Volume 15 Issue No. 10 March 7-13, 2014
PRESS Photo by Natalia Kozikowska
FINAL PUSH
Leaders encourage those in need of healthcare to sign up with the Affordable Care Act before the deadline later this month. By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 8.
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Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
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News Briefs Queens Library Director Faces Federal Probe
The case of Queens Library Director Thomas Galante’s salary and perks has caught the attention of the federal government. The embattled director is facing a criminal probe by the FBI and federal prosecutors as well as the City’s Dept. of Investigation. The investigation is mainly looking at how Galante spent millions of taxpayer dollars on various library renovations. In addition to receiving an annual salary of $391,994, his office was recently renovated with a price tag of $140,000. Federal involvement in Galante’s case first became apparent when FBI and DOI agents showed up at the Queens Central Library in Jamaica on Feb. 28. The agents had subpoenas for both Galante and the library’s construction management consultant, Frank Marino. In addition, Borough President Melinda Katz sent a letter to Mayor Bill de Blasio, asking him to suspend the Queens Library’s ability to independently spend City capital funds on renovations. “There is a troubling lack of oversight and understanding of the allocation of taxpayer funding,” Katz’s letter said.
Participatory Budgeting Ideas Revealed For D23
The finalists for District 23’s participatory budgeting have been unveiled. The voting process for these 14 ideas will be open for residents over the age of 16. Each voter can choose up to five projects. In the community facilities category, handicapped accessible shuttle buses for Samuel Field Y are on the ballot for $150,000. Infrastructure and technology upgrades for the SNAP senior center’s new building would cost $200,000. Library projects that are listed include security upgrades for Bellerose, Fresh Meadows, Hollis and Windsor Park, a cost of $344,000 total. A separate security improvement for Queens Village Library would cost $125,000. Self check-in and check-out technology for the same library would cost $385,000 and a self check-out for Hollis Library has a $200,000 price tag. Under the parks category, there is the addition of a $250,000 reading garden at Bellerose Playground. The installation of fitness equipment near the track at Cunningham Park would cost $200,000. The preservation and restoration of Captain Dermody Tri-
angle would take up $275,000. For schools, there is a $450,000 project that would give multiple SMART boards to PS 33, IS 109, PS/ IS 266, Benjamin N. Cardozo High School and the Queens High School of Teaching. Another entry has general tech upgrades for PS 135 and PS 18 for $85,785. A gym project for Martin Van Buren High School would cost $35,000. For transportation and public safety, portable security cameras would be added for $100,000. The repair of a median curb at Union Turnpike would cost $300,000. The voting will begin on March 29 and will continue until April 5. For information on all voting locations, call Weprin’s office at (718) 468-0137.
Woodhaven Residents Want Building Demolished
“Tear it down!” Woodhaven residents chanted those words over and over again Sunday afternoon, demanding the City to demolish the collapsed building adjacent to the Woodhaven-Richmond Hill Volunteer Ambulance Corps headquarters on Jamaica Avenue. The abandoned building at 78-19 Jamaica Ave. collapsed nearly a year ago, caving in on the center of the facility and damaging the ambulance corps’ headquarters next door. The incident has left the ambulance corps without a base of operations and the senior center located within the building has been forced to relocate. Now, residents are urging the City to take swift action and tear down the building before it gets worse. According to a Dept. of Buildings spokeswoman, the agency inspected the area last week and told residents the building is in no danger of caving in, but residents are fearful that it could collapse further, leading to more damage and possible death. The Ambulance Corps is suing the owner of the property for $13 million to recoup lost revenue during the time that it has been closed. Both State Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) and Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) said they are looking into creating legislation that would allow the City to take over and demolish a vacant property like the one in Woodhaven if the owner did not take action within 90 days. The DOB spokeswoman said the agency issued an arrest warrant for the building’s owner, George Kochabe. He appeared in court last week and was ordered to hire an architect or engineer and file for a work permit before his next court date, which is April 10.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
Presstime
Smith’s Request For Postponed Trial Denied BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA A federal court judge has denied embattled State Sen. Malcolm Smith’s (D-Hollis) request to push back his trial until after September’s Democratic Primary. Last month, Smith’s defense attorney, Gerald Shargel, asked the Hon. Kenneth Karas to delay the trial so that Smith could have a “fair election.” Karas however denied the motion and the Senator’s trial will move forward as scheduled on June 2. Two challengers, attorneys Clyde Vanel and Munir Avery, have already announced their candidacy in the race to unseat Smith. Deputy Borough President Leroy Comrie is also rumored to have an interest in running. On Wednesday, Vanel publicly called for Smith to resign from the State Senate.
“Our community is obtain a Wilson Pakula suffering and there are – an authorization given many vital issues that by a political party to a need proper represencandidate for public oftation and attention,” fice which allows the Vanel said in a statement. candidate who is not reg“Smith cannot properly istered with that party to represent the community run on its ticket for an while on trial for political election. corruption.” Smith is being brought Vanel noted that Smith up on charges of wire was “innocent until provfraud and Travel Act en guilty,” but noted that bribery conspiracy, wire he believed his District fraud and Hobbs Act. If needed a better delegate. he is found guilty of all “The community’s charges, he faces up to 45 State Sen. Malcolm Smith Clyde Vanel need for proper repreyears in prison. sentation during this difA spokesperson for ficult period is outweighed by [the] Councilman Dan Halloran in exchange Smith declined to comment. Senator’s individual circumstances,” for setting up meetings with Republican Shargel could not be reached for he said. “Smith should step down.” comment as of press time. leaders to gain their support. According to the criminal complaint Reach Reporter Natalia KozikowsSmith allegedly agreed with a coagainst him, Smith was considering operating witness and an FBI agent ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or running for mayor on the Republican posing as a wealthy real estate devel- nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ ticket and made payments to former oper to bribe Republican leaders to nkozikowska.
MVB, P-Tech Co-Location Moves Forward BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Despite much protest, the Dept. of Education is moving forward with its plans to co-locate Martin Van Buren High School with a new six-year technology high school this fall. Starting September 2014, the new P-Tech school will gradually phase into Martin Van Buren while Martin Van Buren scales back enrollment. The Queens Village-based school will serve freshmen beginning 20142015 and will add one grade level every year until the school reaches its full grade span of ninth through the second year of college-level course work. In October, hundreds of students and community leaders rallied outside of the high school to protest the DOE’s plan to move a Career and Technical Education early college and career high school, P-Tech, into Martin Van Buren. Many of the students who spoke in opposition to the co-location expressed concerns about resources. “We’re going to lose almost 20 percent of our good teachers,” student Bree Booraj said at the rally. “We’re not going to have the high-tech things we want. The other school is going to have it and we’re not going to have it.” According to David Pena, a spokesperson for the DOE, the administration has been analyzing
49 proposals across the City, all of which were approved at the very end of the previous administration. Of the 49 proposals from last fall, the administration withdrew nine and revised one. Queens’ Long Island City High School was also slated to co-locate with a CTE school this fall, but escaped the chopping block after the administration opted to place the CTE school within LICHS’s curriculum. “This is a win for all of us in the community, but most of all for the students who only want the resources they deserve to receive a proper education,” State Sen. Michael Gianaris (D-Astoria) said in a statement. But Martin Van Buren High School was not as lucky. Sam Sochet is in his second year as principal at Martin Van Buren High School. He has previously voiced his concern for his school, which has struggled in recent years. According to the DOE’s website, in the 2009-2010 school year, Martin Van Buren received a letter grade C, in the 2010-2011 school year the MVB received a letter grade D and last year, it just barely earned a letter grade C. “It’s a 340,000-square-foot facility, it’s got a beautiful athletic field and I looked at it and said, ‘Why is this place considered an undesirable destination for families to send their
children to?’” Sochet asked at a Community Board 12 meeting last year. Councilman Mark Weprin (DOakland Gardens), whose district encompasses the high school, has openly spoken out against the co-location, which he feels was rushed and done “in the middle of the night.” “Literally, in the middle of the night, we found out that they were planning on bringing a co-location in the school. That I found to be outrageous,” Weprin said. State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside), who has also spoken out against the co-location of Martin Van Buren, echoed Weprin’s sentiments. “I’m livid because it’s a total stab in the back to everyone who has been trying to bring back Van Buren to its previous preeminence, it’s a stab in the back to the principal who has been turning the school around and it’s a stab in the back to the students and the parents,” Avella said. In response, Avella said that he has been talking to Mayor Bill de Blasio’s staff about the co-location. “This goes against his policy against these co-locations,” he said. “If they go ahead, especially in this situation, then the administration is being hypocritical.” Weprin, like Avella, said he has been working with the administration, both the past and present, to improve conditions at Martin Van
Buren. He believes that co-locating the school may jeopardize the progress. “We were making progress, and it just seems like now putting another school in there that’s going to fight for the gym space, fight for the art classes and the room they have – it’s going to cause issues,” he said. Though the P-Tech program has a proven track record in Brooklyn, Weprin said he cannot be so sure that it will be as successful at the Queens Village school. “We don’t know whether this new program will appeal to the community because no one told us about it until it was announced that it was happening,” he said. “Wouldn’t it have made more sense to do this slowly and actually speak to the community?” Though Weprin said he is unhappy with the way the DOE handled Martin Van Buren’s co-location, he has sat down with the Deputy Schools Chancellor, who he said assured him that in the future, the agency will try to work with the community. “That’s the only assurance I got – that they will work with us in the future,” he said. “We just wish they would have worked with us from the beginning.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ nkozikowska.
