for public benefit projects to languish in its coffers, according to an audit by City Comptroller John Liu. According to the audit, approximately $9.3 million intended for Public Purpose Funds earmarked for various programs has remained untouched for a prolonged period. Included in the funds is $344,659 set aside in 1982 to improve Kaufman Astoria Studios. “It makes little sense that millions intended for economic development remain unused for so long,” Liu said. “If the EDC can’t figure out how to put the capital to work then at least return the money to the City treasury.” The EDC claimed Liu’s audit showed that the pseudo-agency disbursed most of the $50 million in funds, while chalking up the remaining cash to binding legal agreements. “We appreciate the Comptroller’s analysis, and we’re glad it determined that EDC has disbursed a vast majority of the funds available for community benefit,” said EDC spokesman Patrick Muncie. “The Comptroller’s suggestions for the remaining

By DOMENICK RAFTER Hornak went on to explain that the U.S. Rep. Bob Turner’s (R-Breezy Point) Haggerty faction is merely a “distraction” stunning victory in a longtime Democratic “[The Haggerty meeting] serves to disseat has not seemed to cool the ongoing tract and confuse people,” he added. “They’ve rivalry within the Queens Republican Party. given no good justification on why Ragusa The showdown between the party’s offi- should not be chairman. He has been much cial leadership headed by Phil Ragusa and a more inclusive.” breakaway group headed by Bart Haggerty John Haggerty is currently standing trial and former Councilman Tom Ognibene con- for allegedly stealing more than $1 million tinues, even as they planned to hold two from Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s 2009 mayoral separate meetings electing a party chair. campaign. The rivalry goes back to when the party The battle comes as some are questionwas led by former State Sen. Serphin Malt- ing whether Councilman Peter Koo (Rese. Some in the party did not feel Maltese Flushing), who represents a strong Democould lead the party while also serving in the cratic district, may be ready to bolt from the State Senate, so he stepped GOP. Koo endorsed Demodown for Ragusa, who was not cratic Assemblyman David in elective office, which satis- “There is no Weprin in the 9th Congresfied the complaints against Malsional District election, which ambiguity. Phil sources close to the counciltese. After Maltese lost his Sen- Ragusa will man called “a warning shot” to ate seat in 2008, the wing of continue to be the GOP. the party led by the Haggertys Hornak and Koo’s Chief of chairman.” and Ognibene have been seekStaff James McClelland both – Robert Hornak denied Koo is ready to leave ing to regain control. The fight nearly jeopardized the party’s the party. Hornak said the party chances in the 9th Congressional district respected Koo’s decision to endorse Weprin, when some pushed for Turner while others, citing a long personal relationship between including Chairman Phil Ragusa, pushed to the two. nominate Forest Hills attorney Juan Reyes. “We only seek to develop a stronger relaThough Turner himself is not directly tied to tionship with [Koo] as time goes on,” Hornak the Haggertys, their faction pushed for his said, adding that Koo was loyal to Ragusa. candidacy, and his victory gave them a shot But sources close to the Republican Party in the arm. have said “inclusiveness” may also be a facAs of press time, both factions scheduled tor, as some in the Haggerty wing of the party separate leadership meetings Wednesday have been seen as unfriendly to the growing night to elect a chairman. Though Ragusa is immigrant communities, such as Koo’s in expected to still be elected chairman by a Flushing, while Ragusa has sought to reach wide margin, how much support Ognibene, out to Asian, Hispanic and African-Ameriwho is the standard bearer for the Haggerty can Republicans. faction, receives could determine how solid There is also a geographic divide. Ragusa’s Ragusa’s leadership position is. Ognibene faction controls most of Northeastern, Southran as a 2010 gubernatorial candidate Carl eastern and Northwestern Queens including Paladino’s running mate, though he lost the Flushing, Bayside and Astoria, while the GOP Lieutenant Governor primary to Greg Haggerty faction controls the Western and Edwards, County Executive of Chautauqua Southern parts of the borough including County near Buffalo. Forest Hills, Middle Village, Howard Beach GOP spokesman Robert Hornak said and the Rockaways. Ragusa’s leadership was assured. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at “There is no ambiguity,” he said. “Phil drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 357Ragusa will continue to be chairman.” 7400 Ext. 125.

Despite Gains, Smoke Fight Not Won

Page 4 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

By JASON BANREY New York City has seen an all-time low in adult smoking. Since 2002, the number of New Yorkers who smoke has fallen by 35 percent. After nearly a decade of both Mayor Mike Bloomberg and the City Council’s intervention, approximately 450,000 former adult smokers are now smoke-free. Much of the results seen in the significant drop can be attributed to both state and federal price hikes on cigarettes as well as City legislation which gradually placed restrictions on where people could smoke, making it illegal to light up in restaurants, work places and, more recently, parks, beaches and pedestrian plazas. In Queens, one group has continued that effort, educating the potential smokers of tomorrow that taking a puff is just a plain old bad habit. “We want these results to be a social norm for our youth,” Yvette Jackson-Buckner, borough manager of Queens Smoke-Free Partnership, said of the city’s results. Although the number of teenagers who smoke has dropped dramatically from 2001 to 2010, from 18 percent to just 7 percent, the health advocacy group promises to continue educating high school students who are at an impressionable age and have often been targets of tobacco companies. According to the partnership, 5,000 high school students living in the borough smoke cigarettes each year, one-third of whom will die prematurely as a direct result of smoking. Dedicated towards a tobacco-free society, QSFP has been reaching out to community boards throughout the borough to share the message about the prevalence of tobacco

marketing in grocery and convenience stores as well as pharmacies. Making the public aware is just the first step; bringing the community to rally around the cause is the next. On Oct. 17, QSFP will hold a tobacco advertising tour to let both teenagers and parents know that the more tobacco marketing they see the more likely kids are to smoke. “We know that a teen is two to three times likely to recall an ad more than an adult,”

Jackson-Buckner said. “If kids see ads on the way to and from school, they are more likely to recall these products.” “Take a Walk in Our Shoes” will begin in the auditorium of Long Island City High School and will proceed down Broadway between 21st and 31st streets in Astoria between 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. Despite the decline in city smokers, the Partnership believes there will always be a portion of the population who will be

tempted to light up. “Although the results may seem significant to us, the tobacco industry will want to fills in those gaps,” Jackson-Buckner said. “That’s why this event is important.” For more information about the walk call the Queens Smoke-Free Partnership at (917) 848-9205. Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

Tietz Shows Off Expansion By JOSEPH OROV IC A mainstay in the borough’s senior care industry unveiled a major expansion last Friday. Jamaica’s Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center opened its doors to elected officials, local leaders and the community, showing off its state-of-the-art care units and gym. “We are so proud of the fact that we’ve expanded our services to so many more communities,” said Director of Public Affairs Linda Spiegel. “It’s a melting pot, the borough of Queens, and we’re here to service everybody the best way that we know how.” The additions include upbeat care units on the rehabilitation floor. Far from the drab, depressing rooms of yesteryear, seniors at Margaret Tietz can enjoy a chic or homey feel to their rooms, as they recover from surgery. The rehab center also expanded its gym, doubling its size and adding new equipment. “It’s been a tremendous undertaking for

the heart and soul of the staff that provide the best care,” he said. The gaggle of elected officials on hand took turns telling their own personal connections to the center. Many had family members who received care from Tietz. “This is a place that’s very special to me and everyone I represent,” said Assemblyman Rory Lancman (D-Hillcrest), whose mother spent time at Tietz. That so many electeds chose to send their loved ones to the center proves its quality, according to State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing). Elec ted officials and Margaret Tietz administra“We are a tough bunch, the legtors cut the ribbon at the improved center. islators,” she said. “We research and when we send our loved ones you all involved,” Executive Director Joseph know that Margaret Tietz is doing something Seminaro said of the three-year project. While not underplaying the importance of right.” Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at the upgrade, he emphasized Tietz’s long jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 357history of providing quality care. “Mortar and bricks are wonderful but it’s 7400, Ext. 127.

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Parker Jewish Institute for

Edit Page In Our Opinion:

Flushing's Victory The news this week that Flushing has stayed in good economic shape despite the rest of the borough, city and nation reeling from the effects of the current recession is welcome. It also shows that a well-financed plan for development and managed growth of an immigrant economy is a key for success in Queens - as it has always been. In the economic collapse of the late 1970s, when Flushing began its downhill slide, nobody was sure what could bring it back. It seems the answer is as old as Queens - a new influx of residents from another shore. New people bring new ideas, new money and new hope. We congratulate Flushing on weathering the storm, and look to see the how other immigrant groups across the borough pick up the gauntlet of the challenge issued here: be the next Flushing. Who will be next?

In Your Opinion: Thanks, Tribune

Page 6 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

To The Editor: I write to remind readers of the power of a great local newspaper. About five years ago, I wrote a column in the Queens Tribune about recent New York court decisions. Just this past month, a new client came into my office. He had clipped the column, and saved it all these years. He had a new case for me to work on. In a world of regional and national publications, instant messaging, texting and e-mails, there is still room for a local newspaper that goes into more depth - that gives the reader the background about local courts, local officials and local legislatures. And readers appreciate this depth, and save the articles for years at a time. So, thank you, Queens Tribune, for keeping our community informed in a way that other media do not. Our world would be less informed without you. Paul E. Kerson, Forest Hills

No More Handouts To The Editor: Regarding an article in the Queens Tribune about Flushing's Asian seniors... well let's be honest, it's not just the Asian seniors that have problems. Why is it in this neighborhood the non-Asian population is forgotten? I want to remind my local political leaders there is more to Flushing than the Asian community. How about mentioning the problems other older immigrants are having?

All seniors are in need of affordable housing, better healthcare and services. Before my mother passed away she needed help, a woman who worked all her life in this country, was born here and paid taxes, and she could not get help when she needed it. So I take some offense when new immigrants think they may be entitled to services - and not just Asian immigrants. This country is not in a position to offer help and handouts anymore. If the older population need help, let them try their families the way my mother had to. Mary Ann Boroz, Flushing

War's Reality To The Editor: In defense of Ron Paul and Tony Bennett: First of all both Paul and Bennett have served honorably in the U.S. Military. Bennett saw the horrors of war firsthand as he was in combat in WW II. You who have never served your country, be careful of how you judge the patriotism of those that have. Both of the above stated that 911 was a result of our foreign policy and the "patriots" started screaming. What exactly did Paul and Bennett mean? If you kill people in another country you must expect that they will retaliate. The question is, is the cause worth our blood to be shed? If you feel that the cause is worth dying for then you must not be shocked by the results. Then you must honor and grieve your dead and go on with your beliefs expecting more of the same, hoping that your losses were worth it in the end.

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

Brian M. Rafferty, Executive Editor

Shiek Mohamed, Production Manager

Queens Tribune (718) 357-7400 E-mail Address: news@queenstribune.com 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 www.queenstribune.com

We have lost about 3,000 young men and women in the Middle East wars, but we have killed about 30,000 of the enemy. Well, the approximate 100, 000 relatives of our dead enemy now hate us and are trying to find ways to avenge their dead. In a political war that's bad enough, but mix religion into the formula and the situation quadruples in non-solvency. If you agree that our ongoing wars are the correct thing to do then accept the results as horrible as they will be. On the other hand, Paul and Bennett also mourn and honor our dead as much as anyone else but feel that their deaths were avoidable; they disagree with our foreign policy. They don't believe that our being the policemen of the world is sustainable. They believe that we should bring all our troops that we have in over 120 countries home to defend our borders. John Procida, Flushing

A Liv ing Wage To The Editor: For much of its history, Queens has thrived as a middle class community, where families could find a quality job, afford a home, educate their children and retire comfortably. Public policies supported pathways to access the middle class. Jobs were abundant in both the public and private sectors, and often came with healthcare, paid decent wages and didn't require a college degree. This is no longer true. Today, the jobs crisis is affecting a much wider cross-section of the American population than at any time since the Great Depression. In 2007, just before the Great Recession began, 7.6 million Americans were unemployed. Today, that number has nearly doubled to 14 million. But this number does not even take into account the mass of Americans - approximately 7 million total - who are underemployed, which means they are working fewer hours and earning less than what is required to enter the middle class and achieve the American Dream in places like Queens. Queens Congregations United for Action, a faith-based federation of eight congregations representing 11,400 families in Northern Queens, is fueled by a vision where everyone has access to a good job, which is the primary pathway to the middle class and the American Dream. We believe the middle class is a value, not just a group of people, that was born of a belief in equality and shared prosperity across social classes. The Queens Center Mall is an example of a large employer in our city that is contributing to inequalDeputy Editor: Joseph Orovic

Regina Vogel Queens Today Editor

Michael Nussbaum Executive V.P./Associate Publisher

Stop Greed To The Editor: "The French, They Are Funny Race," is a phrase from a 1955 British film comedy. Republican U.S. Reps. Bob Ney of Ohio and Walter Jones of North Carolina did not think them funny when they so strongly and now proven rightly, were against Bush taking us into Iraq. These two self styled "Patriots" actually managed to convince many like-minded Conservatives to henceforth eat only "Freedom Fries" rather than those traitorous French Fries. Somehow French Toast survived to James Mammarella

Marcia Moxam Comrie, Contributing Editor

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ity and cutting off working families from the middle class. The mall's owner, the Macerich Company, is receiving tens of millions of dollars in taxpayer subsidies. Families from our community are spending millions of hard-earned dollars at the mall every year. Yet, they are finding that despite hard work, they cannot earn enough to support their families with dignity. Too many have to choose between a bus fare to go to work and food for the table. We are calling on Macerich to share more equitably in the fruits of the labor of those who work in and shop at the Mall. Hundreds of families depend on their jobs at the Queens Center Mall to keep food on their tables and to pay their rent. Yet, they struggle to do so when they are paid at, or little more, than the minimum $7.25 an hour. On Sept. 22, we joined together with our parishioners, Make the Road NY, the RWDSU, shoppers and other community partners at the Queens Center Mall to deliver over 5,000 petitions demanding the Macerich Company give something back to the community. Our vision is that everyone working in the Mall gets paid a living wage of at least $10 an hour with benefits, and that mall employers respect the right to organize a union without threat or intimidation. And that the Queens Center Mall should provide community space where programs and services aimed at youth and their families can be offered, for things like job training, job placement, after school programs, homework help, and English classes for immigrants. Our faith, and our shared values, requires us to love our neighbor as ourselves. Today, we will call on the Queens Center Mall owner to be a better neighbor by giving back to the community and help us rebuild the middle class. Fr. Darrell Da Costa, St. Paul the Apostle Catholic Church, Corona Fr. Pierre-Andre Duvert, Episcopal Church of the Resurrection, Elmhurst

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toast yet another day, and although Canada was also against the ill conceived invasion, it did not get its Canadian Bacon put on the chopping block. Oh those immoral haughty French. Perhaps our country could learn a little about true patriotism from that "Funny Race." Warren Buffet recently suggested, "an exceptional tax levy on our nation's wealthy to help America manage its debt burden." Republicans immediately cried, "Class Warfare" has been declared. Some war: cannons versus pea shooters. In France, 16 of the wealthiest individuals have now mimicked Warren Buffet's and voluntarily called for a special tax on the wealthy to help manage its own national debt burden. The wealthy pay a top rate of 40 percent, plus, they pay an annual wealth tax on their total assets, levying fees of between 0.5 and 1.8 percent on assets above $1.1 million - not to mention all the other estate and inheritance and gift taxes and social taxes and corporate taxes and VAT taxes. Nevertheless, they insist on helping their country at this time of severe distress. I'm sure some in our country will say they are doing it for some devious reason, but I think Patriotism might be the true definition of that motivation. Some of the Uber Rich in our country besides Buffet seem to be having feelings similar to their French counterparts. Stephen A Schwarzman of the Blackstone Group, George Soros Fund Management, and others involved in that "Class War" are coming about stating that the minuscule additional tax they would pay (ss they did prior to the Bush Jr. tax cuts) is irrelevant to their total fortune so they might as well save the country that gave them the opportunity to rise to the financial heights they have. How noble. Even our own Michael Bloomberg thought that it was the right thing to do. We do however have some like the Koch Bros. who have no limit to their greed. As a great humanitarian Senator from Massachusetts once said, "When does the greed stop?"…….and when does Patriotism start? Nicholas Zizelis, Bayside

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LATFOR: A Sorry Excuse For Good Government By MICHAEL SCHENKLER It’s pret ty black and white. The New York State Legislature has been the most dysfunctional in the nation for well over the past decade.

Every ten years, they get the chance to start anew. The law requires a redrawing of legislative districts based on the change in population as compiled by the United States Census, taken every ten years.

