Press epaper 040414

Second Annual

SMALL BIZ AWARDS

PRESS Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

Volume 15 Issue No. 14 April 4-10, 2014

‘WE FORGIVE YOU’

Tuesday, May 20, 2014 • 8:30-11 a.m.

At Queens College For info, call: 718-357-7400

The family and friends of a slain teen gather to cope with their loss.

By Natalia Kozikowska … Page 3.

ONLINE AT WWW.QUEENSPRESS.COM

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

News Briefs Cops Looking For Impersonator

Police announced on Wednesday that they are looking for two suspects who are pretending to be police officers in order to rob Queens businesses.

According to the NYPD, the incidents have taken place between March 8 and March 31. The suspects have struck all over the Borough, with robberies taking place in Jamaica, Flushing and Long Island City.

In each incident, the suspects would enter the business with firearms and shields, identify themselves as police officers, tie up the victims and then steal money and electronics from the store.

The first crime took place on March 8 in a business at 141-05 Cherry Ave. in Flushing.

The second incident happened in Jamaica on March 12 at 10:30 p.m., at the Body Works Salon located at 80-30 Jamaica Ave. The third episode took place at Charming Spa Salon, at 30-78 Steinway St., Long Island City on March 31.

Anyone with information can call the NYPD Crime stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS, log onto the Crime Stop-

pers website, or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES) and enter TIP577.

State Budget May Lead To Charter School

Earlier this year, Mayor Bill de Blasio reversed a decision to put a Success Academy charter school inside the August Martin High School building in South Jamaica. Now, the new State budget may allow the colocation after all.

The budget’s education section includes a provision that would require a charter school to approve any change made to its co-location, for those approved prior to 2014.

The City Council Education Committee plans to hold a hearing on the effect this new law will have going forward.

The law will also force the City to provide facilities access to new or expanding charter schools that ask for a co-location inside a public school building. If the City fails to do so, it will have to pay the charter’s rent and a 20 percent increase in funding per student.

In addition, the State budget will increase tuition funding for charter school students over three years. The increases will go up by $250 per stu-

dent the first year, $350 the second year and $500 the third year.

Charter schools will also be eligible for pre-kindergarten funding.

Hillcrest Students Tested For TB

Last week, students and teachers at Hillcrest High School were tested for tuberculosis after one student contracted the potentially fatal bacteria.

According to a statement issued by the Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene, as a safety precaution, on March 25, the City agency tested 170 students and six staffers who may have been exposed.

The infected student is reportedly doing well and is currently being treated.

TB is spread through the air when people who have an active infection cough, sneeze or otherwise transmit respiratory fluids through the air.

Most infections do not have symptoms. About one in 10 latent infections progress to an active disease which, if left untreated, kills more than 50 percent of those infected.

Although TB is an airborne infection, the DOHMH does not feel that students and staffers at Hillcrest are currently at risk.

“Given that the person with TB is receiving treatment, there is no health risk to students or staff currently at the school,” the statement read.

“DOHMH routinely conducts investigations into infectious TB cases at schools, worksites, etc. During these investigations, we test exposed persons, so that we can treat and prevent future cases of TB,” the release went on to say. “With proper care and treatment, TB can be prevented and cured.”

Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to:

PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

Family, Friends Of Slain Teen Forgive Killer Family and friends of the teen who was fatally stabbed at a Laurelton barbershop last week had one message for the accused killer – “we forgive you.”

On March 27, 19-year-old Carl Richardson, a college student, was stabbed inside Select Stylez Barbershop on Merrick Boulevard, following a dispute with the suspect, Cedric Simpson.

According to reports, Richardson visited the shop around 2 p.m. to collect $40 that Simpson owed him for a Bluetooth headset he had purchased the day before. The two, unable to come to an agreement, got into a heated argument that spilled out into the street.

The pair eventually made their way back inside the shop, where the scuffle ensued. It was there that Simpson allegedly grabbed a pair of scissors and stabbed Richardson twice in the neck and once in the chest.

The teen was rushed to Franklin General Hospital in Valley Stream, where he was pronounced dead.

Simpson has since gone on record claiming he stabbed Richardson in self-defense.

In light of the tragedy, family and friends of the victim held a press conference outside of the teen’s home to let the alleged killer know

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Sherina Peredaviz, the sister of Carl Richardson, the teen who was fatally stabbed last week, told the media she forgives the accused killer. that they had forgiven him. They did not challenge Simpson’s selfdefense claims.

“That’s between him and God. We wanted to call this conference because we wanted to say this – Cedrick Simpson, we have chosen to forgive you,” the victim’s grieving older sister, Sherina Peredaviz, said. “I forgive you. My family forgives you and we’re praying for your family.”

Peredaviz also told the press that

her family is searching for the man who stayed with her brother in his final moments.

“It is our hope that the man who stood with my brother and prayed for him during his last breath – come forward so we can thank you so much,” she said. “Thank you for being there for him. Thank you for helping him find his way home.”

Richardson’s girlfriend of three years, Sheneque Mardner, also told media that she had forgiven Simp-

son, even though she said she finds herself getting angry at times.

“He was much more than a boyfriend. He was my inspiration, my role model,” Mardner said. “That murderer didn’t just take my boyfriend – he took my life, my future, my plans, my goals of having a family and having kids.”

“Every time I sit and think about it and I feel myself starting to get angry, I say to myself, Carl would not want this for me – he wouldn’t want me to feel this pain,” she added. “So I want to say to you [Simpson], I forgive you and I wish you all the best.”

Councilman Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton), who was on hand for the press conference, praised the Richardson family’s strength and courage.

“I feel honored to stand with the Richardson family today. They are such strong individuals who operate out of love and not hate. They are what this community represents,” he said. “It is the love of their son that has enabled them to say ‘we forgive you.’ It speaks of his character.”

In memory of the slain teen, Richards said he hopes to create a conflict resolution program at Springfield Gardens High School.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.

Community To Rally For Skate Park In Laurelton

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA This weekend, community leaders, civic groups and skateboarders are joining forces for a rally to bring a skate park to Laurelton Playground.