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Religious Leaders Join Forces To Pray For A Cure BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA In an effort to educate residents about HIV and AIDS, religious leaders in Southeast Queens joined together under the same roof for Greater Springfield Community Church’s first-ever “Interfaith Prayer for A Cure.” The event, sponsored by Greater Springfield, the Queens National Action Network, Great Allen Cathedral, the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS and the New York City Council Faith-Based Initiative on HIV/AIDS, featured plenty of ethnic foods, entertainment, health screenings and discussions with Jewish, Christian and Muslim leaders. “This was to show the people that this is not just one community’s issue. This issue affects everybody. It doesn’t discriminate against age, color or background,” said Rev. Phil Craig of Greater Springfield Church. “It was a culmination of different faiths coming together to talk about this issue.” According to Craig, the March 1
On March 1, religious leaders in Southeast Queens joined together for Greater Springfield Community Church’s firstever “Interfaith Prayer for A Cure.” event was well-attended by members of the community. More than 60 people of all religious backgrounds came out to support the cause. “The reality is, a lot of religious leaders won’t even go into a Chris-
tian church. We get so caught up in tradition that we are not able to focus on the future and making change,” he said. “I was very happy that we could all come together.” “People need to see that we have to work together in order to achieve things,” Craig added. “You can’t continue to fight with one another and
accomplish goals that are for the universal well-being.” In addition to educating and reaching residents of all faiths about HIV and AIDS, Craig said that the event also sought to bring the community together. “I think the biggest thing about this was that it was interfaith. In our community, no matter what I do, people need to see religious leaders from different backgrounds come together and doing things like this,” he said. “It not only informs you, it gives you a new found respect for other people’s beliefs.” Due to the event’s great success, Craig said he would like to do something similar in the future. He also hopes communities all across the City will follow suit and hold events like “Interfaith Prayer for A Cure.” “This is something that more communities need to engage in. I think this here will open the doors for a lot of close-minded people,” he said. “They may be a different shade or have different clothing, but you still respect them and if everybody did that, we would live in a better community.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5
Espaillat Challenges Rangel For Congress Seat BY JOE MARVILLI One of the longest serving members of Congress will face serious primary opponents in this year’s election. U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel (DManhattan/the Bronx) has once again been challenged by State Sen. Adriano Espaillat (D - Manhattan). The State Senator went up against the 42-year incumbent in 2012, losing by a little more than 1,000 votes. This time around, Espaillat has already garnered a heavyweight ally for this race in Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito (D - Manhattan/ Bronx). On Feb. 27, Espaillat made the announcement that he would run for the 13th Congressional district seat again, with hopes of introducing a change to a neighborhood that has been represented by the same man since 1971. “We have a new mayor and a new speaker of the City Council,” he said. “People want to see change, they want to see new, fresh ideas that will lead us in the right direction.” Mark-Viverito campaigned with Espaillat at a senior center in East Harlem the day after he announced his candidacy. The Speaker said she
State Sen. Adriano Espailat
U.S. Rep. Charles Rangel
was looking to do what is best for her constituents, who are in the same area as Rangel and Espaillat. “Adriano understands the economic challenges New Yorkers are facing, and will bring enthusiastic leadership to Washington on the issues that matter,” she said in a statement. “He will unite our district in support of the change we need, and I look forward to working with him as a Congressman.” The theme of unity was heavily used during the campaign stop, with the state senator saying that problems are not separated by demographics.
“The problems that affect East Harlem, let’s say the services for seniors right here, they don’t have a color, they don’t have a race, they don’t have an ethnicity, they don’t have a language, a gender, a religion,” he said. “These are the issues that are cutting across the district. I think that’s going to be the main focus on this campaign: highlighting the fact that we’re all in this together and we need one voice.” Among the issues that Espaillat is backing are strengthening affordable housing, preventing social security cuts, creating economic development, putting forth immigra-
tion reform and reducing pedestrian traffic injuries. Espaillat has also been endorsed by State Sen. Gustavo Rivera (D - The Bronx), Assemblywoman Gabriela Rosa (D - Washington Heights), Councilmen Mark Levine (D - Harlem) and Ydanis Rodriguez (D - Washington Heights) and The Barack Obama Democratic Club of Upper Manhattan. Rangel has garnered the support of Plumbers Local 1, the Broadway Democrats, Three Parks Independent Democrats, William Jefferson Clinton Club, the West Harlem Progressive Democratic Club and the Tioga Carver Democratic Club. The Rev. Michael Walrond Jr., who has been the pastor at First Corinthian Baptist Church in Harlem since 2004, also announced his candidacy for Rangel’s seat, setting up a three-way primary battle. A civic leader, social activist, a close ally of the Rev. Al Sharpton and a member of Mayor Bill de Blasio’s transition team, Walrond is focusing his campaign around the issues of education, environmental justice, immigration and criminal justice reform and affordable housing. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
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Editorial The Right Decision We learned this week that a Federal Court judge has denied a request from State Sen. Malcolm Smith to delay his trial until after his Primary election in September. The idea that delaying the trial would provide Smith with a “fair election” is nearly indefensible for someone who may have broken the public trust by allegedly committing a crime. Primary challenges have already begun to line up to face Smith in September, and the only way we can see a “fair election” taking place is for the voters to have all the information in front of them, including whether Malcolm Smith is deemed guilty or not on his pending fraud charges. We value the maxim, “Innocent until proven otherwise,” and we believe that should play out in Smith’s case – along with the trials for the other individuals arrested last year in the same incident. However, it would be unfair to voters to be forced to vote without knowing the result of these charges. As we move forward into yet another election cycle, it is becoming increasingly important for voters to take a closer look at the people they choose to represent them. A good number of our elected officials do their jobs honorably and their constituents can look toward their representatives with pride. But too many of these individuals over the years have taken advantage of the public trust. We hope that once this trial is behind us, that it will be a long time before another of our elected officials betrays our trust.
Letters Library Needs Better Resources
To The Editor: Gary Null, a long time national radio personality did an 11 month, in-depth investigation of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The six hour report that was broadcast 18 thru 22 November presented credible evidence as to who was responsible for this murder and the subsequent cover-up. Missing the last segment, I went to the Queens Public Library (Central) to download the podcast from the Gary Null website. After several attempts resulting in error messages, I asked computer section employees for assistance. They checked the site and informed me that QPL computer system does not permit downloading that. Last month, Black History
Month, Mr. Null did a report on the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and once again, I found that this was also blocked by the QPL. I had to obtain the podcast from a senior center’s six-year-old, Windows XP computer. Many friends have obtained the Gary Null files on their home computer with no problem. Additionally, if you want a program podcast from radio station WOR, no problem, but progressive station WBAI, every last one is blocked. Need some inspiration from the Benedictine Spirituality web site? Too bad, not at the QPL, it’s blocked. Clearly, this library is failing its educational mission to low income, disadvantaged people of Queens who cannot afford the high cost for internet service. William Herbert, Kew Gardens
Celebrate Women Teachers This Month A Personal Perspective By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Women’s History Month is here and I was thinking of some of the women who have contributed to the fame of our Borough. Names of internationallycelebrated women like Lena Horne and Ella Fitzgerald lived in St. Albans. Other women hit-makers such as Salt ‘n’ Pepa’s Cheryl James (Salt) and Sandy Dennis (Pepa) grew up in the area and political history-makers, such as Assemblywomen Barbara Clark and Vivian Cook as well as U.S. Rep. Geraldine Ferraro, the first vice presidential candidate in U.S. history, have also called the Borough home. But I decided that rather than honor the women who have been honored in many ways over time, why not acknowledge some of the women, many of whose names we will never know, but who are among the most important in our Borough: the women teachers. Regardless of gender, teachers are our most valuable assets. Through them, all other professions are made possible. Aside from our im-
mediate families, teachers are the people who shape us. They can make or break us. Most try to make us. But our women teachers are expected to act not only as educators, but as 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. mothers – especially in the lower grades. There seems to be an unwritten law that says if you are a woman in the classroom, you not only nurture those young minds, you are also expected to nurture those children’s spirits. Our women teachers are expected to be tough but not too tough. It seems they are also expected to mete out gentleness along with any perceived toughness. And most do, thank goodness for that. There are many children going through our education system who rarely hear a kind word at home. They show up at school with broken spirits and sad eyes. The women teachers are then looked upon as substitute objects of love and affection. That is a lot to expect from people who work hard for not enough money and certainly not enough appreciation. But somehow they make it all work. How many times have we heard someone winning an academy
award who mentions a teacher in their acceptance speech!? Oprah Winfrey has also mentioned a special teacher who helped save her. Teachers mostly make history through the success of their protégés. Dr. Benjamin Carson, a world-renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, said he was called a dunce, until a teacher discovered that Carson was interested in the rocks he was teaching about in his high school science class. With his encouragement, the kid formerly called “Dunce,” ended up being called “Doctor.” Carson’s high school grades skyrocketed because this one teacher encouraged him. He would end up at Yale University and graduated to John’s Hopkins Medical School and an internationally famous career. Every time I run into a college student majoring in teacher education, I say a silent “thanks.” In my life, three women teachers stand out. One was from high school and two from elementary. Ms. Parchment and Ms. Thompson were my grammar and Spanish teachers, respectively. I was never fluent in Spanish, however, the teacher made us
all feel like we mattered to her like we were her own children. My English grammar teacher shaped my written and spoken grammar forever. She was young and nurturing and her influence is still with all of us who went through her class. More women enter into the teaching profession than men and that is not a bad thing at all. That probably stems from the days when teaching, nursing and secretarial services were popular women’s career paths. Today’s young women have choices but many are still drawn to those careers, thank God! For sure there have and will always be some bad seeds in the teaching profession. I had ‘em, my kids have had ‘em and so has everyone else who goes the system. But so are good, decent people with no hidden agendas. So this Women’s History Month, let us acknowledge the teachers in our lives. The saying that “the hand that rocks the cradle rules the world,” ought to include, “the hand that writes on the board shapes the world.” I am thankful for the women who shape the world through generations of students.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
One Flushing Biz Boot Camp Starts Up BY JOE MARVILLI A new, free business boot camp has begun in Flushing. One Flushing, a community-based economic development center founded by Asian Americans for Equality, announced the creation of the monthly program at the end of February, shortly before the first meeting on Feb. 27. The boot camp’s purpose is to assist entrepreneurs gain access to the resources they need, in order bring their products and services to the Internet and beyond. “This program is essential to the mission of One Flushing. One Flushing was launched to bring together the Flushing community, especially expanding economic opportunities,” One Flushing director John Choe said. “We felt one of the problems not being addressed in Flushing was the lack of information about resources entrepreneurs could access. We’ve been developing this boot camp to bring this information to the Flushing community.” Each program will focus on a different aspect of business. February’s class centered on E-Commerce and online platforms for local business owners. According to Choe, the
March 27 meeting will look at social media fundamentals, trying to help business owners use platforms like Facebook and Yelp. Future topics will include Internet marketing, how to build a website and search optimization. Besides helping business owners find the digital means they need to succeed, Choe said the boot camp is also meant to draw attention to Flushing’s growing entrepreneur scene. “One of the goals for us is not only to bring resources to the Flushing community, but also to make the high-tech community aware of Flush-
ing,” he said. “We want to build relationships with groups like Yelp and Google and bring experts from those companies to meet our entrepreneurs.” Choe added that despite the rough weather in February, 30 to 40 people showed up, packing One Flushing’s office for the first class. One Flushing is located at 39-01 Main St., Suite 511. The March 27 meeting will run from 6 to 8 p.m. Pre-registration is required to attend. To reserve a spot, visit flushingbootcamp.eventbrite.com, email Maple@ OneFlushing.org or call (646) 8205163.
Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
The Queens Tribune and the PRESS of Southeast Queens have announced the date for its second annual Small Business Achievement Awards. The breakfast ceremony will take place at 8:30 a.m. April 22 on the fourth floor of the student union building at Queens College. Last year, the Small Business Achievement Awards honored the contributions of a number of businesses throughout the Borough in six categories: Green/Sustainable Business, Tech Sector Business, Commu-
nity Involvement, Minority-Owned Business, Woman-Owned Business and General Innovation. The Small Business Achievement Awards will once again honor local businesses in these six categories. Just like last year, the PRESS is looking to its readers to nominate a business they feel is deserving of one of these awards. Nominations can be made via the “Contact Us” link on our website, queenspress.com, via our Facebook page, Facebook.com/queenspress, or
via email to editor@queenspress.com. Submissions must include name and contact information for each business nominated, along with the category. Nominations must be submitted by 5 p.m. March 28. The winners of the Small Business Achievement Awards will be honored during the April 22 breakfast. On April 24, the Tribune will profile winners in a special Small Business issue. For more information on the awards, call (718) 357-7400.
The first meeting of One Flushing’s business boot camp packed the room, with around 40 people showing up to learn about E-Commerce and online platforms for their businesses.
Small Business Awards Announced
Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
SEQ Leaders Urge Residents To Enroll In ACA As the Affordable Care Act enrollment deadline inches near, leaders and civic groups in Southeast Queens are doing all they can to urge uninsured or underinsured residents to register. On March 1, the Jamaica branch of the NAACP, in conjunction with the Delta Sigma Theta Queens alumni chapter and a number of elected officials, gathered in front of the NAACP office on Linden Boulevard to stress the importance of signing up for health insurance. “These are historic times. For 70 years, seven presidents, Democrats and Republicans, have tried to institute healthcare,” said Assemblyman William Scarborough (D-Jamaica). “There have been efforts to keep this from happening and this president did it. This is about the hundreds of thousands and millions of people, especially in this community, who do not have healthcare.” U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (DJamaica), who voted in favor of the Affordable Care Act, echoed Scarborough’s sentiments by praising the bill and its purpose. “We finally have a healthcare bill and that healthcare bill that is good for all Americans. It is the law of the land and people are benefiting every day,” he said. “Life is unexpected. You never know when you’re going to need it. We don’t want people to have to go bankrupt anymore. Too many people are bankrupt because they needed healthcare. Healthcare should not be a privilege for a few.” Councilman I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans) similarly praised the ACA, urging under-insured and uninsured residents to sign up before the deadline. “We’ve waited many years for this opportunity and now, the opportunity is law,” Miller said. “I would submit that we go out and bang the drum and that we employ our entire community and country to sign up for healthcare
Photo by Natalia Kozikowska
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
On March 1, community leaders and civic groups held a press conference which sought to encourage Southeast Queens residents to enroll for the Affordable Care Act. and do it immediately.” Angela Jourdain, a registered nurse in the neighborhood, gave her perspective on the ACA as a healthcare provider. She touted the bill, which she said will help people focus on prevention rather than treatment. “One of the most important things is that this bill, this law, helps put the focus on prevention and wellness,” she said. “As a nurse for almost 13 years, I see people come in with conditions that could have been caught early with primary care. I’m happy a lot of young people are signing up because now, they can know that they are well.” Though he was not at the press conference, City Comptroller Scott Stringer praised the efforts of those in Southeast Queens who orchestrated the press conference. “I applaud the efforts of elected officials and advocates in Southeast Queens to bring healthcare to every New Yorker under the Affordable Care Act,” he said in a statement. “Healthcare is a human right and
with the deadline for insurance enrollment fast approaching, we need to do all that we can to get every man, woman and child enrolled.” The deadline to register for the ACA is March 31. To enroll in the
program, visit www.nystateofhealth. ny.gov or call (855) 355-5777. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ nkozikowska
Get The Facts
• The healthcare exchange is an organization marketplace that allows consumers to compare insurance options and choose a plan to enroll in. In each state, the product’s name is different. In New York, the official name of the program is New York State of Health. • The healthcare exchange applies to any U.S. citizen who does not qualify for Medicare or Medicaid. If you apply for either of those programs or you are an illegal immigrant or a non-resident, you do not qualify for the healthcare exchange. • The biggest benefit to enrolling with the program is the availability of care when it is needed. By enrolling, individuals will have access to a primary care physician and a hospital, all at a low cost. • The enrollment period will last until March 31, 2014 for the first year of the healthcare plan. Coverage went live on Jan. 1. • There is a tax penalty for those who qualify and choose to opt out of enrollment. It will be $95 or one percent of your gross salary, whichever is higher. In subsequent years, the penalty will increase. But if you are not eligible for a tax return, then you will not be penalized. • You can apply for the ACA online, on the phone or in person.
Dementia Symposium For Providers Planned The Margaret Tietz Center, in conjunction with Samuel Field Y and the Queensboro Council for Social Welfare will present “Dementia: Research, Treatment and Caregiver Support,” 9:30 a.m. March 19 at the Margaret Tietz Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 164-11 Chapin Parkway, Jamaica Hills. This symposium is a vital event for providers and caregivers of individuals dealing with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Reg-
istration and breakfast begin at 9:30 a.m., with keynote speakers scheduled from 10-11:30 a.m. With a growing population of seniors dealing with the onset of dementia and all the ensuing challenges, it is crucial for caregivers to be as educated as possible in order to provide their loved ones with the support and care they desperately need. An estimated 5.2 million Americans of all ages have Alzheimer’s disease, and 80 percent
of their care is provided by unpaid caregivers, usually family members. The emotional and physical toll of caregiving is very high, and caregivers need to learn what resources are available to them so that they receive the necessary stress relief and time out. The symposium will feature a distinguished roster of presenters including Jed A. Levine, MA – Executive Vice President and Director of Programs & Services of the Alzheimer’s
Association, NYC Chapter; Jane C. Bardavid, LCSW – Director of the Community Advisory Program for Elderly (CAPE) at Samuel Field YM & YWHA; and Joan Serrano Laufer, LMSW –Executive Director of the Queensboro Council on Social Welfare. If you are interested in attending please RSVP to Linda Spiegel at (718) 298-7838. For your convenience, valet parking will be available.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
Katz Gives Citations
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and Deputy Borough President Leroy Comrie are shown with three individuals who received Citations of Honor during Borough President Katz’s inaugural African American Heritage Month event at Queens Borough Hall on Feb. 25. Pictured (from left) are John Crow Alexander, Katz, former Borough President Helen Marshall, Dr. Andre McKenzie, the vice president for Academic Support Services at St. John’s University; and Comrie. John Watusi Branch, the late co-founder and executive director of the Afrikan Poetry Theatre, was also honored with a posthumous Citation.
The Rev. Patrick O’Connor, lead pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica, discusses the Tree of Life program at the most recent meeting of the Greater Jamaica Development Corp.
Greater Jamaica executive vice president Andrew Manshel points out a map of recent development around downtown Jamaica to president Carlisle Towery, former Councilman Archie Spigner, panelists Raffaela Petrasek of the Blumenfeld Development Group; GJDC member Isa Abdur-Rahman, Viral Patel of Able Hotels; Community Board 12 member Glenn Greenidge and GJDC director of economic development and real estate Justin Rodgers.
Black History Celebration AMERICA WAS CHANGING. LOUIS ARMSTRONG PLAYED ON.
Assemblyman William Scarborough, in conjunction with the Laurelton Library, recently hosted a Black History Celebration to a standing-room only audience.
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March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Police Blotter 104th Precinct
Fatal Residential Fire
At approximately 10:26 a.m. on March 3, police responded to a 911 call of a residential fire inside of 1868 Himrod St., Ridgewood, within the confines of the 104th Precinct. Fire Dept. personnel responded and were able to extinguish the fire. Responding officers observed a female victim, identified as Maria Tchinkel of Ridgewood, unconscious and unresponsive. EMS responded and transported Tchinkel to Wyckoff Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The Medical Examiner will determine cause of death, and the cause of the fire will be determined by the City Fire Marshal. The investigation is ongoing.
108th Precinct
Assault
The NYPD is asking the public’s
assistance identifying the following suspect wanted for a bias assault within the confines of the 108th Precinct. At 4 p.m. on Feb. 23, the victim, a 43-year-old Hispanic male, was riding on a northbound 7 train when the suspect approached him and punched him twice in the face, and then made anti-Mexican sentiments towards the victim. The suspect then fled the train at the Court Square station. The victim received bruises to the nose and a lacerated lip, but refused medical aid at the scene. The suspect is described as a Black male, 6-foot, 165 lbs.