Well, when it come s to the New York State Legislature, you can be pretty damn sure that you’ll find consistency. Even though a majorit y of legislators pledged, during the last election cycle, to suppor t independent, non-partisan redistricting, they are back to the same old, same old. The “pledge” was part of a campaign of New York Uprising, an organization formed by former Mayor Ed Koch to demand that redistricting be done on the basis of community a nd not to provide for the political needs of the parties and the incumbents. How does the Legislature respond? They appoint the Legislative Task Force on Demographic Research — known as LATFOR – and send them around the state to hold hearings. In Albanese, LATFOR means stooges for the Legislative Leaders. As long as the heavy hands of

the leaders of the Senate and Assembly are guiding the proce ss, they are really drawing the maps. While it was the Senate Republicans who with unanimity suppor ted the “pledge” and now unanimously find an excuse to proceed to be integral in the process instead of establishing an independent commission, I believe the entire legislature is complicit in the proce ss. T he protest s we hear from members – and they are very few – appear to be coming from the Democratic State Senators who stand to lose the most if the Republicans are again allowed to gerrymander the lines to try to keep their party the majority in a State where the registration overwhelmingly favors the Democrats. We wonder, if the Dems had not blown their one chance in the sun by total incompetence after 2008, the one election in 40 plus years that they controlled the Senate, if they would have championed

an independent commission. We don’t hear the Democratic Assemblymembers complaining. They know, that ultimately their leader will be the one who guides the mapmakers’ hands in drawing the new district. And the leader has always protected the members. It is more about incumbency and less about party. Yes, the game has always been a bi-partisan effort to make sure incumbents have districts they can win. The Dems control the Assembly maps and the Republicans, the Senate. And the lack of competitive races continues to stifle the true election proce ss in government to the detriment of the people. Yes, when the legislature controls the redistricting process, the winners are the incumbent legislators, the legislative leadership and the special interests that continue to fund the nation’s most dysfunctional legislature.

The losers are the people. As those of you who are follow ing t he proce ss know, the copouts begin flying right after the elect ion. It happens every t ime. And what promised to be a seminal moment in reforming the New York State Legislature, has reverted to the same abyss that has marked their performance for much of our lifetimes. Is there a hero in the room? Perhaps. But sometimes heroes bargain and trade instead of being heroic. There are budgets and legislative programs that also need the vote of the legislature and they can be held hostage to enforce their involvement in redistricting. But true heroes can withstand the threats of future votes and the temptation to trade. We wonder if Andrew Cuomo, an early signer of the “pledge,” is truly a hero of reform. MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com

Page 8 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

Political Panel Praises Partisan Redistricting By HENRY STERN public officials favoring inThe reappor t iondependent non-political ment dance took a few districting. steps forward and backUnder the Constituward as LATFOR (The tion of the United States, New York State Legisa census of the population lat ive Task Force on is taken ever y ten years, Demographic Research) and the results determine held a public hearing in the apportionment of seats lower Manhattan. The in Congress. Because of commit tee has been New York State’s comparaHenry Stern traveling around the state to hear tively slow growth, it will lose two from the public, but that is no in- seats as a result of the 2010 cendication that they will respond to sus. The usual political tradition the complaints that have been re- when New York loses two seats ceived from academics, good gov- has been to take one upstate Reernment groups and potential can- publican seat and one downstate didates. Democratic seat. The situation has The first grievance, which has been complicated since 2010 by been expressed by speakers who the departure of three members of caught the road show before it ar- Congre ss from New York State rived in New York City, was that because of sexual misconduct, in LATFOR should not exist at all, but three cases different from each that an independent redistricting other and all involving unrequited commission should be appointed, desires. rather than leaving the task to the The custom in New York has assembly of incumbents now con- been for the Democrats to draw ducting the hearings and charged Assembly district line s and the with preparing a plan for the ap- Republicans the Senate lines. For proval of the Legislature, the body seats in Congress, the parties had that will be affected by the plan. to reach agreement on district The reformers want to prevent boundaries. Because of changing self-serving par tisan district ing, demographics and social attitudes, which fulfills the desires of a po- the Republican hold on the Senlitical party at the expense of non- ate is becoming ever more tenumembers of that party. They want ous. A law adopted when the Sennonpartisan districting, either this ate was in Democratic hands year by law or permanently by changed the districts that would Constitutional amendment. The in- benefit from the head count of incumbents’ idea of avoiding one- mates from the upstate countie s par t y favorit ism is bi-par t isa n were they were incarcerated, prodistricting, which serves the needs viding employment to local resiof both the Democratic and Re- dents, to the downstate counties publican parties, at the expense of where they lived while committing challengers and independents of all the crimes, largely, felonies that stripes. resulted in their being sent upstate. The star witness at the hearSome people want the Demoing was former Mayor Edward I. crats to win both houses, so reKoch, co-founder of New York Up- sponsibility for whatever happens rising, which is a coalition of former or does not happen can be placed

on one party. Others prefer a divided legislature, so that conservatives as well as liberals will be heard. A number of players publicly prefer domination by their own party, but their private opinion is another matter. Common sense tells us that moderate government is more likely to be achieved under diverse leadership than when the legislature is under the control of one party. A political system dominated by either party tends to reduce the importance of general elections and increase the effect of party primaries, where the more extreme members of each party have proportionately greater influence, in part because independents are forbidden to vote. Redistricting will be an important issue in the months to come, and much was said on the subject. The argument is not ideological, the left against the right, the spenders against the savers, or liberals against social conservatives. The issue here is one of equity and fairness, of expressing the wishes of the people, as opposed to those in both par ties who would manipulate the system, deny ballot access to challengers, preserve incumbents by any means available, and place individual legislators under the thrall of the legislative leadership, where any expression of autonomy is punished. The New York State legislature, periodically derided as the most dysfunctional in the United States, has earned its ill repute, not only through acts of dishonesty by members of both houses, some of which have resulted in prison sentences, but by an arbitrary system of rules and protective walls around the leadership, so that although the great majority of the members are

honest, there is little they can accomplish without the consent of men who, to put it politely, are more responsive to special interests and individual desires, often paid for by political contributions. To allow the leaders to retain the power to choose their followers by drawing their districts condemns the backbenchers to little more authority than their constituents, who may decennially be moved like cattle from one district to another to serve the political interests of those whose lack of responsibility and desire for re-election have helped give rise to the state’s now acute financial problems. Do not take this commentary as indicating that any par ticular legislator is better or worse than any other. Some considered paragons of vir tue may never have been subject to temptation. Oth-

ers usually reviled are not only smarter than most others but are bet ter polit icia ns. And when people elected to high office as reformers are found to have several screws loose which prevent positive interaction with other people, the distinction bet ween intel lect a nd insanit y become s difficult to find. But regardless of their intellect, ability, integrit y or state of rage, all public officials should run in honestly drawn districts, equal in size, compact and contiguous, and linking communities by interest. Political boundaries should not be perpetrated on the public by self-serving incumbents, who have systematically manipulated the electoral system to serve their personal needs at the expense of the public interest in honest government. StarQuest@NYCivic.org

Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of formation of A p p l a u d M e . c o m LLC. Articles of Org filed with the Secretary of State of NY SSNY on 07/ 07/11. Office located in Queens, NY. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 11555 205 Street St. Albans, NY 11412. Purpose: any lawful purpose. _____________________________________________________________ ARTICLES OF ORGAINIZATION OF Omega General Contracting, LLC. Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law. FIRST. The name of the limited liability company is Omega General Contracting, LCC SECOND. The county within this state in which the limited liability company is to be located is Queens. THIRD: The secretary of state is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process accepted on behalf of the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 48-57 207 th Street, Bayside, New York 11364. FOURTH: The name and street address in this state of the registered agent upon whom and at which process against the limited liability company may be served is Jonathan Christ, 48-57 207 th Street, Bayside, New York 11364. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned has executed these Articles of Organization on the date below. LegalZoom.com, Inc., Organizer Date: July 20, 2011 /s/Imelda Vasquez By: Imelda Vasquez, Assistant Secretary 101 N. Brand Blvd., 1 1 th F l o o r G l e n d a l e , C A 91203 _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

07010. Purpose: any lawful purpose. _____________________________________________________________ 32-66 35 TH ST., LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 7/28/11. NY Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to The LLC, 32-66 35 th St., Apt. A-2, Astoria, NY 11106. General Purposes. _____________________________________________________________ VISALO REALTY LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 6/24/96. NY Office location: Queens County.š SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.š SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/ her to c/o Ventura Land Corp., 149-45 Northern Blvd., Ste. 6V, Flushing, NY 11354. General Purposes _____________________________________________________________ DURANGO FUNDING, LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 06/ 09/2011. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 42-01 235th St, #1A, Douglaston, NY 11363. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. ________________________________________ MARCIA’S CATERING LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 5/ 27/11. NY Office location: Queens County.š SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.š SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to The LLC, 225-11 108th Ave., Queens Village, NY 11429. General Purposes _____________________________________________________________ BAY NORTH LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 8/5/11. NY Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/ her to The LLC, 206-06 23 rd Ave., Bayside, NY 11360. General Purposes. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of MHA GROUP HOLDINGS LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 8/25/ 2011. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: 23-39 BQE West, Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of GREAT G & J II LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/25/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be

LEGAL NOTICE served. SSNY shall mail process to princ. bus. loc.: c/o The LLC, 35-06 Farrington St., Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful activity. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of 13459 Bedell LLC. Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 1/ 10/11. Principal Office: 601 Chestnut St. B20 Cedarhurst, NY, Nassau County. SSNY designated as process agent. Process Service address: 601 Chestnut St. B20 Cedarhurst, NY. Purpose: any lawful activity. _____________________________________________________________ PD 54 th LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/1/11. Office in Queens County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to C/O Park Drive Equities, 125-10 Queens Blvd. Ste 224, Kew Gardens, NY 11415. Purpose: General. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of NCC Physical Therapy Care a domestic PLLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 8/5/ 2011. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the PLLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 22519 113 th Ave. Queens Village, NY 11429. Purpose: any lawful purpose. _____________________________________________________________ The NYC Board of Standards and Appeals has scheduled a public hearing on the following application: Variance (§72-21) to allow for the enlargement of an existing synagogue (Congregation Ohel), contrary to floor area, lot coverage (ZR 24-11), front yard (§24-34), side yard (ZR 24-35), rear yard (§24-36) and parking (§25-31). R2A zoning district. Address: 226-10 Francis Lewis Boulevard, 1,105’ west of Francis Lewis Boulevard, Block 12825, Lot 149, Borough of Queens. Applicant: The Law Office of Fredrick A. Becker, for Congregation Othel, owners. Community Board No.: 13Q This application, Cal. No.: 35-11-BZ, has been calendared for Public Hearing on Tuesday, September 27, 2011, 1:30 P.M., session, 40 Rector Street, 6 th floor Hearing Room “E”, Borough of Manhattan. Interested persons or associations may appear at the hearing to present testimony regarding this application. This application can be reviewed at the Board offices, Monday through Friday, 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. This notice is published by the applicant in accordance with the Rules of Procedure of the Board of Standards and Appeals. Dated: September 7, 2011 Law Office of Fredrick A. Becker, Applicant. ____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of AAGJ REALTY, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/9/10. Office location: Queens County. Princ. Office of LLC: 450B 131 St., Belle Harbor, NY 11694. Latest date on which the LLC may dissolve is 12/ 31/2060. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom

LEGAL NOTICE process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 421 Willis Ave., Williston Park, NY 11596. Purpose: Any lawful activity. ___________________________________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION GOURMAND FAMILY LIMITED PARTNERSHIP County: QUEENS Cert. of Ltd. Partnership filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 8/08/2011 designated as agent of LP upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to: 84-61 Abingdon Rd., Kew Gardens, NY 11415 Latest Date of Dissolution: 12/31/2061 Purpose: all lawful business purposes ____________________________________________________________ At a Term of the Supreme Court in and for the County of Queens at IAS Part , 88-11 Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica, New York, on the 17 day of August, 2011 P R E S E N T: Hon. Bernice D. Siegal Justice Index No. 18204, 2011 In the Matter of the Application of JARNAIL SINGH, a director, former president and member, KULBIR SINGH, JAGIR SINGH, ORDER TO SHOW CAUSE GURCHARAN SINGH, & HARBANS SINGH, members, Petitioners For the Judicial Dissolutio-n, pursuant to the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law §1102, of BABA MAKHAN SHAH LOBANA SIKH CENTER, INC., a New York Not-for-Profit Corporation, and the Attorney General of the State of New York, and the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance, Respondents. UPON READING and filing the petition of Jarnail Singh, duly verified on the 1st day of August, 2011, and the exhibits annexed thereto, from which it appears that the BABA MAKHAN SHAH LOBANA SIKH CENTER, INC., is a domestic not-forprofit corporation having its principal place of business in the County of Queens, City and State of New York, and that the said petitioner is a director and member (former President) of said corporation, and that the members are so divided that the votes required for the election of directors cannot be obtained, that there is internal dissension and two or more factions of members are so divided that the dissolution of the corporation would be beneficial to the members, and that the corporation is no longer capable of carrying out its stated purposes, and it appears that the corporation should be dissolved pursuant to the Not-for-Profit Corporation Law §1102(B), it is ORDERED, that the respondents and all persons interested in the corporation, Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center Inc. show cause before this Court on the 5 th day of October, 2011, at IAS Part 19, Room 48 , 88-11 Sutphin Blvd, Jamaica, New York, 11435, at 9:30 AM in the forenoon of that day. WHY an order should not be made dissolving the said corporation according to the rules and practices of this Court; and it is FURTHER

LEGAL NOTICE

ORDERED, that a copy of this order be published at least once each week for the three weeks immediately preceding the aforesaid return date, in the Queens Tribune Newspaper, published in Queens County, City and State of New York, that being the county in which this order s entered; and it is FURTHER ORDERED, that said corporation, its officers and directors, furnish the Court with a schedule of all information known and ascertainable with due diligence concerning the Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center Inc., including a statement of the corporate assets and liabilities, and the name and address of each member and of each creditor and claimant, including any with unliquidated or contingent claims and any with whom the corporation has unfulfilled contracts, and that a copy of this Order to Show Cause be served personally or by mail in accordance with the provisions of the Not-For-Profit Corporation Law, upon all persons or entities so named in such schedule; and it is FURTHER ORDERED, that Emanuel R. Gold , be and he hereby is appointed as temporary receiver of all the property, real and personal, things in action, assets nd effects belonging to or held by the said corporation or in its possession, or possession to which it is entitled, with the usual powers and duties that are defined as belonging to a temporary receiver appointed in an action under the provisions of the Civil Practice Law and Rules; and it is FURTHER ORDERED, that before entering upon the duties of his receivership, said receiver shall procure and file with the Clerk of Queens County a surety company bond or a bond with two sufficient sureties to the People of the State of New York, in the penal sum of $150,000, conditioned for the faithful discharge by the said receiver of the duties of his trust, said bond to be approved as to its sufficiency and manner of execution by a Justice of the Supreme Court, and upon filing of said bond thus approved said receiver is authorized to take possession of and sequester all property, real and personal, things in action, effects and assets belonging to or held by said corporation or in its possession or to which it is entitled to possess; and it is FURTHER ORDERED, that said receiver, upon filing said bond, shall have all the powers and authority and be subject to all the duties and liabilities of a permanent receiver as provided by law and the practice of this Court, except that he shall not make any distribution of the property in his hands among the creditors of the corporation, or to any member of the corporation before the final order in this proceeding, unless he is specifically directed to do so by the Court; and it is FURTHER ORDERED, that all money of the said corporation which

may come into the hands of said receiver shall be deposited by him in the Sterling Bank, located at 89-04 Sutphin Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11435, to his credit as such receiver, to be held by the said bank subject to further order of this Court; and SUFFICIENT CAUSE APPEARING THEREFOR, it is ORDERED, that all persons, and especially creditors of the corporation, and each and every one of them, be, and they are hereby enjoined and restrained from bringing any actions against the said corporation for the recovery of a sum of money and from taking any further proceedings whatsoever in any such action heretofore commenced; and it is ORDERED, that the corporation and its directors and officers are hereby enjoined from transacting any unauthorized business, exercising any corporate powers, collecting or receiving any debt or other property of the corporation, and from paying out or otherwise transferring or delivering any property of the corporation, except by permission of this court; and SUFFICIENT CAUSE APPEARING THEREFOR, service of a copy of this Order to Show Cause and the papers upon which it is based, upon the respondent Baba Makhan Shah Lobana Sikh Center, Inc. personally or by certified mail, return receipt requested, and upon the Secretary of State of the State of New York, and upon the Attorney General of the State of New York and the New York State Tax Department, by delivery to their offices, on or before the 31st day of August, 2011, be deemed sufficient. E N T E R: /s/Bernice Siegal Justice of the Supreme Court Hon. Bernice D. Siegal ____________________________________________________________ N & K MIHALIOS REALTY, LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with SSNY on 08/ 09/2011. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Nick Mihalios, 27-05 and 27-07 Newtown Avenue, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. ____________________________________________________________ US CLAIM FUNDING LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 6/ 15/11. NY Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/her to Zoya Aminova, 219-26 Peck Ave., Hollis Hills, NY 11427. General Purposes. ___________________________________________________________ Dunner Capital LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 8/3/11. Office in Queens County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 141-19 73 Ave, Flushing, NY 11367. Purpose: General.