The man behind the proposal, Greg Mays, president of A Better Jamaica and chair of Community Board 12’s parks committee, said the idea first dawned on him years ago when his nephew got picked up by police for skateboarding on the sidewalk.

“That struck me as being a little absurd and it planted the initial seed.

Kids are riding where they shouldn’t be riding,” he said. “They also just need something to do other than play video games. They need to get out and get exercise and do productive things.”

It was not long before Mays got rolling on the project by reaching out to the Parks Dept. commissioner

Dorothy Lewandowski, who seemed to be right on board.

“I was pleasantly surprised by their reaction,” he said. “They really seemed to be excited about it and directed me to the people I needed to speak to and the parks I should consider.”

After a little research, Mays determined that Laurelton Playground would be an ideal location for a new skate park in Southeast Queens, because it had one very favorable attribute – unutilized asphalt.

With the support of CB12 members, Mays presented his idea to members of Community Board 13, the governing community board of Laurelton Playground.

The proposal was well-received

by CB13 members, who, much like Mays, believe there is a need for recreational activities for the young people in Southeast Queens.

There are presently 17 skate parks in New York City, six of which are

in Queens. None of the six skate parks in the Borough fall within the confines of CB12 or CB13. The nearest skate park, London Planetree in Ozone Park, is more than six miles away.

London Planetree, which opened in June 2013, cost about $1.6 million to build– $1 million of which was allocated by the offices of former Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and $600,000 of which was allocated by Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park).

Mays estimates that the proposed project at Laurelton Playground would cost about $2 million, when considering the cost of constructing London Planetree Skate Park.

He is hopeful that the local elected officials and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz will throw their support behind the initiative so that the Parks Dept. has the City funding it needs to make the proposal a reality. If all goes well and the proper

funds are allocated, Mays predicts the skate park could open up as early as June 2016.

“Quite frankly, there are not enough options [in Southeast Queens] and the beauty of parks is that they are free,” Mays said. “It’s a great individual sport and it’s the third most popular sport behind football and basketball in the country.”

To bring awareness to the cause, Mays began a petition on change. org. As of press time, the online petition has generated 129 signatures.

To sign the petition, visit www.chn. ge/1jJCSOU. The rally will be held on April 5 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the Laurelton Playground. Laurelton Playground is located at Brookville Boulevard, between 136th and 137th Avenues.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

Civic Advocates Talk Quality Of Life Issues On April 1, representatives from Community Board 12, the American Association of Retired Persons, the Jamaica Service Program and other local advocacy groups sat down to discuss a variety of quality of life issues in Southeast Queens.

One of the first major topics the group spoke about was flooding in Jamaica and surrounding neighborhoods. Many in attendance said they feel as though the community has been ignored by the Dept. of Environmental Protection.

“With the flooding, there would be a solution – just turn on the [Station 6] pumps,” said the Rev. Princess McGee of CB12. “I see the regular quality of life things should not be as big of an issue for us because they are not that big of an issue in other communities. It’s ridiculous that we have to continue to have these same arguments and these same fights.”

McGee went on to say that local elected officials are at least in part to blame for the DEP’s lack of response and tied in her argument with another problem that has been affecting neighborhoods in CB12 for decades – trash.

“I go to areas like The who is most accountFive Towns and they’re able for problems that not hollering about floodplague the district, ing or dirty streets,” she they each shared one said. “It all comes back to common consensus our elected officials. A fire – there needs to be a needs to be lit. It’s annoybetter relationship being [and] it’s embarrassing tween the local elected that you can’t bring guests officials and commuover through certain cornity residents. ridors because the trash “It’s a multi-layered is piled up like in a thirdissue but in order to world country.” get some traction, you While on the topic of have to work from the their elected officials, the bottom up because the civic advocates said they elected officials – they Representatives from Community Board 12, the American Asbelieve that the reason are in a world all themsociation of Retired Persons, the Jamaica Service Program and that their local representaselves and unless they other local advocacy groups gathered in Jamaica on the morntives are not doing enough are agitated from the ing of April 1 to discuss a multitude of quality of life issues. is because there is not outside, it’s difficult,” enough engagement with Hunt said. ing that the residents also have to the community.

“We are not looking to change our “We need to get the people and be more active in the political land- elected officials, we are looking to the officials to come out not just scape to ensure that their issues are change our relationship with them,” every four years [when there is an not swept under the rug. echoed Thompkins. “Better commu“There has to be some account- nication is the key. We aren’t going election],” said Carol Hunt, former executive director at the Jamaica ability on the residents to be able to change them as individuals, but Service Program for Older Adults. to take care of their communities,” we need to look at them as partners “They need to come to meetings at she said. “There are individuals going forward.” every level and be the voice for the who do that, but many of them Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowsdon’t.” community so that we are heard.” ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or While those in attendance may nkozikowska@queenspress.com or CB12 member Yolanda Thompkins echoed Hunt’s sentiments, add- have had differing opinions as to @nkozikowska.

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

Bill introduced To reform Queens Library

By Luis Gronda

Photo by Luis Gronda

Local elected officals have introduced a bill that they say will bring more accountability and trust to the Queens Library.

The Queens Library Reform Bill would change how the Queens Library operates and bring more transparency to the library system.

Also announced at a press conference discussing the bill on Thursday morning, the Queens Library Board of Trustees will vote on a resolution on whether to give library president Thomas Galante a leave of absence while the investigation of the Queens Library is ongoing. The board meeting occurred after press time.

Both the bill and the resolution come after Galante has come under fire for his luxurious salary and lavish office renovations. The Queens Library president has a $391,994 annual salary and used taxpayer money to upgrade his office space, including a private outdoor smoking area.

The bill would make several changes to how the Queens Library and its board of trustees operates. Some of the changes include creating an audit committee to oversee the Library’s accounting and financial reporting processes. It would also require the

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz and state sen. Michael Gianaris introduced legislation to reform the Queens Library on Thursday.

Library’s executive staff to file financial disclosure forms and subject them to limitations on any outside employment that might be a conflict of interest with their library job.

Galante reportedly holds a consulting gig at the Elmont School District in addition to being Queens Library President.

State Sen. Michael Gianaris (DAstoria), one of the chief sponsors

of the bill, said the State Legislature wanted to create a bill to enforce more oversight and make sure what has gone on within the Queens Library system does not continue.

