Queens Tribune Epaper

Page 2 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Queens Deadline

Palace Diner Set To Close Friday

By ROSS BA RKAN Yet another casualty of rapidly shifting demographics, the Palace Diner will close for good on Dec. 30, marking the end of an era for a neighborhood that has watched diner after diner disappear.

The Flushing diner on Main Street, off the Long Island Expressway, drew residents and tourists alike in its heyday, serving as a meeting place for numerous local civic groups and politicians. At its peak, hungry patrons could have to wait hours for a table. Civic leaders and longtime diner-goers agree that those days are long past, and the diner's closing is sad, but not surprising. Taking its place, according to the diner's owner, will be an "upscale" Chinese restaurant.

"The Marchal, the Tower Diner, the Saravan, and now the Palace Diner," said Harvey H. Rubin, ticking off the names of other shuttered area diners. "As the community changes, it gets harder to maintain a general type of restaurant like a diner."

Over a chocolate chip muffin at the Palace's no-longercrowded counter, Rubin, a retired math teacher and 53-year resident of Flushing, reminisced about the diner's glory days and how a changing populace has made the old diner no longer profitable. Over the past few decades, Flushing's Asian population has surged, and now area restaurants and businesses reflect the tastes of immigrant groups and their children. Dim sum and curry noodles are not likely to appear on too many diner menus.

Just below 48 percent of Queens is foreign born, with the highest immigrant popu-

The Palace Diner on Main Street in Flushing is closing Friday. LEFT: A diner customer pays his bill after a meal.

lation growth occurring in Northern Queens, according to 2010 Census data. Myra Baird Herce, former president of the Flushing Chamber of Commerce, said she was devastated when she found out the diner, opened in 1976, was closing.

"We have no place to go for American brunch and American sandwiches," Herce said. "Population trends have been moving

very sharply the past 15 years toward Chinese. I understand why the owner had to sell."

George Mantzikos, the diner's owner, declined to comment on the sale, but said with a solemn smile, "Life goes on."

Herce and Rubin both said the diner served as a de facto community center.

With its spacious private rooms, civic groups like the Queensborough Hill Civic Association and politicians like U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside) and former Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn would come to hammer out important neighborhood decisions, or just have a bite to eat among old friends. Baird said that aging

residents who cannot travel very far are losing the dining options they had known for so long.

"We are an evolving country, new people come in all the time," Herce said. "Let's have a variety of places, but it's not working out that way. It's becoming very one-sided-Americans that have been in Flushing are slowly drifting away to the clouds. It's a change, and there's no residual comfort for the original population."

James McClelland, Councilman Peter Koo's (R-Flushing) spokesman, said that the councilman frequented the diner and regrets that it is closing. While local businesses, if they are to survive, must be sure to appeal to their chief demographic, McClelland said, a business that is inclusive to people of all backgrounds works best.

"Councilman Koo hopes any business, Chinese or other, will be inclusive," McClelland said. "The more inclusive you are, the better your business model. Chinese businesses should not only cater to Chinese customers, and vice versa."

Rubin, his muffin finished, looked back at all the change that had occurred in his neighborhood during the half century he has lived there. In the 1950s, Flushing still had farmland, and residents living there could have been old enough to remember when the Town of Flushing voted against consolidating with New York City in 1898.

Times change, and now the Palace Diner will disappear into Queens' multitudinous past.

"I remember when this was a supermarket," Rubin said. "And now, it'll change again."

Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at rbarkan@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

Group Raises $5K For Slain Cop’s Kids Figoski family and held a benefit for them in St. Mary Gate of Heaven school's auditorium on Dec. 22. Earlier in the month, Make A Different Christmas held their annual gala that raises money and collects gifts for families in need at the Immaculate Conception Center in Douglaston.

About 50 people attended the benefit, which featured food catered by Manor Deli in Woodhaven and raffle prizes, and Make A Different Christmas raised about $5,000 for the family. Matthew Turner, an organizer for the event, said the money would go to whatever the family wishes, including the possibility of a scholarship in Officer Figoski's name.

Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) and Turner's father U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (RMiddle Village) also attended the event.

Turner, who attended Figoski's funeral on Long Island, said it was important that the family see that amount of support they have out there.

"It's an important thing and an important statement on the part of this community," Turner said.

Anne Heaphy Turner, Rep. Turner's daughter-in-law and daughter of the late Thomas Heaphy, who was a deacon at St. Mary Gate of Heaven, said it seemed natural that Make A Different Christmas would hold

a fundraiser for the Figoski family.

"This is what our effort is all about," she said. She noted that St. Mary Gate of Heaven was where Make A Difference Christmas originated.

St. Mary Gate of Heaven's Pastor, the Rev. Gerald Fitzsimmons, offered a prayer for Figoski and reminded attendees that the show of support proves good wins over evil.

"This city has a soul, and that soul will give life and go beyond any brokenness and evil to make us a community," he said.

Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400 Ext. 125

Pols Seek Help For Good Samaritans

By ROSS BA RKAN Behind a podium in a dimly-lit Dazies, State Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) announced he would be introducing legislation to expand New York's "Good Samaritan" Laws. Joining him at the Dec. 22 press were local civic leaders and bill co-sponsor Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas (D-Astoria).

The legislation would ensure that local businesses and non-profits would not face liabilities for damages incurred while assisting potential victims. Under the current laws, they are not exempt, like individuals, from damages that may occur while trying to assist someone in distress-they are still open to potential lawsuits. According to a release,

Gianaris chose to hold his press conference at the Sunnyside restaurant because it is owned by a small business owner.

Simotas reaffirmed Gianaris' belief that a great loophole exists in the current "Good Samaritan" Laws.

"We do provide protection for individuals who help others during the committing of a crime," she said. "We have to make sure that we encourage people to help others in a time of need in a time where crime is being committed. We have to make sure that small businesses and other not-for-profits feel that the law is on their side when they come to the aid of a victim."

Gianaris said that a particular event trig-

gered his feeling that the laws needed reformation. While he said he did not want to identify the victim, he explained that an individual in Astoria was seeking refuge from a hate crime in a local delicatessen. The owner, afraid of legal repercussions, was hesitant to help the person. Crime has spiked in Western Queens, and Gianaris, along with other local elected officials, are now making crime prevention a top priority.

"It's something we think will have a huge impact, so people can feel safer walking down our streets, whether it's Queens Boulevard or Steinway Street or anywhere in between," Gianaris said. "It seems to me this is a common sense solution, a no

brainer if you will."

He will introduce the bill when the Senate resumes its session in January. Central Astoria LDC President George Stamatiades agreed that this bill would be much needed in the business community.

"Speaking for the thousand merchants in the Astoria area, this bill is very important," Stamatiades said. "It'll help the entire community, as has been mentioned before, to be able to have a situation where someone that's in need can reach out to someone and that party knows he's protected by the law."

Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at rbarkan@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 3

By DOMENICK RAFTER Since the on-duty murder of Police Officer Peter Figoski earlier this month, the outpouring of support for his four daughters has led to more than $1 million in donations for his family.

Some of that support flowed from Ozone Park last week, where four of the suspects in Figoski's death lived. He was shot and killed while responding to a robbery on Dec. 12 in Cypress Hills, Brooklyn- a neighborhood adjacent to Ozone Park.

Make A Different Christmas, which organizes a gift and fundraising drive for families in need during the holidays, "adopted" the

Page 4 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUMMONS SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, COUNTY OF QUEENS, Index No. 27820/ 2011, date Purchased 12/12/ 11, GRAYBAR ELECTRIC COMPANY, INC, Plaintiff, vs.

2115 BRIDGE PLAZA NORTH ASSOCIATES, a New York Partnership, Defendant. To the above-named Defendant: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to serve upon Plaintiff’s attorney an answer to the complaint in this action within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. In case of your failure to answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint.

The basis of the venue designated is the location of subject property, which is in Queens County. Dated: New York, New York, December 9, 2011, by Jeffrey Schreiber, Esq., Meister Seelig & Fein LLP, 2 Grand Central Tower, 140 East 45 th Street, 19 th Floor, New York, New York 10017, (212) 655-3500, attorneys for plaintiff. Notice To Defendant 2115 Bridge Plaza North Associates, a New York Partnership: the foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of Hon. Allan B. Weiss of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated the 14 th day of December, 2011 and filed with the complaint in the offices of Queens County Clerk. This is an adverse possession action brought pursuant to Article 15 of the New York Real Property Actions and Proceedings Law (“RPAPL”) through which Plaintiff, which, since 1951, has used in its business, and been in continuous and uninterrupted, open and notorious, adverse and exclusive possession of a certain parcel of real property located in the Borough of Queens (as described in more detail below), and has paid the real estate taxes for the parcel, seeks a judicial determination that it is the record owner of that parcel. Alternatively, Plaintiff seeks, under Article 15 of the RPAPL, to quiet title of the ownership of the property in question arising from the existence of inconsistent property descriptions in the last two deeds in the chain of title. The property subject to this action is a certain parcel of land located in the County of Queens, City and State of New York and designated on the tax map of the City of

LEGAL NOTICE New York as Block 411, Lot 56, being a triangular-shaped parcel of property of approximately 22.54 feet, by 13.98 feet, by 19.01 feet, or less than200 square feet. ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 12/12/11, bearing Index Number NC-001163-11/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) Carlos (Middle) Daniel (Last) Avendano My present name is (First) Carlos (Middle) D. (Last) Avendano Rui aka Carlos Daniel Avendano My present address is 67-12 Yellowstone Blvd, Apt A-19, Forest Hills, NY 11375 My place of birth is Colombia My date of birth is December 23, 1951 ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 12/8/11, bearing Index Number NC-001135-11/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) Angeliki (Last) Arvanitogiannis My present name is (First) Cindy (Last) Arvanitogiannis aka Angeliki Arvanitogiannis My present address is 22-24 42 nd Street, Astoria, NY 11105 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is July 31, 1990 ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on November 29, 2011, bearing Index Number NC001121-11/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) Gaspar (Last) Gjivovich (Seniority) Jr. My present name is (First) Gaspar (Last) Randolph aka Gaspar Gjivovich Jr., aka Gaspar Gjivovich My present address is 47-37 43 rd Street, Woodside, NY 11377 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is June 20, 1973 ___________________________________ WHITESTONE GROCERY SHOPPING CENTER, LLC, a foreign LLC, filed with the SSNY on 12/7/11. Office location: Queens County.

SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to:

LEGAL NOTICE The LLC, c/o BlumbergExcelsior Corporate Services, Inc., 62 White St., NY, NY 10013. General Purposes. ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 12/18/11, bearing Index Number NC-001146-11/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) Layla (Middle) Najdia (Last) Alqaisi My present name is (First) Layla (Middle) Najdia (Last) Goldberg aka Layla N. Alqaisi, aka Layla Najdia Alqaisi, aka Layla Najdia Al-Qaisi, aka Layla Najdia Al Qaisi My present address is 47-35 159 Street, Flushing, NY 11358 My place of birth is Hayward, CA My date of birth is November 16, 1988 ___________________________________ CGI INTERNATIONAL LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 5/26/ 11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: c/o United States Corporation Agents, Inc., 7014 13 th Ave., Ste. 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. General Purposes. ___________________________________ NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS, MID-ISLAND MORTGAGE CORP., Plaintiff, vs. REGINALD FENTON, ET AL., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly filed on December 07, 2011, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County General Courthouse, Courtroom 25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY on January 27, 2012 at 11:00 a.m., premises known as 166-03 Nadal Place, Jamaica, NY. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, Block 10194 and Lot 31. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 24930/ 2010. Nora Constance Marino, Esq., Referee We are a debt collector attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained will be used for that purpose. Stagg, Terenzi, Confusione & Wabnik, LLP, 401 Franklin Avenue Suite 300, Garden City, NY 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff

You Can E-Mail Your Legal Copy to legals@queenstribune.com To Place Your Legal Advertisement, Call the Tr ibune at (718) 357-7400 ext. 149

Thanks to U.S. Rep Bob Turner (r.), William Hogan, grandfather of Glendale resident Michael Hogan (l.) finally received a militar y headstone nearly a quarter of a century after his death.

Turner Becomes Hogan’s Hero U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Middle Village) and constituent Michael Hogan recently got a chance to exchange gifts a little early.

Earlier this month Congressman Turner was able to call Hogan, who lives in Glendale, and told him that his office was able to successfully confirm the military service of his grandfather, Private First Class William Henry Hogan, and help him receive a military headstone.

Since his father's death in 1987, Hogan has been unable to find the military records that his family once had. Hogan contacted the Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA), National Personnel Records Center who informed him that a fire in 1973 at a St. Louis storage facility destroyed 80 percent of all records and that they could not find anything on his grandfather. Hogan then contacted the VA Hospital in the Bronx where his grandfather resided when he died. The hospital told him that those records would be in storage somewhere in New Jersey. Turner's office worked with Hogan to track down that information and, once found, worked with Hogan and the VA to confirm William Hogan's service and secure him a military headstone.

"I was fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to inform Mr. Hogan that his grandfather's eligibility for a government headstone had been confirmed and was or-

dered on Nov. 29 to the St. Joseph Cemetery in Bedford, NH as requested and was delivered this past Friday," Turner said.

The Congressman was able to present an early holiday present to Mr. Hogan - The American flag that every family of a U.S. Veteran receives upon the service member's death. Mr. Hogan gave the Congressman his sincere thanks on behalf of his family in return.

"When the Congressman personally broke the news to me, I got all choked up," Hogan said. "My father really wanted this headstone for his father and passed that desire on to me.

Right now, they are both probably looking down at me smiling. I would like to thank Congressman Turner and his staff for all their help in making this wish for three generations of Hogans come true."

"William Hogan deserves proper acknowledgement for his service to our country," Turner said. "Michael's commitment to his grandfather is a testament to all veterans that their service will never be forgotten. I would like to thank PFC Hogan for his commitment and service to our country and Michael for his commitment and service to the memory of his grandfather."

"I was so pleased that we could help Michael, and my staff and I hope to provide the same level of assistance to all our constituents," he later added.

Pantries Provide For Queens Needy As the holiday season nears, families facing dire financial situations are flocking to local food pantries to put much needed meals on their tables.

On Dec. 15, Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) addressed that need, delivering more than 1,000 food items to St. Raphael's food pantry in Blissville.

Throughout the day, families flocked to the popular community institution, collecting milk and various other nonperishable items donated to the church to feed their families.

As part of the councilman's annual food drive, Van Bramer asked community residents to make edible donations, stressing how important it is to give back to those whom are less fortunate.

"As neighbors, we should all do our share to keep our food pantries stocked," Van Bramer said. "In our great city, no one should go hungry, and during the holidays many families struggle to survive."

According to Feeding America, one of the nation's leading domestic hunger-relief charities, Queens has the second highest amount of individuals faced with food insecurity, among the City's five boroughs, with 300,580 lacking adequate access to enough food for a healthy life for all households.

Van Bramer joined the Rev. Jerry Jecewiz and multiple volunteers to distribute the community-donated items. About 1,700 people from the surrounding neighborhoods are fed every month at St. Raphael's food pantry, Jecewiz said.

"We never turn anyone away," he added, looking on at all the individuals cycling in and out of the food drop. "There are many who come from further distances because they suffer from emergency food needs."

Narandai Seeramsinh, 66, is one of those

individuals. Traveling from Richmond Hill in Southeast Queens, Seeramsinh and her husband, who are both unemployed, have recently found it difficult to keep up with the rising cost of food.

Although their daughter helps them get by financially, Seeramsinh still feels it is her responsibility to put food on their household's table.

"I've been coming for over a week now," said Seeramsinh with a humble smile. "Whatever they can give me I am very grateful for."

For others, the handouts were barely enough.