114th Precinct
Attempted Rape
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying a suspect wanted for an attempted rape within the confines of the 114th Precinct. At 3:25 a.m. on Feb. 23, the victim, a 22-year-old female, was walking on 30th Avenue in Astoria when a
suspect approached her from behind and pushed her to the ground. Once on the ground, the suspect attempted to rape the victim, who fought off the suspect and caused him to flee. The suspect is described as a male Hispanic in his early 30s, 5-foot-7, 145 lbs.
Borough Wide
Burglary Pattern
The NYPD has added a number of incidents to a burglary pattern, where a suspect entered closed commercial establishments through the roof or air conditioner vent and removed money, scratch-off tickets or phone cards. The first incident occurred on Dec. 14, inside of Grand 99 Cents Store on Jamaica Avenue, within the confines of the 102nd Precinct. A second incident occurred on Jan. 17 inside of Bravo Supermarket on Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, within the confines of the 103rd Precinct. A third incident occurred two days
later, Jan. 19, at 167-02 Hillside Ave., also within the 103rd Precinct. A suspect removed $5,000 from the register and back office of the location. Two incidents were reported on Jan. 31. The first occurred at 2:41 a.m. at the Variety Store on 101st Avenue, within the 102nd Precinct, where a suspect removed $2,000 from the register and $2,000 worth of phone cards. The second occurred at 8:30 p.m. at the 99 Cent Deal Store on Liberty Avenue, within the 106th Precinct, where the suspect removed $1,200. The next incident occurred at 3:52 a.m. Feb. 5, at the Super Pioneer Supermarket on 111th Avenue, within the 106th Precinct. The suspect removed 29 scratch-off tickets, $1,040 worth of calling cards and $1,400. The most recent incident occurred at the Pioneer Supermarket on Jamaica Avenue, within the confines of the 102nd Precinct, at 11 p.m. Feb. 20. A suspect entered and removed $1,000 and $600 worth of phone cards.
Borough Beat
JROTC Raising Money For D-Day Parade Trip BY JOE MARVILLI A Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps in Fresh Meadows is raising money for a unique opportunity to visit one of the most famous battle sites in American history. Francis Lewis High School’s JROTC, known as The Patriot JROTC, has been invited to march in the 70th Anniversary D-Day Parade in France this June. In order to do so, the program needs to raise $70,000 by May. According to 1st Sgt. Richard Gogarty, one of the JROTC instructors at Francis Lewis, each state in the country will be sending one junior battalion to Normandy for the D-Day Parade. Someone recommended Francis Lewis to represent New York State and the school was given its invitation around June of 2013. Twenty students are scheduled to go. “I’m excited. I know the cadets are excited,” he said. “It’s kind of a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity.” The JROTC began raising funds for the trip in earnest last September, at the start of the new school year. Through a combination of online donations and fundraising events, the group has raised $40,000 so far. The program’s alumni have also gotten involved. They plan to have a bake
sale and have a booth set leave France on June 10. up during the Northeastern The parade would be Drill Brigade Competition another highlight in a year at Francis Lewis on March full of highlights for Fran8. cis Lewis’ JROTC. Last The parade itself will month, it won the New take place on June 6 and York City Drill Competiwill start in Sainte-Meretion. They will compete Eglise, one of the first Norin the National Academic mandy towns to be libercompetition, Northeastern ated by the Allied Forces Drill Brigade Competition in World War II. The comand the National Drill memoration will feature Competition in Daytona, active and retired military Florida. personnel, civic groups and “We’re already the larglive music ensembles. est battalion in the counFor the day of the patry. I think that [the trip] rade, the cadets will visit enhances the program in multiple D-Day sites, inits standing, its reputation, cluding Pointe Du Hoc and as a JROTC,” Gogarty Utah Beach. said. “Our opportunities During the trip, the Paare self-funded. We would triot Battalion will also tour love the community to get Francis Lewis High School’s JROTC has been selected as the towns of Trouville and involved and get behind New York State’s junior battalion representative at the 70th Mont Saint-Michel. They us.” Anniversary D-Day Parade in France this June. Cadets like will attend the opening cerIf you would like to dothe ones above will march through historic sites in Noremony at American Cemnate to the JROTC for its mandy from the World War II battle. However, the JROTC etery in Brittany on June France trip, visit http:// needs to raise $70,000 by May in order to afford the trip. 5 as well, with the honor www.francislewishs. guard from each JROTC org. There is a box on Battalion cadets will also be al- the lower right-hand corner where participating in the event. “It’s hands-on history, which is lowed to visit some of France’s contributions can be made through the best way to learn,” Gogarty said. most well-known landmarks, like PayPal. “They’re going to be able to walk the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at through one of the most famous bat- Champs Elysees and Arch de Tri- (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ umph. The Patriot Battalion would queenstribune.com, or @Joey788. tles of our history.”
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
A&E
‘12 Years A Slave’ Wins Big At Oscars BY JOE MARVILLI A widely-acclaimed film dealing with slavery in America came away with several wins at the 86th Academy Awards. “12 Years a Slave” won three major awards at the March 2 ceremony. The film won Best Picture; Lupita Nyong’o won Best Supporting Actress and John Ridley received the Best Adapted Screenplay award. The Best Picture win was particularly noteworthy, as it is the first movie from a Black director, Steve McQueen, to win the Academy’s highest honor. The award-winning film tells the
true story of Solomon Northup, a free-born African-American violinist from New York who was kidnapped by slave traders and sold to a plantation owner in Louisiana. Northup published an account of his experiences as a slave, a book that was adapted into the movie’s screenplay. Carl Clay, founder of the Black Spectrum Theatre in Jamaica, said he was pleased with the movie’s victories and hoped that more films from Black directors will be able to take home the top honors at the Oscars in the future. “I applaud the fact that it won and it was recognized,” he said. “I feel that it was well-deserving and I hope
David Alan Grier To Appear At QPAC The Queensborough Performing in comedies like “Blankman,” blockArts Center will be full of laughs busters like “Jumanji” and children’s this month, when David Alan Grier flicks such as “Stuart Little.” He also stops by. appeared frequently as the guest host The center, which is part of Queens- of the radio call-in program, “Loveborough Community College’s cam- line.” pus, will feature Grier and his comeLately, Grier has returned to his dic talents at a show on March 15 Broadway roots, earning a second at 8 p.m. Audiences are Tony nomination for his sure to spend the entirety performance in David of the performance with Mamet’s “RACE.” In 2012, smiles on their faces, as the gained a third nominathey witness the unique tion for his work in “The talents that have taken the Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess.” comedian from the small In the next stage of screen to the big screen, to his career, Grier will be Broadway and beyond. appearing as a main cast Although Grier started member in a new CBS sein dramatic work, getries titled “Bad Teacher.” ting nominated for a David Alan Grier will Premiering on April 24, Tony Award for his role perform at QPAC on he will star as Principal as Jackie Robinson in March 15. Carl Gaines in this continBroadway musical “The uation of the 2011 movie First,” his breakout appearance was that starred Cameron Diaz. as a cast member on the early 90s “[Grier] will have us laughing from sketch show, “In Living Color.” Gri- the moment he starts to speak. We er became popular on the show for are thrilled to welcome him to QPAC his wide variety of characters, which with his special brand of finesse and ranged from the elderly Mr. Brooks dry wit,” Susan Agin, artistic and exto the blues musician Calhoun Tubbs ecutive director of QPAC, said. to Antoine Merriweather, a gay culGrier’s opening act is Godfrey, ture critic. an American comedian and actor After “In Living Color” was can- who has appeared on BET, VH1 and celled, Grier started performing Comedy Central. He has had recurstand-up comedy and found so much ring roles on hit shows like “Louie” success in the role that he was includ- and has appeared in “30 Rock,” ed on Comedy Central’s “100 Great- “Soul Place” and “Zoolander” over est Stand-Ups of All Time.” He also the course of his career. hosted “Premium Blend,” a stand-up For more information or to purcomedy series, on the network for its chase tickets, call the QPAC box of2001 season. fice at (718) 631-6311. Tickets cost In the cinemas, Grier could be seen $40 per person.
that’s just the tip of the slavery. And the 21 miliceberg going forward.” lion people who still Clay added that he suffer slavery today.” felt the film offers a “It doesn’t escape me convincing portrayal for one moment that so of how slavery was and much joy in my life is feels that those who thanks to so much pain watch it will gain a new in someone else’s. And understanding of “the so I want to salute the way things really were spirit of Patsey for her and the brutality of slavguidance. And for Soloery, the realism” as well mon, thank you for tellas all the work that has ing her story and your been done and is still own,” Nyong’o said. being done to eliminate Besides those three ‘12 Years a Slave’ won Best the mechanisms that wins, “12 Years a Picture, among others, at put slavery in place at Slave” was also nomithe Academy Awards. that time. nated for Best Director The acceptance (McQueen), Best Actor speeches by McQueen and Nyong’o (Chiwetel Ejiofor), Best Supporting honored the real-life counterparts of Actor (Michael Fassbender), Best the characters they brought to life on Production Design (Adam Stockthe big screen. hausen, Alice Baker), Best Costume “Everyone deserves not just to sur- Design (Patricia Norris) and Best vive, but to live. This is the most im- Film Editing (Joe Walker). portant legacy of Solomon Northup,” Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at McQueen said. “I dedicate this award (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ to all the people who have endured queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
Red Storm On Bubble For NCAA Tourney Bid The Red Storm took one more step towards a 20-win season and a tournament bid with a 72-64 victory over DePaul at Madison Square Garden on Sunday. St. John’s is on the bubble, and experts are weighing in on the Johnnies’ chances of making the tournament. Still, that is not the focus of the players. “Our job is to win games,” D’Angelo Harrison said. The junior guard did his part, scoring 25 points and adding 10 rebounds against the Blue Demons. The consensus is that St. John’s needs to beat Marquette in its final regular season game on Saturday, and then win one game in the Big East tournament, maybe two. This would be the second tournament team of the Steve Lavin era. “It’s similar but different to my first year,” Lavin said. “That was a group that had never been to the NCAA tournament. There was a plus to the built-in cohesiveness of that group.” The coach noted that only one player on the current roster has been to the tournament. If the Red Storm miss out, they can look back to the five-game losing
streak that began conference play, and separated two strong stretches. “We were 9-3 to start, then came the Murphy’s Law stretch from hell, then 10-3 since,” Lavin said. “That’s 19-6 sandwiched with that 0-5.” DePaul handed St. John’s one of those losses in January, but the Red Storm looked to be in control, up by 20 on Sunday before nearly blowing the lead. A 26-9 run cut the lead to three, but St. John’s held on. Turnovers allowed the Blue Demons back into the game. “It was reminiscent of the Keystone Cops, throw in Harold Lloyd there too,” Lavin said. Despite the drama, the team was happy to come away with the victory. “At this stage of the year, you’re not gonna get too caught up in grading W’s,” Lavin said. St. John’s will likely enter the Big East tournament as the six-seed out of 10 teams. “They certainly have to be a dark horse in the Big East tournament,” said DePaul coach Oliver Purnell, “because it’s in Madison Square Garden.” - David Russell
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
QUEENS TODAY
FRIDAY 3/7
SATURDAY 3/8
SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK FRIDAY 3/7
CARNIVAL PARTY Flushing Town Hall will present a tribute concert to Harry Belafonte called “Carnival Party.” Jef f Zuniga and his band will play songs Belafonte, one of the pioneers of the music from the Caribbean Diaspora. Taking place at 8 p.m., the concert is $15 for the general public and $10 for members and students. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd.