“Somewhere, there was a failure in the ability of the Board of Trustees to oversee what’s been going on in the Queens Library system,” Gianaris said.

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz said trust in the Queens

Library needs to be reestablished.

“This is about the public trust and public accountability. Constituents need to know that their libraries are being run with trust,” she said.

As for the Board of Trustees meeting, Katz said they will vote to possibly give Galante a leave of absence from his job at their meeting Thursday night. The leave of absence would be with pay, the Borough President said.

An audit of the Queens Library,

by Comptroller Scott Stringer, is ongoing and the City Council has held oversight hearings since news about the Library broke.

A spokeswoman for the Queens Library said the legislation includes measures already in place including the audit committee.

“The Library believes in good governance and is constantly committed to being better tomorrow than we are today. Over the last six weeks, the Board of Trustees has adopted a series of reforms aimed at improving upon existing policies, increasing transparency and strengthening the library and its governing practices,” the library’s statement said.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

Editorial OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens

Editor-in-Chief:

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel

Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja

Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Maureen Coppola Advertising Director Shanie Persaud Director Corporate Accounts/Events Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Shari Strongin Brenda Jones

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2014 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

Looking Towards Tomorrow We can only imagine what the organizers of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs would think if they saw how the world has changed in the ensuing years. Maybe they would be in awe of the advancements in science and technology. Just as likely, they could be disappointed that we have not progressed even further.

The two World’s Fairs held at Flushing Meadows Corona Park in the last century were showcases of what could be, providing generations with a glimpse of the future. But the future is everchanging and as new generations grow up more comfortable with new technologies, there is no better time to show off what our futures hold than right now.

And there is also no better place to host a new World’s Fair than right here in Queens. The Borough is home to representatives of cultures all over the world. The idea of fostering togetherness and understanding of different cultures is a way of life here, so why not give us the opportunity to spread that message to others?

This year, we celebrate two World’s Fair anniversaries, and the office of new Borough President Melinda Katz is rolling out plans to commemorate those events. But we should do more. We should begin planning a new World’s Fair, one that will look to our future and take pride in our present.

WRITE ON: The PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-40 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 email editor@queenspress.com

Letters Joltin’ James

To the Editor: So now Public Advocate Leticia James is lobbying the myopic Fariña of the Education Department for a policy of free lunch for all students without any financial considerations of need, just because some eligible students for the program feel stigmatized by bullies for participating and, therefore, do not avail themselves thereof. This would be a complete voiding of the need-based criteria to accommodate peer pressure, an extension of the socialist doctrine that “the state can undertake to provide ‘many goods and services that are generally desired but not marketable under a price system in the private economy.’”

James expresses confidence in the procurement of the public funds for her welfare expansion idea, since she holds that President Obama is supportive of the initiative.

A bungling President is justi-

fication, according to James’ fallacious logic?

When the off ice of the Public Advocate becomes, in the hand of James, an instrument, not of sound fiscal policy, but a legal arm of minoritarian (not majoritarian) special interests, then it is time to abolish the office.

James could always find work as a lawyer at her past gig with the Legal Aid Society, defending indigent arrestees in the revolving door justice system of plea bargains and slap-on-the-hand community service sentences. We don’t need Sharpton-allied provocateurs in City Hall (de Blasio), in the City Council (Speaker Mark-Viverito and Inez Barron, District 42), and in the role as Public Advocate. Impeach or recall all of these “doctrinaire collectivists” (ibid., 67) from office.

Joltin’ James should be the first to get the boot.

Joseph N. Manago, Briarwood

1964: A (Mostly) Good Year For Queens A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE The year 1964 was mostly a great one for Queens.

It was the year of the second World’s Fair in Queens and it brought international attention to our Borough and City. It brought participants from around the globe, some of whom would eventually make the Borough their permanent home.

My husband, unlike me, does not have a vast storage of childhood memories.

But he remembers the 1964 World’s Fair. It was the first time he ever won anything. He was about five years old and recalled for me many years ago that there was some sort of ring on the ground and the announcement came that the first child to jump into the ring would win a prize.

He made a mad dash and won the prize. He does not recall what it was, but he never forgot the excitement of the event and his glory moment in it.

I am excited at the plans underway in the Borough to celebrate the milestone anniversary of that famous event.

Everyone who drives by or flies over Flushing Meadows Corona Park has seen the remnants of the Fairgrounds.

And everyone who has seen “Men in Black” is now familiar with the towers of the New York State Pavilion, where Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones’ characters battle it out with the evil alien.

Brooklyn may be considered “the cool borough” these days, but they can’t boast the World’s Fair and the wonderful things that have come out of having had it in our Borough. The Pavilion is now on the restoration agenda for the Borough.

The Unisphere in the park has also become the icon of our Borough. It is significant that it was also built for the Fair. It is said to be the largest globe ever built. It still signifies “welcome to Queens, world!” It is also meaningful to have it standing in the Borough that has our City’s two airports.

Sadly, it wasn’t all peaches and cream in 1964 Queens.

In the opening line of this piece, I used the term, “mostly a great one for Queens.” That is due to the fact that while the Fair was the ultimate celebration, there were also things that shocked and angered us. They still haunt us.

Indeed, one haunts beyond the Borough and the City of New York.

In the summer of 1964, Queens College student Andrew Goodman, along with Michael Schwerner and James Chaney, were murdered while assisting the Civil Rights Movement in registering Black voters in Mississippi.

In that year as well, a young woman named Kitty Genovese was murdered outside her apartment in Kew Gardens.

Reports are that the entire block heard her screams as someone stabbed her repeatedly and they did nothing. A light went on in one apartment and the suspect ran off. However, when no one came out to help, the perpetrator returned to finish the gruesome act.

The narrative is now being rewritten on that crime; but for decades that was the ofttold story of Kitty Genovese’s death. So these sad events are also being revisited right along with the happy occasion of the World’s Fair anniversary.

I am especially drawn to the Goodman anniversary. He was just a kid of 20 trying to do the right thing along with other young people.