Responsible for a family of five, Maria Alvarez, 60, has been coming to the food pantry from Woodside for six months. Alvarez has been collecting unemployment since she was laid off. Along with the small amount her parents receive through their pensions, she finds it difficult to provide her teenage children with the adequate nutritious meals they need at a growing age.

"With two teenagers, one liter of milk goes in half a day," Alvarez said. "Since I can't get food stamps sometimes this is all I have."

Van Bramer said he found the visit hum-

bling yet necessary at a time when food pantries are facing a decline in financial assistance from both the state and federal funds.

As the borough residents continued to flow in and out he wondered where Queens' residents would go without the support from local food pantries.

"This goes to show how far people will go to get the food they need to feed their families," Van Bramer said. "It's tragic we have this level of need. We must address it."

- Staff Reports

Groups Combine To Better Serve Boro

By V ERONICA LEWIN A new partnership between two Queens based organizations could make it easier for people of all ages to get substance abuse treatment close to home. Outreach and Samaritan Village announced earlier this month that the two organizations will work together to offer unique treatment services to the borough.

Outreach, established in the borough in 1980, is an alcohol and substance abuse treatment center based in Richmond Hill.

The organization, with locations in Brooklyn and Long Island as well, offers the largest chemical dependency treatment in the state.

Outreach specializes in serving children, adolescents and women.

For the last three decades, Outreach has chosen to keep their main offices in Queens.

“We’re committed to being headquarted in Queens,” Riddle said. She added the increasing lack of hospitals in the borough made it necessary to establish an alliance with another long-established substance abuse cen-

Kathleen Riddle, president and CEO of Outreach, and Tino Hernandez, president and CEO of Samaritan Village. ter based in Queens to ensure services would not be lost.

Samaritan Village has been providing care to Briarwood and beyond for nearly 50 years. The organization offers treatment programs at 10 locations throughout the five boroughs and upstate New York. Samaritan Village offers residential and outpatient treatment, medication-assisted treatment and three

nationally recognized gender-specific veterans programs. The organization also administers single adult and family shelters, support services for veteran families and an active senior center.

“This partnership is based on a careful analysis of the value and strengths of our respective agencies,” Samaritan Village President and CEO Tino Hernandez said in a statement. “We are especially excited about the potential of this initiative to enhance the outstanding work currently being done by both agencies’ staff.”

Riddle said the partnership will make it easier for people in the borough to get the help they need. Instead of calling around asking what services are provided, callers can make one call to Outreach or Samaritan Village to get the services they need. For more information call (718) 847-9233 or (718) 206-2000.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 123.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 5

Edit Page In Our Opinion:

Looking Back, Looking Forward With the final issue of 2011, the Queens Tribune has taken the time to honor two organizations that have made a difference in the lives of residents of the borough for many years.

The Queens Public Library has served the people of Queens for more than 150 years. While many think of a library as a place to borrow a book, the Queens Library is much more than that to those that frequent its many branches. Its various programs cater to the diversity that makes Queens special and develops programs and collections relevant to the needs of its neighborhoods.

The Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Council has grown from a group that focused on the needs of the Greek community to one that serves residents young and old while helping immigrants with job development programs, job placement, training and child and family counseling.

With 2012 on the horizon, both groups look to expand and change with the times, as they have since their inception.

We would like to thank both the Queens Public Library and HANAC for all they have done for the borough, and we hope our readers enjoy the look into the past and the future of both groups.

In Your Opinion:

Page 6 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Changes Needed To The Editor "Change The Board of Standards, Pols Say" (Queens Tribune December 22-28, 2011) raises legitimate concern requiring remedial legislation because the Board of Standards and Appeals (BSA) operates often in disregard to the interests and desires of the involved local community. Some of the suggestions proffered in the article above have merit, but more is needed.

The BSA must be removed from its politicalization because members are appointed by the Mayor when all is said and done, that dictates its decisions. A case in point is Mayor Michael Bloomberg. While his philanthropic activities as a private citizen are to be applauded, as Mayor he has demonstrated an indifference to the needs of small business owners, the middle class and the poor, while bending over backwards to give his real estate friends everything they seek and the public be damned.

Several years ago, Daniel Doctoroff, then a high official in the Bloomberg administration, bragged before a group of real estate moguls that under Bloomberg more than 90 percent real estate interests sought in zoning changes have been granted. Since it is the Mayor who appoints the five commissioners of the BSA, it should come as no sur-

prise real estate interests will prevail over that of the community.

The Mayor should be removed from appointing BSA commissioners. One commissioner from each borough should be appointed by a majority vote of City Council members from the borough that commissioner will represent. BSA hearings should be held in the Borough Hall where the property is located with full public participation. A decision that contradicts the recommendations of the local community board and/or the borough president may be appealed as of right to the full Council with open hearings that permit public and experts to be heard. The Council's decision shall be in writing listing all yea and nay votes and specifically address the issues raised.

One can hear the howls of the real estate interests that with the above nothing will get done. Nonsense. There will always be real estate developers standing in line ready to pursue legitimate developments consistent with the public interest and particularly when they often come with substantial city aid and tax breaks.

Benjamin M. Haber Flushing

Listen To News To The Editor The letter in the Tribune, "Oc-

Michael Schenkler Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

cupy Gets it" was very poignant and in fact raised questions that I also had queried. Why in the world would those who are also victims of the vast inequity between themselves and the 1 percent feel the need to champion and legitimize their deviously gotten gains? Obviously it is as the writer suggests: transference. They enjoy fantasizing that they are somehow related to the 1 percent, which they deem successful because they have accumulated great wealth, regardless of how it was accrued. OWS has recognized the damage being inflicted on our country by the 1 percent and their claques and are acting on it throughout the United States.

The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) just released its "Society at a Glance 2011" report and when it comes to income inequality, the United States is looking poorly indeed. Out of all the countries gauged, only three - Turkey, Mexico and Chile - have a more unequal income distribution than the United States.

The United States also has an usually high amount of people in poverty (17.3 percent, compared to the OECD average of 11.3 percent) for its relative wealth, with an average household income of $31,000, second highest in the world. Even that does not look great when you consider things like the cost of healthcare and education make that $31,000 barely enough to get by for a large portion of the population. It has consistently been proven that such income inequality isn't good for anyone, including the rich. The fact that the top 1 percent of the U.S. population rakes in about 21.3 percent of the national income doesn't bode well for the country's future economic prospects and political stability.

Another problem is that while two of the countries ahead of us, Chile and Turkey, are steadily reducing their income inequality as their economies grow, whereas the wealth gap in the United States is actually expanding every single year.

Don't these would be 1 percent letter writers ever read the papers or listen to the news? Not Fox, where news goes to die, but news based on fact rather than politically motivated conjecture.

Nicole Christine, Bayside

Animal Cruelty To The Editor: To the person who abandoned their white cat in its carrier in the Key Food parking lot on Lefferts Boulevard Dec. 19: Did you think the blanket you put in the carrier would keep it from

Marcia Moxam Comrie, Contributing Editor Reporters: Harley Benson, Domenick Rafter, Jason Banrey, Veronica Lewin, Ross Barkan

Queens County's Weekly Newspaper Group

Steven J. Ferrari, Managing Editor

Founded in 1970 by Gary Ackerman Published Weekly Copyright © 2011 Tribco, LLC

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Ira Cohen, Photo Editor

Contributors: Tom Allon, Melissa Hom, Michael VonDerLieth, Barbara Arnstein

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

Regina Vogel Queens Today Editor

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freezing to death? Did you think the bowl of whatever that was in there would keep it from starving? Did you think by leaving it in a dark area of a parking lot that someone could see it? Did you think that a tiny dark cat carrier would protect it from getting killed by a car? Did you think that this was your only option to rid yourself of a pet, rather than trying to adopt it out, ask for help or just hand it to someone? All of the above would've been better than what you did. That cat trusted in you, with its life in your hands and what did you do? What were you thinking? Obviously not whether the cat lived or died!

Well, I am sure you are relieved that it is gone now, but how do you sleep? Do you have a conscience?

Are you thinking about what you did? Does it haunt you in the least?

Do you hear the cat screaming the way others did that day? Well, there is a God and as some people believe, karma. What if someone did that to you, trapped, leaving you helpless in the elements, starvation and the inevitable? Did you know what you did is against the law and you will be arrested, facing serious charges by the A.S.P.C.A. Patrol when found?

Yes, they do not take something like this lightly and they will take you away in handcuffs to determine your punishment. As they say, what goes around, comes around, so when you're in a similar situation in the near future, or when things are going wrong in your life, keep this in mind and remember what you did to this poor cat! Some of us have been in the position before, myself included, of finding an animal and trying to find homes for them, which is difficult.

There are cat rescues out there, which many do not know about, private fostering, Vets, non-kill shelters and it's just the idea to ask around, persevere until one is found. I know times are hard and obviously there aren't as many animal lovers as there used to be, but there is still no excuse for what was done. The least that could have been done was to leave it in a public place to be found, hand it to someone, anything but not to leave in a death trap!

If anyone knows of anyone who supposedly "lost" or is missing a cat on Dec. 19, since I'm sure this is not something to be proud of, to tell anyone, please make them aware of this post. Most people who have pets, keep them for life, making them family. They are not taken in and disposed of in this fashion.

They aren't garbage. If someone is not an animal person, no problem, but they should not have one in the first place. For those who are, they give unconditional love, rely on and trust in us whole heartedly. To do this, was a real sin and we the people have to be their voice, to spread James Mammarella Director of Sales and Marketing Shelly Cookson Corporate Advertising Account Executives Donna Lawlor Elizabeth Rieger Shari Strongin Neil Wong

Merlene Carnegie Tom Eisenhauer Charles Galluccio Steve Lampart

Maureen Coppola, Advertising Administrator Accounting: Leticia Chen, Stacy Feuerstein

awareness of the cruelty that goes on, such as an incident like this.

They need our help more than ever!

J. Klein Richmond Hill

Dropped Membership To The Editor: I am deeply angered (but not all that surprised) by Republican Representative (NY's 9th CD) Bob Turner's vote for the NDAA (National Defense Authorization Act), which tramples our Constitution and shreds the Bill of Rights. I have been a Republican for nearly all my adult life (I am 63), but having seen the neo-Cons co-opt the GOP and destroy the nation, I have dropped my membership in that party. Bob Turner is proving that he has no understanding of the most fundamental rights of human beings.

Thanks to him and many other congressmen (and women) who forgot both their Oath and The People, the complete infrastructure of a Police State is ready for business here in America. Our former representative, Anthony Weiner (Democrat), a patriot, would never have voted for the NDAA (even though his mentor, Sen. Charles Schumer, eagerly approved stripping American citizens of their basic rights). What is happening to our nation that has transformed the overwhelming number of our representatives (of both major parties) into cowering weasels, so quick to betray The People?

Russell T. Mollot Rego Park

No Worries To The Editor The North Koreans have nothing to worry about. The US government has been sending foreign aid, in the billions, to communist countries even during the Korean War. This squandering of our tax money has got to stop.

Frank St George, East Rockaway

Doomed?

To The Editor The Post Office is doomed to failure unless it, somehow, changes its corporate culture away from cost containment and towards productivity.

David Rivkin Jamaica

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www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 7

Winners Are Sinners In Too Many Cases

By HENRY STERN The recent flurry of criminal trials and convictions of public officials for a variety of offenses causes one to think of why it is that people who are elected to represent their communities in city, state and federal government appear so often before the bar of justice.

While it is true that only a relatively small portion of elected officials are criminals, still the frequency of arrests and indictments of members of the political class causes people to doubt the integrity and validity of the legislative process, and to suspect many office-holders who have not in fact committed crimes or used their offices to enrich themselves personally. This is part of a larger distrust of government by individuals who see the state as a growing and intrusive presence, rather than as a guarantor of the liberty and security of the people.

Before I was elected to the City Council for the first time in 1973, I did not know any people who had been in trouble with the law. Of course I had read in the newspapers about famous crimes and criminals, but never knew any of them personally, or from the neighborhood.

One story I have recounted before, but which made a strong impression, dealt with my reading in the WorldTelegram, which my father brought home from work, that Frank Costello was the prime minister of the underworld. I knew that position was important because Winston Churchill was Prime Minister of Great Britain at the time.

I asked my father why, if Frank Costello was prime minister of the underworld, and if the World-Telegram knew about it and published the story, didn’t the police arrest him and put him on trial, since surely it must be a crime to be prime minister of the underworld. My father was a tentmaker, not a lawyer, and he couldn’t answer the question. I went to law school, in part, to find the answer to questions like the one I asked my father.

I did learn the answers, but they were unsatisfying to one whose prime motive was the pursuit of justice. In an economy where lawyers pursue the interests of the clients who are paying them, rather than any abstract concept of justice, it is not difficult to see whose interests will be at-

tended to by the lawyer class. Those relationships underlie many lawsuits, and often influence the behavior of the litigants involved in a case.

The problem here is comparable to the one involved in Winston Churchill’s defense of democracy, in which he said that it was the worst system of government that could be devised, except for all the others. If we did not have the adversarial method of determining the merits of lawsuits, what better way could be found to determine the truth of a matter when the facts are in dispute?

During my first term on the Council, 1974-77, at least a half dozen of my colleagues were indicted on a variety of criminal charges.

Politicians get in trouble for a variety of reasons. The most common situation is that they take money they are not entitled to. Whether the facts indicate bribery, extortion, or inappropriate use of influence, these are misdeeds of a financial nature. Sometimes there are grey areas and it cannot be determined with certainty whether the politician’s acts are or are not criminal, but even those borderline transactions should be avoided by ethical people.

The second problem area is election fraud. Whether in the circulation of petitions, the alteration of documents, false statements of residency or income, excessive campaign contributions, unrepor ted bundling, or other sins, politics provides many oppor tunities for misconduct by candidates or their supporters. Whether the candidate knew about these misdeeds, or whether he directed them, are matters for the courts to determine. But this is a growing field, and the more requirements there are that statements be attested to, the greater the possibility of prosecutions.

The third area deals with the personal lives of the candidate and his family. Politicians are people in the public eye, and there is public interest in their lives and activities.

Minor sins are much more likely to come to public attention if the sinner is a bold-face name. This is particularly true if the case involves a close friend or relative of the politician. It even applies to employees of the government that the politician is involved with.

I remember that any file clerk in a city agency would be

Page 8 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

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referred to as a “Koch aide” in the papers if anything wrong took place, even though Koch and the commissioners had never even heard of the fellow, much less knew that he was doing anything wrong. If, by any chance, the mayor Henry Stern had heard of him sometime, the employee became “key Koch aide”. I learned over the years that the identity of the mayors were interchangeable.

It is for reasons like these that wrongdoing in government is sometimes exaggerated. Nevertheless, there is much serious chicanery that does go on, and is never detected, or if defected is never published. So one cannot say that misconduct is overreported by the media. If the scales are out of balance, the error is on the side of underreporting or ignoring sins of omission and commission by public officials and their public relations staffs, who serve their employers just as lawyers do.

StarQuest@NYCivic.org

Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

Outreach Group Works With OWS

By JASON BANREY Invigorated and empowered by the inclusive nature of the Occupy Wall Street movement, borough families have flocked to Occupy Queens, the borough off-shoot of the nationally recognized movement.

Joining working groups to address community concerns, residents have acquired responsibilities within their neighborhoods spreading the word about the grassroots initiative. Since its inception, Occupy Queens’

Outreach Working Group has at tempted to establish contact with community residents in various neighborhoods around the borough in order to increase par t icipation in its cause.

Some of the revealing traits of those standing on the streets, handing out fliers to passersby, are their ability to translate their commonality of issues many Queens denizens already face.

“Outreach is a way to find people who

School Gets New Traffic Controls

Page 10 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

In early May, State Sen. Tony Avella (DBayside) toured the Irwin Altman Middle School with Principal Jeffery Slivko. During the tour, Slivko informed Avella that the traffic conditions in front of the school on 257th Street in Floral Park had become a danger to the students. Immediately after the meeting, Avella contacted the Dept. of Transportation to request additional controls in the area.