PANORAMA TRIVIA
Come to the world’s only geographical triviabased game night at The Panorama of the City of New York at Queens Museum. Taking place from 7 to 10 p.m., the Panorama Challenge throws out a series of questions about City landmarks, bridges, neighborhoods, parks and more. The team that identifies the most locations will have their name etched on the trophy at the museum. Participants will compete in teams of 10. The suggested admission fee is $15, with all proceeds going to support the City Reliquary Museum in Williamsburg.
BOOK DISCUSSION
There will be a Book Discussion Group from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at Flushing Library. This month, the group will talk about “How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents” by Julia Alverez. The free event will take place in the IRC Conference Room, 3rd Floor.
READ ACROSS AMERICA
Want to celebrate Dr. Seuss and literacy? Join Zone 126 in partnership with a local school and volunteers who will be sharing their excitement of reading and spreading that excitement to students in Grades Pre-K to 2. Wearing the iconic “Cat in the Hat” hat, pairs of volunteers will read a story to the classroom. Volunteers will lead an artistic activity, Creating Your Own Book, and encourage students to read as well as inspire a new generation of writers, authors and thinkers. The event starts at 9 a.m., at PS 76, located at 36-36 10th St., LIC. RSVPs can be emailed to Zone 126’s Administrative Projects Coordinator, Crosby Newcomer-Falk, at cnewcomer@zone126.org.
ANYTHING GOES
Theatre By The Bay will present a performance of “Anything Goes” at 8 p.m. Directed by Lawrence Bloom, the musical concerns madcap antics aboard an ocean liner traveling from New York to London. The music and lyrics are by Cole Porter. The show will take place at the Bay Terrace Jewish Center at 1300 209th St. For more information or to buy tickets, call (718) 428-6363.
BRIDAL SHOW
The Renaissance Event Hall collaborates with exhibitors from the NYC area to host LOVE AFFAIR, a Bridal Showcase, from 1-5 p.m. A $15 ticket includes beer, wine, champagne, light snacks, entertainment and an exclusive introduction to the hottest trends for wedding celebrations in 2014. The Renaissance will provide a sample of its fine cuisine and cocktail menu. The Renaissance Hall is located at 27-34 21st St., LIC. Tickets are available in advance at: http:// newyorkcity.eventful.com/ events/love-affair-showcase-/E0-001-0655.
WORLD PREMIER WRESTLING PRESENTS: RESURRECTION
Come watch live wrestling action at Resorts World Casino. WPW has wrestlers like Roddy Roddy
Piper, Justin Credible, Little Guido and Mickie James. The main show will start at 7:30 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:45 p.m. Advance tickets to the show costs $50 for ringside and $30 general admission. The day of the show, it costs $60 ringside and $40 general admission. To buy tickets or for more information, go to wpwwrestling.com or rwnewyork.com.
SUNDAY 3/9
BOUNCING AROUND
Bounce your way into science as you mix and mold household ingredients to make your own bouncy ball at the New York Hall of Science. The workshop will be part of the Little Makers series and will run from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is an $8 materials fee per family. For more information, call (718) 699-0005.
CON BRIO ENSEMBLE
As a prelude to spring, the Con Brio Ensemble will return to Voelker Orth Museum with an afternoon of chamber music in the parlor at 2 p.m. Musicians Dr. Diana Mittler-Battigaplia (piano and co-founder of the ensemble); Alexander Meshibovsky (violin) and Alan Hollander (oboe) will perform. Light refreshments will be served. Admission is $12 for the general public and $10 for members and students.
information, contact Jackie DeDios, (347) 505-3013 or JDeDios@queenscouncilarts. org.
FACE THE MUSIC
The Queens Museum will hold the fourth in a series of four concerts by Face the Music, the country’s only ensemble for those 18-and-under that is solely devoted to the music of living composers. The performance will include “Computer Generated Jungle” by Zachary Detrick, “Songlines ‘Jewels: energy of musicality” by Rajesh Mehta Henry and “Three Fragments” by Vijay Iyer. There will be two concerts, at 2 and 4 p.m. For more information, call (718) 592-9700.
MONDAY 3/10
SENSES TRANSPORT
Queens Council on the Arts mixes up dance and food in the second Moveable Feast Artist Dinner Series, which will raise money for a stop gap scholarship fund. The Moveable Feast Artist Dinner features Senses Transport, a performed participatory meal that transports those in attendance to a world of heightened senses with artist Emily Berry and Chef Gianna CerboneTeoli. The event takes place at 6:30 p.m. Manducatis Rustica Restaurant is located at 46-33 Vernon Blvd., LIC. Admission: $150 Buy your tickets at http://queenscouncilarts.org/moveablefeast-senses-transport. For
TUESDAY 3/11
CASTORINA AND ROSE
The cabaret duo of Castorina and Rose will appear at Briarwood Library for an afternoon performance. Between 2 p.m. and 3:15 p.m., they will perform some of the mostloved Broadway songs, such as “I Could Have Danced All Night” and “Hello, Dolly!” They will also play American standards, like “New York, New York” and “Send in the Clowns.”
ONGOING RICHMOND HILL FLEA MARKET
Come to the largest indoor flea market in Queens! They have clothing, jewelry, toys and much more. The market takes place every Sunday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m. It is located at 177-09 Hillside Ave. in Richmond Hill, right on the corner of Myrtle and Hillside avenues. For information, call (347) 709-7661 or log onto richmondhillfleamarket.com.
GOT EVENTS?
Send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357
Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
Queens Today Section editor: reGinA VoGeL
Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!
COMPUTERS INTRO COMPUTERS Friday, March 7 Hillcrest library. Register. INTER. COMPUTERS Fridays, March 7, 14 LIC library. Register. INTER. COMPUTER Monday, March 10 LIC library at 6:30. FREE EMAIL ACCT. Mondays 3-5 LIC library for assistance in setting up email accounts. OPEN LAB Mondays 1-5 at the Central library. COMPUTER BASICS Tuesday, March 11 LIC library. Register. BEGINNERS Tuesdays Laurelton and Ro s e d a l e l i b r a r y. Re g ister BEGIN INTERNET We d n e s d ay, M a r c h 1 2 Windsor Park library. Register. INTRO WORD 2010 Wednesday, March 12 LIC library at 3. BEGIN COMPUTERS Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Ozone Park library. Register.
ENTERTAINMENT ANNA IN TROPICS March 8-13 at QCC. 6316311. GAME DAY Fridays 4:30 Woodhaven library. GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays 2 Hillcrest library. OPEN MIC Monday, March 10 Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows at 7:30. MOONRISE KINGDOM Tuesday, March 11 film at the Queens Village library at 3. SCRABBLE Tuesdays Fresh Meadows library at 2 and East Flushing library at 3:30. CHESS Tuesdays 4 Rosedale library.
HEALTH CAREGIVERS Do you provide care to a family member, friend, or neighbor who is sick, frail or disabled? 268-5960, ext. 226. MOVING & GROOVING Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 18 Briarwood library at 11:30. CARDIO SCULPTURE Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 Richmond Hill library at 5:30. CALYPSO CARDIO Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 Laurelton library at 6:30. DANCE FITNESS
EDUCATION HSE/TASC PREP Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 Baisley Park librar y at 10. HSE/TASC PREP Fridays, March 7, 28 LIC library at 11. KNIT & CROCHET Fridays Fresh Meadows library at 11. CHESS CLUB Fridays at 3:30 at the Auburndale library and 4 at the Woodside library. HSE/TASC PREP Saturdays, March 8, 15, 22 Cambria Heights library at 10 KNITTING 101 Mondays, March 10, 17 Central library at 4:30. BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 Forest Hills library at 6:30. CHINESE FOR TRAVEL Mondays, March 10, 24, 31 Laurelton library. Register. MATH 4 ADULTS Mondays LIC library 5:308:00. CHESS Tuesdays Rosedale library at 4. SMALL BUSINESS Tuesdays Small Business Workshop at the Central library. Register. HSE/TASC PREP Wednesdays, March 12, 19, 26 Baisley Park library at 10. EXAM PREP: WRITING Wednesdays 5:30-7:00 LIC library. HSE/TASC PREP Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Baisley Park library. Register. CHESS FED-RATED Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 East Flushing library at 4:30. ORIGAMI FUN Thursdays LIC library at 3. LEARN CHINESE Thursdays North Forest Park library at 6.