But the summer of ’64 was a dangerous place for anyone trying to make changes to the racial status quo. We should never forget all those people of all ages who sacrificed for us. Nor should we forget that it is incumbent upon us to act when people are being harmed.

In any case, we should dwell on the positive. The World’s Fair anniversary will bring visitors and commerce to our Borough this year. We will once again bask in the spotlight surrounding the event; and it will bring back fond memories to the many people who were there at the time.

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

Mets Look To Improve As 2014 Season Begins After finishing last season with a 74-88 record and missing the playoffs for the seventh consecutive season, the New York Mets are looking to take a step forward this year and give their fans some excitement later on in the season.

The team made some changes during the winter and spent some money to improve the ball club, something that was not seen in the past few years due to financial troubles.

Their first order of business was to improve the outfield, which many considered among the worst in the league. They signed former Yankees outfielder Curtis Granderson to a four-year, $60 million contract, the most they spent on a new player this winter.

Although Granderson was hurt for much of his last season with the Yankees, only playing 61 games in 2013 due to being hit in the hand twice by a pitch, the 33-year-old brings much needed speed, power and credibility to the outfield trio.

They also signed Chris Young to a one-year deal worth $7.25 million. He batted .200 with 12 home runs and 10 stolen bases in 335 atbats last season with the Oakland Athletics. Although he could have one of the other outfield spots as the year starts, he is also competing with Juan Lagares, Eric Young Jr. and Lucas Duda to roam the outfield.

Young missed opening day against the Washington Nationals with a right quad injury.

One of the biggest storylines this season will be how much the Mets will miss their best pitcher, Matt Harvey. Their stud hurler needed Tommy John surgery in the offseason and is expected to miss the entire 2014 season. Harvey has been discussing a possible return back from the injury in September, but pitchers who undergo that surgery generally need an entire season to recover and rehab their arm.

To supplement the starting rotation, the Mets signed 40-year-old pitcher Bartolo Colon to a two-year, $20 million deal. Colon had a surprisingly dominant season last year in Oakland, finishing with an 18-6 record, 2.65 earned run average and 1.17 walks and hits per inning.

Although it remains to be seen whether or not Colon can repeat last year’s numbers, he will look to help replace Harvey’s production and further boost a rotation that also has some problems going into the season. Jonathon Niese, who was slated to start opening day for the Mets, will start the year on the disabled list

Photos by Bruce Adler

BY LUIS GRONDA

with inflammation in his elbow.

While the majority of the rotation for the team is set as they open their season against the Nationals, there are still other questions at key positions.

Before spring training began, there was uncertainty about who would play shortstop and first base.

Both Ruben Tejada and Ike Davis, the starters at those positions for the majority of the season, struggled last year and were demoted to Triple-A. There was an open competition for both positions as the spring got started, but the incumbents seemingly have retained their positions for now. Mets manager Terry Collins suggested that there would be a rotation at first base, with Duda and Josh Satin sharing duties with Davis.

As for shortstop, Tejada has the job, but it remains to be seen how long his leash is. Omar Quintanilla

and Wilmer Flores were his main competition, although Flores has been sent to Triple-A to start the year and Quintanilla is considered a back-up utility player. Many have called for the Mets to sign free agent shortstop Stephen Drew, though the former Red Sox infielder remains unsigned to start the season.

In a back and forth game between the Mets and the Nationals, the Mets lost opening day 9-7 in 10 innings.

The Mets got off to a promising start, taking a 4-2 lead after two innings, including a three-run home run by Andrew Brown, who was playing left field and hitting fifth instead of the injured Young.

The Nationals tied it up in the 7th when Dillon Gee and the Mets bullpen were unable to hold on to their two-run lead.

After an Anthony Rendon RBI double made it 4-3 Mets, Collins

Dillon Gee (left) and Bobby Parnell pitched in the Mets 9-7 opening day loss to the Washington Nationals.

pulled Gee from the game and brought in Carlos Torres to face Nate McLouth. Torres walked McLouth to load the bases and then Collins brought in lefty reliever Scott Rice to face Denard Span. Another walk by Rice forced in the tying run.

With the game tied at five in the 10th inning, the Mets bullpen further imploded. First, an Ian Desmond sacrifice fly put the Nats ahead 6 to 5, then Rendon was clutch for Washington again, hitting a three-run homer to make it 9 to 5. The Mets scored two runs in the bottom of the inning, but their comeback bid proved unsuccessful.

Following the game, the Mets announced that closer Bobby Parnell has a partially torn ligament in his elbow and would be going on the disabled list. The team announced that Parnell is out indefinitely and may need surgery. Jose Valverde will serve as the team’s closer while Parnell is out.

The preseason over/under for the Mets is 74.5 wins. While that is about the same number of wins they had last year, General Manager Sandy Alderson has been quoted in saying he thinks the team can win 90 games this year.

Although it is hard to see the team reaching Alderson’s goal, they should be able to exceed last year’s record, providing everybody stays healthy. The future looks bright for the Mets, especially with Harvey’s expected return next season.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

New Laws Improve Minority Healthcare

BY TrISHA SAKHujA It is not always an easy feat to walk into a doctor’s office expecting to receive affordable health care, especially as a minority.

Roger Milliner, deputy executive director of marketing for MetroPlus Health Plan, said they have been working hard to provide great access to healthcare to minorities living across the City.

For minorities, the Affordable Care Act is an opportunity to provide access to healthcare for minorities living in low income neighborhoods across the four boroughs, excluding Staten Island, Milliner said.

“By people signing up to get health insurance, we are opening up an avenue for them to access providers and specialists that they may have not had access to in the past,” he said.

MetroPlus Health Plan offers low to no-cost health insurance to eligible people living in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and the Bronx. It has partnered with the City’s Health and Hospitals Corporation to pro-

National Miniority Health Month vide primary and preventive care.

Of the one million that already signed up for health insurance through the New York State Marketplace, Milliner said 70 percent of them did not have insurance coming into the exchange.

“This shows a lot of people were not insured, which causes people to go to the doctor less because they did not have the means to pay for it,” he said.

In years past, Milliner said many undocumented immigrants have been reluctant to visit a doctor, but have no choice to go to the emergency room, where they would be limited to providers and proper healthcare.