After the summer break, DOT conducted a traffic analysis and informed Avella that they had approved plans to install “All-Way Stop” controls at the intersection of 257th Street and 81st Avenue. In addition, DOT also stated that they would advise the Commanding Officer of the 105th Precinct to monitor for vehicles that double park at the intersection of 257th Street and 82nd Avenues.

“I am extremely pleased that DOT has taken the right steps to ensure the safety of

the students at MS 175,” stated Avella. “257th Street becomes a safety nightmare during drop off and dismissal times. With so many cars double parked it’s hard for students and motorists to get a clear view of the roadway.

The new sign will reduce the ability of additional traffic to enter the scene with a full head of steam.”

Fernando Geliga, a Glen Oaks resident who contacted Sen. Avella shortly after his visit to emphasize the need for controls, said, “We had already seen a few accidents in this area. These roads are too narrow and drivers didn’t slow down even with all the congestion. All the congestion made it unsafe for the students, parents and the motorists coming in from the side streets. Thankfully DOT is acting before the snow makes things even worse.”

—Staff Reports

can benefit from what we’re doing and give them an oppor tunit y to part icipate in having their own voices heard,” Jackson Heights resident Barri Falk said of her effor ts to engage others as a member of the Outreach Working Group for Occupy Queens.

“Some people are timid and less likely to get out there and speak their minds. Not me. Outreach is really about reconnecting with the people in our communit y.”

Falk, a tour guide and mother of one, was thrilled by the emergence of the Occupy Wall Street movement when it began in September. Despite her re sponsibilit ies at home and work, she found time to attend several demonstrations downtown.

After finding out about Occupy Queens’ first General Assembly meeting, she at tended and has not stopped since. One aspect of the borough offshoot Falk has fallen in love with is its tendency to cater to familie s interested in part icipating in more than 20 working groups within the borough’s movement.

“In Zuccot t i Park, people tended to be younger and in their 20s,” Falk said. “Occupy Queens is a lit tle bit more of a familyoriented grouping of people and it caters to what I have going on in my life.”

As oppose to OWS’s occupation in Lower Manhat tan, Occupy Queens has the luxury of holding its meetings indoors, after traditional working hours, making gatherings more accommodating to the typical working parent.

Although the set ting can be comfortable for the diverse number of individuals from all backgrounds and age s at tending a n Occupy Queens General Assembly meeting, the

Barri Falk and her daughter, Alina, 5. winter months can make it difficult to keep everyone engaged.

For the demonstrators of Zuccott i Park, living together for two months made it easier for them to connect and strategize events, teach-ins and demonstrations.

“In that sense, things can happen more quickly,” Falk said. “In [Occupy Queens’] case, we’re meeting once a week and over the Internet in between. In some ways, it makes it a lit tle harder to get things started but I think we will become more and more organized.”

Currently, there is a core group of people commit ted to the Occupy Queens movement. As the next couple of months go by, “hopefully by the spring, we will have hundreds of people coming,” Falk said. “Queens is a large area, which is a bit of an issue. But right now we’re get t ing things underway.

The goal is to eventually become more regional. So ever yone can make it.”

Queens This Week Veterans Gift Drive:

State Sen. Tony Avella stands with residents outside a blighted property on Francis Lewis Boulevard.

Locals Complain About Proper ty Blight Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) recently joined the Northeast Flushing Civic Association at a press conference in front of an unsightly abandoned corner property, located at 24-19 Francis Lewis Blvd., to address the lack of maintenance of the site by the City.

According to members of the civic, the property has been a longstanding eyesore for at least 10 years. In 2009, the property owner stopped paying property taxes and the site has now become a storage unit for trucks, dumpsters and scattered garbage. Although the Dept. of Buildings issued a full stop work order earlier this year, residents and businesses are still forced to live by an unsightly lot that has become a blight on their neighborhood.

"This lot has been a thorn in the side of the community for over a decade," Avella said.

"The owner has not made any attempt to clear out or maintain the lot and it has become a constant target of graffiti vandals and litter.

Usually I say, 'there's everything in there except the kitchen sink.' However, in this case, there actually is a kitchen sink. A haggard looking lot like this creates a financial disaster for neighbors, who gradually see

Video Winners:

Avella continued, "The civics are compiling lists of properties in their communities that need to be addressed. At the same time I am working on possible legislation that would amend and strengthen the City's ability to seize abandoned sites where the owner refuses to pay property taxes and has long outstanding fines and violations. These properties are cancers to communities and the City needs to take action to protect its taxpaying homeowners."

FDC Hopes To Manage Growth As 2011 winds down, Fred Fu of the Flushing Development Center said he hopes that next year, downtown Flushing will better manage its rapid growth.

"Flushing is in a time of transition from a traffic hub area to a small city area," Fu said.

"It's very important, not only from a construction and business standpoint. Living quality will be changing. Flushing is evolving into a small city."

In the past, Fu has supported more mainstream American stores like Target and Best Buy in Flushing. This support has fit into his theme of making the Flushing community, especially the large immigrant population, more open to outside cultures. Councilman Peter Koo (R-Flushing) has said he agreed

with Fu's theme of inclusiveness, but told the World Journal that these chain stores do not actually help local businesses and may not encourage more openness because chain store patrons will not simultaneously patronize local businesses.

Fu stressed that in 2012 he wanted to hold more events that celebrate the cultures of many different ethnic groups and faiths. In a place that is constantly growing and changing, integration and harmony is important, especially among newer and older populations. Rather than look inward, Fu wants everyone to look outward.

"Each religion and nationality has something to offer," Fu said. "Everyone has something to share."

Fu recently co-sponsored a holiday concert on Dec. 18 at the Flushing Free Synagogue. The concert was held to celebrate the restoration of stained glass windows at the synagogue. And on Dec. 20, community members came together to light a menorah near the Flushing Library Branch of the Queens Public Library. The menorah stands beside the community Christmas tree, a symbol of one human family living together in peace.

Reach Reporter Ross Barkan at rbarkan@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127. —Ross Barkan

Hello, Santa:

Queens DA Richard Brown stands among the hundreds of toys donated by office staff. The toys were distributed to less fortunate children this holiday season.

Three Flushing residents recently took second place in the Federal Reserve video competition. Pictured (from left) are Chin Sheng "William" Hsieh, a senior, Chih-Yao Yang, a senior, and Maria Sideris, a junior.

The winners are posing with Federal Reserve officials and competition judges.

Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) recently dropped by Forest Parkway to say hello to Santa, Rudolph, Frosty the Snowman and Santa's helpers at the Free Pictures With Santa, sponsored by the Woodhaven Business Improvement District.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 11

Tons Of Toys:

their property values decrease."

Avella was informed by the Dept. of Finance that a tax lien was placed on the property because of $15,809.86 in unpaid property taxes and sanitation violations since 2009. That lien was supposedly sent to the NYC Tax Lien Trust earlier this year. However, it now appears that the City has yet to follow through on enforcing its lien.

Peter Brancazio, President of the North East Flushing Civic Association, stated, "Unless something is done about it, this site will remain in its present state indefinitely. The fence is an ugly, poorly constructed, graffiti covered eyesore located in a prominent location on Francis Lewis Boulevard. It is a constant reminder of the failure of the Dept. of Buildings to act on complaints and get after violators. The owner should not be allowed to simply ignore his assessments and financial responsibilities."

Recently, a portion of the construction fencing collapsed making the overgrown and litter filled property even more visible to the community. In response to what has become an epidemic of abandoned properties throughout North and Eastern Queens, Avella has formed a task force made up of local civic organization leaders to identify similar properties.

Assemblyman Edward C. Braunstein (D-Bayside) recently wrapped up his toy drive for hospitalized and needy children and gift drive for hospitalized veterans. Pictured with Braunstein are Chief of Staff David Fischer with Holy Cross High School students and Michael Genovese, director of service learning; and Lisa Cummings, assistant chief of voluntary service at the St. Albans VA.

Tribune Professional Guide To reserve your space call 357-7400 Compiled by ROSS BARKAN

102nd Pct. HEADLOCK: The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the following individual wanted for a robbery, which took place on Dec. 17 at approximately 3:30 a.m. at 93rd Avenue and 112th Street. The suspect, a Hispanic man, approximately 25years-old, standing 5-foot-7 and weighing 170 lbs., placed a 59-year-old livery cab driver in a headlock, causing him to crash into a fence in front of 91-58 112th St. The suspect removed money from the victim’s bag and fled the scene.

104 Pct. STABBING AND LIRR SUICIDE: On Dec. 20 at approximately 6:06 a.m., police responded to an assault at 60-79 56th St. Upon arrival, police observed Maureen Biermann, 43, unconscious with a stab wound to the neck inside of the building and a 22year-old man with multiple stab wounds to the back outside the location. EMS transported Biermann to Wyckoff Hospital, where she was pronounced dead, and the male victim to Elmhurst Hospital, where he is listed in stable condition. There have been no arrests made and the investigation is ongoing.

The suspect, identified as James Peck, 33, of 67-20 Central Ave., Queens, was struck by a westbound Long Island Railroad train near Fresh Pond Road and Metropolitan Avenue and pronounced dead.

Page 12 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

106th Pct. ASSAULT: The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a black man between the ages of 17 and 20 wanted for an assault, which took place on Dec. 20 at approximately 4:30 p.m. in front of 105-06 Crossbay Blvd. The suspect punched the victim numerous times in the head and body, causing injury. The suspect was last seen wearing a black hooded sweatshirt.

GUN ASSAULT: The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a black man between the ages of 35 and 40 wanted for a robbery and assault, which took place on Dec. 13 at approximately 1:00 a.m. in front of 117-26 126th St. The suspect, armed with a silver handgun, approached a 16-year-old boy who was seated in a vehicle. The boy was then physically assaulted with the gun. The boy’s friend, seated in the rear seat, handed over his wallet and cell phone at which time the driver of the vehicle pulled away. The suspect then fired at the vehicle, striking the boy in the upper right shoulder.

The suspect is between 5-foot-7 and 5foot-10, medium build and 170-180 lbs. with shoulder length dreadlocks. He was last seen wearing a black hooded jacket.

Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to call Crime stoppers at (800)-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.COM or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES)

then enter TIP577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

109th Pct. FAKE OFFICER: The NYPD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the following individuals wanted in connection with a robbery that occurred on Sunday, Nov. 20 at 10:30 p.m. One suspect is a Hispanic man and the other is an unidentified man.

A woman was posting flyers when she was approached by a burgundy colored van or SUV containing four people. The suspect stated it was illegal to post flyers and asked for the woman’s identification after displaying a business card with a police logo. The suspect had the woman enter the vehicle and drove her to her residence. In the back of the vehicle there were two additional individuals who the suspect identified as being under arrest. The suspect then accompanied the woman to her apartment where she produced her identification. The man forced her to disrobe and sexually assaulted her; the woman then fled to a neighbor’s apartment. The suspect then fled the location with a lap top and house keys.

Anyone with information regarding this incident or the identity and whereabouts of the suspects is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-(800)-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers website at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 273637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

108th Pct. CAUSE OF DEATH UNKNOWN: On Dec. 24 at approximately 12:10 p.m. at 3930 52nd St., emergency units responded to an unconscious and unresponsive 89-yearold woman. The woman was pronounced dead at the scene by EMS. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death.

No criminality is suspected at this time. Identity is pending family notification.

114th Pct. BONNIE AND CLYDE: The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in locating two individuals wanted for questioning in regards to a burglary pattern. They have been allegedly involved in 12 separate burglary incidents between Jun. 23 and Dec. 14.

The suspects are Eldin Ahmetovic, a 33year-old white man, approximately 5-foot-10 and 165 lbs. with brown eyes and brown hair, and Yulia Bushuyeva, a 32-year-old white female, approximately 5-foot-6 and 130 lbs. with a tattoo on the right side of her neck reading “Dino.”

Anyone with information in regards to these individuals is asked to call Crime stoppers at (800)-577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime stoppers website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter TIP577.

YOU DON'T HAVE TO REVEAL YOUR IDENTITY TO HELP SOLVE A CRIME.

Queens Library

Still Growing After All These Years

Page 14 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

BY JASON BANREY For more than 150 years, the Queens Public Library has persevered through economic adversity, continuing to “light the way” for those who wish to take advantage of its educational resources.

From the first documented public library in the borough, which opened in Flushing in 1858, to tomorrow’s state-of-the-art renovations and expansion of Elmhurst’s longstanding Carnegie branch, Queens Library is in a class of its own.

In the book, “Lighting the Way: The Centennial History of the Queens Borough Public Library,” Jeffrey Kroessler explored the history of the public institution. Originally, libraries were set up as a paid resource. In the beginning, Flushing Library Association, which eventually developed into today’s multistoried structured building, was created and its members paid $2 a year to borrow books, a policy which was eventually abandoned by 1884 after library directors proclaimed that the library would now be opened to the public for free.

While this public library flour-

In 2010, The Queens Library had a circulation of more than 110 million. ished, small privately-supported libraries in the towns of Hollis, Ozone Park and Queens Village struggled to keep their independent doors opened. Their “efforts reflected the civic pride and social responsibility of the good citizens in these places, but those libraries were hardly open

to all, and their survival depended upon private generosity. Nor did they benefit from a professional staff, relying instead on volunteers,” Kroessler writes.

Today, 62 branches, and the Central Library in Jamaica, have been able to avoid fiscal uncertainty and

dwindling funds from the City, sustaining themselves within a hierarchy which has become one of the most prestigious and long-lasting library systems in the nation.

In the past, libraries were viewed as academic institutions, built with ascending staircases leading toward a marble edifice that invited its visitors toward a wealth of knowledge.

Once viewed as an intimidating educational structure, the Queens Library has altered its presence as an institution in the borough, becoming a community place for lifelong learning, welcoming all individuals into an accommodating setting for those who wish to enter.

“The Queens Library has become a community place and space,” Thomas Galante, chief executive director of the Queens Library, said.

The institution has evolved through a wide range of programs and services, catering to the diversity of the borough, individually developing community library collections relevant to the needs and personalities of its neighborhoods.

The modification and renovation of particular facilities throughout the more than 60 library branches, in-

Salutes

Queens Library for its contributions as an anchor in Downtown Jamaica, elevating the quality of life for all of us in the borough of Queens

Queens Library

Still Growing After All These Years cluding the Central branch, have recently become a priority. Given the growing number of members as well as others who visit the library on a daily basis, Queens Library has taken it upon itself to accommodate the growing population in a comfortable space, maintaining its importance in the lives of the borough’s denizens.

“We’ve got people who come to us from all walks of life,” Galante said of the mixture of races, religions and cultures in the surrounding neighborhoods of which each of the Queens Library branches caters to.

“The primary reason they come to us is to enjoy their lives even more.”

According to Galante, the services the Queens Library offers have helped sharpen individual skills.

“Whether you’re someone who has lived in the United States all their lives doing research on a topic, an immigrant retooling your resume or learning English for the first time, or reading up on how to become a citizen, the [Queens Public Library] is a place for someone looking to change their life,” he said. “We’re a center for learning with no boundaries.”

Lines out front of the library’s traveling station at Cremo Cigar Store in Middle Village in 1911 (l.); Miss Hassler of the Steinway Library is conducting story time in 1919 (r.). also seeing people f rom A fghanistan, Russia, as well as a strong Hispanic presence in that library,” Chan said.

“It’s not just people living in the area who are coming in,” she said. “It has become a hub for northeastern Queens. People take the 7 Train then transfer back home just to get to and from there. It’s amazing how important this branch has become Children in to many.”

1908.

Going forward, the Queens Library’s budget is said to remain in doubt fiscally. Keeping this in mind, one approach the library has undertaken for ensuring the City’s budget crisis does not affect it providing readers with limitless resources is by embracing the digital age.