Saturdays, March 8, 15, 22, 29 LIC library at 3. DANCE FITNESS Mondays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 North Forest Park library at 11:30. ZUMBA Mondays through June 23 (except holidays) LIC library at 7. ALZHEIMERS Tuesdays, March 11, 25 Caregiver support group in Forest Hills. 592-5757, ext. 237. BODY CONDITIONING Tuesdays, March 11, 18, 25 Briarwood library at 5:30 and Ridgewood library at 6. INTRO GENTLE YOGA Wednesdays, March 12, 19, 26 Woodside library at 5:30. CHI GONG Wednesday, March 12 LIC library at 6. WORKOUT WED. Wednesdays South Jamaica library at 5:30. MEDITATION CLUB Thursdays, March 13, 27 Glen Oaks library at 5:30. ANGER MANAGEMENT Wednesdays and Saturdays Classes, individual, family, couples therapy in Briarwood. 374-6765. SUPPORT GROUPS Alcohol, drugs, domestic violence, martial issues, depression, anxiet y, phobia, etc. Woodside Clinic. 779-1234. DOMESTIC VIOL. 24 hour Domestic Violence Hotline. 657-0424. WAITANKUNG Sundays 2-5. Total-body workout. Flushing Hospital/Medical Center. Free. Jimmy 7-10pm 347-2156. SCHIZO. ANON. Sundays in Rego Park. 896-3400. TAI CHI Mondays and Thursdays 11-12 at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 670-1695. $5. VBARRE BAR Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays VBarre Bar Method Class for total body sculpting at NYSC in Whitestone. 917-716-4678. YOGA Wednesdays at the NYHQ Cardiac Health Center. 670-1695. 5:30. $10. MASSAGE THERAPY Wednesdays and Fridays half and one hour massages at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 670-1695. SUPPORT GROUPS AA Tuesdays at 8 at Grace Lutheran Church in Astoria. 520-5021. Also, 520-5021 24 hours, 7 days a week. AL-ANON 457-1511.
TEENS & KIDS JAPANESE MONSTERS Fr i d ay, M a r c h 7 E a st Elmhurst at 4. BOOK BUDDIES Friday, March 7 Bayside library at 4. STORYTIME Friday, March 7 11:15 and 12:15 North Forest Park library. PROJECT ART Friday, March 7 Corona library. Register. TEEN HAPPY HOUR Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 Flushing library at 4. CHESS CLUB Fridays, March 7, 14, 21, 28 Woodside library at 4. CRAFTS Fridays Ozone Park library at 3, Briarwood and East Flushing at 4, Pomonok and Flushing library at 4:30. STORYTIME Fridays Hollis library at 11:15. BOARD/VIDEO GAMES Fridays Rochdale Village at 4. Grades 1-6. BOARD GAME Fridays Windsor Park at 4. Ages 5-12. GAME DAY Fridays 5:30 McGoldrick library. CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale library at 3:30. CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2. COMPUTER SKILLS Mondays through March 31 Rochdale Village library
TALKS FLUSHING LIBRARY Friday, March 7 “Under the Tuscan Sun” discussed at 1. CURRENT EVENTS Mondays through March 31 Sout h Ozone Park library at noon. LAURELTON Thursday, March 13 at 6.
SENIORS DEFENSIVE DRIVING Monday, March 10 Hollis library. Register. TAX PREP HELP Mondays through March 31 Pomonok library at 11:30. AARP 4158 Tuesday. March 11 North Flushing chapter at noon at Church on the Hill, 167-07 35th Avenue, Flushing. FIRE SAFETY We d n e s d ay, M a r c h 1 2 Astoria library at 1. AARP 29 Thursday, March 13 Grace Houses Community Room, 155-02 90 th Avenue, Jamaica at noon.
at 4. Grades 1-6. COMPUTER HW HELP Mondays Auburndale library at 5:30. Ages 8-12. TODDLER CRAFTS Mondays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 Steinway library at 11. FAMILY STORYTIME Mondays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 Auburndale library at 3:30. YOUNG MEN Tuesdays, March 11, 18, 25 14-19 empowerment group at t he L aurelton library at 3:30. PROJECT ART Tuesday, March 11 LIC library. Register. ANIMALS ALIVE Tuesday, March 11 Laurelton library at 3:30. CHESS CLUB Tuesday, March 11 LIC library at 4. WII GAMING Tuesdays, March 11, 18, 25 Astoria library at 4:30. JEWELRY CREATIONS Tuesday, March 11 Hollis library at 4:30. Teens DRAMA CLUB Tuesdays Central library. Register. TEEN MEDIATION Tuesdays Central library at 4. LANYARD CLUB Tuesdays Richmond Hill library at 4. GARDEN PROJECT Tuesdays 4-6 Whitestone library. Call for details. PLAYGROUP Wednesdays, March 12, 19, 26 Steinway library at 11. ECO-TEENS Wednesday, March 12 LIC library at 3:30. TEEN ECO-AGENTS We d n e s d ay, M a r c h 1 2 Broadway library at 5. CRAFTIVITIES Wednesdays East Flushing library. Register. DRAWING CLUB Wednesdays LIC library at 4. DECORATIONS CLUB Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Poppenhusen library at 4. DRAMA POSSE Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Hillcrest library at 4:30. Ages 8-14. LEARN CHESS Thursday, March 13 Rochdale Village library at 4. EARTH HOUR Thursdays, March 13, 20 Broadway library at 4:30. Environmental science. ARTS & CRAFTS Thursdays, March 13, 20 Auburndale library at 4:30. Ages 5-12. FASHION MAVENS Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 teens interested in the fashion industry at the central library at 4:30.
DRAMA POSSE Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Hillcrest library at 4:30. Ages 8-14. CHESS CLUB Thursdays, March 13, 20, 27 Federation-Rated Chess Club for teens and adults at the East Flushing library at 4:30. ORIGAMI FUN Thursdays LIC library at 3.
MEETINGS VFW 4787 Monday, March 10 Whitestone VFW Communit y Post meets. 746-0540. CATHOLIC VETS Monday, March 10 American Martyrs Catholic War Veterans Post 1772 in Bayside. 468-9351. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays, March 10, 17, 24, 31 Douglaston library at 4. QUILTING CLUB Mondays Alley Pond Environmental Center 2:30. $5. 229-4000. TELEPHONE PION. Tuesday, March 11 Telephone Pioneers of America meet in College Point. 4634535. SE QUEENS CAMERA Tuesdays, March 11, 18, 25 Roy Wilkins Family Center. 347-528-7178. RH QUILTERS Tuesdays noon at the Richmond Hill library. CHESS CLUB Tuesdays LIC library at 4, Windsor Park library at 5:30 and Howard Beach library at 4. JAMAICA KIWANIS Thursdays, March 13, 27 Kiwanis Club of Jamaica. 527-3678. 98TH ST. BLOCK ASSN Thursday, March 13 East Elmhurst library at 6:30. GARDENING CLUB Saturdays in the Steinway library courtyard at 4. ORATORIO SOCIETY M o n d ay s Te m p l e B e t h Sholom in Flushing. 279-3006. Auditions required. COMMUNITY SINGERS Mondays Community Singers at Messiah Lutheran in Flushing. 658-1021. GLEE CLUB Tuesdays Bayside Men’s Glee Club at All Saints Episcopal Church, 214-35 40th Avenue, Bayside. 9616852. MEN’S CLUB SOCCER Tuesday evenings Forest Hills Jewish Center 8-9:30. 263-7000. FM CAMERA Tuesdays Fresh Meadows Camera Club. 917-6123463.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
Profile
St. Albans Artist Brings Stages To Life BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA For more than 25 years, St. Albans resident Chris Cumberbatch has been bringing stages to life through the art of set design. Cumberbatch was exposed to the arts at a very young age. His brother, father and uncle were all artists, so it comes as no surprise that he inherited much of his family’s talent. “I’ve been painting and drawing since I was four years old,” he said. “It’s not that I’ve always wanted to be an artist – I have always been an artist. From a very young age, creating things was like second nature.” Cumberbatch was first introduced to set design after being scouted at one of his art shows in 1988. A staffer at the Black Spectrum Theatre in Jamaica saw Cumberbatch paint by taping two brushes at the end of a stick. Impressed with the art he had watched Cumberbatch create, he asked him if he would be interested in set design for plays. “I was open to the idea because it allowed me to see my art in 3D. It sets the stage for performance,” he said.
St. Albans resident Chris Cumberbatch has worked on a number of set designs, including the Broadway production Les Misérables. “I liked the interaction between the actor and the set. I realized just how important it is to communicate the surrounding environment. It helps actors interact with the audience to make the performance believable.” It was not long before Cumber-
batch fell in love with the new art form. “It was very fulfilling in that I was able to see the art form for what it was,” he said. “I could see a new area of art that I was falling in love with.” In his years as a set designer, Cum-
berbatch has worked on many stages, ranging from the television series Saturday Night Live and Law and Order Special Victims Unit to the Broadway production Les Misérables. Though he is passionate about stage design, Cumberbatch said the job has its challenges. “Directors and producers call the shots. A lot of your design is based on their vision. You have to have the creative ability to function alongside them to create their vision,” he said. “The challenging thing is to please a director and give them what they are looking for when they look through the lens.” While he may have a number of impressive accomplishments under his belt, Cumberbatch said he is still working towards his goal as an artist. “I’d like to design a piece at the Metropolitan Opera House,” he said. “It’s just a wonderful space and they do a lot of innovative, large-scale productions.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
People Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Rochester Institute of Technology. They include: Jamaica: Mohammad Arefin, Khalif Nevels. Queens Village: Mark Philip. Cherylle McFarlane of St. Albans received a Master of Health Services Administration degree during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine in Standish, Maine. Ajah Hawley-Alexander of Cambria Heights was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Teaneck, N.J. Ronella Rodney of Jamaica was named to the Honors List for the fall 2013 semester. Zoraida Delerme of Jamaica and Kamil Davis of Cambria Heights were recognized as members of the Alpha Lambda Delta First Year Honor Society at Becker College in Worcester, Mass. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semes-
ter at Morrisville State College. They include: Jamaica: Kaylin Johnson, Meghan Soto, Naveen Seth, Sonia Duggan, Wasiu Adeyeye. Laurelton: Brianna Francis. Queens Village: Jahmila Scott. St. Albans: Ebony Thyme. Springfield Gardens: Dowhite Dennis. Wesly Delva of Laurelton received a Bachelor of Science degree in information security and forensics during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Rochester Institute of Technology. Marla Clendenin of Queens Village was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Loyola University in Baltimore, Md. Kyshia Lawrie of Jamaica received a Master of Public Health degree during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Benedictine University in Lisle, Ill. Daniel Greene of Hollis was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Boston University.