Through the ACA, all policies now require patients to receive 10 essential health benefits, Milliner said, that

gives everyone access and a peace of mind when it comes to their health.

By enrolling for a health policy with the ACA, Milliner said every patient receives benefits that were not provided in the past, including ambulatory patient services, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn born care, mental health and substance use disorder services, prescription drugs, rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices, laboratory services, preventive and wellness services for chronic disease management and pediatric services.

Milliner said the new healthcare laws allow people to stay on the same health insurance for longer, thus preventing people from falling ill.

As for the many misunderstandings that arose with the implementation of the ACA, Milliner said more and more people understand the healthcare law better, especially minorities.

“If you look at last year compared to more recent months, a lot more minorities have become knowledge-

able about the nuances about the enrollment process because when you have almost a million people enrolled, they are talking to other people who have it,” he said.

As the enrollment period to sign up for the Affordable Care Act ended on March 31, Milliner said it is vital for those who did not sign up yet, to try and sign up during the extended period through April 15. Milliner said those looking to apply during the extended period must attest to the New York State Marketplace that they tried to apply for health insurance, but were not able to enroll through no fault of their own. Another way to apply for health insurance past the deadline is to qualify for a life-changing event, Milliner said.

For more information about the Marketplace or MetroPlus Health Plan, call their customer service line from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week at 1 (800) 475-6387.

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@ queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

EmblemHealth: More Than An Insurance Provider

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA As part of its mission to provide health services to communities in need, EmblemHealth, the largest New York-based health insurer, has been offering locals a variety of health workshops at their health guidance center in Cambria Heights.

“We say we’re bringing care back to healthcare,” said Dan Shur, director of strategic planning and administration at EmblemHealth. “In care, we’ve actually brought in the whole technician of it – it’s not just about the provisioning of healthcare but its concerns, considerations, respect.

It’s about being very effective and taking care of people’s needs.”

From low-impact Zumba to yoga, to workshops about managing your blood pressure and managing diabetes, EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care is committed in its goal to be more than just an insurance provider.

“We are very, very proud of what we are doing in Neighborhood Care because what we’re doing is taking away the obstacles that keep our community from taking care of their health,” Patricia McDonald, community liaison for Neighborhood Care said in an earlier interview with the PRESS. “We’re providing community resources when someone comes in [and] we are developing partnerships with our community, which is our community integration.”

The Cambria Heights Neighborhood Care Center also gives residents a chance to meet with experts who listen to their health challenges.

Their qualified team of experts is comprised of healthcare solution specialists, community liaisons, a registered nurse, a pharmacist and a behavioral health specialist.

Together, they assist people in finding a doctor, identifying affordable options, solving claims and billing issues, making sense of their medication, joining health and wellness programs and finding in-network treatment options. Each ap-

pointment is about 20 minutes.

In addition to its health workshops and health guidance services, the 2,800-square-foot Cambria Heights facility has a wide variety of special activities that are available for free.

Visitors have access to a health and wellness library, education classes and seminars, an Xbox Kinect fitness station, an iPad station and a “neighborhood room,” where residents can mingle and interact with one another.

“The beautiful thing is we are open to our entire community so when we do our Zumba classes or

our diabetes classes, whatever it is that we’re doing, we’re expecting the entire community to come together,” McDonald said.

EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care is located at 206-20 Linden Blvd., and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday.

You must RSVP for classes before attending. For more information about the classes available or to RSVP, call (866) 539-0999.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.

All of the listed workshops at EmblemHealth are free. To rSvP, call (646) 476-1294 LOW-IMPAcT ZuMBA Join EmblemHealth for a dancefitness class that is friendly and fun.

It uses the Zumba formula, with modified moves and pacing for active older people and those just starting their journey to a healthy lifestyle.

WHEN: April 4 at 11:30 a.m., April 7 at 10:30 a.m., April 11 at 11:30 a.m., April 14 at 10:30 a.m., April 18 at 11:30 a.m., April 21 at 10:30 a.m., April 25 at 11:30 a.m. and April 28 at 10:30 a.m.

SITTINg ExErcISE Join EmblemHealth for a DVD workout that can improve your stability and balance and help you stay mobile.

WHEN: April 7, April 14, April 21, 2014; and April 28 at 12 p.m.

NATIONAL ALLIANcE ON MENTAL ILLNESS FOr cArEgIvErS The National Alliance on Mental Illness invites you to join other family members, caregivers, partners and friends of people with mental illness for a series of 12 weekly classes. You will learn to help and support loved ones struggling with serious mental illness while maintaining your well-being.

WHEN: April 7, April 14, April 21 and April 28 from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.

MEdITATION MAdE EASY Learn how to meditate in just a

few simple steps. Daily meditation can help you experience a new feeling of calmness.

WHEN: April 10 at 2 p.m. uNdErSTANdINg MEdIcArE Everything you need to know about Medicare to make informed health decision, including: WHEN: April 16 at 5:30 p.m. uNdErSTANdINg ASTHMA Take control of your asthma with this asthma management workshop at EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care, which will help you live with asthma, its causes, risk factors and how to avoid triggers.

WHEN: April 17 at 12 p.m.

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

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Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

asthma rates High among Hispanics

By Luis Gronda Although asthma affects thousands of people each year, there is one demographic in particular that the sickness is more prevalent.

The asthma rate among Hispanics is higher than other ethnicities. According to the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services’ Office of Minority Health, 3,600,000 Hispanics reported to have asthma in 2011. The same office also said that Hispanics are 30 percent more likely to visit the hospital for asthma compared to non-Hispanic whites.

According to Dr. Patrisha Woolard-Pickens, the director of the Pediatric Department and the head of the Asthma Navigation program at Wyckoff Hospital, said the primary

National Miniority Health Month reason for the higher rates among Hispanics is the because of the low social economic status that many of them are in.

She said the poor condition that they most likely live in is the primary reason for getting the disease at a higher rate. Their living conditions, including mice, rats and roaches, attract disease and sickness.

“It’s probably not the race, it’s the conditions that they are living in,” she said.

Courtesy of national institute of Health

Hispanics are more likely to get asthma than other ethnicities.