Information In A Digital Age As information continues to grow exponentially, the Queens Library sees itself continuing to digitize its collection of information, much of it for research in particular, “giving more improved ways to find information.

“Librarians will need to help people find what they need in a growing sea of information,” Galante said.

“I see paper books as well as e-books.

They will both have their place at the Queens Library.”

With a background in business administration as well as library science, Galante’s expertise has made him a proponent of helping get major publishers on board for helping the Queens Library make the transition into a digital age.

Galante says he understands how the publishers are thinking.

“They are concerned about losing sales,” Galante said.

One way they suggest publishers can eliminate that concern or risk is

front of the Whitestone Library in by having people download their econtent.

“It can be the same as what we’ve been doing with our paper books for all these years. I believe it’s important to follow that same model into a digital world. Once the publishers wake up and see that, they will realize there is an expandable market of people that prefer both to borrow as well as pay for their stuff.”

The library does license e-books, but they do not have all the content they’d like.

“Prices are higher than what an individual pays for a published book,” Galante said. “I see libraries becoming more and more of a community place whether it’s digitally or in person. What we are doing now is preparing us for that transition.”

As the Queens Public Library progresses into the future, Galante said they see themselves continuing to be a bastion of educational resources for the community.

“As the world continues to change at an exponential pace, we need to keep up with those who want to take advantage of what we have to offer to change their skills sets in a developing world,” Galante said. “That’s the challenge we have. It’s a challenging mission but in the end it’s worth it.”

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 15

Even before the decision was made to expand the overpopulated branch, the library took the time to acquire data on the ethnic components of the service area, considering age, income level, as well as ethnicity. An extra effort will help guide a plan for the new library, taking into consideration how much language-related material will be Expanding Into the Future needed in addition to the existing In 2012, the Elmhurst branch will collection.

“A lot of people don’t think the undergo a $27.8 million renovation, which will feature four additional lev- library does marketing research like els, a Cyber Center, a new Adult this,” said Lacey Chan, information Learning Center as well as separate and data analysis librarian, who is in areas for children, teenagers and charge of gaining information on the adults. The push to expand and borough’s demographics.

For nearly 15 years, Chan has renovate various branches within the library system has been the key for solely helped acquire information accommodating growing numbers of and analysis, in order to help develop and establish collections which visitors. mirror the neighboring demographic.

“As we all know Queens is the most diverse county in the United States,” Chan said. “We have people f rom all over the world.”

Chan’s position was created in 1995 in an effort to give Queens’ growing demographics more consideration.

“Queens Library pays great attention to Today, visitors to Queens Library branches can customer service and surf the Internet (above) or attend workshops one way of doing that (below). is knowing our customers,” Chan said. “Statistics allow us to see the customers coming and going.”

One branch which exemplifies the library’s effort to cater to its community is Flushing. Not only has the northeastern branch’s surrounding area seen significant growth in its Asian populations, “we’re

Local Officials Speak On The Queens Library State Senator

Assemblymember

“Critical” is how State Sen. Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria) describes the service provided by the Queens Public Library, especially to the new immigrant populations that live in the borough.

“When you’re dealing with a large immigrant population, libraries are a critical way for them to become educated about new communities,” he said.

Immigrant communities go to libraries to learn about their new communities, learn English and join community groups to help them adapt to their new country and city.

I n recent budget fights, the Queens Library has always faced the cutbacks, often threatening not only jobs, but the closure of entire branches.

“Unfortunately, [Queens Library] has turned into a political football,” Gianaris said. But the services they provide are as important as ever. Li-

Assemblymember Aravella Simotas (D-Astoria) credits the many hours she spent reading and studying in the Steinway branch of the Queens Library on 31st Street for helping her in her education.

“The libraries show the importance of the written word,” she said.

“They make sure that books are available to young children.”

Simotas said books remain important, even in the world of the Internet, because they can inspire adventures the Internet cannot. One book, she explained, can “open you to a different direction” and set a reader on an exploration of learning, not only about what he or she read, but what ideas the book or article he or she read sparked.

“The Queens Library gives a place for children to go to, to read books, to open up their minds, in a way they really don’t get on the Internet,” she said. “A lot of people don’t really un-

Page 16 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Michael Gianaris

Aravella Simotas braries in Gianaris’ Northwest Queens district are jam packed, he said.

“The demand is high and the services are very important,” Gianaris said. “They’re as important as ever.”

The Internet is often blamed for reducing the need to do research at a library or to take out a book from one. But for many, the library is a place to access the web.

“Many people need to get to the library to have access to the Internet,” Gianaris said. “As we transition from more hard copy to more digital, libraries are making the same transition. These services should remain a priority.”

Strengthen communities today.

Better world tomorrow.

Citi congratulates HANAC and the Queens Library for their outstanding service to the borough of Queens and on their distinction as the Queens Tribune “Non-Profit of the Year.”

© 2011 Citibank, N.A. All rights reserved. Citi and Arc Design and Citi Never Sleeps are registered service marks of Citigroup Inc.

derstand the significance of written books.”

She also commended them for their outreach to the communities, especially immigrant communities and youth programs that are very important to both her constituents in Astoria and to everyone in the borough.

“The Queens Library is a very worthy organization,” she said. “It’s very important that we preserve it.”

Local Officials Speak On The Queens Library

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Jack Eichenbaum, Queens borough Historian “I’ve had a Queens Borough Public Library card from age of 4 and a half. That was 64 years ago. I remember my mother at the Christmas program the Bayside branch was holding at a time when that specific neighborhood was Anglo Saxon Protestant. My mother decided that the program should feature Hanukkah songs while they celebrated Christmas as well. The library made an effort to be inclusive and we celebrated both traditions. The Queens Library is a favorable institution ands it has been generally helpful to me as both a historian and a resident of the borough.”

Councilman Peter Koo (R-Flushing) “The Queens Library at Flushing is not only a wonderful source of information and learning but has become a centerpiece and a cohesive force for the community.

They simultaneously serve each individual, and draw the community together as a while with education, culture and knowledge.”

Councilman Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gardens) “Libraries have something to offer young and old alike.

They’re a great place after school to do homework and study for an upcoming test or paper. Also, seniors have been using them as a resource to get on the Internet as well as rent movies. They’ve become a real social service network for community as well.”

Councilman Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights) “The Queens Library is the greater equalizer. Everyone can go to a library and use the resources they have available. It doesn’t matter if you are black or white, gay or straight, the library is there for everybody.”

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Councilwoman Karen Kosolowitz (D-Forest Hills) “The Queens Library system truly enriches the lives of the residents of Queens. I am extremely proud of the wonderful work that the people of the Queens Library system do on a daily basis. Serving the most diverse county in the nation, the Queens Library system provides extraordinary opportunities for children and adults alike. I have been a longtime supporter of the library and will always advocate for its needs.”

Councilman Peter Vallone (D-Astoria) “Each branch is as unique as the great people of Queens.

We’ve long known that our libraries offer way more than books, from after-school activities to computer services and being community centers - the possibilities are endless.”

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www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 17

“I wouldn’t be who I am had it not been for the Corona library branch. It was a wonderful experience to be taken to get a membership card. A lot of times I was able to escape the world and get away from a place of my own. I was able to work at the 81 Library in Jackson Heights. As a young girl it taught me a lot of responsibility and what it was to be professional. Now to be responsible for the budget of the Queens Library which ensures that future generations have access to the institution to me is incredibly humbling. It’s been great to give the Queen Library that support.”

HANAC

Page 18 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Group Quickly Grows To Serve All Of Queens

BY DOMENICK RAFTER From its name, it sounds more like an organization focused on Astoria’s Greek-American community, but the Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee is more than just an organization focusing on the Greek community, it is one of the largest and most important social services organizations in New York City, focusing on a variety of needs from senior citizens to children to new immigrants.

HANAC started in 1972 with a $75,000 grant from the office of then-New York City Mayor John Lindsay focusing on the demographic study of the Greek community, mainly in Astoria. George Douris founded HANAC to focus on the needs of the Greek community.

Though most Greek immigrants worked in the shipping industry, many did not.

“In the early 1970s, there was a great deal of service development going on,” explained John Kaiteris, HANAC’s chief operating officer.

Though the organization was founded in 1972, HANAC didn’t really get off the ground until January 1973, but within the year the first senior center opened its doors.

From there, HANAC’s services escalated quickly to focus on the needs of youths and immigrants.

“By the second year we had summer camps going all over the place,” Kaiteris said.

HANAC placed its focus on the bulging immigrant population in Queens starting in the 1970s. Over the years, they developed an adult education program that included ESL and youth programs that focused on keeping young people away from gangs and drugs, which was growing problem in the streets of Queens in the 1970s and 1980s.

HANAC also created job development programs, job placement, training and even child and family counseling programs. The organization established two beacons- one in Astoria and one in Corona.

During the 1980s, HANAC moved their headquarters to Manhattan- a more central location for an organization that serves the entire city.

Senior Citizens HANAC’s first senior center in 1973 was only the tip of the iceberg.

Now, HANAC operates or is planning four full service senior housing complexes- three in Queens and one in development in Westchester County, a bevy of community service centers, a transportation program that provides transportation services to seniors living in Northern Queens neighborhoods including Astoria, Jackson Heights, Flushing and Whitestone, and a Naturally Occurring Retirement Community in Ravenswood which is established to serve the specific needs of the elderly who live in the complex. Senior

Students involved in HANAC community programs help clean up Astoria Park (above). HANAC’s Weatherization program provides energy saving applications, including installing new boilers (l.) in homes and apartments throughout Queens. citizens were an initial focus of HANAC because many had not been born in the United States and spent much of their lives elsewhere. Housing was most important because it was a number one need for senior citizens.

“You really can’t provide an elderly person a secure environment without affordable, safe and secure housing,” Kaiteris said. “That’s what prompted us to initiate senior housing.”

Youth Programs HANAC’s beacons in Astoria and Corona are education-based afterschool centers that offer youths and adults a mix of social, recreational and educational services including homework help, SAT preparations, tutoring as well as games and arts and crafts.

There are also in-school programs focusing on tutoring and study skills training as well as assistance in finding part time and summer jobs for teenagers. Out-of-School Time is a program in two Jackson Heights locations sponsored by HANAC that focuses on educational and recre-

ational activities such as sports, dance, arts and crafts and games.

HANAC also has a Summer Youth Employment Program funded by the Dept. of Youth and Community Development, and there is a special after school program sponsored by HANAC at PS 171 in Astoria.

Counseling There is a wide range of counseling services offered by HANAC. They include child and family counseling at their center at 23-16 30th Ave. in Astoria geared toward “maintaining a safe and stable home environment.” Services focus on problem solving and coping strategies for families including crisis intervention, parent aid counseling, individual and family therapy, anger management and domestic violence counseling. Counseling is also offered in Greek and Spanish.

HANAC also offers medically supervised substance abuse programs at its outpatient substance abuse center at 31-14 30th Ave. every Monday

A look inside HANAC’s George Douris Tower.

through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Fridays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

At HANAC’s Corona Beacon is their Neighborhood Development program (NDA) which is focused on drug and alcohol prevention toward students age 6-11. HANAC also operates a prevention and counseling program at the Greek-American St. Demetrios School and St. Catherine’s kindergarten to 5th grade classes in Astoria.

Other Social Services HANAC offers employment and educational programs geared especially toward new immigrant populations. Programs include ESOL classes, GED programs, a Civic/Citizenship program to help immigrants prepare for their citizenship exams, a program called HANAC BEGIN which focuses on students on public assistance, allowing them to gain real world work experience while attending academic classes.

Some of HANAC’s services are quite unique for a nonprofit. HANAC offers assistance to homeowners toward reducing heating and electrical costs by aiding weatherization with comprehensive energy analysis to eligible applicants. Among the energy-saving measures HANAC has assisted homeowners with; efficient lighting, energy star refrigerators, roof insulation and boiler and window repair and replacement.

Other services offered by HANAC include the Caregivers program, which assists those who are caring for someone over 60 years old with counseling, support groups, supplemental services and outreach, respite and advocacy, programs informing residents in Northern Queens neighborhoods about the risk of lead poisoning, and services for victims of crimes.

Beyond The Greek Community While Astoria was HANAC’s birthplace, Kaiteris said the organization has always been a citywide one because of the smaller, but still prominent, Greek communities in the other boroughs including Washington Heights and Bay Ridge. Though the Greek immigrant community is smaller now than it was in 1972, HANAC is a much larger organization because it serves a much larger population of not only Greek-Americans, but Italian, Irish and other European immigrants as well as newer immigrants from Latin American and Asian countries. Though its name suggests it as a Greek organization, HANAC has always served people of all backgrounds and needs.

That, Kaiteris said, was the idea of HANAC founder George Douris.

“We never served just the Greek community,” he said. “That was the founder’s stipulation and our staff reflects that.”

ȱ ȱ ȱ ǰȱ Ĝ ȱ ȱ ěȱ ȱ

The Queens Tribune Person of the Year The Hellenic American ȱ ȱ Ĵ ȱǭȱ The Queens Library For continuing to address the needs of the elderly, youth and families of the Queens community. www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 19

HANAC & The Queens Library enhance and enrich our lives and our community through culture, caring and philanthropy.

HANAC

Affordable Housing Gives Seniors Place To Live

BY ROSS BARKAN After 87 years, she never thought she would be living in a place this beautiful. She also never thought, in order to live in such a place, she would be able to stay in her beloved home, Queens.

But Irene Phillips, who moved here 70 years ago from Cedarhurst, Long Island, has found a home at Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee’s affordable housing where she can be both comfortable and productive. When most people are lucky enough to be approaching their ninth decade of existence, they tend to slow down physically and mentally. Answers to questions don’t arrive as quickly as they once did. Stairs that were scaled forty years ago without a second thought now require persistence and include pain.

“It’s a lovely space,” said Phillips, 87, of her 13th floor apartment in the George T. Duoris Tower,

HANAC’s affordable senior housing building. “It’s clean, bright, and has a spectacular view of Manhattan.”

A titanium hip and osteoporosis have made physical activity more of a challenge, but Phillips has not succumbed to inactivity. She is the volunteer librarian for the building’s library, organizing the mysteries, thrillers, histories and romances that are donated to the growing collection. From 7 to 9 p.m. every Wednesday evening, Phillips keeps the library open for residents to browse and borrow.

Managing the library is an extension of her life-long love of reading— she continues to devour mystery novels, using reading, like she always has, as a relaxation activity. In her building, residents, she said, never feel isolated. Tai Chi and Yoga classes keep her body active. A senior residence center attached to the building brings residents together to share the events of their day.

Phillips’ new life here began on one ordinary day.

“One day I happened to see a picket fence with a sign on it,” she said. “I thought, if I don’t put in application for something that’s right in my backyard, I’d be a fool.”

That application was for an affordable apartment inside the Duoris Tower. Phillips had been living in a third floor walk-up apartment in Astoria. The stairs, at her age, were becoming too

Above: HANAC’s George T. Douris Tower senior housing complex opened in 2008. Below: Residents enjoy programs sponsored by HANAC. much of a challenge. With a broken hip, she needed access to an elevator and a secure, nurturing environment.

Her son is happy, and she is too, though she wishes, with all the socializing and errands that now take up her day, she had more time for her true passion: creating miniatures.

“As a kid, I wanted to have a doll house, but I grew up during the Depression,” she said. “The times were very bad, so it was out of the realm of possibility. When I got to be 50, I thought, well you know what, why not fool around with this thing. I started working very small, making little

rooms a quarter inch, half inch. In those days they didn’t have the type of materials they have today.” (continued on page 22)

Page 20 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Local Officials Speak On HANAC State Senator

Michael Gianaris Peter Vallone Sr. State Sen. Michael Gianaris (DAstoria) on HANAC: “I have dealt with countless constituents whose lives have been made better due to the services of HANAC,” said Gianaris. “The kudos they are receiving is well deserved.”