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 9

ERRA REALTY LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 12/22/ 2010. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 37-35 21st St, Long Island City, NY 11106. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of Whitney Ave Unit 3B Realty LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State on 7/14/ 11. Office location: Queens County. Sec. of State designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: P.O. Box 962, NY, NY 10002. Purpose: any lawful activity. _____________________________________________________________ Notice of formation of WU LAW FIRM, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 8/18/2011. Office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC to 766 VETERANS PLACE, CLIFFSIDE PARK, NJ

LEGAL NOTICE

CB Hopes To Make Bar A Memory By LILLY O’DONNELL It might soon be time for Astoria to forget about Amnesia Nightclub. There have been six arrests and 17 police reports at the troubled nightclub since January 2010, according to Community Affairs Officer Eddie Negron of the 114th Precinct. Four of the arrests and 10 of the reports were for assault. “It’s one of the most problematic premises in the 114th Precinct,” he said at a Community Board 1 meeting on Sept. 20. Astoria is known to have a bustling nightlife, and a few other establishments have trouble with noise complaints from their residential neighbors – one bar has 54 – but Amnesia is on a commercial block; it presumably would not have any problems if they played by the rules. The club draws a young crowd since patrons can be 18 to enter. Security gives “of age” wristbands at the door only after checking IDs with flashlights, but once the kids are inside there is nothing stopping people with wristbands from buying drinks for them. The members of Community Board 1 gasped and muttered when Officer Negron revealed that four of the six arrests had been for the sale of alcohol to a minor. When he followed up with the fact one of the arrests and 10 of the police reports had been for assault, the board voted to do what they could to shut the place down. The other arrest was for a warrant and the other seven police reports were for lost or stolen property. While community boards do not have the direct authority to close a business, they can recommend that the State Liquor Authority

not renew their license – which would cripple any bar. The nightclub’s current liquor license will expire on Halloween of this year, according to the State Liquor Authority. The first step of renewal is to notify the community board that an application is forthcoming, with at least 30 days notice, so they can vote on a recommendation. That first step did not go so well for Amnesia this time around. Community Board 1 has made only one other recommendation that a liquor license

not be renewed in the last six months, regarding a strip club called XXO, District Manager Lucille Hartman said in an interview. Hartman said that they do not write these recommendations for every little offense, but that they plan to in this case because of the violence associated with Amnesia. “It’s my party spot,” said Danielle Oden, 18, while waiting in line to get into the club. “I would be sad if it closed.” She said she had never seen any violence at Amnesia, noting that security is always tight at the door – bags

are thoroughly searched and partygoers patted down. Another patron said she had seen violence break out. Crystal Ramos, 20, said she had only been to Amnesia a couple of times and did not want to make the club sound bad. She declined to elaborate on the fight she had witnessed, saying the environment is mostly “just fun and social.” Club management and security declined to comment.

No Space For Stand In Heights By JASON BANREY Community residents and business owners in Jackson Heights are upset about the abundance of newsstands sprouting up in the already-congested neighborhood, and one City Councilman is promising to put an end to it. On Monday, Councilman Danny Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) gathered with local residents and community groups protesting the placement of newsstands in the area’s “dangerously crowded streets” “Our community has been told to go to hell,” Dromm shouted with his fist raised amongst nearly 50 supporters protesting the constr uction of a newsstand on the nor theast corner of 74th Street and 37th Road in Jackson Heights. “My new definition of crazy now is put ting another newsstand in this community.” Since 2009, community residents have stood against the construction of more newsstands within an area saturated with conve-

nience stores and shops which already sell the same products. Earlier this month, Community Board 3 unanimously opposed the Dept. of Consumer Affairs’ proposals to build three more newsstands in an area t he Dept. of Transportation deemed the most congested in the neighborhood. According to the Jackson Heights Transpor tation Study, which surveyed commuter habits, pedestrian volume at 74th Street and 37th Road was the highest of the entire neighborhood and had the greatest amount of pedestrian crashes as well as injuries occurred at the intersection. CB3 is asking the City for a moratorium of all additional street furniture. “We invite the Dept. of Consumer Affairs, DOT and the Art Commission to visit our community and see what is happening,” said CB3 District Manager Giovanna Reid. “We believe that they will concur that not one more piece of new street furniture is

needed in our district.” For 20 years, Enrico Santi has been the ma nager of Brown’s Ar my Nav y Store, which sits only five feet from the newsstand currently under construction. Throughout that time, he has witnessed the influx of residents in the area and has witnessed the potential dangers of placing a newsstand at a corner in need of more space to accommodate pedestrian traffic. “At rush hour, this corner see s hundreds of pedestrians, all at once,” Santi said. “Putting a newsstand will only create a bot tleneck on the sidewalk, sending commuters in the middle of the street which already has heav y traffic.” Dromm is drafting legislation that will give community boards and their City Council representatives final say on the placement of newsstands as well as other street furniture. Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

Page 10 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

L’ Shanah Tovah May the New Year bring contentment and peace and may good health and joy be with you through a sweet New Year From the Management & Staff of Mount Lebanon Cemetery 7800 MYRTLE AVENUE, GLENDALE, NY 11385

(718) 821-0200

OPEN HOUSE

Meet faculty, tour our new residence hall, and learn about QC’s more than 60 majors, honors programs, clubs, and sports. GRADUATE Wednesday, October 5 1 6:30–8 pm Student Union UNDERGRADUATE Sunday, November 6 1 Noon–3 pm Dining Hall

RSVP at www.qc.cuny.edu/QT

Meet Your Future

Undergraduate r Graduate r Professional & Continuing Studies 65-30 Kissena Blvd. r Flushing, NY 11367 r 718.997.5600

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 11

Photo by Ramiro Funez

Walkers gather shortly before sunset to pay tribute to those lost and to honor those fighting.

2,000 Candles Shine, Bring Hope At Walk

Page 12 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

L’ Shana Tova May the New Year be one of joy and friendship, hope & peace

By RAMIRO FÚNEZ Symbols of hope illuminated the dark trails of a Queens park last weekend. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society hosted its annual Light The Night Walk at Forest Park on Saturday, drawing in more than 2,000 attendants to raise money for blood cancer research. Participants lit candle balloons of varying colors to show how they have been affected by leukemia and lymphoma: red balloons symbolized supporters of blood cancer research; white balloons marked survivors of blood cancer; and gold balloons represented the memory of a loved one who died after developing blood cancer. The event featured food from sponsoring restaurants, performances by youth groups and a memorial ceremony. Margaret Bargn, spokeswoman for the New York City Chapter of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, felt the walk was a perfect way to honor those who died of blood cancer while raising money to fight the illness. "It's inspiring," Bargn said. "While it is a serious event, it is still lighthearted and it's a great way to commemorate those who lost their lives to cancer. It's a really nice way for people to get together and meet other people who have been going through the same thing, to raise money to prevent it," Bargn added. According to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, an estimated one million Americans are living with blood cancer. The organization also reports that every 10 min-

utes, someone dies from the disease. Along with publishing information and statistics on leukemia and lymphoma, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society also invests money into blood cancer research centers. In 2011, the organization was able to fundraise more than $814 million from events like Light The Night. "It's pretty remarkable when the sky is dark and everyone turns on their balloons and you see a sea of balloons lit up and how many people have been affected by blood cancer," Bargn said. "It's a great event and we hope it keeps happening," she added. André Louis, a planning committee member of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, said he felt a personal connection to the walk. "Tonight's event is special for us because we are celebrating our daughter's 10-year recovery from growing up with leukemia," Louis said. "That's why we're a part of the committee - to organize it and walk in it. We've been walking for eight years," he added. Aside from Light The Night walks, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society has begun advocating for a bill that would make oral versions of chemotherapy readily available to uninsured patients of lower socioeconomic backgrounds. For more information on the organization, visit lls.org. Reach Intern Ramiro Fùnez at interns@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 124.

Abducted Kids Found

Congressman

GARY L. ACKERMAN Paid For And Authorized by Ackerman For Congress

By DOMENICK RAFTER The eight children taken from a foster care facility in Forest Hills last week have been found alive and well hundreds of miles away in Harrisburg, Penn., and their parents are under arrest, charged with their kidnapping. Shanel Nadal, 28 and Nephra Payne, 34, of Amsterdam Ave. in Manhattan allegedly abducted their eight children ranging from ages 11 months to 12 years from the Forestdale Agency facility at 67-35 112th St. in Forest Hills during a supervised visit at around 5:15 p.m. on Sept. 19. The parents were arrested on Monday in Harrisburg by members of the U.S. Marshals Service Regional Fugitive Task Force, including members of the NYPD, after they were pulled over in a black Ford Econoline at approximately 10:20 p.m. Both defendants and all of the eight missing children were in the vehicle. The parents will be charged with second-degree kidnapping, first- and seconddegree custodial interference and endanger-

ing the welfare of a child. They are presently awaiting extradition to Queens. "This is a sad story of a mother and father who have jeopardized their children's safety by allegedly kidnapping them and taking them out of state," said Queens DA Richard Brown, whose office will handle the prosecution. "These parents have now also put at risk the very relationships they were supposed to be building with their children during their supervised visits. Kidnapping and endangering children is a serious matter that will not be taken lightly." The children were under the care of the Administration for Children Services and were living in foster homes in Southeast Queens. ACS said they were cooperating with police and investigating how the parents were able to get their eight children out of the facility in broad daylight. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400 Ext. 125.

LEGAL NOTICE

attorney appear for you. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested. ____________________________________________________________ ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF BRIAN KRAMER & ASSOCIATES, PLLC Under Section 1203 of the Limited Liability Company Law FIRST: The name of the professional service limited liability company is: BRIAN KRAMER & ASSOCIATES, PLLC SECOND: The professional service limited liability company shall practice the profession(s) of: Law THIRD: The county within this state in which the office of the professional service limited liability company is to be located is: NEW YORK FOURTH: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the professional service limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the professional service limited liability company served upon him or her is: 1915 HALSTEAD TERRACE, FAIR LAWN, NEW JERSEY, 074104519 FIFTH: The names and residence addresses of all individuals who are to be the original members and the original managers, if any, are: BRIAN KRAMER, ESQ. 13822 78TH AVE, APT 1A FLUSHING, NEW YORK 11367 ____________________________________________________________ Supreme Court, Queens County, Matter of Juanita Watkins a.k.a. Juanita E. Watkins an incapacitated person, pursuant to Court Order dated September 8, 2011, of Hon. Howard G. Lane, JSC, for application to sell premises 120-03 192 nd Street, St. Albans, New York 11412 on October 25, 2011 at 9:30 am. In IAS Part MGM 20, Supreme Court-Queens County 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York 11432 under contract subject to court approval for $325,000.00 call Zenith T. Taylor, Esq. (718) 268-1300 for info. ____________________________________________________________ Notice of formation of Motipur LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. Of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/09/2011. Office Location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC 37-49 75 Street, Jackson Heights NY 11372. Purpose: any lawful activity. ____________________________________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County, on the 31 day of August, 2011, bearing Index Number 720/ 2011, a copy of which may be examined at the office of the clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York, in room number 357 grants me the right, to assume the name of Mei Yee Cecilia Moy. My present address is 79-06 45 th Avenue, Elmhurst, NY 11373; the date of my birth is 02/22/1956, the place of my birth is Hong

LEGAL NOTICE Kong, People’s Republic of China; my present name is Mei Yee C. Moy a/k/a Meiyee Moy a/k/a May Moy Lau a/k/a Mee Mu Lau a/k/a Ting Ting Moy a/k/a Cecilia Ting Ting Moy a/k/a Mei Yee Cecilia Moy a/k/a Meiyee Cecilia Moy a/k/a Ting Ting Cecilia Moy a/k/a Mei Yee Cecilia Cui. ____________________________________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 9/ 13/11, bearing Index Number NC-000753-11/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) Ilia (Last) Menendez My present name is (First) Ilia (Middle) De La Merced Menendez (Last) Andujar aka Ilia Menendez My present address is 53-03 196 th Street, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 My place of birth is San Juan, Puerto Rico My date of birth is July 06, 1962 ____________________________________________________________ File No.: 2009-3934/A CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK BY THE GRACE OF GOD, FREE AND INDEPENDENT To: Michael Abrams, Andrea Messing, Richard Ralton, Attorney General of the State of New York, The unknown distributees, legatees, devisees, heirs at law and assignees of JOSEPHINE RALTON, deceased, or their estates, if any there be, whose names, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the petitioner and cannot with due diligence be ascertained. Being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, distributees or otherwise in the Estate of JOSEPHINE RALTON, deceased, who at the time of death was a resident of 11011 Queens Blvd. Apt 14M, Forest Hills, in the County of Queens, State of New York. SEND GREETING: Upon the petition of LOIS M. ROSENBLATT, Public Administrator of Queens County, who maintains her office at 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, Queens County, New York 11435, as Administrator of the Estate of JOSEPHINE RALTON, deceased, you and each of you are hereby cited to show cause before the Surrogate at the Surrogate’s Court of the County of Queens, to be held at the Queens General Courthouse, 6th Floor, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, City and State of New York, on the 10th day of November, 2011 at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon, why the Account of Proceedings of the Public Administrator of Queens County, as Administrator of the Estate of said deceased, a copy of which is attached, should not be judicially settled, and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow a reasonable amount of compensation to GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., for legal services rendered to petitioner herein in the amount of $28,537.37 and that the Court fix the fair and reason-

LEGAL NOTICE able additional fee for any services to be rendered by GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ., hereafter in connection with proceedings on kinship, claims etc., prior to entry of a final Decree on this accounting in the amount of 5.5% of assets or income collected after the date of the within accounting; and why the Surrogate should not fix and allow an amount equal to one percent on said Schedules of the total assets on Schedules A, A1, and A2 plus any additional monies received subsequent to the date of this account, as the fair and reasonable amount payable to the Office of the Public Administrator for the expenses of said office pursuant to S.C.P.A. §1106(4); and why each of you claiming to be a distributee of the decedent should not establish proof of your kinship; and why the balance of said funds should not be paid to said alleged distributees upon proof of kinship, or deposited with the Commissioner of Finance of the City of New York should said alleged distributees default herein, or fail to establish proof of kinship, Dated, Attested and Sealed 9th day of September, 2011 HON. PETER J. KELLY Surrogate, Queens County Margaret M. Gribbon Clerk of the Surrogate’s Court GERARD J. SWEENEY, ESQ. (718) 459-9000 95-25 Queens Boulevard 11th Floor Rego Park, New York 11374 This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not obliged to appear in person. If you fail to appear it will be assumed that you do not object to the relief requested unless you file formal legal, verified objections. You have a right to have an attorney-atlaw appear for you. ____________________________________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION of V&L Occupational and Physical Therapy, PLLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of NY (SSNY) on 08/29/11 Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. The Post Office address to which the SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the PLLC served upon him is 1633 Sheepshead Bay Rd, Brooklyn, N.Y., 11235. Date of Dissolution: by proclamation. Purpose of PLLC; provide medical services. Street address of Principal Business location is: 9205 Rockaway Blvd, Ozone Park, NY 11417 ____________________________________________________________ ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF FDW PROPERTIES, LLC Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law FIRST: The name of the limited liability company is: FDW PROPERTIES, LLC SECOND: The county within this state in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is: QUEENS THIRD: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The address within or without this state to which the