When they do get sick, Woolard- more attention on people who have Pickens said, they are unable to visit asthma. They do this by visiting the the doctor as frequently or as fast to patient at home, along with a social get a diagnosis on the sickness and to worker, to see how they are doing in help cure it. their recovery. The purpose of the soAnother reason for the increased cial worker, the doctor said, is to anacases, according to the doctor, is lyze the person’s living conditions that asthma tends to run in families and see how that can be improved to and can be passed down to their off- help the patient’s health related to spring. There are even more reasons their asthma and overall. for the higher rate that the medical There will also be facilities at the field does not understand yet but is hospital that are specifically dedicatcontinuing to study, Woolard-Pick- ed to patients with asthma, Woolardens said.

Pickens said.

Asthma is the Patients who ennarrowing or block- “it’s probably not roll in the program ing of the airways the race, it’s the will also keep two to the lung. People types of diaries: a who have the dis- conditions that paper diary and an ease often have electronic diary. trouble breathing, they are living in.” The paper diary, she - Dr. Patrisha said, will primarexperience wheezWoolard-Pickens, ily be for tracking ing and have shorthead of the Asthma when they feel any ness of breath.

According to a Navigation program at symptoms and the fact sheet about Wyckoff Hospital electronic diary is asthma among Lafor keeping track of tinos created by the what medicines they Environmental Protection Agency, have taken. asthma is the leading chronic disThe program is funded through a ease affecting children in the United grant provided by the State Dept. of States.

Health. It is a three-year grant, payAsthma rates have increased ing $1.3 million each year. over the years, including among Woolard-Pickens said the hope children. It has increased 160 per- after the three years is that the cent among four-year-olds and 74 hospital can continue running the percent among children aged be- program after the grant expires but it is possible that they could apply tween 5 and 14.

A new program that Wyckoff has for another grant if that is not the started this week is the asthma navi- case.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at gation program.

The program allows medical per- (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ sonnel from the hospital to focus queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

Koo introduces Hepatitis Prevention Legislation

By JoE MarViLLi A Queens councilman is working with two of his colleagues to increase efforts to identify and prevent the spread of Hepatitis in New York City.

Councilmembers Peter Koo (D-Flushing), Margaret Chin (DManhattan) and Corey Johnson (DManhattan) introduced legislation towards the end of March that would require the Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene to issue an annual report on its work to recognize and stop Hepatitis B and C. According to the Center for Disease Control, Hepatitis B affects one in 12 Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders. While 1.2 million Americans are infected with the disease, it disproportionally affects those two ethnicities. The medical condition

affects less than five percent of the U.S. population in total. However, 50 percent of those who do suffer from the illness are Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

The CDC added that since many people live with the disease without having symptoms, as many as two out of three Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders live with the virus without knowing they have it.

Koo, who is a pharmacist by trade, said that the bill would help community-based organizations, health professionals and government partners to combat new infections and to make sure that the proper care is available for those affected by the medical condition.

If passed, Koo’s legislation would require an annual report to be submitted to both the City Council and the Mayor. The report would include

infection rates, identified causes of new incidents, demographic data, the number of deaths and liver cancers, the number of vaccinations completed for the disease, funding for the previous fiscal year allotted for Hepatitis B and C programs and more.

“It’s a very dangerous disease if you don’t take care of it and it can be transferred to other people,” Koo said, adding that Hepatitis can be just as serious as cancer or AIDS. There are several barriers to Hepatitis B screenings in the United States for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, according to the CDC. Besides the language barrier, there is a lack of knowledge and awareness of the disease and its dangers. Many immigrants who do know about the illness may have cultural beliefs that attach a stigma to a positive Hepa-

titis B diagnosis. A lack of health insurance also contributes to a low testing rate for this community.

Koo said he has been working on Hepatitis outreach and awareness in his district since before he was elected to office.

“Two or three times a year, our office sponsors seminars with local Hepatitis doctors,” he said. “So people are not afraid of it. It is a treatable disease.”

The councilman added that people who are unusually tired or suffer from jaundice should get tested for Hepatitis as soon as possible. He added that whenever your blood is drawn for a check-up, you can ask to be tested for Hepatitis at no additional cost.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Exercise During Pregnancy A Good Idea For Most Women Exercise is healthy and safe for most pregnant women, and it can help get the body ready for giving birth.

Pregnant women should get about 30 minutes of physical activity almost every day. Exercise during pregnancy offers many health benefits. Doctors at Jamaica Hospital recommend at least 2½ hours of exercise each week for healthy pregnant women, about a half hour a day. This can be broken up into ten minutes of physical activity three times a day.

The benefits for exercising while you are pregnant include: --Providing extra energy --Helping with fitness and controlling weight gain --Easing some of the discomforts of pregnancy, including constipation, backaches and difficulty sleeping.

--Reducing the risk of gestational diabetes --Reducing stress Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after exercising, and be alert to your body and how you feel. Stop exercising and call your provider if you experience pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness or breathing difficulties.

But not every woman should exercise during pregnancy. Pregnant

women with heart problems, or who experience early labor—before 37 weeks of pregnancy—or a cervix that opens before the baby is full term

may not be able to exercise. Women pregnant with twins or triplets—or more—should avoid exercise because of a risk of preterm labor. Doctors at Jamaica Hospital also warn that there are other health issues that would preclude exercise during pregnancy, such as anemia, high blood pressure and diabetes.

For women who exercised before they were pregnant, it’s usually safe to continue after they check with their doctor. Obviously, as your pregnancy progresses and your body

changes, modify some activities and ease up on your workout. But if you haven’t exercised before your pregnancy, start slowly and increase it little by little. All pregnant women should consult with their physician before starting an exercise program to ask if exercise is safe for you.

If you are pregnant and have questions about exercise during pregnancy, or you would like to make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center, please call (718) 291-3276.

Borough Beat

Noise study To review Airplane Disruptions

By TrIshA sAkhujA After months of complaining about the airplane noise that looms over the inner communities living close to LaGuardia and JFK airports, last week Gov. Andrew Cuomo directed the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to conduct a comprehensive review of the noise issues.