Gianaris knows the work HANAC has done for his constituents personally. His grandmother was a regular visitor to one of HANAC’s senior centers. These centers, of which many in Astoria were built with HANAC support, are a vital resource to an aging community and in Gianaris’ eyes, HANAC’s flagship service.

“Thousands of seniors have seen their lives made better by the work HANAC has done,” he added, noting that without these centers and

services provided there, many of these seniors would have left Astoria and Queens in general.

“When budgets threatened senior centers, we rally around our centers to keep them open,” Gianaris said.

“HANAC has been a tremendous resource in that regard and an invaluable asset that we should all turn to.”

Though founded as an organization to help Greek immigrant populations arriving in Astoria four decades ago, Gianaris said the organization has used that experience to reach out to new immigrant population who find Astoria, and the rest of the city, home. “[HANAC] is a group that does great work especially for new immigrant populations,” he said. “The mission has been unchanged.”

Peter Vallone Sr. has seen HANAC grow from the moment of its inception four decades ago to what it has become today- one of the largest social service providers in the entire city.

Calling HANAC founder George Douris “like a stepbrother,” he said he remembers when HANAC opened its first senior center in the early 1970s.

“We go a long way back,” he said, comparing it to a “Sicilian marriage.”

Vallone represented Astoria in the City Council from 1974-2001 and spent the last 15 years as Speaker of the City Council, during which HANAC went from being an Astoriabased organization to moving into its current offices in Manhattan. Most

of HANAC’s services and buildings, including senior centers, were constructed and established during his time on the City Council.

“I’m pleased to congratulate the Queens Tribune on selecting HANAC as one of their Persons of the Year,” Vallone said.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 21

HANAC

Affordable Housing Gives Seniors Place To Live (continued from page 20) Phillips, who worked as an accountant in a payroll department, began to master the art of crafting furniture on a tiny scale. When she began, she used the thin wood of matchboxes and incorporated the materials from random items she would come across every day. She made gifts for her family, at one time building an exact replica of her son’s living room. The room set even had wood paneling.

“This will help me make it to 100, living in this place,” she said.

Daniel Magidson, a director of syndication at Enterprise Community Investment, Inc.—a for-profit investor in affordable housing—said HANAC was worth the investment.

“We’re looking for strong, qualified, and dedicated developers.

HANAC fits each of those qualities.

They have a long track record of existence and stability. All things we look for to protect investors and pro-

Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer sponsors a holiday food drive at HANAC’s Ravenswood Senior Center.

vide quality housing.”

Some developers can put profits ahead of quality. Magidson said HANAC was just the opposite.

“There are developers out there

in this world who are solely interested in how much money they can make in a deal,” he said. “The quality of housing is secondary. That’s not the case with HANAC.”

Local Official Speaks On HANAC

Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas As a girl growing up in Astoria, Assemblymember Aravella Simotas (D-Astoria) would spend a lot of time around organizations sponsored by the Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee, better known as HANAC. “Most of us [growing up in Astoria] were part of activities and organizations sponsored by HANAC,” Simotas explained.

Public school students during Simotas’ school days took part in public service internships and she was able to do some public service at senior centers in Astoria. Simotas said her husband, John, also helped out with HANAC growing up, including taking part in many of the organization’s planned retreats.

While helping seniors is one of HANAC’s major achievements,

Simotas pointed out that they have a long list of issues that they have worked on. “[HANAC] does incredible work in respect to housing, but also children’s initiatives,” she said, also listing job and housing programs as places where HANAC has been helpful.

In hard economic times, Simotas said many organizations have had to do more with less. HANAC is one of those, but she credits their ability to be proactive and practical with their funding.

“They know how to run the organization,” she said of HANAC’s leaders, including Evangeline Douris and COO John Kaiteris.

She credited HANAC’s ability to manage the money well and offer “worthwhile services” as what has helped them weather tough economic times.

Page 22 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

CONGRATULATIONS

Queens Library AND

The Hellenic American Neighborhood Action Committee on being honored by the Queens Tribune for contributions that enrich the lives of Queens citizens.

We are especially proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of one of our graduates,

Thomas Galante Director and Chief Executive Officer, Queens Library

President James Muyskens

www.qc.cuny.edu

Leisure

Queens-Bred Star Heads To The Stage

By ELYSE TREV ERS Rosedale native John Turtur ro is wellknown to audiences from his movie roles in Quiz Show, Barton Fink and You Don’t Mess With the Zohan. Turtur ro is also a n experienced theatrical director. (Endgame, Waiting for Godot, Life (x) 3) who had the challenging task this past season of working with three different play wright s in the new comedy “Relatively Speaking.”

Broadway theater has developed a formula for attract ing audience s. T he per formances and the play need not be stellar; add a celebrity and audiences will come. For example, this year Samuel L. Jackson, Angela Bassett and Kim Cattrall are drawing fans to see them onstage. Although most of the actors in “Relatively Speaking” are familiar stage and screen faces, the real celebrities of the comedy are its three famous playwrights, Ethan Coen (of the Coen brothers), Elaine May and Woody Allen. Each has writ ten a short act that is a par t of the play. The con-

necting themes of the three are relationships, humor and some psychology. The Coen and Allen pieces include Jewish humor as well.

In “ Taki ng Cure,” by Coen, a mental patient who has anger management problems has several sessions with a psychologist. After he describes his parents, we get to see his parents interact. There’s ver y lit tle humor in t he play, but, ironically what is there comes from the parents fighting.

The middle piece, “George is Dead,” is the darkest and ends on a down note. A vapid, wealthy woman comes to the home of her former nanny’s daughter to announce that her husband George has died in an avalanche in Aspen. The best par t of the play is Marlo Thomas as the woman, and although she looks frightful in a ghastly blond wig, Thomas milks her characters for all the laughs she can get. Although her self-centered ways create humor, her characters notes that she even bores herself.

La Bottega Finding Customer Base

REVIEW

Red Storm Holds Off Fordham Rally

By DAV ID RUSSELL The St. John’s Red Storm beat the Fordham Rams in a rare intra-city matchup in the second half of the recent Madison Square Garden Holiday Festival Doubleheader on Dec. 17. A year after blowing a 21-point lead to the Rams, St. John’s nearly squandered a 16-point advantage but held on to win 56-50.

One of St. John’s biggest rivals outside of the Big East, Fordham and St. John’s faced each other on and off since the 190809 season. It has been, at times, an intense rivalry, highlighted by the Lou CarneseccaTom Penders feud and Mike Jarvis’ decision to stop St. John’s from playing intra-city road games after a heartbreaking loss at Rose Hill Gym in the Bronx.

“Playing in the Garden is a home run,” Fordham coach Tom Pecora, who was born in Queens Village, said. “It’s great playing St. John’s; it’s great for the city. It’s a game that should be played.”

The game also had special meaning for local product Maurice Harkless. “Especially me being from New York, a lot of guys there (on Fordham) are from New York. T he y were talking junk, but now I have bragging right s for the year.”

With assistant coach Mike Dunlap filling

in for Steve Lavin, the Red Storm played back and for th with Fordham, but an 11-0 run to end the first half gave St. John’s a 35-26 lead.

The Rams stayed in the game due to a barrage of three-pointers by Branden Frazier, who finished the half with 13 points. St. John’s scored the first seven points of the second half, capped by a Phil Greene bucket, to take a 42-26 lead, before fatigue seemed to set in. Dunlap played his five star ters the whole first half. The only substitution of the game was Malik Stith coming off the bench for four minutes in the second half.

The Red Storm may have had flashbacks to last year when a 60-39 lead slipped away in the Bronx and turned into a 84-81 loss.

Fordham went on a 24-11 to cut the lead to 53-50 with under two minutes to play and had a chance to tie the game, before the St. John’s defense clamped down, and held on for the win.

D’Angelo Harrison led the team with 15 points. Harkless notched his third doubledouble in a row, w ith 13 points and 16 rebounds.

“Once you get that second wind, I feel like I could keep playing another 40 minutes”, Harkless said. Dunlap, who was seated next to Harkless commented “Keep that attitude.”

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 25

flavor; the smooth sharp taste of the balsamic in one bite, the southwestern flavor of the corn and bacon in the next. Though I had a small salad just to taste, a large Zola salad definitely screams to be a meal itself.

Tim offered me four of his famous mozzarella sticks, which were less like sticks and more like “Italian Pierogis.” These aren’t the mass-produced frozen sticks you In Italian, la bot tega means “the shop.” buy in the supermarket; the cheese, made The word is often used to describe that on site, is fresh and gooey and melts in your mouth. It is enveloped in a small market down in the piazza stunning mixture of flavors, where you buy your cheese, meats, fish, bread and perhaps a RESTAURANT which Tim created all on his own like a chemist in a lab. These are new sauce pan; ever y th ing you the type of mozzarella sticks that might need to make, say, a needs to be enjoyed with a fork panini. But in Bayside, “the and knife. shop” is where you get the panini The por tobello bruschetta was made for you, almost any way you next on my menu. On long strips want it. of roasted Italian bread lie large La Bottega, located along a busy roasted por tobello mushrooms, stretch of Bell Boulevard between which crown the dish, along with N o r t he r n B o u l e v a r d a n d t he Bayside LIRR station, is a new addition to tangy goat cheese and fresh walnuts. It was the busy downtown strip. It opened last fall, the nuts that attracted me to the dish, and the first Queens location for the chain that they did not disappoint. They seemed to has set up shop all over Long Island, and enhance the flavor of the Por tobello, while survived a harsh winter. La Bot tega owner toning down the goat cheese.

Then it was panini time. There are dozPasquale said the site is now finding a real customer base; local businesses at lunch; ens of different paninis, to choose from; commuters coming off the LIRR in the it’s almost impossible to pick just one. There evening. Offering free deliver y, they are are chicken, pork, seafood, beef, cured meats and even vegetarian and gluten-free also becoming popular for their take out.

Walking into La Bot tega’s Bayside res- paninis. I finally settled on the “Prego” taurant, the scener y is more pizzeria than panini, a suggestion from Pasquale. This sit-down eater y, but hidden in the back, was a prosciut to lover’s dream. Sa ndaway from the hustle and bustle of Bell wiched between the thick and tasty krispina Boulevard, is the dining room, crowned bread is prosciut to, saunteed spinach, with a bar in the back that Pasquale hopes grilled red onions and fontina cheese.

The paninis are big, so make sure to will serve liquor once the restaurant gets its license. I met also w ith La Bot tega’s leave room for them; if you do fill up with chef, Tim, who tells me a lit tle about his some left, definitely ask for a doggy bag. I took half the panini home and to my surlove of cooking.

I started w ith a Zola Salad, an excit ing prise, it remained just as tasty reheated later mixture featuring baby arugula, mush- as it was taking the first bite in the restaur o o m s , r e d o n i o n s , c o r n , b a c o n , rant, so your dining experience at “the gorgonzola crumbles and balsamic dress- shop” can continue even after you pay the ing. This was a thrill. With so many ingre- check.

—Domenick Rafter dients, ever y forkful unear thed a different LA BOTTEGA 42-29 Bell Blvd., Bayside (718) 906-6311 CUISINE: Italian HOURS: Sun-Thu 11 am-10 pm; Fr iSat 11 am-11:30 pm PARKING: Street CREDIT CARDS: All Major

“Honeymoon Motel” is the last and the best of the three. It’s vintage Allen. Those who prefer Woody Allen’s earliest movies to his later works will really love this play.

With loads of one-liners, Allen pokes fun at marriage, religion and psychology (“Freud was a genius. Who else could make an hour into 50 minutes”). There’s word play and some slapstick.

The stor y is silly but who cares? You actually laugh a lot at this play.

John Tur turro and Aida Turturro at the opening of “RelaRehearsals must have tively Speaking.” been like ‘old home week’ at “Relatively Speaking” since many of the per former s and creatives have worked together before.

Tur turro has starred in Coen movies and Julie Kaver is a Woody Allen r e g u l a r. O t h e r s , l i k e Steve Gothenburg. Mark Linn-Baker and Grant Shaud, are familiar from their television and movie performance s. Richard Liber t i ni is hysterical as the rabbi who continues to drink and make jokes even after the Max Gordon Moore, Marlo Thomas and Lisa Emery take wedding has gone a bow. soured.

Although the plays are arranged in order own tempo and the different play wrights’ of length, they are actually presented in or- skills are apparent. Queens-bred Tur turro der of funny with Allen’s, the last one as the has the hardest job of all, tr ying to make most humorous. Each of the three has its them all work.

Page 26 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

LEGAL NOTICE SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Index No.: 9320/11 Date of Filing: November 15, 2011 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS KONDAUR CAPITAL CORPORATION, Plaintiff, against- JEANNETTE C ALVEAR; HAROLD L CEDENO, if living, or if either or all be dead, their wives, husbands, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said HAROLD L CEDENO, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and the respective husbands, wives, widow or widowers of them, if any, all of whose names are unknown to plaintiff; ADVANTAGE ASSETS II, INC.; MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR WMC MORTGAGE CORP.; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; STATE OF NEW YORK; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; “JOHN DOES” and “JANE DOES”, said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of premises, and corporations, other entities or persons who claim, or may claim, a lien against the premises, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service of this summons is made by delivery upon you personally within this state, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTOR-

LEGAL NOTICE NEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Honorable Charles J. Markey of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, signed on October 21, 2011, and filed with supporting papers in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, State of New York. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by JEANNETTE C ALVEAR; HAROLD L CEDENO to MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC. AS NOMINEE FOR WMC MORTGAGE CORP. in the principal amount of $376,000.00, which mortgage was recorded in Queens County, State of New York, on December 27, 2006, as CRFN: 2006000704528.

Thereafter, said mortgage was assigned to Plaintiff by assignment dated July 19, 2010 and recorded on November 8, 2010 as CRFN: 2010000374028. Said premises being known as and by 90-42 PITKIN AVENUE, Ozone Park, NY 11417.

Dated: September 14, 2011 Batavia, New York Virginia C. Grapensteter, Esq. ROSICKI, ROSICKI & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Batavia Office 26 Harvester Avenue Batavia, NY 14020 585.815.0288 Help For Homeowners In Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home.

You should be extremely careful about any such promises.

The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other nonprofit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-BANKNYS (1-877-2265697) or visit the Department’s website at www.banking.state.ny.us.

The State does not guarantee the advice of these agencies. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of SIX CENTRAL, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/08/11. Office location: Queens County.

Princ. office of LLC: 49-70 31st St., Long Island City, NY 11101. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to

LEGAL NOTICE Corporation Service Co., 80 State St., Albany, NY 122072543. Purpose: Any lawful activity. ___________________________________ COLLABO HOSPITALITY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/8/11. Office in Queens County. SSNY design. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 67-71 Yellowstone Boulevard Apt. 6H Forest Hills NY 11375 Purpose: Any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: HERMES B NY LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/27/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 149-36 19 th Avenue, Whitestone, New York 11357. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ Notice of formation of KITY HOME MAINTENANCE LLC Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on 10/19/ 2011 office located in Queens County. SSNY has been designated for services of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC at 160-64 20 th Ave, Whitestone NY 11357.

Purpose: Debris cleaning. ___________________________________ Notice of formation of Diomi Designs LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on Aug 17 2011. Office located in Queens. SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served against the LLC 27010 Grand Central Pkwy, Floral Park, NY 11005. For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 195 ST LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/07/97. The latest date of dissolution is 12/31/2017.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, c/o George Subraj, 8805 Merrick Boulevard, RM L 3, Jamaica, New York 11432.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of HCRD Enterprises LLC, Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 2/ 9/10. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Howard Smolen Esq., 360 Great Neck Rd., Great Neck, NY 11021.