LEGAL NOTICE

Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: 250-169 UNION TURNPIKE BELLROSE, NEW YORK 11426 Mirna L. White (signature of organizer MIRNA L. WHITE, ESQ (print or type name of organizer) ____________________________________________________________ ARTICLES OF ORGANIZATION OF Ah-Musement station LLC Under Section 203 of the Limited Liability Company Law FIRST: The name of the limited liability company is: Ah-Musement station LLC SECOND: The county, within this state, in which the office of the limited liability company is to be located is: Queens THIRD: The Secretary of State is designated as agent of the limited liability company upon whom process against it may be served. The address within or without this state to which the Secretary of State shall mail a copy of any process against the limited liability company served upon him or her is: pascal gorain 23-04 33 rd ave long island city, NY 11106 USA pascal gorain (signature of organizer) pascal gorain (print of type name of organizer) ____________________________________________________________ CITATION File No. 20102270/C SURROGATE’S COURT, Queens COUNTY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: Morris Saltz, Charles Saltz, William Saltz, Frances Clarman, and Ephrem Hecht adversely affected copy of Will dated June 18, 2009 also attached Public Administrator of Queens County And to JOSEPH SINGER if living and if dead, to his heirs at law, next of kin and distributees whose names and places of residence are unknown and if he died subsequent to the decedent herein, to his executors, administrators, legatees, devisees, assignees and successors in interest whose name and places of residence are unknown and to all other heirs at law, next of kin and distributees of HAROLD SALTZ, the decedent herein, whose names and places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained. A petition having been duly filed by Cary Reid who is domiciled at 2 Reservoir Street New Haven, Connecticut 06511 YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Queens County, at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, on October 27,2011, at 9:30 o’clock in the fore noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Harold Saltz lately domiciled at 102-25 67th Road, Apt. 4F, Forest Hills, New York, 11375, United States admitting to probate a Will dated July 28, 2009, a copy of which is attached, as the Will of Harold Saltz deceased, relating to real and personal property and directing that Letters Testamentary issue to Cary Reid Dated, Attested and Sealed SEP 16 2011 HON. PETER J. KELLY Surro-

gate MARGARET M. GRIBBON Chief Clerk ATTORNEY, MARILYN G. ORDOVER, ESQ., Cullen and Dykman LLP 177 Montague Street, Brooklyn, New York 11201, (718) 780-0254 NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you. ___________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of Bryant Holding Affiliates, LLC. Notice of Conversion of Bryant Holding Co., a partnership, to Bryant Holding Affiliates, LLC. Certificate filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/01/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 136-48 39 th Ave., Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful activities. ___________________________________________________________ PROMAGA N.Y., LLC, a domestic Limited Liability Company (LLC), filed with the Sec of State of NY on 5/24/11. NY Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of any process against the LLC served upon him/ her to The LLC, 101-05 Lefferts Blvd., Richmond Hill, NY 11419. General Purposes. ___________________________________________________________ Notice of Formation of Renaissance DJK LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/7/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 136-56 39 th Ave., #LL, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: any lawful activity. ___________________________________________________________ NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT A LICENSE, SERIAL NUMBER: 1256853 FOR EATING PLACE BEER HAS BEEN APPLIED FOR BY THE UNDERSIGNED TO SELL EATING PLACE BEER AT RETAIL IN GIANMORO INC UNDER THE ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL LAW AT 31 06 21 ST ST., ASTORIA, NY 11106 COUNTY OF QUEENS FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION ___________________________________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 8/ 11/11, bearing Index Number NC-000667-11/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) Jenefer (Middle) Krystina (Last) Rohit My present name is (First) Christina (Middle) Jennifer (Last) Rohit aka Christina J. Rohit My present address is 245-32 76 Avenue, Bellerose, NY 11426 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is August 05, 1983

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 13

SURROGATE’S COURT – QUEENS COUNTY SUPPLEMENTAL CITATION File No. 2004-2032/D THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK By the Grace of God, Free and Independent, To: Dorothy E. Sexton and Beatrice L. Barrett if living and if dead, to their heirs at law, next of kin and distributees whose names and places of residence are unknown and if they died subsequent to the decedent herein, to their executors, administrators, legatees, devisees, assignees and successors in interest whose name and places of residence are unknown and to all other heirs at law, next of kin and distributees of GEORGE SALADINO, the decedent herein, whose names and places of residence are unknown and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained, being persons interested as creditors, legatees, devisees, beneficiaries, distributees or otherwise of the estate of George Saladino, deceased, who at the time of death resided at 3706 80 th Street, Apt. 4G, Jackson Heights, New York 11376. A Petition having been duly filed by Rashmin Master, who is domiciled at 228 Linden Lane, Upper Brookville, NY 11545, YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE, before the Surrogate’s Court, Queens County at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY, on November 3, 2011, at 9:30 a.m. WHY an Order should not be entered authorizing Rashmin Master, as Executor of the Estate of George Saladino, to: I. Allocate the entirety of the net proceeds of the settlement of the Bus Accident Lawsuit, which was settled for six hundred thousand dollars ($6,000,000.00), to the conscious pain and suffering of the Decedent; and II Distribute the proceeds maintained in escrow, remaining after payment of attorneys fees and disbursements, to be distributed in accordance with Decedent’s will, as follows: 1/3 to each of Charlotte Thorngren, Dev Master and Deep Master (as modified slightly by the October 30, 2007 Stipulation of Settlement); and III. Modify any restrictions in the Letters issued to Petitioner to the extent necessary to carry out the provisions of such decree; and IV. Dispense with the filing of a bond; and V. Judicially settle Petitioner’s Account; A copy of which is Attached. VI. Grant such other and further relief as may be just and proper; VII. And to distribute all other assets of the Estate as per the Will. Dated: SEP 13 2011 (Seal) HON. PETER J. KELLY, Surrogate Margaret M. Gribbon Chief Clerk Marc A. Stadtmauer, Esq. Attorney for Petitioner (212) 986-6200 Telephone Number Stadtmauer & Associates 230 Park Avenue Suite 2525, New York, NY 10169 Address of Attorney NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not obliged to appear in person. You have a right to have an

LEGAL NOTICE

Leisure

Riveting ‘CHIX 6’ At Queens Theatre struggles to free herself from an unhealthy relationship. Luckily, she is rescued by her super heroines, who come to life just in the nick of time, saving her creative spark. Ultimately, she learns how to love herself again. No stranger to adversity, Lourds drew from her difficult past and clearly thought way out-of-the-box, when she created her imaginative concoction of “CHIX 6” characters. Growing up in Jamaica, she says her Filipino mom was busy making ends meet, while dad was either absent or abusive. “Music was my escape. I star ted playing violin and piano at age 3, and when I was older, I’d practice 6 to 7 hours a day.” Playing Carnegie Hall at age 6, the lit tle prodigy jumped off the stage during a performance, and played her violin into the audience. Now a Manhattanite, Lourds insists: “You can take the girl out of Queens, but you can’t take Queens out of the girl.” She feels the borough shaped her art ist ic creativity. “Music and per forming are a par t of my bone structure. It pumps through my veins.” Composing dramatic rock songs in her

Such Sushi Selection I tried the Tuna tar tar, a dish of raw tuna arranged like a pate. If you don’t care for fishy tastes, you’ll love this. There is barely a hint of fish. The meat is chilled, though difficult to eat with a fork. I suggest chopsticks – or a spoon if you’re not stick-proficient. I enjoyed the sweetheart roll, a spicy tuna roll cradled inside a meaty slice of perfectly pink tuna sushi arranged in the shape of a hear t on the plate. Definitely a personal favorite, but I did not end there. I sampled the Atami roll, a house special made of shrimp – spicy and tempura – with cuThere are few places in the world out- cumber and avocado. There was also the side of the Pacific Rim where you can find Lobster tempura roll. Now I’m not usually real authentic Asian cuisine – not Chinese a big fan of tempura, but the lobster takeout or mass produced sushi. Nor th- tempura roll was especially tasty. These rolls are not bite-sized and you may need east Queens is one of those places. And on Francis Lewis Boulevard there is to take it apar t to get it all in your mouth, a restaurant where one can explore nearly but it’s completely wort h it. My choice of sushi was unagi – a generever y opt ion in Asian cuisine from hibaous helping of eel over rice. It is chi to sushi to authentic Chinese often different from regular sushi de sser t s you won’t fi nd a nywhere else. Atami Japanese Sushi RESTAURANT because it’s not served completely raw, and it’s also ser ved Buffet, located near the intersecin a sauce. Atami’s eel was larger tion of Francis Lewis and Willets than others that I’ve seen and Point Boulevards in Whitestone, much more meaty. The sauce is not a typical Japanese restauused is exceptionally tangy; the rant. It combines Japanese cuisauces are a highlight of this ressine with some authentic Chinese taurant. dishes that are nothing like the For my main course, I had a ones you get at your local takeHibachi and teriyaki choice, so I out. choose steak hibachi and shrimp I came to Atami on a Saturday evening around 6 p.m., a half hour after teriyaki. Naturally, I was impressed by the its dinner buffet opened. I was given a taste teriyaki sauce, which coated every inch of of all of Atami’s choices – some hibachi, the shrimp and gave it a thrilling flavor. I some sushi, and some of the buffet. At the was left wanting more. For dessert I was served an Atami exclubuffet table, I tried t he General Tso’s Chicken, which was cooked perfectly and sive; a Chinese sweet soup, served chilled, glazed in a sweet sauce. I also tried the made of an almond-flavor crème with slices tasty lo mein soaked in a tangy sauce and of pineapple and tapioca pearls. For anya lobster claw smothered in a delicious but- one who enjoys a bubble tea, this de ssert tery cream preparation. The buffet also has is a perfect way to end a meal. Time and stomach constraints kept me a wide range of options that change over time, so whenever you come back, the from exploring other options Atami offers, such as the raw bar, but another trip is dishes are new. I started with a tall – and I do mean tall – definitely on the agenda. For those nearby earlier in the day, glass of lychee iced tea. A traditional Chinese fruit, lychee has a mango-like flavor. Atami has a lunch menu, and you can even Little piece s of the fruit lie on the bot tom order online. Visit their Web site at atamiof the glass, giving you a wonder ful lit tle ny.com —Domenick Rafter snack once you finish the beverage.

Page 14 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

ATAMI SUSHI JAPANESE BUFFET 19-11 Francis Lew is Blvd, Whitestone (718) 357-3998 CUISINE: Japanese, Chinese HOURS: Lunch, Mon-Sat, 11:30 am4 pm; Dinner Mon-Thu, 4:30-10 pm; Fri-Sat, 4:30-10:30 pm; Sun & Holidays, noon to 10 pm PARK ING: Lot RESVER ATIONS: No CREDIT CARDS: All Major

REVIEW

tweens, the spirited performer star ted her own band, trading her acoustic violin “for a fierce, s p a r k l y e l e c t r i c o n e .” Touring with amazing female singers and musicians, the cool “chicks” played gigs all over the country, “bringing down the house” wherever they appeared. Taking time off after a series of whirlwind shows, Lourds somehow found time to graduate from Harvard, with honors. A look inside a CHIX 6 rehearsal. She recalls her exciting idea, The Medusa Festival, which featured edgier female- kickass director, and one of the most coveted fronted bands: “The idea of hand-picking directors in the nation;” costume designer an all-girl cast of super heroines to create a Chris March (“Project Runway,” on Bravo); theatrical rock experience came from host- and a fabulous dance duo, featuring Ellenore ing and headlining the se concert s.” So, in Paige Scott, a finalist from “So You Think 2008, her first rockin’ opera “SUPER You Can Dance,” and star Molly Tynes, who CHIX” came to be. Afterwards, “CHIX 6” sings upside down in a hoop, performing aerial tricks in suspended silks. was born. The uber-creative Lourds believes that “This isn’t just a rock ‘n roll show,” said its creator. “It has a fully developed and emo- “the heart and message of the musical shines tionally-charged script, featuring bonafide right through…You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll Broadway stars, who have per formed in sing along. See it now while we’re still ‘the ‘Rent,’ ‘Legally Blonde,’ ‘Wicked,’ ‘Mamma little show that could.’” “CHIX 6” runs through Oct. 30 at Mia!,’ ‘Rock of Ages,’ and ‘Lion King,’ just Queens Theatre in the Park, Flushing Meadto name a few.” The musical’s creative team includes, D.J. ows Corona Park. For more info go to Salisbury, who Lourds describes as, “our queenstheatre.org or call (718) 760-0064.

Boro Comedy Native Brings Devil To LIC By JASON BANREY Queens’ comedy scene is on the verge on shat tering the perception that New York City’s tourist friendly comedy clubs can only be in Manhat tan – and one borough nat ive stands at the forefront with the hammer to make it happen. After making his mark on the nation’s entertainment industry, Queens comic Steve Hofstetter has returned to the borough better than ever, bringing a comedy club to Long Island City. “The Laughing Devil is going to give the residents of Queens the ability to have high quality enter tainment right here in the borough without having to leave,” Hofstet ter said of the new comedy club he plans to open at 47-38 Vernon Blvd. in December. Once a derelict area riddled with only industrial factories and dark dodgy streets, the neighborhood of Western Queens has become a region to which members of the ar ts communit y are flocking. De spite the influx on ar t ists, however, there has been a lack of a live enter tainment venue, which Hofstet ter hopes to change. “Although there is a lot happening in Long Island City right now there aren’t many theaters here, only a couple of bars which sometimes have bands on,” Hofstetter said. Hofstet ter’s venture promise s to rival many of the Manhat tan comedy clubs which primarily focus on at tracting tourist s for an evening of laughs. So how does Hofstetter’s business model hope to create repeat customers? With his “street cred” of course. Being a comedian “gives me the opportunity to use my Rolodex to mostly everyone in the business,” said Hofstetter of the con-

tacts he has developed over the years. “With that type of ‘street cred’ it’ll let others know that this is a real comedy club.” From authoring his slapstick look back at college life titled, “Student Body Shots: A Sarcastic Look at the Best 4-6 Years of Your Life” to writing for Maxim and ESPN Magazine, the funnyman’s resume boasts a long list of achievements. In an effort to generate suppor t for the club and show the community there is an interest, the Laughing Devil is circulating a petition for suppor t. By bringing the neighborhood a top notch comedy club, Hofstet ter hope s to draw at tention toward the possibilit ies of Long Island City. “There is a lot more that this neighborhood could use,” he said. “Hopefully other businesses will see our success and follow suit. It’s going to bring more people into the neighborhood who don’t know just how awesome it is and help local businesses.” With opening day just a few months away, Hofstetter said he feels only good things can come from his comedy club; and after years of being out of Queens he hopes he can give back to the borough that helped make him who he is. “This is something I never would have expected,” Hofstetter said of having his own comedy club. “But from a selfish perspective, being a kid from Queens, it’s wonderful to be able to make good on that.” To s i g n t he p e t i t i o n , g o t o Laughingdevil.com. Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

Photo courtesy Carol Rosegg

By TAMMY SCILEPPI During rehearsals for Lourds Lane’s spectacular creation, the rock musical “CHIX 6,” the multi-talented Queens native took time out from her busy schedule for an interview about the show and her career. “My license says I’m 33, but I feel like I’m 53, with all the hats I wear and the amount of life I squeeze into each day,” she said. “I‘m so busy, I can hardly breathe – but I’m having the time of my life!” Get ready for a riveting multimedia extravaganza. “CHIX 6” burst on the scene at Queens Theatre in the Park Tue sday, when it star ted its five-week run. “It’s a feast for your senses. It’s ‘Cirque Du Soleil’ meets ‘Rent’ meets ‘Rocky Horror’ meets stadium rock show,” said former “rocker-chick” Lourds, who wrote the lyrics and composed the original music score. Wendy Bobbit t Cavet t, who is the cur rent musical director for “Mamma Mia!,” is also musical director and band member of the sassy rock opera. The tale spotlights comic book ar t ist, Katie, caught in a web of miser y as she

www.queenstribune.com â&#x20AC;˘ Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 15

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, c/o Regina. IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.

ALUMNI THOMAS JEFFERSON Sunday, January 15 class of 1961 will meet in Florida. Tjhs1961@aol.com

DANCE COUNTRY WESTERN Saturday, Oc tober 15 San Antones and Halloween Costume contest. $12. Glendale Memorial Building, 72-02 Myrtle Avenue at 7:30. 7634328. LINE DANCING Saturdays 2-4 at Holy Family RC Parish Church, Msgr. Mahoney Hall, 175-20 74 th Avenue, Fresh Meadows. Light refreshments. Bring friends! ISRAELI FOLK Mondays 7:15-9:45 at Hillcrest Jewish Center, 18202 Union Turnpike. $10 session. 380-4145. LINE DANCING Mondays 6:30-9:30 at Kowalinski Post 4, 61-57 Maspeth Avenue. $7. Cake and coffee. 565-2259.

DINNER

Page 16 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

APEC Sunday, Oc tober 2 Brunch on the Boardwalk With Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. $50, $75 couple.

ENVIRONMENT COMPOSTING Tuesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 waste food drop off at the Steinway library at 4.

MISCELLANEOUS MINI GOLF Through December 31 Rocket Park Mini-Golf 10-6 weekends, 2-5 Fridays at the Hall of Science. $6 adults, $5 children plus general NYSCI admission. SAFETY EVENT Saturday, Oc tober 1 Forest Park Bandshell Parking Lot 10-2. BLESSING OF PETS S a t u r d a y, O c t o b e r 1 a t Church of the Resurrection, Richmond Hill at 11. PICK PUMPKINS O c to b e r 1 - 3 0 p i c k yo u r pumpkins at the Queens Count y Farm Museum.

EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS KAYAKING Week e n d s t h r o u g h O c to ber 9 (weather permitting) kayaking from Socrates Sculpture Park Beach at Hallets Cove. 228-9214. LANDSCAPE/FLORAL Charcoal and pen and ink classes. 969-1128. JH ART CLUB Classes in all art forms days and evenings for children and adults. 426-9821. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturday s, Oc tober 1, 15, 29, November 5, 19, December 3, 17 Learn to communicate effectively at Elmhurst Hospital. 646-4367940. SEWING CLASSES Saturdays 11-3 at Maria Rose International Doll Museum in St. Albans. 2763454. SCRABBLE CLUB Saturdays at 10 at Count Basie Jr. HS, 132 nd Street and Guy R. Brewer Blvd. 8865236. PET OWNERS Saturdays (not on holiday weekends) from 1-4 free Doggie Boot Camp at Crocheron Park in Bayside (weather permitting). 4545800. Reservations required. Donations accepted. SKYPE CHAT Monday, Oc tober 3 at the Queens Village library at 2. JOB INFO SERVICE Mondays, Oc tober 3, 31 at 4 at the Middle Village library. WIRED TRAINING Monday, Oc tober 3 free job training at the Arverne library at 4. BRIDGE CLUB Mondays except holidays 12-4 at Pride of Judea in Douglaston. Lesson & play $10. Partners arranged. 4236200. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at the Douglaston/ Little Neck library at 4. Register. DRAWING CLASS Mondays at the National Art League in Douglaston. 3610628. LINE DANCE Mondays beginner to intermediate lessons 6-9 in Bayside. 917-886-0519. KNITTING CIRCLE Mondays at Alley Pond Environmental Center. Register 229-4000. ADULT CHESS Mondays and Thursdays at the Queens Village library at 5:30. BASIC COMPUTER Tuesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 at the Arverne library at 10:30. PRACTICE LAB TIME Tuesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 25 computer practice lab time at the Far Rockaway library at 4. LI CHESS CLUB Tuesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 15 at the LIC library at 4. SCRABBLE CLUB Tuesdays at the East Flushing library at 3:30. KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays, October 4, 11, 18, 15 at the Windsor Park library at 2. WORLD EDUCATION

Tu e s d a y s , O c to b e r 4 , 1 1 World Education Services at 6 at the Flushing library. GET YOUR YARNS OUT! Tuesdays after evening Minyan at 8, knitters, crocheters, needlepointers, and others meet at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 263-7000, ext. 200. LANGUAGE CLASS Wednesdays Conversational Hebrew 2:30-3:30 and Torah Stories in Yiddish 3:30-4:30 at the Bayside Jewish Center. 352-7900. TANGO CLASS We d n e s d ay s , O c to b e r 5 , 12, 19, 26 at Buenos Aires Tango in Forest Hills. 347642-4705. BASIC COMPUTER Wednesday, October 5 at the Woodside library at 10:30. DUPLICATE BRIDGE Wednesdays 10:30-3:00 at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills. $12 session, includes light lunch. 261-2900 INDOOR SOCCER – DADS Wednesday evenings at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 263-7000. OIL PAINTING CLASS Wednesdays 6-8 adult classes, all levels. Grace Lutheran Church in Forest Hills. 472-4055. WATERCOLOR CL ASS Wednesdays at 9:30 at NAL. Traditional and contemporary, all levels. 969-1128. PREPARE FICTION Thursdays, Oc tober 6, 13, 20, 27 preparing your fiction; A Creative Writing Workshop at the Langston Hughes library at 6. DRAWING T h u r s d ay , O c to b e r 6 sketches, contour drawings and more at the Seaside librar y. Register. TAI CHI Tuesdays, Oc tober 6, 13, 20 at t he Fore st Hills librar y. Register. COMPUTER BOOT CAMP Tuesdays, Oc tober 6, 13, 20 Arverne library at 10:30. WRITER’S WORKSHOP Thursdays, Oc tober 6, 20 at the Bayside library. Register. QUILTING CLASS Thursdays 10-2 at the Maria Rose Doll Museum in St. Albans. 276-3454 or 917817-8653 to register. QUILTERS Thursdays at the East Elmhurst library at 12:30. CHESS CLUB Thursdays at the East Flushing library. Register. COMPUTER CLASS Every Thursday at the Queensboro Hill library. Register. KNIT & CROCHET Thursdays at the Fresh Meadows library at 6. COMPUTER PRACTICE Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Arverne library at noon. KNITTING CLUB Fridays at the Maspeth library at 10. KNIT & CROCHET Fridays at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30. COMPUTER COURSE Every Friday at the Ozone Park library. Register.

Credit Check:

Understanding How Credit Works Makes Gaining It An Easier Task By DOMENICK RAFTER Many Americans are afraid of it. Some try to avoid it. But if you plan on making a big purchase and are going to need any type of loan, like

for a house or a car, you need it. Credit is one of the most popular ways for people to purchase items, especially big items like homes and cars, but it can also be financially dangerous.

What Is Credit? Credit is a trust in which one individual or body provides resources to another in exchange for the promise of payment instead of immediate payment. The receiving party arranges a deal with the provider to reimburse them, whether it is at a later date, or in stages, in the form of a monetary payment or other goods. An example of credit could be as simple as using your credit card to buy a pair of jeans from a store, then paying for the jeans later when you pay the credit card bill, but it is often far more complicated. How Do You Get It? Lenders and banks giving an individual or a company credit want to make sure that they are going to get payment back and not be left at a loss, so they are unlikely to give a line of credit to anyone who cannot prove they have been responsible in paying it off. Not having any credit history is almost as bad as having a terrible credit history when you are applying for your first credit card or loan, so it is important to establish credit early – either by getting a low-balance credit card or a student loan. Students can have their parents co-sign and often do to establish initial credit. Often it is during college years that a person establishes their initial credit with low-interest rate, low-limit credit cards or student loans. If you’re older, lenders will use bank accounts, employment history, residence history and utility payments – such as gas and water bills – to determine your credit worthiness.

What Is A Credit Score? Worthiness is determined through the credit score, which is the sum of the entire report. The score determines on a scale how good your credit history has been. In the United States, the most popular score is the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) score, which ranges from 300-850 with 300 being terrible credit – you’re unlikely to get any type of loan – and 850 being the best, where lenders are going to fight for you. The median score according to FICO is 723. You can sign up to receive your FICO score at myfico.com, and for a fee, you can be updated about any changes to your score and get up to (continued on page 31)

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 17

What Is A Credit Report? A credit report, or a credit history, is the complete history of one’s borrowing and payments including documentation of late payments and bankruptcies. Often, the terms consumer report or credit history are used interchangeably with credit report. Credit reports are used by credit card companies and lenders to determine whether or not an individual or a company can be given a loan or line of credit without risking default. If a person or business is good at paying back bills on time and in full, then lenders will be willing to take the risk and lend them money. If they have paid their bills late, or repeatedly paid the minimum payment or perhaps have even declared bankruptcy, lenders will determine that they are likely to default on their payments and are unlikely to offer them loans.

Fixing Your Credit:

Controlling Credit Is Unfeasible Until Living On Realistic Budget By JOSEPH OROVIC Poor spending habits? Living well above your means? Do you have a credit card for each day of your biweekly pay period? Chances are if you answered “Yes” or “I don’t know” to any of the above questions, your credit score may be in dubious standing with any one of the three agencies charged with monitoring your fiscal prowess. Fortunately, there are many lowcost, low pain options to get yourself out of the monetary muck, according to Steven Burman, president of Credit Advocates, one of the few nonprofit credit agencies based in New York City. Seek First To Understand Obviously knowledge is power, so Burman recommends you scope out your credit scores on your own. You are entitled to seeing your credit scores for free once a year, and sites like annualcreditreport.com offer

you a no-fee look-see. Burman warns against ever paying to get access to your credit score, and any site charging you to scope out your credit score should be treated as radioactive. From the Web site, you can take the first steps towards restoring health to your credit standing, Burman said. Clean It Up “It’s been my experience that it really is a consumer’s responsibility to pull their credit reports and go through them for inaccuracies. About 70 percent of credit reports have errors on them, generally things that either were put on a report by accident or things that have been paid but the information was not updated,” he said. In such situations, the onus is on the consumer to dispute any outstanding accounts or records that are inaccurate.

“They assume that once they pay something, it should be removed,” Burman said. “That’s not accurate. It doesn’t work that way.” Your ability to dispute is based upon the Fair Credit Reporting Act, which allows consumers to dispute any information on their credit report. It is a right Burman suggests everyone exercise at least once a year, keeping in mind what they do and do not owe. After you have cleared any disputes yourself, Burman suggests seeing a nonprofit credit agency – with the obligatory self-recognition. After two decades of experience, Burman lambasted for-profit credit companies who “can’t do anything that a consumer can’t do themselves.” The trained eye of an experienced debt management professional can spot inconsistencies and snafus. Burman points to one recent visitor who had a hospital charge duplicated on their credit report five times over. Even at the onset, Burman sug-

gests keeping your revolving balances under 30 percent of your limit. “The most common error is outstanding debt showing on the credit reports,” Burman said. “Those balances, they should be updated, but they’re not updated all the time. It could lead to a skewed credit score.” Another common issue, especially among the nomadic youth, is multiple addresses. Consolidating them and taking your parent’s home or former apartment off the bill removes a red flag. Personal Responsibility But before any of this happens, Burman suggests a very altruistic realization. “The most common thing I see is the person who refuses to take personal responsibility for their own financial situation,” he said. “Live within a lifestyle you can afford. If you know what you can bring and you know what you’re spending, you can make adjustments.”

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Page 18 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

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“I can’t even tell you, I really If things are dire and your credit score has tanked, it is time for a tri- didn’t have any idea how much I was age. But even then, the solutions are spending,” he said. “The one nice more altruistic than mechanical. Too thing, when you talk to someone who often, Burman said, folks are caught budgets, which is rare, they can tell up with credit cards because they are you how much they spend on take out the most direct contact many have food, clothing, dining out.” The practice of budgeting has with their debt. “The biggest problem I see is pri- helped even the least fortunate. Burorities,” he said. “It’s knowing how man was stunned to visit homeless shelters to help and in the process to take care of excessive debt.” Burman suggests treating mon- find the living expenses of the average homeless person etary priorities with in New York ranges in practicality and the $400 to $500 survivor’s mentality – range. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs being the temPut Your Credit To plate. Meaning shelter, Work food, groceries – and Tapping into your do not sacrifice medicredit’s potential bencal insurance to pay off efits is another suggesdebt. tion Burman urges for “That kind of primost people, especially oritizing what’s important,” he said. “Even —Steven when choosing a credit paying for a car if the Burman card. “Try to find a credit car is getting you to card that ties to somework. It’s important to thing that has some make a list in terms of priorities what bills need to be paid real value in your life,” he said. first. If you got thrown into the “Maybe there’s a particular rewards middle of an environment, what’s program that is valuable to your the first thing you’re going to lifestyle.” Another simple but big money need?” Of course, the best solution is pre- saver is combing through monthly ventative measures – namely budget- bills with a fine-toothed comb, using customer service to explain charges ing. Burman is himself a loyal user of and fees for services that are never mint.com, which tracks expendi- used. “If you go through your bills with tures. The practice even saved his a representative, for almost 50 perown hide.

“I’m not saying don’t use your credit card; live within your means.”

cent of our clients, there’s always extra charges that don’t have to be there.” For Burman, knowing the limits of your income is the best tool against insolvency brought on by debt. “Do the budget first, really know realistically your lifestyle costs,” he said. “Looking at it on a monthly basis is probably the most manageable way to do it. If your income and

expenses are way off, that needs to be addressed.” “I’m not saying don’t use your credit card; live within your means. Live within a lifestyle you can afford. If you know what you can bring and you know what you’re spending, you can make adjustments.” Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127.

Who Can Help? The following is a list of credit repair agencies that provide services in Queens. Consumer Credit (800) 769-3571 consumercredit.com

Money Management International (866) 531.3442 moneymanagement.org

Credit Advocates (212) 260-2776 creditadvocates.com

Queens Credit Repair (347)494-0020 queenscreditrepair.org/

Freedom (800) 210-4622 freedomplus.com/

Profit Dynamics Group (516) 822-0300 profitdynamics.net/

In Charge Debt Solutions (866) 729-0065 incharge.org

Profit Solutions Group (212) 779-0907 eastallencreditunion.com/

Lexington Law (888) 596-3115 lexingtonlaw.com/

Standard & Poor’s (877) 772-5436 standardandpoors.com

Waste Equals Opportunity

To learn more, visit www.thinkgreen.com.

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 19

Waste is no longer something to get rid of, it’s a resource. As North America’s leading recycler, Waste Management processes over 8 million tons of paper, glass, plastic and metal each year – enough to fill the Empire State Building more than 12 times. By 2020, our goal is to nearly triple the amount of materials we recover through the use of innovative technologies that capture more of the value in waste.

Page 20 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Pay For Your House:

What A Borrower Needs To Know To Navigate Murky Mortgage Waters By JASON BANREY Owning a home is a huge part of the American Dream. Financing that goal can sometimes be a complicated process. Most first-time home buyers do not have enough money to pay for property upfront in cash, so acquiring a mortgage is necessary. Though most Americans aspire to own property one day, very few are prepared for the process and rarely understand the method of acquiring a mortgage. What Is A Mortgage? A mortgage is a real estate loan secured by real property by a debtor (the homebuyer) to a lender (commercial banks, mortgage bankers and brokers, credit unions, online lenders, stock brokerages or savings and loan associations) as a security for debt, on the condition that it will be repaid within a certain period of time. Typically a debt is incurred by purchasing a piece or property itself, but with a mortgage loan you are capable of establishing the best and most affordable timeline for you to make payments towards clearing the cost of your home.

Know Your Lenders Once you have figured out your financial status, the next step is to familiarize yourself with the mortgage industry. Knowing the difference between lenders and the types of mortgages available is a crucial part of the home buying process. Shopping around can help you get a gauge on where you stand and what options are available. Comparing several mortgage loans will establish which options are more reasonable within your financial status. The difference between a mortgage brokers and bank loan officers can be significant. Depending on your preference they both offer a wide variety of options. Banks, credit unions and various other lending institutions make loan officers available to you. Working to sell and process mortgages, created by the lender, loan officers assist you in finding a home loan that best fit your needs. Loans originate only from one source, the lender, and there tends to be a variety of loan types to choose from. A vast amount of mortgage brokers are accessible locally or online. Considered freelance agents, brokers are paid a fee to bring together both lenders and borrowers and usually work with numerous lenders to help home buyers scout out the best possible home loan on a case to case basis. Whether available locally or online, brokers can sometimes find

a lender in a different part of the country which can set you back. Without a local office you will not have the option of working with someone who is familiar with your neighborhood, classifications or terms used by local appraiser on a personal basis. Local banks sometimes provide the security of staff being familiar with area properties. Also mortgage brokers can sometimes find a lender willing to make an offer which a bank may refuse due to issues with credit. Despite the difference each is capable of connecting you with a reasonable mortgage. The choice is yours. To get a preview of how lenders may view your credit, loan qualification calculators are available. Before shopping around, check out HSH.com and Loanpage.com to determine your loan to value ratio. It will give you a perspective of what to expect before seeking a lender. Mortgage Types Before filling out the mortgage loan application it is a good idea to know what types of mortgages are available to you. Although each one of them has its advantages and disadvantages, there are many to choose from. A c c o rd i n g to M o r t g a g e c a l c u l a t o r. o rg , f i x ed

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 21

What Can You Afford? Before getting started it is essential to determine how much you are able to spend on a mortgage each month. One way to do this is by checking your credit score. A credit score helps lenders estimate the potential risk of the mortgage which will be offered to you. “It is extremely important to check your credit score way in advance,” said John Rodnon, senior mortgage officer of Sterling National Bank to home buyers interested in purchasing a home with a mortgage. To learn more about credit scores, and how to fix them, see our story on Page 18. Home buyers should give themselves the right amount of time to fix their credit since there are minimum credit scores which banks do not go below when approving a loan. “For those who have not paid their bills on time over a prolonged period it may be too late and some of them will not get approved,” Rodnon said. In general, to a lender, borrowers with a higher credit score are less likely to default on a loan. So knowing your financial history, before applying for a mortgage, can help determine which types of mortgages are right for you during the approval process. Your credit report will also help establish the interest rate and various terms of the loan your lender offers.

Before you think of getting that dream house, learn a bit about the types of loans available based on a number of factors, like how long you plan to keep it or if you’re going to rent it out.

mortgage rates are the most popular and account for 75 percent of all home loans. These particular loans remain the same throughout the entire life of the loan and the interest rate does not change for a prearranged duration of time. One benefit of a fixed-rate mortgage is that the homeowner always knows what the interest and principal payments will be for the entirety of the loan. One year adjustable rate mortgage (ARM) is a loan in which the interest rate changes after a “fixed period” after it is taken by a home buyer. Although the homeowner does pay an interest rate that is lower than a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage, it is considered riskier. They can make it difficult for households to budget their incomes as the rate changes every year. For potential buyers who intend to not own a home for more than 10 years, a 10/1 adjustable rate mortgage may be the best option. The 10/1 ARM comes with an initial interest rate that is fixed for the first decade of the loan. When this period is up, the rate adjusts annually for the remainder of the loan, which totals 30 years. Homeowners interested in this option get the stability of a 30-year mortgage at a cost that is lower than a fixed-rate mortgage of the same period. Lastly, balloon mortgages also offer a few benefits to home buyers but do so at a risk. Working like a fixedrate mortgage, balloon mortgage monthly payments of interest are lower because of the inflated payment at the end of the loan. Homeowners, however, can potentially put themselves at risk if they cannot manage to pay the balloon payment. This type of loan is partially responsible for the massive increase in defaults and home foreclosures in Queens. On the other hand balloon mortgages are ideal for borrowers who intend to sell the home before the due date of the payment – assuming they can find a seller. These are a few of the popular financing options currently available to home buyers. For a more detailed list go to Bankrate.com and search through the Mortgage section for more information. Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128.