Local students received degrees during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Morrisville State College. They include: Jamaica: Besyira Dash, Sonia Duggan. St. Albans: Ebony Thyme. Air Force Airman Ricardo Batista graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eightweek program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. He is a 2012 graduate of John Adams High School in Ozone Park. The Business Council of the Samuel Field Y/Central Queens Y will hold its annual networking breakfast from 8:30-10 a.m. March 11 at Douglaston Manor. For reservations, contact Jennifer Colletti-Membreno at (718) 225-6750, Ext. 238, or email jcm@ sfy.org. Local students were named to the Dean’s List and Honors List for the
fall 2013 semester at Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Metropolitan campus in Teaneck, N.J. They include: Far Rockaway: Jason Brach, Honors List; Asher Ingber, Honors List. Woodhaven: Alyssa Negron, Dean’s List; Antonio Concepcion, Honors List. Maria Begum of Ozone Park received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Rochester Institute of Technology. Vanessa Connally of Far Rockaway and Shateema McKines of Arverne received degrees during fall 2013 commencement ceremonies at Morrisville State College. Both students were also named to the Dean’s List, along with Siobhan Smith of Far Rockaway. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at Loyola University in Baltimore, Md. They include: Belle Harbor: Deirdre Quinlan. Breezy Point: Thomas Bellettiere. Rockaway Park: Jacqueline Gillen.
Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
Faith
The History And Origins Of The Lenten Season BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA For much of the Christian and Catholic community, Lent is a special time of prayer, penance, reflection and sacrifice in preparation for Easter. While many are taught the biblical story behind Lent, where Jesus spent 40 days fasting in the desert continuously tempted by Satan, its etymology is not as universally known. In Latin, the term quadragesime, the ‘fortieth’ day before Easter, is used. This name was preserved in Romance, Slavic and Celtic languages. It was not until the late Middle Ages, when masses were not popularly given in Latin anymore, that the English word ‘Lent’ was adopted. This word simply meant ‘spring,’ deriving from its Germanic root. Traditionally, there are 40 days in Lent which are marked by fasting, both from foods and activities. Christians and Catholics believe that exercising restraint and giving up a vice of theirs will bring them closer
to God. It is meant to be represent a season of grief that will end with the great celebration of Easter – the day Jesus rose from the dead. During the Lenten season, it is common for Christians to give up things like chocolate, alcohol and swearing. But Christians, especially young Christians, get creative with their sacrifices and have given up things like Facebook and Twitter. In Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches, it is still common to abstain from animal products. In the Roman Catholic Church, it is customary to refrain from eating meat and to eat less on Ash Wednesday and Fridays during the season. Fasting during Lent was much more extreme in ancient history. Socrates Scholasticus, a Greek Christian church historian, wrote that in some places, all animal products were strictly forbidden. Other communities permitted fish, others fish and fowl, others prohibited fruits and eggs and still, others only ate bread.
Since the earliest times of the Church, there is evidence that people observed Lent to prepare for Easter. St. Irenaeus of the 2nd century wrote to Pope St. Victor I commenting on the celebration of Easter and the differences in practices in the East and West. In this letter, Irenaeus made a reference to a 40-day period believed to be Lent. Lent, however, was not practiced by the whole Church in the 2nd Century. It was not until the legalization of Christianity in 313 A.D. that it became more common. Over the course of the next 100 years, the Church began to establish rules and guidelines on how fasting during the season should be done. The traditional celebrations which precede Lent in many cultures have become associated with the season of fasting, if only because it is a last opportunity for excess before the Lent season begins. The most famous preLenten carnival in the world is celebrated in Rio de Janeiro. Other famous carnivals are held in Trinidad,
Venice, St. Louis, New Orleans and Los Angeles. In Lebanon and Syria, on the last Thursday before Lent, Catholics celebrate Khamis el sakara, a day to indulge in alcohol. In Poland, Catholics celebrate Fat Thursday on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday. It is tradition to eat a pastry called “paczki,” made with the ingredients lard, sugar, eggs and fruits, because their consumption was forbidden during Lent. These pastries have since become popular in the United States as a result. Since it has been formally recognized, modernizations have been made to Lenten observances in the Christian and Catholic communities. It has evolved to include restraint from more modern vices. Some choose to give up things like chocolate, while others give up the Internet. Still, Lent’s meaning and value holds true in the religious community. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.
Notebook
Hillcrest High School
Hillcrest High School Welcomes New Principal BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA After nearly two decades under Stephen Duch, Hillcrest High School has a new leader – Principal David Morrison. Morrison, who became principal on Feb. 3, has been part of the Hillcrest family for more than three decades. He attended the school as a student and graduated in 1991, only to return to his alma mater as an English teacher five years later. “I still live in the neighborhood that I grew up in, so I often take the train to work and go down the same exact route that I took when I was a student. But now, I’m taking it as principal when I walk up the hill,” he said. “When you walk into the building, I feel like there is a tangible feeling of respect in the building.” In his early years at Hillcrest, Morrison said he always had his eye on the principal’s seat. “I can remember about five years into my teaching career being interviewed by the school newspaper and they asked me where I saw myself in
10 years, and I said I that means continuing think I’d like to become to look at what’s happrincipal of our school,” pening in education and he said. “It came true.” teaching. That translates Prior to his new role, to the student-level.” Morrison served in sev“The reason why our eral other capacities at school is successful is Hillcrest. In addition to because we focused working as an English on the right stuff,” he teacher, he also taught added. “We focused on theater, ran the theater Former English assistant making sure that there program, served as co- principal David Morrison is effective teacher in ordinator of student ac- has taken the place of Ste- each classroom. All the tivities, sat as yearbook phen Duch as principal at decisions we make at the advisor for five years Hillcrest High School. school is for the best for and served as the high our students – academischool’s English assistant principal. cally, socially and creatively.” Morrison took the place of Duch, When asked if there was somewho has been with the school for 18 thing he wanted to improve at Hillyears and is often credited for chang- crest, Morrison said he would like to ing Hillcrest High School’s bad repu- build on the small learning commutation for violence. nities that Duch left behind as one of “One of the things that Mr. Duch his legacies. taught me and everyone is that we “We are a large high school, but have to keep the school a learning we have our small learning commuorganization. From the top to the nities which are dedicated to providclassroom-level, everyone has to ing focused experiences in theater, maintain energy around always being health careers, pre-med and media a learner,” he said. “For the adults, and the arts and other subjects,” he
said. “We’ve taken the school and we made it feel a little smaller. That was a successful transformation for us, so my job is to make sure that we keep those programs and that structure strong. It’s not so much changing them – it’s strengthening them.” Morrison also hopes to improve athletics at the high school. “We always talk about being an academic powerhouse, but I would love to bring a little more athletics and improve our teams. We have great teams, but I would love to win a few championships and see more support for our teams,” he said. “We want to make sure we keep our teams important, because it motivates student to want to become part of the school culture.” To learn more about Hillcrest High School, visit www.Hillcrestweb. com. Hillcrest HS is located at 160-05 Highland Ave., Jamaica. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ nkozikowska.
March 7-13, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17
What’s Up March 8 Intro to computers After this free workshop at the Central Branch of the Queens Library in Jamaica, you will be able to navigate a computer and begin to take advantage of everything computers have to offer. Topics covered include; computer terminology, using the mouse and touchpad, basic keyboarding skills, and how to navigate computer folders, files and programs in a Windows environment. Register online at jobmap.queenslibrary.org or call (718) 990-8625. This is an introductory computer class, no prior knowledge or skills required.
cinema En Espanol – ‘Innocent Voices’
(Paseo De Los Tristes). The free event will take place at 2 p.m. at the Central Branch of the Queens Library.
Symphony of Spirituals Join the York College Gospel Chorus as they celebrate the genre of music known as the African-American spiritual from 3-5 p.m. at the York College Academic Core Building. All are welcome. For information, call (718) 262-3772.
March 12 Tales From the arabian Nights Children ages 6-12 years will listen to the story of Aladdin and other tales from the Arabian Nights, then create their own “magic carpet” using traditional Persian rug colors, designs and motifs. This program is part of the “Bridging Cultures: Poetic Voices of the Muslim World” series. The free program takes place at 4 p.m. at the Central Branch of the Queens Library in Jamaica.
A Better Jamaica will present its latest film series, Cinema En Espanol, saluting Jamaica’s Spanish-speaking population with a series of Spanish-language films with English subtitles. The next showing is of “Innocent Voices,” a film about the bloody civil war that tore apart El Salvador in the 1980s, seen through Girls’ Night Out the eyes of a young boy. Applebee’s NeighborThe showing will take hood Bar & Grill, 161-21 place from 7-9 p.m. at Ja- a Better Jamaica Jamaica Ave., Jamaica, maica Center for Arts and will present “Inno- will host a Girl’s Night Learning, 161-04 Jamaica cent Voices.” Out from 6 p.m. to closAve., Jamaica. For inforing, a recurring event mation, call (718) 657-2605 or email each Wednesday night. The evening greg.mays@abetterjamaica.org. includes food and drink specials.
March 9 health care Info EmblemHealth and the Parish Health Ministry will present a free forum on healthcare reform at Greater Allen Cathedral, 110-31 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. The sessions will be held after the 8:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. services. To RSVP, call Crystal Harrison at (917) 583-9147 or e-mail charrison@emblemhealth.com. On the spot enrollments will be available. The following documents will be needed: SSN; email address; last tax documents filed; recent income w/i last 30 days (or last four pay stubs); if not working, a letter/proof of financial support; if not a U.S. born citizen, a certificate of naturalization or permanent resident card.