Purpose: any lawful activities. ___________________________________ 400 JAY SCUTTI BLVD LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 7/22/

LEGAL NOTICE 11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 216-16 28 th Rd., Bayside, NY 11361.

General Purposes. ___________________________________ Notice of formation of Liquor World LLC, a limited liability company (LLC). Articles of Organization filed with Secretary of State of N.Y. (SSNY) on 08/05/2011. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to:792794 Elmont Road, Elmont, NY 11354. Purpose: Any lawful activity. ___________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 129-17 91 AVE, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/15/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 129-17 91 st Avenue, Richmond Hill, New York 11418. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ CITATION THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK File No. 2007-4374 By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: NEDELJKO IVKOVIC, 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 names and places of residence are unknown and to all other heirs at law, next of kin and distributees of IVANA IVKOVIC the decedent herein, whose names and places of residence are unknown and cannot after due diligent inquiry be ascertained ATTORNEY GENERAL being the persons interested as creditors, legatees, devisees, beneficiaries, distributees, or otherwise in the Estate of IVANA IVKOVIC, deceased, who at the time of her death was a resident of 219-82 64 th Avenue, Borough of Queens, City and State of New York 11364. Send Greeting: Upon the petition of MIRA RIERA, residing at 794 New Dover Road, Edison, New Jersey 08820. You and each of you are hereby cited to show cause before the Surrogate’s Court of Queens County, held at the Queens County Building, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York 11435 on the 2 nd day of February 2012, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why the account of proceedings of MIRA RIERA, as Administrator of the Goods, Chattels and Credits which were of the Estate of IVANA IVKOVKIC, deceased, should not be judicially settled; a copy of which is attached; why an Order

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

should not be made; 1. Removing the restrictions contained in the Limited Letters of Administration issued to the petitioner; 2. Authorizing the petitioner to collect the proceeds of a settlement referred to hereinabove in the amount of $700,000.00 against DAVID RAFAEL RIVERA, PATRICK G. TORNEY, ALYSSA G. TORNEY, JOSEPH PORTNOV and the CITY OF NEW YORK, and of said sum the amount of $400,000.00 being allocated to the cause of action for the wrongful death of said decedent, IVANA IVKOVIC and the sum of $300,000.00 being allocated to the cause of action for personal injuries sustained by said decedent, IVANA IVKOVIC, during her lifetime; 3. Dispensing with the filing of a bond in respect thereto; 4. Authorizing the petitioner, MIRA RIERA, to pay to IROM, WITTELS, FREUND, BERNE & SERRA, P.C., thirty-three and onethird (33-1/3%) percent of the gross recovery herein (after deduction of disbursements), the sum of $226,262.97, as and for their legal fee (of which sum the amount of $129,286.67 is being allocated to the cause of action for the wrongful death of the decedent and $96,976.30 is being allocated to the cause of action for personal injuries sustained by the decedent during her lifetime) for their services rendered in the underlying cause(s) of action and in this proceeding (or such legal fee as is fixed by the Court), together with reimbursement of disbursements in the amount of $21,211.07 (of which sum the amount of $12,120.00 is being allocated to the cause of action for the wrongful death of the decedent and $9,091.07 is being allocated to the cause of action for personal injuries sustained by the decedent during her lifetime), totaling in all the sum of $247,474.04; 5. Discharging and releasing the petitioner, MIRA RIERA, from all responsibility and liability with respect to the matter herein, the aforementioned causes of action and the proceeds thereof, upon compliance with terms of the Decree to be entered herein; 6. That NEDELJKO IVKOVIC, be barred from sharing in the proceeds herein, and that he be disallowed from any recovery had herein, in accordance with §4-1.4 of the Estates, Powers and Trusts Law of the State of New York, it having been established that he abandoned the decedent herein, as all reasonable attempts to locate the present whereabouts of NEDELJKO IVKOVIC, having been unsuccessful. 7. That of the settlement proceeds herein, MIRA RIERA, the petitioner herein, be paid $8,263.84 in reimbursement of payment by her (in full) of the funeral bill of the Frederick Funeral Home, Inc., for the funeral services of the decedent herein; 8. That of the settlement proceeds herein, MIRA

RIERA, the petitioner herein, be paid $25,000.00, as and for her compensation (statutory commissions) as Administrator of the Estate of the decedent herein (of which sum the amount of $14,285.00 is being allocated to the cause of action for the wrongful death of the decedent and the amount of $10,715.00 is being allocated to the cause of action for personal injuries sustained by the decedent during her lifetime; 9. Authorizing the payment of $419,262.12 to MIRA RIERA, as surviving parent (as approved by the Court) of the decedent of which sum the amount of $244,288.33 is allocated for the wrongful death of the decedent herein and the amount of $174,973.79 is allocated to the recovery in the cause of action for personal injuries sustained by the decedent during her lifetime; 10. That upon payments as hereinabove mentioned by the said defendants or defendants’ insurance companies, MIRA RIERA, as Administrator of the Goods, Chattels and Credits which were of the Estate of IVANA IVKOVIC, deceased, be permitted to execute and deliver to the said defendants, DAVID RAFAEL RIVERA, PATRICK G. TORNEY, ALYSSA G. TORNEY, JOSEPH PORTNOV and the CITY OF NEW YORK, full, final and complete release(s) in the claims against them arising out of the aforesaid causes of action, together with any other papers necessary to effectuate said compromise; and 11. The judicial settlement of the account of MIRA RIERA, as Administrator of the Estate of IVANA IVKOVIC, deceased. Dated, Attested and Sealed, DEC 14 2011 HON. PETER J. KELLY Surrogate, Queens County Margaret M. Gribbon Chief Clerk IROM, WITTELS, FREUND, BERNE & SERRA, P.C. Attorneys for Petitioner OFFICE AND P.O. ADDRESS 349 East 149 th Street Bronx, New York 10451 (718) 6650220 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 consent to the proceeding, unless you file written objections thereto. You have a right to have an attorney at law appear for you. ___________________________________ Name of LLC: Santos Bay Logistica USA LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 11/17/11. Office loc.: Queens Co. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o Business Filings Inc., 187 Wolf Rd., Ste. 101, Albany, NY 12205, regd. agt. upon whom process may be served. Purpose: any lawful act.

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

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 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.

EXHIBIT

MEETINGS TALK OF THE TOWN Tu e s d a y s , J a n u a r y 3 , 1 7 , February 7, 21, March 6, 20 learn the art of public speaking at 7:15 in St. Albans. 6407092.

HAM RADIO CLUB Tuesdays, Januar y 3, February 7, March 6 Emergency Communications Service meets in Briarwood. 3576851.

MEN’S CLUB SOCCER Tuesday evenings at the Forest Hills Jewish Center 89:30. 263-7000.

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, 212-97 26 th Avenue, upper level. Get feedback on your writing and develop your skills.

TOASTMASTERS Wednesdays, January 4, 18, February 1, 15, March 7, 21 learn the art of public speaking at the Voices of Rochdale

ENTERTAINMENT MOVING IMAGE Through March 4 Jim Henson Screenings and Programs. Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 th Avenue, Astoria. 777-6800. $15.

ACROBATS Through December 31 Golden Dragon Acrobats at Queens Theatre in the Park.

760-0064.

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 and at the East Flushing library at 3:30.

CHESS Tu e s d ay s a t 4 : 3 0 a t t h e Rosedale library and at 4 at the LIC library.

FILM & TALK Friday, January 6 Flushing Book Discussion Group and Film Screening at 1 at the Flushing library.

GAME DAY Fridays at 4:30 at the Woodhaven library.

BANANAGRAM/SCRABBLE Fridays at the Windsor Park library at 2.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays at 2 at the Hillcrest library.

PIANO & ORCHESTERA Saturday, January 7 Tchaikovsky and Liszt: Two Romantic Masterpieces for Piano and Orchestra featuring concert pianist Dr. Albert Zak and more at the Flushing library at 2.

SUNDAY CONCERT Sunday, January 8 Alva Anderson Quartet performs jazz at 3 at the Central library.

To a s t m a s t e r s C l u b i n J a maica. 978-0732.

FLUSHING CAMERA Wednesdays, January 4, 18, February 1, 15, 29 Flushing Camera Club at Flushing Hospital. 479-0643.

KNIGHTS OF PY THIAS Wednesdays, January 4, 18, February 1, 15, March 7, 21 Queensview Lodge 433 in Whitestone. 917-754-3093.

BEREAVEMENT Wednesdays, January 4, February 1, March 7 Bereavement Support Group at Holy Family in Fresh Meadows. 7:30. 969-2448.

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.

WRITE! Thursday, January 5 “Shut up and Write” group at 6:30 at the Broadway library.

MEN’S PRIDE GROUP Thursdays, January 5, 19, February 2, 16, March 1, 15 Queens Pride House Men’s group 7-9. 429-5309.

LEADD CLUB Thursday evenings and one Saturday afternoon. Recreation Socialization Program for Learning Disabled Adults. 18+, able to travel on public transportation.

Arn310@aol.com information.

ART LEAGUE Friday, January 6 National Art League meets for a pottery demonstration at 8 at 442 1 D o u g l a st o n P a r k wa y.

Free.

WOMEN’S GROUP Fridays the Woman’s Group of Jamaica Estates meets at noon. Call 461-3193 for information.

PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, January 7, 21 public speaking and effective communication 1012:15 at the Elmhurst Hospital Center Conference Room. 424-9754.

CAMBRIA HTS LIBRARY Saturday, January 14 Friends Board of Directors of Queens Library at Cambria Heights meet 4-5:15.

THEATER KILLING KOMPANY Friday, February 3 “Murder

by Marriage” at Riccardo’s in Astoria. The Killing Company performs mystery dinner shows. 1-888-SHOOTEM for information.

PARENTS FIT KIDS Saturday, December 31 4:30-5:30. 174-03 Horace Harding Expressway. Fit Kids Nutrition and Exercise Program. 661-7687.

YOGA FOR PARENTS Wednesday, January 4 at the Cambria Heights library at 4.

FAMILY STORY TIME Thursday, January 5 at the Auburndale library for kids 5-12 at 4.

Happy New Year!!

From Our Winning Staff New Years Day Sunday Jan. 1st, 2012 No Reservations Are Required

Dinner Includes:

Choice of Appetizer or Cup of Soup or Juice, Celery and Olives, House Salad with Choice of Dressing, Entree, Vegetable, Potato, Challah Bread & Rolls, Any Pastry and Beverage, Dried Fruit and Nuts

Beer

Wines by the Glass

Budweiser ..........................

Heineken ............................

Amstel ................................

Corona ...............................

5.00 Classic Red ......................... 4.75 5.00 Classic White ...................... 4.75 5.00 Blush ................................. 4.75 5.00

Appetizers (Extra on Dinner)

(Extra on Dinner)

Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail ....... 9.95 Chicken Fingers .................

Filet of Marinated Herring .. 6.95 Mozzarella Sticks ...............

Baked Stuffed Clams ........... 7.50 Buffalo Wings .....................

Potato Skins (6 Pieces) ......

5.95 5.95 5.95 5.95

STUFFED GRAPE LEAVES with Rice • FRUIT SALAD Cocktail Supreme Assorted JUICES• HALF GRAPEFRUIT Maraschino

Soups CREAM of TURKEY — MANHATTAN CLAM CHOWDER CHICKEN CONSOMME with Rice, Noodles or Matzoh Balls

Entrees ROAST MARYLAND TURKEY with Apple Raisin Dressing ............... 25.95 VIRGINIA HAM STEAK Served with Wild Berry Ragu ..................... 24.95 ROAST LEG of LAMB with Mint Jelly ........................................... 26.95 ROAST PRIME RIB of BEEF Au Jus ............................................ 27.95 CHICKEN PARMIGIANA with Spaghetti ....................................... 23.95 ROAST CHICKEN with Apple Raisin Dressing ............................... 23.95 BROILED VEAL CHOP ............................................................. 32.95 BROILED HEAVY NY CUT SIRLOIN STEAK with Mushroom Caps ... 33.95 BROILED FILET MIGNON with Mushroom Caps ........................... 34.95 BROILED FILET of SOLE ALMONDINE Topped with Roasted Almonds ... 30.95 BROILED STUFFED FILET of SOLE with Crabmeat Stuffing .......... 33.95 BROILED SEAFOOD COMBINATION: Shrimp, Scallops, Filet of Sole, Halibut and Baked Clams ........................................................... 34.95 BROILED LOBSTER TAILS with Drawn Butter ............................. 45.95 BEEF & REEF: FILET MIGNON & TENDER ROCK LOBSTER Served with salad, potato and veg ................................................................. 46.95 VEGETABLES: Green Beans Almondine • Sweet Peas • Glazed Baby Belgian Carrots • Broccoli Spears • Creamed Spinach • Corn on the Cob • Mashed Turnips POTATOES: Baked • Fresh Garlic Mashed • French Fried • Candied Yams

Children’s Menu ROAST TURKEY with Apple Raisin Dressing ................................

ROAST LEG of LAMB with Mint Jelly ...........................................

CHEESE RAVIOLI topped with Mozzarella ....................................

CHICKEN PARMIGIANA with Spaghetti ........................................

15.95 15.95 15.95 15.95

Beverages

Desserts

SODA, JUICE, COFFEE OR TEA

APPLE PIE, CHEESE CAKE, ASSORTED DANISH, CHOCOLATE LAYER CAKE OR ANY OTHER PASTRY

Free Parking

86-55 Queens Boulevard, Elmhurst

Co nvenie ntly lo est of Q ueens P lace Con nien loccated 1 Blo Blocck W West Qu Place

718-651-9000 · Fax: 718-397-0575

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 27

FLUSHING TOWN HALL Through January 7 “Korean Painting Exhibition: A Walk Through Nature.” Permanent displays include “Jazz Live!”, “Flushing Town Hall:” Fact or Folklore,” an historical exhibition on Flushing Town Hall and its place in history, “Legends of the Queens Jazz Trail” 463-7700.

QUEENS COLLEGE ART Through January 13 “In Perpetuum: The Fall: Will Corwin” exhibition. Queens College Art Center. 9973770.

HALL OF SCIENCE Through January 15 Wild Minds: What Animals Really Think. Through February 5 Digital 11: The Alchemy of Change. Adults $11, children 2017 $8, college students with ID $8 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.

BARBARA LEVEN Through January 31 “Enchanted Earth 2.0,” a photography exhibit by Barbara E. Leven will be on display at the Queens Botanical Gardens, 43-50 Main Street, Flushing. Tuesday through Sunday 8-4:30.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Queens Today

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT Page 28 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Queens Today EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS 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.

CROCHET Mondays 6-7 at the Rosedale library.

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.

INTRO COMPUTERS Tuesdays, Januar y 3, 10 at the McGoldrick library. Register.

OWN BUSINESS Every Tuesday Owning Your Own Business: The Nuts and Bolts of Getting Started 6:307:30 at the Central library.

LI CHESS CLUB Tuesdays at the LIC library at 4.

SCRABBLE CLUB Tuesdays at the East Flushing library at 3:30.

KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays at the Windsor Park library at 2.

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.

DO THE HUSTLE Wednesdays, January 4, 11, 18, 25 dance class to learn the American Hustle at 6:30 at the Flushing library.

RESUMES Wednesday, January 4 learn about resumes at the Central library 10:30.

CROCHET & KNIT Wednesday, January 4 crochet and knitting club at the Far Rockaway library at 2:30.

RESUME WRITING Wednesdays, January 4, 11 at 4 at the Arverne library.

STORING YOUR STUFF Wednesday, January 4 learn the different options for saving your documents at the Central library. Register 9905102.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesday, January 4 at

the South Ozone Park library at 1.

KNITTING CLUB Wednesdays at the Bayside library. Register.

INTRO COMPUTERS Wednesdays at 10 at the Central library. Register.