Start, Improve Your Biz With QEDC

Page 22 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

By SETH BORNSTEIN The Dow Jones industrial average and the Standard & Poor’s 500 index each fell about 3.5 percent last week, while many Asian and European markets shrank as much as five percent. It’s time to get help, and the Queens Economic Development Corporation has organized a long list of free fall educational programs to help budding borough business owners hone their skills. Included in the scheduling is a special, free competition that will award $10,000 each to three participants who complete a training program and demonstrate a viable plan for their start-up businesses. Understanding the importance of “who you know,” QEDC’s Queens Women’s Business Center will host two breakfast networking opportunities. The events are part of the QWBC’s tireless efforts to empower women to fully participate in the economy by further developing their capacity to start and grow successful businesses, and by connecting them to other women business owners and business development resources in the borough. Also on deck is the QEDC Business Blueprint Series, a set of workshops, training sessions and networking events designed to help en-

A list of QEDC’s fall programs is below. For more information and registration, please log onto queensny.org or call (718) 263-0546. StartUP! Business Plan Competition Sponsored by Citi Foundation and the Queens Library with support from the Queens Chamber of Commerce and Webline Designs. The competition will award three businesses with $10,000 while providing training in how to start a small business. The competition is open Seth Bornstein urges borough businesses to to all eligible Queens busitake advantage of the QEDC. nesses seeking to start or expand their operations in trepreneurs and established busi- three categories: Innovation; Foodness owners start or expand their Based; and Social Enterprise. Orientations began Sept. 14, but businesses. And last, but certainly not least, participants can register and take QEDC will offer free Community classes online. Classes are free when Clinics, which will impart informa- taken at the Queens Library or $10 tion on everything from compliance each online. with New York State’s regulations to Women’s Business Center Power running a business. Breakfast Nobody argues that the worldwide Learn how improve your business economy is passing through a perilous moment. But there are still many skills. Staying on Track - Oct. 13. opportunities for dedicated profes- Money: How to use it wisely – Dec. sionals to thrive, and QEDC is ready, 8. Held at Queens Borough Hall at 8:30 a.m. Cost is $15 per breakfast. willing and able to help.

Business Blueprint Series It is important to gather as much information as possible in order to make educated decisions. As most people’s time is limited, these onenight seminars pack in a great deal of information on specific topics. This fall, the Business Blueprint Series will offer classes in the following areas: Improving Your Sales Pitch; Negotiating for Better Results; Marketing Your Product or Service; and Learning How to Use Social Networking to Your Advantage. Classes are held at the Entrepreneur Space in Long Island City. Negotiation (Oct. 26), Marketing (Nov. 9) and Advanced Social Networking (Nov. 16). Each class runs from 6-8 p.m. and costs $25. Community Clinics Free seminars to help you gain the knowledge you need to succeed. Restaurant Boot Camp – Oct. 24. Social Enterprises – Oct. 25. Understanding NY Labor Law – Nov. 14. Tax tips for small businesses - Nov .13. Classes are held at the Entrepreneur Space in Long Island City. All classes are free, but registration is required. Seth Bornstein is the Executive Director of the Queens Economic Development Corporation.

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All locations offer the following:

Consider Selecting A Credit Union It’s important to note that, in the wake of the financial turbulence experienced over the past few years, credit unions continue to be a safe haven for those trying to choose the best place to put their savings or seek loans. “There’s been turbulence and confusion in the financial arena recently, and it can be difficult for consumers to make sense of it all,” said Alan Kaufman, CEO/treasurer of Melrose Credit Union. “What’s important to know is that their local

credit union remains well-capitalized and fully insured, making it a safe place for their money and for loans.” Also key to keep in mind is that, while credit unions are very different than banks, they do offer the same level of security as FDIC-insured banks. Funds of Melrose Credit Union members are guaranteed under the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund to at least $250,000, with higher total coverage if you have a combination of accounts. There is also separate insurance coverage up

to $250,000 for IRA accounts. “Our commitment to our members’ long-term financial health is what drives us to lend responsibly and pursue new ways to offer lower rates on loans, higher rates on savings and highly-touted personal service,” said Kaufman. “Now more than ever, people are looking for a financial institution that values trust, responsibility and long-term benefits. It’s time they experience the credit union difference for themselves.”

Established in 1922, Melrose Credit Union is a local, not-for-profit cooperative financial institution, owned and controlled by its members. Because they answer to their members, not a large conglomerate or a paid board of directors, they can focus on what’s important: The credit union industry “people helping people” philosophy. If you have questions, contact Melrose Credit Union at (718) 6589800 or visit them on the internet at melrosecu.org.

Business Encouraged To Go BIG By JASON BANREY Networking is all about creating relationships. In business, the relationships developed have the potential to produce profitable rewards. Harnessing that synergy has been at the core of Business Networking International’s (BNI) philosophy for more than 25 years, proving that givers can always gain.

Since 1985, BNI has brought together business professionals throughout the world, developing more than 11 million referrals that have generated $6 billion in business. “We are the world’s largest business referral and networking organization,” said Tim Houston, area director consultant for BNI New

Three Tips For Today From Keller Williams

Page 24 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

Rent vs. Buy For those who are confident in their job and have their personal finances in order now is the time to buy. The combination of home prices reduced drastically from their highs. Interest rates are hovering near four percent for a 30-year mortgage. This is one of the most affordable times to own a home or apartment. Buyers will be surprised to find their monthly payments including tax deductions and future appreciation of the property to be the right choice. Refinance? Call a mortgage professional to see if you qualify for refinancing and what the monthly savings will be. If your current rate is at least one per-

cent higher than today’s rates, then refinancing would definitely be worthwhile. Consider closing costs and the length of time you plan to own the property to fully understand if refinancing makes sense. Earn Income As prices on multi-family homes have come down and rental apartments are in demand, owning a rental property makes more sense than in years past. This type of asset can help balance your volatile stock portfolio and low-to-no-income producing bank or money market accounts. Speak to a real estate professional so you can fully understand what being a landlord entails and how you can choose a good investment property.

York City Outer Boroughs Region. One of BNI’s key elements to success is that only one person per professional classification or specialty can join each chapter. “This allows members to speak freely about their business without having their competitors in the room,” Houston said of weekly meetings which are currently taking place throughout the borough at the organization’s chapters in Rego Park, Bayside and New Hyde Park. Since the first chapter was created in 2002, the group has migrated throughout the borough along with the businesses and their members. Despite its movements, it has continued to maintain an influential presence within many local economies, helping small businesses weather the recession with an extensive Rolodex of contacts. “BNI is about the development and cultivation of relationships,” said Houston, who also recently published “ The World’s Worst Networker,” an Amazon Top Three bestseller. In order to be a successful member, BNI stresses that each business owner must exemplify three roles: employer, employee and customer. “It is important to be willing to give business first before you expect to get it,” said Houston of the networking organization’s efforts to educate. “Our members are trained

that they are always standing in front of a potential referral.” On Oct. 6, BNI will hold an informational meeting at the Flagship Diner, located at 138-40 Queens Blvd., for the borough’s newest chapter in the Briarwood/Jamaica area called BNI Business Is Great. As the President and CEO of Member Brokerage Services at Melrose Credit Union, Alan Plafker has witnessed members reap the benefits of networking. “One member made $20,000 last year alone from referrals,” Plafker said about the networking organization’s strong referral system. “Whatever someone gives, somebody gets. It’s a two-way street.” Although all members from local businesses are welcome, Plafker made an emphasis on real estate agents, florists, dentists and chiropractors, as well as home improvement contractors. “The reason we’re creating a new group is to open up opportunities to different professions which aren’t already represented,” Plafker said. “Even with a few people it is possible to generate a lot of business.” For more information about the informational meeting or to RSVP call (718) 523-1300, Ext. 1082 or send an email to AlanP@MBSLLC.com Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128.

How To Land The Right Car Loan By JASON BANREY Before buying a home, the first major purchase many will make in life is an automobile. Aside from riding public transportation, having a car is the next single most prevalent form of transportation in New York City. Prior to purchasing your majestic stallion it is important to get a grasp of how you expect to pay for your pony. Without cash in hand, a car loan is likely to be one of your options. Before applying for a loan it is important â&#x20AC;&#x153;you

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www.queenstribune.com â&#x20AC;˘ Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 25

locate various resources online to help them find out where they stand financially. Acquiring a credit score gives consumers the ability to budget their monthly expenses in relation to how much they expect their car payments to be. Especially since credit scores heavily rely on the type of loan one is capable of qualifying for. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Currently, over 95 percent of car buyers within the Greater New York region are looking for some sort of finances for both new and used vehicles,â&#x20AC;? Schienberg said. Since the financial crisis hit in 2008, the volume of car sales has increased and the amount of loans being doled out by lenders has followed suit. Although the problem seriously affected lending to home owners, the amount of those financing their vehicles that defaulted on their car loans was less than 1 percent. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is why weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re seeing banks that are cautious about lending mortgages but have great rates for those looking to finance their vehicles,â&#x20AC;? Schienberg said. Garrick Huie of Koeppel Mazda, located at 5701 Northern Blvd., agrees that lending is not as tight as it was in the past â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but it admits borrowing still remains tough. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Each customer is different,â&#x20AC;? Huie said of the diverse demographic who come in to his dealership, interested in purchasing a vehicle. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Although some customers may have a great credit score they may not have a long history, which can also affect the type of loan they qualify for.â&#x20AC;? Although car loans can be obtained from a credit union, bank, or an online lender, car dealerships now offer a one-stop shop for consumers looking for both a car loan and their dream vehicle. As a sales consultant, Huie helps car buyers acquire the best possible loan from special financial institutions and prime banks associated with the manufacturer on an individual basis on site. His dual position gives him the opportunity to help customers figure out the best options to finance their choices. Before heading to any dealership, Huie recommends new buyers who do not know their credit scores to bring in the same documents they would as if they were going in to a bank: current pay stubs, proof of address and a driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s license. By doing so customers could not only find out their credit score on the same day but also walk away with a vehicle of their choice if their credit score is favorable to the manufacturerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lender. For more tips on financing and a car buyers guide to purchasing a vehicle go to gnyada.com. Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128.

understand what your needs and finances are,â&#x20AC;? said Mark Schienberg, President of the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA). As a representative of 425 dealers in nine counties throughout New York State, Schienberg says it is important for consumers to do their homework. One way to get started is by getting an accurate reading of what your credit score is. All consumers are entitled to a free credit report and can

Page 26 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Tax Tips: Professional Deductions By REYNALDO L. PADILLA Consider this scenario: You are a blue collar worker and new to the United States. You will be filing your first, second or third year income tax return but have no idea of what tax deductions you can avail yourself of. So you decide to seek professional help, but do not know how or who to approach. You seek this professional help through referrers and you find three possible sources for help as follows: H & R Block, which has an accountant with local education; a CPA from another country who has

learned to prepare income tax returns but has no formal schooling in the U.S.; or a CPA who was licensed to practice in the State where you work. Now you are baffled as to who to choose. To help you out, here is some basic information about the preparers. At H & R Block they train their tax preparers for three months and give them a certificate that they are ready to prepare your income tax returns. They could be teachers, a high school graduate, accountants or housewives and retirees supplementing their income. The CPA or accountant from another country

www.queenstribune.com • Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 Tribune Page 27

who decided to engage in income tax preparation with a formal or home-based office may be selftaught on U.S. tax laws, or may have been have been trained through a firm like H&R Block, but without a formal education in the United States. The CPA whose license is acquired through education, examination and public accounting experience in New York as required by the state, is bound by a code of professional conduct; their license to practice the profession (including the preparation of income taxes) is regulated by the State. Their license can be suspended, revoked or terminated. With sound judgment, you would select the professional or the CPA as you would a Doctor of Medicine rather than an unlicensed doctor. With the professional you are assured of sound and legal advice on income tax preparation and deductions available to you as well as the life situations you will get into as the years progress. Some possible deductions include: • Licensing and license renewals • Industry-specific insurance • Union dues and professional association fees • Professional organization dues and professional journals • Cost of education required for your job • Cost of education to upgrade your skills required for your job • Travel costs (including bus, train, taxi, car expenses, tolls, parking fees) incurred between two places of work or for education purposes. • Protective clothing such as safety shoes, glasses and special clothing • Tools, equipment, and supplies for your job (watch, answering machine, cell phone) • Job search expenses • Travel, transportation, meals and lodging expenses necessary for finding new employment • Moving expenses when necessary for business reasons • Cost of compulsory uniforms, special clothing and shoes required for the job • Upkeep expenses (including laundry, cleaning) for uniforms and work clothing • Child or dependent care (partially deductible) • Political contributions • Computers, software, calculators and electronic organizers • Books and professional journals • Cost of attending conferences, seminars and training • Home telephone bill expenses related to your job • Donations to registered charities • Mortgage interest and property taxes • Closing cost when selling a home and moving for business-related reasons • Tax return preparation fees from the previous year • Internet connection fees when used for email and research related to work or continuing studies • Self education expenses (including books, course fees, stationery and equipment) as long as related to the job. • Taxation and accountancy fees • Investment expenses and bank charges (including financial planning fees) • Income protection insurance (Disability premium) • State and local income taxes • Medical and dental expenses not covered by insurance It would be advisable for you to keep receipts for all purchases related to work even if they are not in the list above. It would also reduce the fees paid to the tax preparer if you can organize or summarize your deductions by expense category before submitting them to the CPA professional. Reynaldo L. Padilla, CPA, is a Partner in Padilla & Company, LLP.

Time To Buy, But Still Use Caution By JOSEPH OROVIC Depending on your vantage point from within the real estate market, the current state of the economy can be a benefit or burden. Homeowners, in general, are seeing their property values stagnate or even decline across the borough. And though it may be tempting to label this stretch of bad luck as a buyer’s market, tougher lending restrictions have made life hard for potential buyers. So what is one to do? And more importantly, who has the upper hand? According to Daniel Karatzas, an associate broker for the local Boeaudoin Realty Group, a change in perception may help one make the right decision. “People behave in a way that’s always not rational,” he said. “People who are more emotional always get caught up in things.” First, the market has slowed its pace of transactions significantly since the economic calamity of 2008. By Karatzas’ own account, the number of homes sold has fallen by 40 to 50 percent over the past three years. Larger homes and units in a better condition – Karatzas specializes mainly in co-op and condo sales –

retain their values with more consistency. The same cannot be said for other homes. “The properties that aren’t in the best location or in the best condition benefit the most from an up market,” Karatzas said, adding they are also among the first to take a dive when the market turns sour. This leaves buyers with good deals in neighborhoods and areas that are not necessarily ideal. But factor in a bizarrely strict-but-generous credit market and Karatzas said buying could be a reward for those with the correct mindset. Mortgage rates are at their lowest since 1952. Granted, banks and other lending institutions have increased their emphasis on restrictions and standards, making it more difficult to get a mortgage. But if the right buyer qualifies, they can face years of cheap mortgage payments, due to stricter standards that require more money down and a greater burden of proof on income. The rules can seem a bit arbitrary at time though, Karatzas cautioned. “We’ve had kooky requests and 65 conditions on a loan commitment,” he said.

This has weeded out many buyers who once flooded the market, flush with ambition and debt – and severely detached from reality. Their droves once pushed the real estate market up. But in their absence, calm has resumed. “When lending criteria tighten, the number of qualified buyers declines, then the demand side declines,” Karatzas said. Regardless of your market and the area you buy in, it could spell out beaucoup savings and a smart investment over the long run, according to Karatzas. “There are a lot of psychological expectations in buyer’s feelings and willingness to pay,” Karatzas said. Your best bet, should you want to buy, is to assess how much a lender is willing to give you – before driving around searching for “For Sale” signs on lawns, according to Karatzas. “What they should do is talk to a lender and get pre-approved unless they feel they can pay all cash,” he said. “That will at least indicate to them what the bank will be willing to lend them.” Armed with that information, potential buyers can then hit the streets

or find a Realtor and shop around. Knowing your budget on a home instantly limits your search to something realistic. “You have to figure out what properties work for you financially. I would say people are more realistic now and can’t literally overspend,” Karatzas said. Preparing to sell? Be sure to get a sure dose of reality before hand. Things are not as rosy as they were half a decade ago, Karatzas said. “By now, because we’re three years into their financial crisis, unless they’re delusional, they know the reality of things. It’s the Realtor’s job to provide [sellers] context for what’s going on in the market so they can set expectations on what’s the asking price,” he said. But do not assume you can ride out the rough patch back to big profits on your investment. “If and when things hopefully turn around and rates rise, that affects the cost of ownership and causes prices to drop,” Karatzas said. “There’s no guarantee the environment will get better.” Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queeenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127.