“Airport noise is rightly an important concern for residents of

Queens, the Bronx and Nassau County and that is why I am directing the Port Authority to open a full and thorough dialogue with the impacted communities while also pursuing a noise study to better address the issue,” Cuomo said in a statement.

The PA will work closely with the Federal Aviation Administration to address overall noise concerns through a noise study and two roundtable discussions with select com-

munity organizations and representatives of local elected officials, during the month of April.

In addition to the roundtables, the PA is moving ahead with Cuomo’s directive to double the existing portable noise monitors at LGA and JFK airports.

Calls made to the PA were not returned in time for press.

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@ queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

#FUUFS )FBMUI 4UBSUT 5PEBZ Fewer Pregnant Women in South East Queens Receive Pre-Natal Care than the New York City Average.

We Can Help.

For More Information or to Schedule an Appointment, Call 718-291-3276 Free Newsletter Subscription

8900 Van Wyck Expressway, Jamaica, NY 11418 • www.jamaicahospital.org

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

Proclamation For Dedication

Photo by Bruce Adler

pix

Here’s The Pitch

Mayor Bill de Blasio kicked off the 2014 New York Mets season by throwing out the first pitch at Monday’s game against the Washington Nationals. The Mayor invited a number of disadvantaged young children to stand with him on the mound.

Standing By Their Side Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

Queens Borough President Melinda Katz presented a Proclamation to Eileen M. Sullivan (seated), executive assistant District Attorney for Queens DA Richard Brown, during a ceremony in the Borough President’s office on Friday. Sullivan continues to serve under Judge Brown and is responsible for developing and implementing the office’s comprehensive initiatives to combat domestic violence.

Councilman Donovan Richards speaks at a press conference held by the families and friends of Carl Richardson, a Southeast Queens teen slain in a confrontation at a barbershop. For more on the story, see page 3.

Police Blotter 103rd Precinct

113th Precinct

Homicide

At 3:20 p.m. on March 30, police responded to a 911 call of a male shot in front of 143-07 Lakewood Ave., Jamaica. Upon arrival, police discovered two males shot at that location. The first victim, identified as Khalil Bowlin, 17, of Jamaica, was shot in the torso and taken to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The second victim was shot in the leg and taken to Jamaica Hospital in stable condition.

The investigation is ongoing.

104th Precinct

Double Homicide

At 6:30 p.m. on March 27, police responded to a 911 call of two people shot inside of 1815 Summerfield St., Ridgewood.

Upon arrival, police discovered two people shot inside the location. The first victim has been identified as Natalie Mejia-Tavares of Ridgewood. She was discovered with a gunshot wound to the torso, dead at the scene. The second victim, an unidentified male, was also found dead at the scene with a gunshot wound to the head.

The investigation is ongoing.

Homicide Arrest

This suspect is wanted for questioning in an attempted rape within the confines of the 114th Precinct.

105th Precinct

Homicide

At 1:55 p.m. on March 27, police responded to a 911 call of a male stabbed inside of Select Stylez Barbershop, located at 227-14 Merrick Blvd., Laurelton.

Upon arrival, police discovered the victim, identified as Carl Richardson, 19, of Jamaica, unconscious and unresponsive with stab wounds to his torso. EMS also responded to the scene and transported the victim to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.

A suspect, a 34-year-old Black male, was taken into custody on the scene and charges are pending.

On March 27, police announced they had arrested an individual connected to a homicide investigation from 2012.

According to police reports, on May 19, 2012, police discovered Shakey Foster-Bay, 24, with gunshot wounds to his arm, leg and torso.

The victim was pronounced dead at Jamaica Hospital.

Following an investigation, police last week arrested Tracey Johnson, 28, of Snellville, Ga., and charged him with second-degree murder, criminal use of a firearm and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

114th Precinct

Attempted Rape

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying a suspect wanted in connection to an attempted rape.

At 3:25 a.m. on Feb. 23, the victim, a 22-year-old female, was walking on 30th Avenue in Astoria when the suspect approached her from behind and pushed her to the ground, attempting to rape her. The victim fought with the suspect, causing the suspect to flee.

The suspect has been described as an Hispanic male in his early 30s, 5-foot-7, weighing 145 lbs. Surveillance photos of the suspect have been obtained during a video canvass of the area.

Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.

115th Precinct

Collision Investigation

At 11:07 p.m. on March 28, in the vicinity of Grand Central Parkway and 31st Drive, police responded to a 911 call of a pedestrian struck.

Upon arrival, officers observed the victim, identified as Fidel Vidal Diaz, 31, of Flushing, unconscious and unresponsive with severe trauma to the body.

Preliminary investigation determined that the victim crossed the Grand Central from south to north, making it to the center median.

While attempting to cross the westbound lane, the victim was struck by two vehicles. Both vehicles’ operators remained at the scene. The investigation is ongoing.

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

A&E

Clowning Around With Big Apple Circus

BY BARBARA ARnstEIn Rob Torres, an award-winning clown in the new Big Apple Circus show, has performed around the world without using words, sharing with every audience the universal language of laughter. Among his many achievements, the native New Yorker performed a one-man show in seven countries, toured with another circus to 121 American cities and created shows for Walt Disney World resorts in Orlando, Fla. Torres will come back to perform in New York during the Big Apple Circus’ tour in Cunningham Park in May. “In Cunningham Park, the arena is really perfect,” he said. “It allows the audience to see the acts as closely as they would street performers, combined with the comfort of seats.”

Rob torres A graduate of a now-shuttered clown college in Florida, he also studied clowning in Mexico and Europe, and performed in a celebration for the 20th anniversary of the popular children’s show, “Sesame Street.”

Using silly expressions, playful antics and zany interactions with both kids

Botanical Garden Holds Orchid Exhibit

BY JOE MARVILLI The Queens Botanical Garden will kick off both its opening weekend and the World’s Fair Anniversary season with a special flower exhibit.

“Taiwan: A World of Orchids” will be presented in partnership with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office.

Starting on April 5, the display will feature an array of orchids available to view from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. This exhibit will be enhanced with activities and performances, along with a plant and orchid sale on April 6.

According to the botanical garden, Taiwan’s subtropical climate makes it the ideal location for growing orchids. It is the foremost center for research and development of the orchid industry, as well as its largest exporter.