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.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE Wednesdays 10:30-3:00 at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills. $12 session, includes light lunch. 261-2900 COMPLETE DRAWING Wednesdays 1-4 Complete Drawing class at the National Art League. $25 per class.

516-223-7659.

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.

INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, January 5 at the Pomonok library. Register.

BECOME A CITIZEN Thursdays, January 5, 12, 19, 26 at the Rego Park library at 5:30.

BOOT CAMP Thursdays learn computer programs at the Arverne library at 10:30.

COMPUTER BASICS Thursdays at the Glen Oaks library. Register.

BASIC COMPUTER Thursdays at the Rosedale library at 6.

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.

CROCHET Thursdays at the South Hollis library at 6:30.

INTRO MICROSOFT Friday, January 6 at the Central library. Register 9905102.

BASIC COMPUTER Fridays, January 6, 13 at the Auburndale library. Register.

CHESS & CHECKERS Fridays, January 6, 13 at the Astoria library at 3:30.

CROCHET CLUB Friday, January 6 at the McGoldrick library at 4. For all ages.

BOOT CAMP Fridays through January 27 Computer Boot Camp at the LIC library at 2.

CHESS CLUB Fridays at the Auburndale library at 3:30.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Fridays at the Poppenhusen library at 10. Register.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Fridays at the Middle Village library. Register.

COMPUTER LAB Fridays computer practice lab time at the Arverne library at noon.

KNITTING CLUB Fridays at the Maspeth library at 10.

CHESS TUTORIAL Fridays at 4 at the Woodside library.

KNIT & CROCHET Fridays at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30.

COMPUTER COURSE Every Friday at the Ozone Park library. Register.

HENNA PAINTING Saturday, January 7 henna hand painting workshop at the Broadway librar y. First come, first served at 2.

LINKEDIN Saturday, January 7 learn how to use the website LinkedIn to look for employment, network and keep up with colleagues.LIC library at 2. Bring electronic copy of resume.

PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, January 7, 21, February 4, 18 learn to communicate effectively at Elmhurst Hospital. 646-4367940.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING Saturday, January 7 at St. Mel’s in Flushing. $45. 631360-9720.

SENIORS AARP 3654 Tuesdays, Januar y 3, February 7, March 6 AARP 3654 meets in Bayside. 423-4237.

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.

STARS Wednesday, January 4 Senior Theater Acting Repertory meets at the Hollis library at 10:30.

KEW GARDENS Wednesdays, January 4, 18 special dance class at 11.

Wednesdays, January 11, 25 Line Dancing Class at noon. Mondays comedy writing 2:30-3:30. Wednesdays Spanish conversation at 10. Kew Gardens Community Center, 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, suite 202.

HOWARD BEACH Wednesdays mah jongg at 10 and Zumba Gold 1:302 : 3 0 . 1 5 6 - 4 5 8 4 th S t r e e t .

738-8100.

STARS Friday, January 6 Senior Theater Acting Repertory at the Queens Village library at 10:30. 776-0529.

AARP 4158 Tuesdays, Januar y 10, February 14, March 13 North Flushing chapter 4158 meets at noon at the Church on the H i l l , 1 6 7 - 0 7 3 5 th A v e n u e , Flushing. New members and visitors welcome.

YOUTH Wednesday, January 4 family coloring and story time at t he Bay Terrace libra r y at 10:30.

MORNING STORY TIME Wednesday, January 4 at the Kew Gardens Hills library at 10:30.

LIBRARY BUDDIES Wednesday, January 4 at the Auburndale library at 4.

SLED CRAFT Wednesday, January 4 at the East Flushing library. Register.

CHESS CLUB Wednesday, January 4 at the Ridgewood library at 4.

BOOST NEW YEAR Wednesday, January 4 at the Central library at 4:30.

CHESS Wednesdays at the Queens Village library at 3:30.

KNITTING Every Wednesdays at the Bayside library at 4.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays at the South Ozone Park library at 1.

TOPS TRUMP CARD Every Wednesday tournament at the LIC library at 4.

GAME DAY Wednesdays at the Poppenhusen library at 4.

S TORY T I M E Thursday, January 5 family story time at the Auburndale library at 4.

S TORY T I M E Thursday, January 5 afternoon story time at 2:30 at the Kew Gardens Hills library.

WINTER WONDERLAND Thursday, January 5 at the Seaside library at 4.

BOOST NEW YEAR Thursday, January 5 at the Central library at 4:30.

BOOST READING Thursday, January 5 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

CHINESE FUN Thursday, January 5 at 4 at the Howard Beach library and Monday, January 9 at 4 at the Queens Village library.

Traditional Chinese fun with dancing, storytelling, face painting and more.

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.

KWANZAA Friday, January 6 celebrate Kwanzaa with Bob Basey at the Central library at 4. Children 6-12.

COLORING & CRAFT Friday, January 6 at the Queeensboro Hill library at 11.

READ TO ME Friday, January 6 at the Briarwood library at 3.

CHESS & CHECKERS Friday, January 6 at the Astoria library at 3:30.

ACTIVITY TIME Friday, January 6 at the Briarwood library at 3:30.

LIBRARY BUDDIES Friday, January 6 at the Auburndale library at 4.

ARTS & CRAFTS Friday, January 6 at the

Briarwood library at 4.

BOOK BUDDIES Friday, January 6 at the Fresh Meadows library at 4.

GIRL SCOUTS Friday, January 6 at the Central library at 4:30.

BOOST CRAFT DAY Friday, January 6 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

TODDLER CRAFT Fridays at the Briarwood library at 10:30.

READ TO ME Fridays at the Briarwood library at 3.

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.

CHESS CLUB Fridays at the Auburndale library at 3:30.

GAME DAY Fridays at the Rochdale Village library at 4.

GAME TIME Fridays at the Windsor Park library at 4.

CHESS TUTORIAL Fridays at 4 at the Woodside library.

TWEEN ZONE Fridays at the LIC library at 2:30 for those in grades 5-8.

BOOST GAME DAY Fridays at the Central library at 4:30 and at 5 t the McGoldrick library.

CUB SCOUTS 351 Fridays at St. Nicholas of Tolentine school cafeteria, Parsons Blvd. and Union Turnpike. Boys in grades 15. 820-0015.

FAMILY STORY TIME Saturday, January 7 at the Flushing library at 11.

RELIGIOUS TEMPLE BETH Friday, December 30 Shabbat Services at 8.

Temple Beth Sholom, 172 nd Street and Northern Blvd., Flushing. 464-4143.

ADULT ED. Starting Wednesday, January 4 a course in commemoration of the Sesquicentennial of the War Between the States – “One People – Two Sides: How American Jews Viewed the Civil War” at the Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center. 357-5100.

LOST SYNAGOGUES Sunday, January 8 join the Queens Historical Societ y for “The Lost Synagogues of the Bronx and Queens” with Ellen Levitt 2:30 at Kingsland Homestead in Flushing. $8 non-members, $5 members.

939-0647, ext. 14.

MEN’S CLUB Saturday, January 14 Men’s Club Shabbat at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 2637000.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 29

QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and pre-school programs. Contact your local branch for dates.

APEC PROGRAMS January, February and March Alley Pond Environmental Center will hold Toddler time Nature Programs, Sunny Bunnies and Fledglings (for those 3-4). 2294000.

NEW YEAR CRAFT Saturday, December 31 make a snowflake bookmark at the Langston Hughes library at 2:30.

STORY BOOK LADY Saturdays 12:30-1:30 reading enrichment program for 6-9 year olds at Maria Rose International Doll Museum, 187-11 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. $7.50. 276-3454.

SCIENCE LAB Saturdays at the Central library at 11.

MATH HELP Saturdays at the Flushing library at 10.

BOOST HOMEWORK HELP Weekdays at 3 at the Cambria Heights library.

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 , Fre s h Meadows.

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.

ARTS & CRAFTS Tuesdays, Januar y 3, 10 at the Auburndale library at 4.

BOOST WORD Tuesday, January 3 Word of the Week at the McGoldrick library at 5.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesday, Januar y 3 at the Hillcrest library at 3:30.

ARTS & CRAFTS Tuesday, Januar y 3 at the Auburndale library at 4.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesday, Januar y 3 at the Windsor Park library at 4.

BOOST NEW YEAR Tuesday, Januar y 3 at the Central library at 4:30.

CHESS CLUB Tuesdays at the LIC library at 4 and the Rosedale library at 4:30.

HAPPY HAPPY STORY TIME Wednesday, January 4 at the LIC library at 10:30.

BOOST SCIENCE Wednesday, January 4 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

STORY TIME Wednesdays, January 4, 11 East Elmhurst Storytime at 11:30.

STORY HOUR Wednesday, January 4 at the Baisley Park library at 10:30.

FAMILY COLORING

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT

Queens Today

Page 30 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

LEGAL NOTICE Notice of Formation of Limited Liability Company (LLC).

Name; Cesare LLC, Articles of Organization filed with New York’s Secretary of State (NYSS) on 7/23/08. Office location: c/o 147-03 5 th Ave., Whitestone, NY 11357. NYSS designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. NYSS shall mail copy of process of LLC, to: J. James Carriero, Esq., 108-54 Ditmars Blvd, North Beach NY 11369. Purpose: any lawful act or activity. ___________________________________ Notice of formation of Dominick 99, LLC. Articles of Organization filed with the Secretary of State of New York SSNY on July 27, 2011.

Office located in Queens.

SSNY has been designated for service of process. SSNY shall mail copy of any processes served against the LLC, 59-21 57th Drive, Maspeth, NY 11378. Purpose: any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ Notice of Formation of LADIES AND GENTS OF 82 ND STREET LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/28/11. 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: The LLC, 11-11 44 th Drive, Long Island City NY 11101. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose. ___________________________________ GNR LUCKY CHARM LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/7/ 11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Michele Trotti, 13823 10 th Ave., Whitestone, NY 11357. General Purposes.

Latest date to dissolve 12/1/ 2050 ___________________________________ CREATING A BETTER WORLD LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 9/9/11. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 7026 Groton St., Forest Hills, NY 11375. General Purposes. ___________________________________ 144-02 LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/9/11, Office in Queens County. SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 144-02 69 th Rd, Flushing, NY 11367. Purpose: General. ___________________________________ SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No. 23822/11 Date Summons Filed: Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial. The basis of venue is Plaintiff’s residence.

SUMMONS Plaintiff resides at 83-37 St. James Avenue – Apt 4#, Elmhurst, NY 11373 DUAN MARIE POOLE, Plaintiff, -against- KHARISSE MOUKHAMEDEEV, Defendant. ACTION FOR DI-

LEGAL NOTICE VORCE To the above named Defendant: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer on Plaintiff’s Attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State of New York, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Dated: January 28, 2011 BRUCE FEINSTEIN, ESQ. Attorney for Plaintiff 86-66 110 TH STREET RICHMOND HILL, NY 11418 718 570-8100 Notice Under DRL Section 255: The Defendant is advised that he may no longer be covered by the Plaintiff’s health insurance plan upon the entry of a judgment of divorce and that the Defendant may be responsible for his own health insurance coverage. Automatic orders pursuant to DRL Section 236(B)(2) accompany this summons. ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that a license number 1259740 for an On Premises Liquor License has been applied for by the SULTANA CAFÉ INC. under the Alcoholic Beverage Control law for premises located at 25-03 Steinway Street, Astoria, New York 11103, County of Queens, for on premises consumption. ___________________________________ STEWART ENGINEERING SERVICES, PLLC, a domestic PLLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 10/17/11.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the PLLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 12-11 Frisco Ave., Far Rockaway, NY 11691. Purpose: Engineering ___________________________________ Name of LLC: PenNink Paisley Design LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 11/23/11.

Office loc.: Queens Co. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o Business Filings Inc., 187 Wolf Rd., Ste. 101, Albany, NY 12205, regd. agt. upon whom process may be served. Purpose: any lawful act. __________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 12/12/11, bearing Index Number NC-001168-11/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) Justin Nicholas (Middle) Gardner (Last) De Sequera My present name is (First) Justin (Middle) Nicholas (Last) Gardner-De Sequera aka Justin Nicholas Gardner De Sequera My present address

LEGAL NOTICE is 175-20 Wexford Terrace Apt 14R, Jamaica Estates, NY 11432 My place of birth is Fairfax City, VA My date of birth is December 02, 1986 ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on 12/6/11, bearing Index Number NC-001139-11/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) Mohamed (Middle) Abdulla Hizam (Last) Alsaidi My present name is (First) Mohamed (Middle) Abdulah Hizam (Last) Al Saedi aka Mohamed Abdulla Hizam Alsaidi, aka Mohamed A. Alsaidi My present address is 81-26 Austin Street, Kew Gardens, NY 11415 My place of birth is Yemen My date of birth September 05, 1993 ___________________________________ NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT: QUEENS COUNTY. THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON F/K/A THE BANK OF NEW YORK AS TRUSTEE ON BEHALF OF CIT MORTGAGE LOAN TRUST 2007-1, Pltf. vs.

LINTON BRADSHAW, et al, Defts.

Index #21471/10. Pursuant to judgment of foreclosure and sale entered Nov. 16, 2011, I will sell at public auction in Courtroom #25 on Feb. 3, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. at the Queens County Supreme Court, 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, NY prem. k/a 22711 113 th Ave., Queens Village, NY. Said property located on the northeasterly side of 113 th Ave., distant 80 ft. easterly from the corner formed by the intersection of the easterly side of 227 th St. and the northerly side of 113 th Ave., being a plot 105 ft. x 40 ft. Approx. amt. of judgment is $493,795.02 plus costs and interest. Sold subject to terms and conditions of filed judgment an d terms of sale. WILLIAM J. FAY, Referee. COHN & ROTH, Attys. for Pltf., 100 East Old Country Rd., Mineola, NY. #80731 ___________________________________ NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: KILBAH, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/27/11. Office location: Queens county. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 64-05 77th Street, Middle Village, New York 11379. Purpose: For any lawful purpose. ___________________________________ VAGCO REALTY LLC, a domestic LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 4/18/11.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 10-18 148th St., Whitestone, NY 11357.

General Purposes. ___________________________________ Notice is hereby given that a license number 1259787 for

LEGAL NOTICE Restaurant Wine-license, has been applied for by the undersigned to sell same at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at SOUP KITCHEN ASSOCIATES LIMITED dba Bistro 33 located 21-76 21 st Street, Astoria NY 11105 for on-premises consumption ___________________________________ CITATION File No. 20063313 SURROGATE’S COURT, Queens COUNTY THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: To the heirs at law, next of kin, and distributees of FLORENCE T. MOSER, deceased, if living, and if any of them be dead to their heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, legatees, executors, administrators, assignees and successors in interest whose names are unknown and cannot be ascertained after due diligence; and to Public Administrator of Queens County, and the Attorney General of New York State.” A petition having been duly filed by Eugene Doyle who is/are domiciled at 102-12 164 th Avenue, Hamilton Beach, New York 11414 YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Queens County, at 88-11 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica, New York, on February 16, 2012, at 9:30 o’clock in the forenoon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Florence T Moser, aka Florence Moser, Florence Horn lately domiciled at 99-40 Davenport Court, Hamilton Beach, New York 11414, United States admitting to probate a Will dated April 22, 2005 (and Codicil(s), if any, dated), a copy of which is attached, as the Will of Florence T Moser deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that: x Letters Testamentary issue to Eugene Doyle Dated, Attested and Sealed, DEC 14 2011 HON. PETER J. KELLY Surrogate /S/ MARGARET M. GRIBBON Chief Clerk Henry C. Tanck Print Name of Attorney Law Offices of Vollmer & Tanck, P.C. Firm 350 Jericho Turnpike Suite 206 Jericho, NY 11753 Address (516) 8700335 Telephone 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. ___________________________________ ESLR Translations LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/15/ 11. Office in Queens County.