Page 28 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

Many Choose To Keep On Renting By JASON BANREY If you are living in Queens, most likely you are either renting a space to live or paying a mortgage on the home you are living in. If you do not fit in either of those two categories, it is going to be a cold winter for you. The debate between renting and buying has been going on for ages, and in a era when everyone is looking to save as much money as possible, it can be difficult to choose between the two. No need to fear, there are options for prospective buyers looking to get into a nice space that won’t break the bank. Michael Terry is a Certified Financial Planner with MTP Advisors in Maspeth. He has been in financial planning business since 1998, helping Queens’ residents make the right decisions when it comes to renting and buying. According to Terry, a variety of factors go into the decisions facing buyers and renters, all based on a mix of different circumstances. Generally he recommends buying a home because it pays off in the long run. But for individuals who cannot meet the necessary down payment and who do not have a good credit score, options may be limited. Seeing a financial planner can help individuals make sense out of what their financial capabilities are when considering where they want to go. “What happens all too often is

The decision to rent or buy your home rests solely in the hands of the tenant. people buy a house and it turns out being too expensive for them.” said Terry. Renting, overall, has fewer initial costs than owning a home. Typically rent is steady for the average renter. Although rent may increase due to inflation, tenants usually sign an agreement that states their steady monthly price. Individuals just out of college may not have too many options either, which makes renting the only viable decision, after considering moving back in to their parents’ house. Buying a house presents a long list of costs. For example, the purchase

price of the home, a down payment, a loan amount (if you are lending from the bank), loan interest rates, homeowner’s insurance, property taxes and maintenance costs – just to name a few. Terry stresses it all depends on the individual. If you have enough money for the down payment and your credit score is good, buying a home will give you a sense of ownership and provide you with an investment that may reap gains in the long run. “If you can’t pay the down payment you will not get the mortgage.” said Terry. “It’s harder to get a mort-

gage now. Banks should ease up a bit in the coming years when it comes to giving out loans. But that transition will be slow.” Terry is optimistic about mortgage trends in Queens and is standing by to help individuals make the right decisions. Whether you are looking to rent or buy, Queens has plenty of space that is looking to be occupied. “Although I wouldn’t say it’s cheaper, but [Queens has] places with value, space, transportation, good conditions, good buildings, etc,” said Adriano Hultman, Associate Broker for Prudential Douglas Elliman Real Estate. Many neighborhoods in Queens are experiencing rejuvenation. “Astoria, Long Island City, Forest Hills, Sunnyside, Woodside, Flushing, Bayside, Elmhurst and others offer great living conditions.” said Hultman. In one of these areas the average rental per month can range from $1,100 in low end to $1,900 or more in a one-bedroom, brand-new elevator building. “As far as price of apartments go, there are co-ops in the market from $140,000 or less and one-bed condos from $240,000 up to $600,000.” said Hultman. Renting is renting, and you’ve got to live somewhere. However, in the long run, buying a home will give buyers a sense of ownership in a growing borough that has something for everyone.

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How To Make And Stick To A Budget Having a family and maintaining a steady, foolproof budget can oftentimes be a difficult, stress-inducing process. Here are some tips about how to budget your money wisely for the economical benefit of your household. Hold on to every financial statement you can. This includes bank statements, investment accounts, recent utility bills and any information regarding a source of income or expense. The key for this process is to create a monthly average, so the more information you can round up the better. Record each and every source of your income. If you are self-employed or have any miscellaneous sources of income, be sure to record these as well. If your income is in the form of a regular paycheck where taxes are automatically deducted, then using the net income, or take home pay, amount is fine. Record this total income as a monthly amount. Create a list of monthly expenses. Write down a list of all the

expected expenses you plan to incur over the course of a month. This includes a mortgage payment, car payments, auto insurance, groceries, utilities, entertainment, dry cleaning, auto insurance, retirement or college savings and essentially everything you spend money on. Make sure to categorize them in an easily readable and relatable manner. Break expenses into two categories: fixed and variable. Fixed expenses are those that stay relatively the same each month and are required parts of your way of living. They included expenses such as your mortgage or rent, car payments, cable and/or internet service, trash pickup, credit card payments and so on. These expenses for the most part are essential, yet not likely to change in the budget. Variable expenses are the type that will change from month to month and include items such as groceries, gasoline, entertainment, eating out and gifts, to name a few. This category will be important when making adjustments.

Total your monthly income and monthly expenses. If your end result shows more income than expenses you are off to a good start. This means you can prioritize this excess to other areas of your budget, such as retirement savings or paying more on credit cards to eliminate that debt faster. If you are showing a higher expense column than income, it means some changes will have to be made. Make adjustments to expenses. If you have accurately identified and listed all of your expenses, the ultimate goal would be to have your income and expense columns to be equal. This means all of your income

is accounted for and budgeted for a specific expense. If you are in a situation where expenses are higher than income, you should look at your variable expenses to find areas to cut. Since these expenses are typically non-essential, it should be easy to shave a few dollars in a few areas to bring you closer to your income. Review your budget monthly. It is important to review your budget on a regular basis to make sure you are staying on track. After the first month take a minute to sit down and compare the actual expenses versus what you had created in the budget. This will show you where you did well and where you may need to improve.

Monthly Budget Planner

Page 30 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

Things To Know 1. Budgets are a necessary evil. They’re the only practical way to get a grip on your spending - and to make sure your money is being used the way you want it to be used. 2. Creating a budget generally requires three steps. - Identify how you’re spending money now. - Evaluate your current spending and set goals that take into account your long-term financial objectives. - Track your spending to make sure it stays within those guidelines. 3. Use software to save grief. If you use a personal-finance program such as Quicken or Microsoft Money, the built-in budget-making tools can create your budget for you. 4. Don’t drive yourself nuts. One drawback of monitoring your spending by computer is that it encourages overzealous attention to detail. Once you determine which categories of spending can and should be cut (or expanded), concentrate on those categories and worry less about other aspects of your spending. 5. Watch out for cash leakage. If withdrawals from the ATM machine evaporate from your pocket without apparent explanation, it’s time to keep better records. In general, if you find yourself returning to the ATM more than once a week or so, you need to examine where that cash is going. 6. Spending beyond your limit is dangerous. But if you do, you have got plenty of company. Government figures show that many households with total income of $50,000 or less are spending more than they bring in.

This doesn’t make you an automatic candidate for bankruptcy - but it is definitely a sign you need to make some serious spending cuts. 7. Beware of luxuries dressed up as necessities. If your income does not cover your costs, then some of your spending is probably for luxuries - even if you’ve been considering them to be filling a real need. 8. Tithe yourself. Aim to spend no more than 90 percent of your income. That way, you’ll have the other 10 percent left to save for your big-picture items. 9. Don’t count on windfalls. When projecting the amount of money you can live on, don’t include dollars that you can’t be sure you will receive, such as year-end bonuses, tax refunds or investment gains. 10. Beware of spending creep. As your annual income climbs from raises, promotions and smart investing, do not start spending for luxuries until you are sure that you are staying ahead of inflation. It is better to use those income increases as an excuse to save more.

The above chart is a basic spreadsheet for calculating a monthly household budget. Feel free to clip it out, copy it and use it to help keep track of monthly expenses.

Credit Check:

Understanding How Credit Works Makes Gaining It An Easier Task (continued from page 17) date score information and credit report information. Credit Score Compilation Credit reports are put together by credit bureaus that receive information from your lenders and credit card companies beginning the moment you sign up for a credit card or a line of credit. Credit reports and ultimately credit scores are determined using a number of different factors: 35 percent of the report is based on payment history. Late payments, liens, collections, repossessions, bankruptcies, foreclosures and settlements can also negatively affect this part of the score. The more recent the factor, the more it effects the score. It is here that on-time payments in full can positively affect a report. Another 30 percent of the score is based on debt. There are three different types of debt: revolving, which includes the amount of debt

on your credit card at any given time; installment, which is the debt you have on a mortgage or a car loan; and open, which includes any payment that needs to made in full at the end of the month. Further, a credit report uses the length of your history (15 percent of total), the number of different forms of credit (10 percent) and how often you’ve opened new lines of credit (10 percent) in order to compile a score. What Causes Change? There are some obvious factors that would change a credit score, but the amount each feature changes the score can vary. Simply making a late payment does hurt your credit score, but if the payment is made in full, it’s likely the damage would be minimal. Bankruptcy, foreclosures, defaults and settlements can hurt your credit score far more. Shorter credit history hurts a

credit score as lenders would still be unsure of your ability to pay. For example, a person with a credit score of 794 is likely to be hurt if their oldest credit account is less than the average for someone with that score, which FICO says is currently 19 years, with the average account being six to 12 years old. A person with short history has not shown a long enough trend of responsibility to eliminate risk. Also, if you go long periods of time without using a credit card, it can put in question your ability to pay. A lender will wonder if you avoiding using credit cards because you can’t afford payments. Missed payments hurt your credit score far more when it is high than when it is already low. For example, if you are credit score is 794, it will likely hurt because 93 percent of credit users with that score have never missed a payment, according to FICO. Trying to open too many lines of

credit can also hurt your score. Lenders will wonder if you are seeking credit because you are short on cash at the moment and want to defer payment until later. Maybe you’re out of a job or under too much debt and are just buying some time. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125.

Credit Reporting Agencies Equifax (888) 202-4025, equifax.com Experian (888) 397-3742 experian.com/ TransUnion (800) 493-2392 transunion.com/

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Page 32 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Queens Today ENTERTAINMENT Sunday, Oc tober 9 Quintet of Americas performs at the NY Hall of Science. Free with museum admission. 6990005. OPEN MIC Sunday, Oc tober 9 at 2 at the Central library. SAY YOU HEAR Sunday, October 9 “Say You Heard My Echo” theater performance of spoken word at F l u s h i n g To w n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700.

OPEN MIC Mondays, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 evening of poetry at 7:30 at Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Turnpike. STAMP SHOW Sundays, Oc tober 23, November 20, December 18 Bayside Stamp Show at the Ramada Inn, 220-33 Northern Blvd., Bayside 10-4:30. Free admission.

HEALTH YOGA CLASSES Saturdays 10-11 and Sundays 9:30-10:30 workshops on Yoga. Other classes include meditation, Ayurvedic, yoga philosophy, Sanskirt language. Hispanic Chamber of Commerce in Jackson Heights. 646-912-1885. NARCOTICS ANONYMOUS 7 days a week. 962-6244. MARIJUANA ANONYMOUS Sundays 7-8:30 at Zion Episcopal Church, 143-01 Northern Blvd., entrance on 44 th Avenue, room 5, Little Neck. WAITANKUNG Sundays at 2. Waitankung is a great total-body workout. Join these ancient Chinese exercise classes in the Flushing Hospital/Medical Center auditorium on 45 th Avenue between Parsons and Burling. Free. Jimmy 7-10pm 347-2156 information. CANCER SUPPORT Mondays, Oc tober 3, November 7, December 5 Franklin Hospital’s Cancer Support Group meets 2-4 in the cafeteria. 516-256-6478. STRESS LESS Mondays, Oc tober 3, 17, 24, 31 Achieve more and stress less through the power of meditation at the Flushing library at 6. NICOTINE ANONYMOUS Mondays 6:45-8:00 at the Center for Tobacco Control, 2 2 5 C o m m u n i t y D r i ve , Great Neck. 516-510-7826. TAI CHI Mondays and Thursdays at 11 at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 670-1695. $5 a class. GAM-ANON Tuesdays Free Synagogue of Flushing and Zion Episcopal Church. Wednesdays All Saints Episcopal Church in Bayside, First Presbyterian Church in Forest Hills, Church on the Hill in Flushing and United Methodist Church in Middle Village. Thursdays Free Synagogue of Flushing and Zion Episcopal Church. Call 1-877-6642469. CAREGIVERS SUPPORT E ve r y Tu e s d a y We ste r n Queens Caregiver Network in Sunnyside. 5:30-6:30. 784-6173, ext. 431. CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Every Tuesday 3:30-4:30 at the Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 26 th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886. EATING HABITS Wednesday, Oc tober 5 You Are What You Eat… at 6 at the Flushing library. ZUMBA

Wednesdays the Sisterhood of Bay Terrace Jewish Cent e r , 1 3 - 0 0 2 0 9 th S t r e e t , Bayside, will hold Zumba Fitness classes from 7:30-8:30. $8 members, $10 others. 428-6363. YOGA Wednesdays 5:30-6:30 at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 6701695. $10 class. OA Thursdays at the Howard Beach library at 10:30. FREE YOGA Thursdays, Oc tober 6, 13, 20, 27 at the Queensboro Hill librar y. Register. ZUMBA Thursday, Oc tober 6 at the Lefrak Cit y library. Register. OA Fridays 6:30-8:30 at Unit y Center of Flushing, 42-11 1 5 5 th S t r e e t . S a t u r d a y s 10:30-noon at Resurrection Ascension, Feely Hall, 85-18 61 st Road, Rego Park. Beginners meeting except the last Friday of each month, which is a writing meeting. CO-DEPENDENTS ANON. Fridays 10-11:45 at Resurrection Ascension Pastoral C e n t e r , 8 5 - 1 8 6 1 st R o a d , Rego Park. Women only.

EXHIBIT QUEENS COLLEGE ART Through Oc tober 14 “This is Personal: Michael Ragsdale’s 9/11 exhibition. Oc tober 20 through January 13 “In Perpetuum: The Fall: Will Corwin” exhibition. Queens College Art Center. 997-3770. FLUSHING COUNCIL Through November 14 “Endangered Art/ists: China.” November 19 through January 7 “Korean Painting Exh i b i t i o n : A Wa l k T h ro u g h Nature.” Permanent displays include “Jazz Live!”, “Flushing Town Hall:” Fact or Folklore,” an historical exhibition on Flushing Town Hall, “Legends of the Queens Jazz Trail” 463-7700. HALL OF SCIENCE Through January 15 Wild Minds: What Animals Really Think. Adults $11, children 2017 $8, college students and seniors $8. 699-0005. MOVING IMAGE Through January 16 Jim Henson’s Fantastic World. Museum of the Moving Image, 35 th Avenue and 37 th Street, Astoria. $15 adults. 777-6888.

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AMAZING MAZE Through Oc tober 30 the Amazing Maize Maze3 114:30 at the Queens Count y Farm Museum, 73-50 Little Neck Parkway. $9, $5 children. 347-3276. SOUNDS OF COLOMBIA T h r o u g h O c to b e r 3 0 a t Thalia Spanish Theatre in Sunnyside. 729-3880. MOVING IMAGE Through January 16 Jim Henson Screenings and Programs. Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 th Avenue, Astoria. 777-6800. $15. JAZZ & R&B Saturday, Oc tober 1 Jazz, r&b, Brazilian music at 2 at the Flushing library. STREET FAIR S a t u r d ay, O c to b e r 1 S t . Paul’s International Lutheran Church’s 5 th Annual International Street Fair 10-4 at the corner of 263 rd Street and Union Turnpike, Floral Park. Blessing of the pets, entertainment, games, vendors, more. BOYZ OF SUMMER Saturday, Oc tober 1 film at F l u s h i n g To w n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700. APPLE FESTIVAL Sunday, Oc tober 2 at the Queens Count y Farm Museum 11-5. 73-50 Little Neck Parkway. Free. SUNDAY CONCERT Sunday, Oc tober 2 Dominican Folk and Modern Merengue at the Central library at 3. LIVE JAZZ Sundays through December 18 at 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans from 5-9. $5 donation. 347-262-1169. BOLLYWOOD M o n d a y, O c to b e r 3 Rhythms of Bollywood at 6 at the Jackson Heights library. BINGO Tuesdays at 7:15 at American Mart yrs Church, church basement, 216-01 Union Tu r n p i k e , B a y s i d e . 4 6 4 4 5 8 2 . Tu e s d ay s at 7:15 (doors open 6) at the Rego Park Jewish Center, 97-30 Queens Blvd. 459-1000.$3 admission includes 12 games. SCRABBLE Tuesdays at the Fresh Meadows library at 1. GREEK FESTIVAL T h u r s d ay , O c to b e r 6 through Sunday, Oc tober 9 at the Greek Orthodox Shrine Church, 196-10 Northern Bld., Flushing. Thursday 6-10, Friday 6-12, Saturday 12-12 and Sunday 12-8. Free. LIVE JAZZ Fridays through December 13 at 180-25 Linden Blvd.., St. Albans. 347-262-1169 ticket information. BANANAGRAM/SCRABBLE Fridays at the Windsor Park library at 2. GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays at 2 at the Hillcrest library. CHINA Saturday, Oc tober 8 Celebration of Centennial Commemoration of China with music and dance at the Flushing library at 2. QUINTET OF AMERICAS

Queens Today MEETINGS MEN’S CLUB SOCCER Tuesday evenings at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 2637000. FRESH MEADOW CAMERA Tuesdays the Fresh Meadows Camera Club meets. 917-612-3463. ADVANCED WRITERS Tuesdays Advanced Bayside Writers’ Group meets at 6:30 in the Terrace Diner,

TALKS

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FINANCIAL EMPOWER. Monday, Oc tober 3 Financial Empowerment Center at the LIC library at 2. BOOK CLUB Monday, Oc tober 3 “Glass Castle” discussed at 2 at the Windsor Park library. LONG TERM CARE Thursday, Oc tober 6 at the East Elmhurst library at 7. FLUSHING BOOK Friday, Oc tober 7 “House of the Spirits.” Friday, November 4 “The Help.” Friday, December 2 “The Stranger.” Flushing Book Discussion Groups at 1 at the Flushing library. HILLCREST Tuesday, October 11 “Sill Alice” will be discussed at the Hillcrest library at 2.