Open Mic for Poets Jay Giacomazzo is a writer from Brooklyn. He is a recent graduate of the MFA program at Queens College whose writing can be found in “Lyre” and “Haggard and Halloo” magazines. He recently completed his first manuscript, a collection of translated Spanish poetry entitled “The Sad Walk”
Observatory Open Night The York College Observatory is open to the public every second or third Wednesday of the month – rain or shine, starting at 8:30 p.m. Gather in room 2E01 and then proceed to the 4th floor terrace off G corridor if it’s clear. For additional information, contact Tim Paglione at paglione@york.cuny.edu or (718) 262-2082.
March 13 classic Movies at 2 Every Thursday at 2 p.m., the Central Branch of the Queens Library will screen a different classic movie. This week is 1940’s “The Philadelphia Story,” starring Katherine Hepburn, as part of a series of films featuring iconic women for Women’s History Month.
Project Fashion Mavens Are you interested in fashion or would you like to work in the fashion marketing industry? Then this free program for teens ages 13-18 at the Central Branch of the Queens Library in Jamaica is for you. The
event will be held at 4:30 p.m.
March 14 Les Delices King Manor Museum in Rufus King Park partners with Five Boroughs Music Festival to present Les Delices, a Cleveland-based, critically-acclaimed ensemble performing French Baroque music on period instruments. The program will feature works by Philidor, Guillemain, Leclair and Rameau. Tickets for the 6 p.m. event cost $30, $25 in advance. For information, call (718) 206-0545, Ext. 13, or visit www.kingmanor.org.
ONGOING: Youth Sports Through March 29, the Lincoln Park Basketball Association will hold a winter basketball clinic for boys and girls ages 8-15. The clinic will be held at the Queens Transition Center, located at 142-10 Linden Blvd., South Ozone Park, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Parents or guardians must bring proof of age. Registration fee is $40 and includes insurance, weekly training sessions and t-shirts. For more information, call David Reid (646) 241-4211 or Mike Glasgow at (917) 442-0479. LP FAM youth baseball registration is also open each Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. for boys and girls ages 5-14. Registration takes place at Dunton Presbyterian Church, 109-29 135th St., South Ozone Park. The organization is also looking for volunteer youth baseball and football coaches. For information, call Derick Braswell at (917) 692-4775 or Paul Cox at (718) 835-8416.
homework help The Laurelton Library will provide free homework help for children in grades 1-6. The library offers after school homework assistance in math, writing and other subjects. The program runs every day after school, from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m., except holidays. The library is located at 134-26 225th St., Laurelton. For more information, call (718) 5282822 or visit www.queenslibrary.org/ branch/Laurelton.
Overcoming Barriers to Employment Every Friday, the Queens Central Library in Jamaica helps residents experiencing barriers to employment. A Job Information Center case manager is available on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. to discuss potential problems you may have regarding child
care, housing, immigration, degree evaluation, healthcare, goal and career planning, former incarceration, education and training and more. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 480-4222 or stop by the Job Information Center. No registration is required and the service is free.
Forestdale STYa Youth Mentor Forestdale, Inc., an organization with a great history of supporting families in need and committed to empowering children in foster care and in the local community, is launching a new mentoring program in January 2014. This new program, called “Future Prep: Successfully Transitioning Youth to Adolescence,” or STYA, is designed to attract communityminded people who may not be able to commit to foster parenting, but nevertheless want to make a significant investment in the lives of children and their better future. We are looking for mentors (18 or older) to work with children ages 9-12 for one year. Starting in January, there will be four 10-week sessions throughout the year, each running for three hours on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The program will take place at the Hollis Community Center at 203-09 Hollis Ave. This is an excellent opportunity to truly make a difference is someone’s life, build meaningful relationships and be part of an enthusiastic, compassionate and supportive environment, in addition to a great learning experience with the opportunity to learn about a multitude of issues facing underprivileged youth in New York City today. For additional information, contact Mirzya Syed, Youth Volunteer Coordinator, at Msyed@forestdaleinc.org or (718) 263.0740, ext. 365.
Queens Satellite high School and college Mentoring Program Queens Satellite High School is seeking volunteers to provide students with the skills and experiences that will support their personal growth. Key to the institute is the active participation its volunteers in the private sector and community members who wish to provide real world connections for their students through weekly seminars. Mentors can participate in oneday sessions or teach a seven-week seminar on a topic of their choice. Technical assistance for lesson planning will be provided throughout your experience. For additional information, contact Kristy Nguyen at (718) 657-3920 ext. 4031.
The Voice Strikes Again
Q
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens March 7-13, 2014
Musicians OF QuEEns
Jonny Meyers
QConf is edited by: Steven J. Ferrari
A crowd of elected officials and civic leaders gathered on the steps of Queens Borough Hall Sunday to show their support of U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, who was announcing the kick-off of her re-election campaign. The festivities, however, were put on hold as everyone waited for County Leader, U.S. Rep. Joseph Crowley, who was on his way from Sunnyside's
"St. Pat's For All" parade, but running just a bit behind. Never one to miss an opportunity, Borough President Melinda Katz - well-known for her singing voice - turned to the crowd of supporters and led them all in a rendition of "God Bless America." Here at QConf, we hope the First Lady of Queens starts all of her events this way. Everyone loves a good sing-a-long.
Poetry Performance St. John’s University freshman and 2014 Youth Poet Laureate Ramya Ramana, who recited the poem “New York City” at Mayor Bill de Blasio’s inauguration ceremony, is wowing the audience again, but this time, at her own show. The lights were dim at Joe’s Pub in Manhattan, the audience was quiet and there stood Ramya, with a bright-pink flower-clip on her hair, ready to perform. She recited not one, not two, but five poems Saturday night. Each one was deeper than the one before. Ramana’s words and her personal stories about love, family, skin-color and hurt resonated with many. One particular highlight of the night was about the backlash Nina Davuluri faced after being
Contributors: Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Trisha Sakhuja, Michael Schenkler.
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Great Expectations
crowned Miss America 2014. In the poem, Ramana asks Davuluri to not let racist comments stop her from following her path, telling her she should continue “dancing” and “stomping her feet.” The weekend show in Manhattan could not have come at a better time for the young poet, as she also celebrated her 19th birthday on March 3. What a way to spend a birthday weekend!
Friends or Rivals? Spotted at the Queens Tribune Black History Month breakfast and panel discussion – embattled State Sen. Malcolm Smith and new Deputy Borough President, Leroy Comrie exchanging laughs. We here at QConf can’t help but wonder if the two were talking about Smith’s upcoming reelection campaign for the Senate seat… the one Comrie is rumored to be interested in.
The Mets might want to tone down their expectations for the upcoming season. The team’s general manager, Sandy Alderson, told Mets executives during a meeting last week that he believes can, and maybe should, win 90 games. When asked about it after the initial report came out, the GM did not necessarily back down from the statement, saying they are aiming higher than they have in previous years. While it is good that the team’s GM has high hopes, it definitely seems like it is not realistic. The Mets signed Curtis Granderson and Bartolo Colon, both former Yankees, in the offseason but there are still many questions throughout the team, including who is playing shortstop. Not to mention, they are without Matt Harvey, perhaps their best player, for the entire season. Las Vegas has set the Mets over/under at 73-and- a-half. The announcement came as Jonathon Niese, the expected opening day starter, reported to camp with a “dead arm.” While it turned out to be much ado about nothing, the timing of the potential problem could not be ignored. They will have a lot of work to do to get to 90 wins.
Austin has always played a significant role in Jonny Meyers’ music career. Whether it was in Austin, Tex. or on Austin Street in Forest Hills, the singer-songwriter has found new music and new recording partners to further pursue his goals. Not content to limit himself to one music project, Meyers is a bit of a renaissance man, exploring many different genres, such as country, blues, rock, Ska and Caribbean music. He got his first guitar when he was 13 years old and studied the works from greats of the neighborhood, like Paul Simon, Dionne Warwick and the Ramones. “It's interesting to me because Forest Hills has never really been a center for arts/ music. In fact, there were never many gigs in Forest Hills,” Meyers said. “Yet, there is such a rich tradition of music that came out of my hood. It makes me proud to be from there.” When he moved to Austin, Tex. in 1998, Meyers quickly settled in and started forming bands that fit his many musical passions. He formed The Stingers ATX, a Ska band that made three albums and toured Europe on and off. As he dug deeper into early Jamaican rhythm and blues, he created RokkaTone, an acoustic project with street musicians and The Stingers’ trombonist. That band put out an album in 2005. Now that he is back in New York City, Meyers has put together a couple of other bands, such as a new Ska group called
Grand Concourse, and Jonny Meyers & the Trio. Meyers said he hopes to have his debut album with the trio, with the working title “Five Minutes on a Train,” out by the end of summer. “In the trio, I play songs like I play them in my living room… open guitar with occasional fills/riffs while singing so the neighbors can hear me loud and clear,” he said. “I guess I'm not satisfied unless I've got a few things going on.” One of those things he has going on is a job teaching music at PS 182 in Jamaica. When Meyers’ daughter, Isabella, was born in 2007, the musician knew he wanted a stable job that would also let him keep recording and playing shows in the City. “Teaching was something I always loved and felt that I did well. It just took me some time to realize that I loved to teach music, especially to the younger ones,” Meyers said. “I think the biggest effect it is having on my songwriting is that I am doing the bulk of my writing on piano now and finding new chord patterns because of the instrument.” The Trio will be playing at the awards ceremony for the Queens World Film Festival on March 8 at Centraal in Long Island City at 9 p.m. You can catch the band at The Way Station in Prospect Heights on March 15 as well. Meyers will also continue his residency at Espresso 77 in Jackson Heights, playing the first Thursday of every month.
Got Talent? If you can dance, sing, draw, write or have any other talents and live in Queens, be sure to e-mail editor@queenstribune.com for inclusion in a future edition.
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