SSNY designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to 31-84 Crescent St, Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: General. ___________________________________ SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No. 20595/11 Date of filing: September 1, 2011 SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE Plaintiff designates

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

Queens County as the place of trial; venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situate.

TD BANK, N.A. SUCCESSOR

BY MERGER TO COMMERCE BANK, N.A., Plaintiff(s), -againstK O N S T A N T I N O S EVIRPIOTIS, if living, and if dead, the respective heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignors, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who maybe deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and their respective husbands, wives or widows of her, if any, and each and every person not specifically named who may be entitled to or claim to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the verified complaint; all of whom and whose names and places of residence unknown, and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained by the Plaintiff, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU, CITY OF NEW YORK ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD, and “JOHN DOE #1” through “JOHN DOE #10”, the last 10 names being fictitious and unknown to the Plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the persons or parties, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the mortgaged premises described in the verified complaint, Defendant(s). TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within 20 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. If the United States of America is named as a Defendant in this action, it only, shall have Sixty (60) days to answer the complaint.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $245,000.00 and interest, recorded in the office of the Clerk of the County of Queens on August 7, 2006, in CRFN: 2006000444976, covering premises known as 106-08 27 th Avenue, in Flushing, New York (Block 1665, and Lot 4). The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. The Plaintiff

also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendant(s) Konstantinos Evirpiotis for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises. TO the defendant, Konstantinos Evirpiotis, the foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. James A. Rios of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, and filed on December 14, 2011, with the complaint in the County of Queens, State of New York.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: Mineola, NewYork December 23, 2011 William M. Roth Cohn & Roth By: William M. Roth Attorneys for Plaintiff 100 E. Old Country Road Mineola New York 11501 (516) 747-3030 Help for Homeowners in Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home.

You should be extremely careful about any such promises.

The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process.

To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 877-BANKNYS (877-226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www.banking.state.ny.us.

The State does not guarantee the advise of these agencies.

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

Sanders Claus Comin’ to Town

Councilman James Sanders, dressed as Santa, recently presented $2 million to area schools for science and technology funding. Photo by Ira Cohen.

Holiday Party

pix

Xmas Tree

Jackson Heights residents, including NYC Councilman Daniel Dromm and NYS Assemblyman Michael DenDekker, joined with the Jackson Heights Beautification Group (JHBG) and NYS Assembly Member Francisco Moya to light the town Christmas tree in front of the Jackson Heights Post Office on 37th Avenue. Also joining in the fun were Ed McGowan and Maureen Allen, Kiwanis Club of Jackson Heights; Suzanne Knoble, Jewish Center of Jackson Heights; Basil Safos, JHBG. Students from PS 69 and 82nd Street Academics were on hand as well to sing Christmas carols and cheer up the holiday passersby.

Louie Awards

Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

Legislative Breakfast

Waving Legendary jazz record producer George Avakian, center, is honored with a first-ever “Louie Award” at the Louis Armstrong House Museum’s inaugural gala. With Avakian are Museum Director Michael Cogswell, left, and Museum Board Chair David Ostwald.

The Woodhaven Business Improvement District Santa and Santa’s helpers wave so long till next year, the WBID took over 300 free pictures with the young and the young at heart.

Time To Give

U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Middle Village), William Rapfogel, executive director and CEO of the Metropolitan Council on Jewish Poverty; Rabbi Avrohom Hecht, executive director of the JCC of Canarsie; and Cynthia Zalinsky, executive director of the Queens Jewish Community Council, were all on hand for the QJCC Legislative Breakfast at the Young Israel of Kew Gardens Hills.

Ozone Park Kiwanis helped feed 30 needy families this holiday season.

World-renowned trumpeter Jon Faddis, center, is honored with a first-ever “Louie Award.” He is pictured with Cogswell and Ostwald.

Dr. James Muyskens, center, president of Queens College since 2002, is honored with a first-ever “Louie Award.” He is pictured with Cogswell and Ostwald.

www.queenstribune.com • Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 Tribune Page 31

Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing) hosted her second annual Holiday Party for the community. The party was held at Flushing Town Hall and was attended

by Assemblywoman Meng’s colleagues in government, civic organizations, and members of the local police pct as well as 200 members of the community. Pictured (back row, from left) are Vanna Partridge, vice president of 109th Precinct Community Council; Don Calpabi, president of Queensboro Hill Civic Association, Chrissy Voskerichian, president of 109th Precinct Community Council; Assemblywoman Grace Meng; Eugene Kelty, chairman of Community Board 7; Peter Tu, executive director of Flushing Chinese Business Association; (front row) State Sen. Toby Stavisky and Queens Borough President Helen Marshall.

Queens Focus PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . . PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE ...PEOPLE . .PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE.. PEOPLE. . .PEOPLE . . .PEOPLE...

Holiday Party:

Islanders Visit:

Various Queens County Bar Associations recently held a joint holiday party at Douglaston Manor. Pictured (from left) are Bernice Siegal, president of the Queens Women’s Bar Association; Lawrence Litwack, president of the Brandeis Association; Sandra Munoz, president of the Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County; Richard Gutierrez, president of the Queens County Bar Association; Maureen Healy, president of the Queens chapter of the St. John’s Law School Alumni Association; and Thomas Principe, president of the greater St. John’s Law School Alumni Association. Photo by Walter Karling.

New York Islanders Brian Rolston, Andrew MacDonald and Nino Niederreiter recently visited St. Mary’s Hospital for Children to distribute toys and spend time with children who are battling complex medical and life-limiting conditions.

Page 32 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Local students recently participated in the annual Run/Walk for Hunger Month at Marist College. They are: Jamie Torney of Bayside, a freshman; David Champlin of Maspeth, a freshman; Brandon Craig of Bellerose, a freshman; John Lares of Middle Village, a freshman; Arthur Sonnick of Bellerose, a freshman; Nicole Stimitz of Bayside, a freshman; Mary Ameruse of Belle Harbor, a sophomore; Lindsey Calder of Rockaway Point, a sophomore; and Rebecca Warne of Whitestone, a sophomore.

Councilman James Gennaro recently presented Deputy Mayor Cas Holloway with the Alley Pond Environmental Center’s Green Leadership Award at the center’s 2011 gala and silent auction.

Gennaro, chairman of the council’s Environmental Protection Committee, praised Holloway for his prior work as commissioner of the city’s Department of Environmental Protection, where he appointed the agency’s first deputy commissioner for sustainability and directed the creation of a

Councilman James Gennaro and Deputy Mayor Cas Holloway.

green infrastructure plan to improve water quality in New York Harbor.

Westminster School in Simsbury, Conn., recently announced that Alemante Tedla of Flushing and Angelo Hunt of Rosedale received academic honors for the fall 2011 term.

The New York Lottery recently announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from the Lottery’s live drawings Dec. 11-17 and received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

William Mero of Ridgewood won $10,000 on the Win 4 drawing Dec. 11.

Mero’s winning ticket was purchased at the Associated Supermarket, 920 Seneca Ave., Ridgewoon.

Devon Napier of Jamaica won $10,000 on the Win 4 drawing Nov. 7. Napier’s winning ticket was purchased at the S&F Petro, 148-12 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park.

Viqar Ali of Jamaica won $10,000 on the Win 4 drawing Dec. 12. Ali’s winning ticket was purchased at the SG Food Center at 88-21 169th St., Jamaica.

Edgar Flores of Jamaica won $10,000 on the Mega Millions drawing Dec. 13.

Flores’ winning ticket was purchased at the Jamaica Star Candy and Grocery, 87-74 168th St., Jamaica.

Gregory Karalis of Douglaston won $10,000 on the Mega Millions drawing Nov. 22. Karalis’ winning ticket was purchased at the Sanat Cards and Gifts, 21424 73rd Ave., Bayside.

Irene Nisirios of Bayside won $10,000 on the Mega Millions drawing Dec. 13.

Nisirios’ winning ticket was purchased at the Howard News at 97-15 Queens Blvd., Rego Park.

Major General Patrick A. Murphy, the Adjutant General, recently announced the reenlistment of members of the New York Army National Guard in recognition of their continuing commitment to serve community, state and nation as part of

the Army National Guard.

Master Sergeant Jessica Huff of College Point has reenlisted to continue service with the Company A, Recruiting & Retention.

Specialist Maria Trinidad of Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the Company C, 642d Support Battalion.

Specialist Joel Reyes of South Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the Company A, 642d Support Battalion.

Specialist Michael Brown of Jamaica has reenlisted to continue service with the Company G, Forward Support Company Field Artillery, 427th Brigade Support Battalion.

Private 1st Class Christopher Cruz of Rockaway Park has reenlisted to continue service with the 719 Transportation Company.

The following local students were recently named to the fall honor roll at the Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, Conn.

Sakirat Akadri, a junior from Jamaica, received High Honor Roll.

Gregory Duverge, a junior from Long Island City, received Honor Roll.

Amanda Ottah, a senior from Far Rockaway, received High Honor Roll.

The New York Lottery recently announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning instant game ticket Dec. 11-17 and received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

Paul McCargo of East Elmhurst won $25,000 on the Triple Million instant game.

McCargo’s winning ticket was purchased at the 7-Eleven at 219-17 Hillside Ave., Queens Village.

Marlos Santos of Far Rockaway won $150,000 on the Mega Money Multiplier instant game. Santo’s winning ticket was purchased at the 1401 Deli Grocery at 1401 Central Ave., Far Rockaway.

Rubina Montapert of Glendale won $25,000 on the Triple Million instant game.

Montapert’s winning ticket was purchased at the Newsstation at 37 Railroad Avenue Babylon Railroad, Babylon.

John Piro of College Point won $10,000 on the Monopoly instant game.

Piro’s winning ticket was purchased at the Silvertim, 132-07a 14th Ave., College Point.

Jorge Caballero of Ridgewood won $10,000 on the Bingo Boxes instant game.

Caballero’s winning ticket was purchased at the Star Four Mini Market at 793 Wyckoff Ave., Ridgewood.

Miyan Foreman o f J a m a i c a w o n $10,000 on the Double Triple Cashword instant game. Foreman’s winning ticket was purchased at the Ocean Sunrise, 2 Sunrise Highway, Rockville Centre.

The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings Nov. 6-12. The following winners each received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

Oliur Chowdhury of Forest Hills won $10,000 on the Powerball drawing of Nov. 2. Chowdhury’s winning ticket was purchased at the Broadway Mini Market Deli at 403 Broadway in Brooklyn.

Cristina Vlonga of Jackson Heights won $10,000 on the Powerball drawing of Nov. 5. Vlonga’s winning ticket was purchased at the I & Y News And Candy at 7419 Roosevelt Ave. in Jackson Heights.

Yeung Park of Flushing won $10,003 on the Powerball drawing of Oct. 29. Park’s winning ticket was purchased at the Great Jade Deli & Grocery at 146-02 34th Ave. in Flushing.

Mary Ybanez of Queens Village won $10,000 on the Mega Millions drawing of Nov. 8. Ybanez’s winning ticket was purchased at the Village Deli at 212-02 Hillside Ave. in Queens Village.

Anthony Lucas of Hollis won $25,000 on the Win 4 drawing of Nov. 11. Lucas’s winning ticket was purchased at the Guru Hari Stationers at 165-84 Baisley Blvd. in Jamaica.

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

Queens Parks Runner

Queens Zoo residents Cisco and Spangles open their holiday presents.

Bear-y Christmas tasty treats as visitors watched the spectacle.

Two Andean bears at the zoo, Cisco and Spangles, got to open their presents a little early. The animals, which can range between 132-400 pounds, happily chowed down on gifts of molasses and peanut butter before all the other animals. Perhaps they were celebrating Hanukkah instead.

Jimmy Van Berry

Ali Ricci Age: 26 Height: 5’6" Weight: 130 lbs Stats: 34-27-38

UnimPRESSive

Page 42 Tribune Dec. 29, 2011 - Jan. 4, 2012 • www.queenstribune.com

Jimmy Van Bramer reading The Polar Express to preschoolers at Malu Homemade Ice Cream. Malu created an ice creams in his honor.

John F. Kennedy got an airport named for him; Ed Koch got a bridge; George Washington got an entire state. Politicians know they’ve made an impact when something noted shares their name.

For one Long Island City ice cream parlor, their councilman is deserving of such an honor.

Malu Homemade Ice Cream on Jackson Avenue debuted a new

ice cream flavor this month called “Jimmy Van Berry,” named for the neighborhood’s councilman Jimmy Van Bramer. The ice cream is a mix of blueberries, strawberries and chocolate fudge swirl with vanilla ice cream.

We’d like to suggest some other flavors named for Queens politicos. How about Crowley Crunch, Red Vallone Cake or Honey Nut Halloran?

Huma Abedin and hubby, former Congressman Anthony Weiner

Disgraced former Congressman has a little Weiner.

Following a year of near political suicide, former Congressman Anthony Weiner may have recently been blessed with a reprieve – a new born baby boy.

According to reports, Weiner and his wife, Huma Abedin, welcomed their firstborn, Jordan Zain Weiner into the world on Dec 21.

After a fall from political grace earlier this year, many aficionados were split on whether or not Weiner could make a comeback to the

What if Tony Avella had a press conference and nobody came?

An abandoned property at 2419 Francis Lewis Blvd is vexing Whitestone, and Tony Avella was there to let everyone know. An eyesore for 10 years, according to Avella, and the owner has stopped paying property taxes.

So Avella called a press conference. Only problem is due to an email snafu, some of the press did not show up.

Later in the day, a release went out detailing the press conference.

Now, if a tree falls in a forest and

A Little Weiner political spotlight and competitively vie for the City’s top spot as Mayor.

But with the arrival of Jordan Zain, Weiner may now seem sane to voters who lost confidence in the outspoken politician after a sexting scandal left him with his tail between his legs.

One thing is certain though, voters have always had a soft spot for baby-kissing politicians. We’ll have to wait and see what happens.

Mazel tov, Anthony.

no one is around to hear, does it make a sound? So, if a politician holds a press conference and the press isn’t around, does the politician make a sound?

Yes, because his office wrote a follow-up press release. Falling trees should hire a press secretary.

Confidentially, New York . . .

Models Of Queens

Everyone deserves to get a little something during the holidays, even if they aren’t human.

Caretakers at the Queens Zoo in Flushing Meadows Corona Park spent Christmas weekend giving out festive treats to the zoo’s inhabitants. Coyotes, pumas and bears (oh my!) spent Saturday and Sunday opening up wrapped presents stuffed with

Ali describes herself as “the girl next door,” and she hopes that finally getting the chance to focus on her modeling career leads to exciting new opportunities.

“It’s something I always wanted to do, so I went to modeling school to learn the basics,” she said.

Ali started to take her career more seriously this past September, and she has already taken some jobs as an extra in some upcoming motion pictures. She hopes to parlay those roles into more projects, in whatever medium comes her way.

“I welcome all opportunities,” she said. “Until I find my niche, I want to keep going and going.”

While she’s confident that she can make a career out of modeling, Ali is attending grad school and substitute teaches. In her spare time, Ali likes to take to the kitchen, cooking Italian foods with pasta and seafood.

Her favorite activity, however, is running. As part of the New York Road Runners, the organization that puts on the annual ING New York City Marathon, Ali gets to travel throughout the city. She has frequently visited various parks in Queens to practice for races, including the big marathon.

“I love all of New York City, it has such excitement and energy,” she said. “That energy definitely translates to Queens.

I can’t wait to come back and explore more of the borough.”

Ali said she hopes that she can one day walk down the catwalk to do some runway fashion shows, but she knows that her height could hold her back.

“Realistically, being 5’6, I know I may not do runway work,” she said.

“Most runway models are 5’9 or taller.”

But even if she doesn’t get to do runway work, Ali said that she hopes she can make a difference for other girls who aspire to be models.

“If I can inspire people to say, ’Hey, I can do this, too,’ it will have been worth it,” she said.