212-97 26 th Avenue, upper level. Get feedback on your writing and develop your skills. HAM RADIO CLUB Tuesdays, Oc tober 4, November 1, December 6 Emergency Communications Service meets in Briarwood. 357-6851. 111 TH PRECINCT Tuesday, Oc tober 4 111 t h Precinct Council meeting at 7:30 in the precinct meeting room, 45-06 215yth Street, Bayside. TALK OF THE TOWN Tuesdays, Oc tober 4, 18, November 1, 15, December 6, 20 learn the art of public speaking in St. Albans at 7:15. 640-7092. TOASTMASTERS We d n e s d ay s , O c to b e r 5 , 19, November 2, 16, December 7, 21 learn the art of public speaking at the Voices of Rochdale Toastmasters Club in Jamaica. 9780732. FLUSHING CAMERA We d n e s d ay s , O c to b e r 5 , 19, November 2, 16, 30, December 7, 21 Flushing Camera Club meets at 7:15 at Flushing Hospital. 4790643. KNIGHTS OF PY THIAS We d n e s d ay s , O c to b e r 5 , 19, November 2, 16, De-

cember 7, 21 Queensview Lodge 433 meets in Whitestone. 917-754-3093. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT We d n e s d ay s , O c to b e r 5 , November 2, December 7 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 175-20 174 th Street, Fresh Meadows at 7:30. WOMANSPACE Wednesdays Womanspace, a discussion group devoted to issues concerning women, meets 1-3 at the Great Neck Senior Center, 80 Grace Avenue. New members welcome. LIBRARY MEETING Thursday, Oc tober 6 Administrative Committee of the Board of Trustees meet at 5:30 at the Central library. MEN’S GROUP Thursdays, Oc tober 6, 20, November 3, 17, December 1 Queens Pride House Men’s Group from 7-9 for gay, bi, trans men. WOMEN’S GROUP Fridays the Woman’s Group of Jamaica Estates meets at noon. Call 461-3193 for information. AMERICAN LEGION Mondays, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 American Legion Post 510 meets at St. Robert Bellamine in Bayside Hills. 428-2895.

FLEA MARKETS CATHOLIC VETS Mondays, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 American Mart yrs Catholic Wa r Ve t e r a n s Po s t 1 7 7 1 meets in Bayside. 468-9351. TELEPHONE PION. Tuesdays, Oc tober 10, November 8, December 13 Te l e p h o n e P i o n e e r s o f America meet in College Point. 463-4535. VFW 4787 Mondays, Oc tober 10, 24, November 14, 21, December 12, 26 Whitestone VFW Community Post meets. 7460540. LIONS CLUB Tuesdays, Oc tober 11, November 8, December 13 Ravenswood Lion Club meets at 6:30 at Ricardo’s by the Bridge, 21-01 21 st Avenue, Astoria. DEMOCRATIC CLUB Thursdays, October 13, November 10, December 8 Jefferson Democratic Club meets at the Clearview Gold Course Clubhouse at 7:30. ILION BLOCK ASSN. Fridays, Oc tober 14, November 11, December 9 Ilion Area Block Association meets at the African Center fo r C o m m u n i t y E m p owerment, 111-92A Farmers Blvd., St. Albans at 7:30. BELLA ITALIA MIA

Sundays, Oc tober 16, November 13, December 11 Bella Italia Mia meets at Christ the King High School, 68-02 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village. 426-1240. P-FLAG Sundays, Oc tober 16, November 20, December 18 PFLAG, a support group for parents, families and friends of lesbians and gays, meet in Forest Hills. 271-6663. AUBURNDALE Tuesdays, Oc tober 18, November 15 Auburndale Association meets at St. Kevin’s, 45-21 194 th Street at 7:30. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT Tuesdays, Oc tober 18, November 15, December 20 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 175-20 174 th Street, Fresh Meadows at 7:30. JEWISH VETS Sunday, Oc tober 23 Jewish Wa r Ve te ra n s o f t h e U SA Lipsky/Blum Post meet Garden Jewish Center. 4634742.

RELIGIOUS BAYSIDE JEWISH Thursday and Friday, September 29, 30 morning Rosh Hashanah service3. Oc tober 7, 8 Yom Kippur service. 352-7900.

FLEA MARKET Saturdays and Sundays through Oc tober 1 at Faith Mission, 114-40 Van Wyck Expressway. PARISH FLEA Saturday, Oc tober 8 9:304:00 at Incarnation School auditorium and grounds, Francis Lewis Blvd. between 8 9 th a n d 9 0 th A v e n u e s , Queens Village. ST. JOSAPHAT Saturday, October 8 11-4 and Sunday, Oc tober 9 9-3 at St. Josaphat’s RC Church, 3 5 th A v e n u e a n d 2 1 0 th Street, Bayside. RUMMAGE SALE Saturday, October 8 10-4 and Sunday, Oc tober 9 124 annual rummage sale at St. Luke’s, 85 Greenway South, Forest Hills. AUTUMN TREASURE Saturday, Oc tober 8 9:303:30 and Sunday, Oc tober 9 11:30-3:30 at Church of the Resurrection, 85-09 118th Street, Richmond Hill. THRIFT SHOPS Saturdays 11-4 at Bargain Boutique Thrift Shop, Queens Baptist Church, 9323 217 th Street, Queens Village.465-2504. First and Third Wednesdays through June at Grace Church, 1415 Clintonville Street, Whitestone. 767-6305.

Queens Today YOUTH

SENIORS AUTUMN COMPUTERS S ta r t i n g i n O c to b e r t h e Selfhelp Benjamin RosenthalPrince Street Senior Center holds a series of computer classes. 445-3864. AARP CHORUS Like to sing? The AARP Queens Chorus holds practice rehearsals for performances at nursing homes, rehab and senior centers. 523-1330. COMEDY WRITING Mondays at the Kew Gard e n s C o m m u n i t y C e n t e r. 268-5960. SNAP BELL PARK Monday, October 3 flu shots 9-2. Monday, Oc tober 10 blood pressure screening. SNAP Bell Park. 740-3906. AARP 3654 Tuesdays, Oc tober 4, November 1 AARP chapter 2654 meets in Bayside. 4234237. BAYSIDE CENTER Tuesdays line dancing 9:30 and Thursdays 10:00. Fridays ballroom instruction at 10:15, ballroom and social dancing 1-3. Bayside Center for classes in movie, ping pong, bridge instruction, healthy lifest yle, card games, Wii bowling, painting, ESL, computer, exercise, dance, wellness workshops, etc. Lunch at 11:30. 225-1144.

CAREGIVERS Ever y Tuesday Caregivers Support group at 3:30-4:30 at the Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 26 th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886. CHAIR EXERCISE Tuesdays low impact chair exercise at 11 at the Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center. $5. 357-5100. STAY WELL Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst library for exercise and other health related programs. WOMANSPACE Wednesdays Womanspace, a discussion group devoted to issues concerning women, meets 1-3 at the Great Neck Senior Center, 80 Grace Avenue. New members welcome. STARS Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 Senior Theater Acting Repertory at the Queens Village library at 10:30. 7760529. DANCE LESSONS Fridays, Oc tober 7, November 4, December 2 free dance lessons at the Pomonok Center. 591-3377. AARP 4158 Tuesdays, Oc tober 11, November 8, December 13 North Flushing chapter 4158

meets at noon at the Church on the Hill, 167-07 35 th Avenue, Flushing. New members and visitors welcome. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Tuesday, October 11 at the Auburndale library. 641-3911 to register. AARP 29 Thursday, Oc tober 13 at Grace House, 155-02 90 th Avenue, Jamaica. FREE LUNCH Saturday, Oc tober 29 a t Church of the Resurrection in Kew Gardens. 847-2649. ACQC SUPPORT AC Q C Te e n Pe e r S u p p o r t Group - info for those “touched by HIV/AIDS.” Ages 14-16. 896-2500.

TEENS INTRO KNITTING Saturdays, Oc tober 1, 8 for those 10-16 at the Steinway library. Register. HOMEWORK HELP Saturdays, October 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 tutors at the Bayside library at 10. CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at the Douglaston/ Little Neck library at 4.

QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and pre-school programs. Contact your local branch for dates. MATH HELP Saturdays at the Flushing library at 10. HOMEWORK HELP Saturdays 10-noon teen tutors available at the Bayside library. CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2. S TORY TIMES Saturdays at 11 and Tuesdays at 10:30 weekly story times at Barnes & Noble, 1766 0 Un i o n Tu r n p i ke , F re s h Meadows. HEALTHY EATING Monday, Oc tober 3 at the Lefrak Cit y library. Register. LITERACY Monday, Oc tober 3 Information Literacy for Kids at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y. Register. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at 4 at the Douglaston/Little Neck lib ra r y. B r i n g n e e d l e s a n d yarn. HOMEWORK HELP Mondays 3:30-5:00 teen tutors available at the Bayside library. CRAFTS

Wednesday, October 5 at the Steinway library at 11 for those 2-4. HEALTHY EATING Wednesday, October 5 at the Bayside library. Register. CHESS Wednesdays at the Queens Village library at 3:30. KNITTING Every Wednesdays at the Bayside library at 4. TOPS TRUMP CARD Every Wednesday tournament at the LIC library at 4. REMAKE IT Thursday, Oc tober 6 ecofriendly craft workshop at the Sunnyside library. Register. KIDS CLUB Thursday, Oc tober 6 at the Hillcrest library at 4:30. CRAFT TIME Every Thursday at 3:30 at the Ozone Park library. BOY SCOUTS Thursdays Boy Scout Troop 138 meets at 7:30 in the basement at 192-15C 64 th Circle, Fresh Meadows. For those 11 and older. 4542391. FAMILY STORY TIME Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Queensboro Hill library at 11. GAME DAY Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Bay Terrace library

at 2:30. YU-GI-OH Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Queensboro Hill library at 4. BOOK BUDDIES Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Bayside library at 4. GAME TIME Fridays, Oc tober 7, 14, 21, 28 at the Windsor Park library at 4. ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays at 2 at the Queens Village library. ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays at the LIC library at 2. GAME DAY Fridays at the Queens Village library at 2. FLASH FRIDAYS Every Friday at 3 at the Ozone Park library. GAME PLAYERS Every Friday at the Hillcrest library at 4. CUB SCOUTS 351 Fridays at St. Nicholas of Tolentine school cafeteria, Parsons Blvd. and Union Turnpike. Boys in grades 15. 820-0015. HISPANIC HERITAGE Sunday, Oc tober 9 Hall of Science celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with handson science activities. Free with NYSCI admission.

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Page 36 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 â&#x20AC;˘ www.queenstribune.com

Guns A-Blazin’ One Queens Supreme Court Officer is exercising his second amendment right on reality TV. Michael Marelli has made it to the top 10 of “Top Shot,” a competition for the nation’s sharpshooters. He left the court room to square off against Homeland Security agents, exNAVY Seals and firearms instructors. Marelli was so confident in his aim he took six weeks’ unpaid vacation to film the History Channel show. Let’s Queens’ Top Shot hope he takes home the Michael Marell $100,000.

Which Borough? We in Queens are always looking for ways to lure that tourist money from Manhattan. We host a baseball team, a tennis tournament, and soon, we’ll have a casino, but for many who visit New York, Queens is merely the part of the city you drive through to get from the plane to your hotel. But one tour group; Borough Excursions, seeks to bring tourists to our borough to see our sites…at least for most of the tour. Part of the group’s Queens tour, roundtrip from Citi Field, is to see the Louie Armstrong House in Corona, a drive by of Kaufman Studios and the Museum of the Moving Image in Astoria, shop and eat at Rego Park Mall and tour Flushing A Queens thief thought he hit Meadows Corona Park and Downtown Flushing. But that’s not the jackpot when he saw a standenough to entice tourists to ing minivan with the keys left in Queens apparently. Borough the ignition last week. What a surprise when he hopped in to find Excursion’s trips also have this: “Visit to Manhattan where we two children and the family dog! Still, he took off with the boys will pass Rockefeller Center, Times Square then head to 34th Street and the yapping poodle. Quickly pass the Empire State Building.” tired of the extra baggage, the thief Sigh. Addisleigh Park? Forest asked the kids for their address Hills Gardens? Rockaway Beach, and safely returned them to their the largest urban beach in the Howard Beach home. The thief, who introduced himUnited States? Hell, the tour takes you past George Costanza’s par- self to the boys as “Leo,” said he ents’ house from “Seinfeld,” per- would have stolen the van if it was haps you want to drop by Archie empty. Maybe Leo will check the back seat before the next time he Bunker’s in Glendale? We’ll always be Manhattan’s decides to hop in someone else’s red-headed step-sibling, won’t we? driver’s seat.

Page 46 Tribune Sept. 29 - Oct. 5, 2011 • www.queenstribune.com

Leave The Kids

Models Of Queens “Sweet 16” Nikki Marie Home: Ozone Park Age: 16 Height: 5’5" Weight 100 lbs Stats: 34-24-34

Nikki Marie is new to the modeling game. Although you may not notice the Ozone Park teen, she says someday she will soon be gracing the covers on magazines in newsstands everywhere. “Modeling is something I’ve always wanted to do,” Marie said. “Since I’m young, I decided to start now.” After getting her braces off, Marie received the boost of confidence she believes she needed to break into the modeling scene. From cheerleading at PS 232 in Lindenwood to dancing at Fabio’s dance studio in Howard Beach, this modeling newbie

up-and-coming beauty queen she also hopes to hone her skills in litigation as a back up plan. “I’d love to be a lawyer,” said Marie of her aspirations to someday attend Stony Brook University in Long Island. “I know it’s weird, the different combinations of things, but I think it’ll work out somehow.” With more photo shoots coming up in her schedule, we could look forward to someday seeing the South Queens star plastered on many of the nation’s top modeling magazines. “I know with a bit of work I can make it big.”

And So It Begins… The 2011 baseball season was just a week or so shy of being over, and the Mets are already making plans for 2012. Though giant question marks linger regarding Jose Reyes’ future with the team, and the Mets ended up declining to take $200 million from wannabe investor David Einhorn, the team is making plans for next season – big plans. What plans? Oh… uh… Tim Byrdak. Yeah, that’s right, we said it. Tim Byrdak. We’ve got him inked for another year. Oh, and that ridiculously deep left field fence at Citi Field? Yeah, we’re moving that. David Wright and Jason Bay hit too many shots

Free Parking On a recent Monday morning, one QConf staffer was merrily headed to work only to find his red Jeep Wrangler had gone AWOL from its cozy 30th Avenue parking spot (the clunker has been immortalized on this page once before). The excitement of assuming someone finally stole the junk on wheels faded when a project manager overseeing the repaving of 30th Avenue told him his sloppy jalopy was towed down the block, parked in front of a school. Aha! The city put the rusting heap in a zone where it will surely be ticketed. How predictable! But alas, as the staffer approached his automotive nightmare, he found a flier from the Dept. of Design and Construction telling the NYPD, Dept. of Transportation and Sanitation to “Please Do Not Summons.”

seems to be blossoming into Queens’ next best thing. Many of her supporters come from under the same roof as Marie and give her the right amount of encouragement she says she needs to succeed, both in modeling and in academics. “My parents said I’m perfect for modeling,” she said. “But they also push me to do well in school.” With the support of her parents, she hopes to eventually grace the cover of Seventeen Magazine before eventually becoming a swimsuit model. Although she has aspirations to be seen as the borough’s next

The ticketless clunker A free tow with a get out of jail free card attached? Could this be a new level of benevolence from a city known for nickel and diming its citizens? Or maybe it just helps to live in the City Council Public Safety Committee Chair’s district? We’ll chalk it up to the latter. Thanks Councilman Vallone!

off of it this past year for us to not realize that maybe it was a bit far. What do you mean other teams will hit more home runs? Have you seen our pitching staff? Nobody’s getting past us. We’ll probably have Johan Santana back, and Jon Niese is looking good. Capuano and Gee will probably, most likely, kinda, sorta be on the team and… well... did we mention Tim Byrdak.? Hmmmm… 2013, anyone?

Tim Byrdak

Confidentially, New York . . .

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My Community Free Checking

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