Besides taking time to stop and smell more than 250 orchids, the Queens Botanical Garden will include many activities, ceremonies and more that should keep attendees entertained all day. Botanical craft workshops for children will be offered from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be a traditional Chinese tea ceremony accompanied by a musical performance on the guqin, a Chinese seven-stringed zither. That ceremony will run from 1:45 to 2:30 p.m.

The “Techno Prince” Dancing Doll, a contemporary version of an

ancient Taoist deity who dances to electronic music, will also make an appearance. If you want to see this phenomenon first-hand, he will be on-hand between 12:45 p.m. to 12:55 p.m. on the Terrace roof.

Susan Lacerte, the botanical garden’s executive director, said that the exhibit was chosen to kick off the anniversary festivities due to Taiwan’s historic role in the World’s Fair half a century ago.

“The first international entity to break ground for the 1964 World’s Fair was Taiwan,” Lacerte said during the World’s Fair Anniversary kick-off press conference at the Queens Museum.

On April 6, the Opening Weekend celebrations will continue with children’s activities from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., an all-day plant and orchid sale and special appearances by Flora, the garden’s mascot.

“The orchid event and the whole World’s Fair season will truly be fun and memorable,” Ambassador Paul Wen-liang Chang, from the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in New York, said.

Queens Botanical Garden is located at 43-50 Main St., Flushing. For more information, call (718) 886-3800 or visit www.queensbotanical.org.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

and adults in the audience, Torres creates cascades of laughter wherever he goes, playing an everyman character with the joy of Jerry Lewis and the hilarity of Harpo Marx.

“I get inspiration for my character’s actions from life’s daily dilemmas,” he said.

The performances in the new show “Luminocity,” are centered around activities in Manhattan’s Times Square. The acts include Ty Tojo, a teenage juggler from Japan; Jenny Vidbel, an American woman who works with ponies; the amazing Dosov Troupe from Russia, that works with a teeterboard, and the Russian Acro-Duo; Duo Guerrero (Werner

Guerrero and Aura Cardinali), fantastic high-wire performers from Portugal; Canadian acrobat Daniel Cyr; and Pierre Ginet from France, whose clever act is full of surprises.

The Big Apple Circus will perform at Cunningham Park, located at 196-22 Union Turnpike in Fresh Meadows, just west of Francis Lewis Boulevard, from May 18 to June 15.

The show is two hours long with a 15 minute intermission and takes place in an air-conditioned tent. For tickets, go to www.bigapplecircus.org or call (888) 541-3750.

For more information, call the Ticket Information line at (800) 9223772.

Forest Park Carousel Reopens

BY LuIs GROndA The Forest Park Carousel is reopening for its third season since being taken over by its current operator, New York Carousel.

Ami Abramson, the head of the company that operates the carousel in Forest Park and in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, said it has been a successful two years so far, with more people visiting the carousel as it gains more attention.

According to Abramson, about 30,000 people rode the carousel this past season, compared to about the 25,000 that got on the merry-goround the first year it reopened.

Abramson said the increased ridership was due to accolades becoming a landmark, and the continued promotion of the ride including its events they would host during the summer.

“We see a tremendous amount of repeat customers as well as new people,” he said.

Although there will be no new additions to the carousel this season, there are plans to add new rides next year.

According to Abramson, they have gotten approval from the Parks Dept. to add two new rides to the Carousel next year.

It is unknown what rides will built at the site, likely rides that cater to younger children and families, Abramson said, but they expect to know that for sure later this year.

Abramson said the plans for the new rides should be finalized by fall 2014 and it will be ready for next season in fall 2015.

Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

the Forest Park Carousel is reopening for the season, its third time since being taken over by new York Carousel.

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

QUEENS TODAY

FRIDAY 4/4

FROZEN

The New York Hall of Science will air the Disney movie “Frozen” in 3D on April 4, 5 and 6. Join Anna as she sets off on an epic journey, teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven, to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter.

Tickets are $9 for adults and $6 for children, seniors and students. Call (718) 699-0005 for the screening times.

“THE GEMINI KILLER”

Theatre Time Productions will hold a staging of a new play, “The Gemini Killer.” Written and directed by Tom Williams, this mystery thriller will be held at the Colonial Church of Bayside, located at 54-02 217th St. It will start at 8 p.m. and repeat on April 5 at 8 p.m. and April 6 at 3 p.m. Tickets are $16 for general admission and $14 for seniors and children.

Call (347) 358-8102 or visit www.theatretime.org for tickets.

SATURDAY 4/5

“Golden Gulag: Prisons, Surplus, Crisis, and Opposition in Globalizing California,” will take part in an interactive conversation and walkthrough of a Queens Museum exhibition. She will be part of a museum survey on “Do you want the cosmetic version or do you want the real deal? Los Angeles Poverty Department, 1985-2014.”

Accompanied by Larissa Harris, the event will run from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Call (718) 592-9700 for more information.

TAIWAN: A WORLD OF ORCHIDS

The Queens Botanical Garden will display a series of stunning orchids, along with children’s crafts. There will be a Techno Prince Dancing Doll performance at 12:45 p.m., a garden tour at 1 p.m., a tea ceremony at 1:45 p.m. and a live musical performance at 1:45 p.m. There will also be samples of Taiwanese treats on hand. The day will last from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Queens Botanical Garden is located at 43-50 Main St., Flushing.

ONE NIGHT IN FROGTOWN

Flushing Town Hall will present “One Night In Frogtown,” a multimedia musical based Philip Pelletier’s story. This acclaimed diversity story will come to life through projected animations, a live story reading and live music performances. Copies of the book are available in the gift shop and Pelletier will sign books after the show.

The show starts at 2:15 p.m.

Tickets are $12 for general admission, $10 for members and $8 for children. Call (718) 463-7700 for more information.

NEW LEGEND BOXING

RUTH WILSON GILMORE Professor Ruth Wilson Gilmore, author of

World-Ranked Juan Dominguez will take on German Meraz to headline a boxing event at Resorts World New York City Casino. Doors open at 6 p.m. with the first bell at 7 p.m. Co-featured matches include Rafael Vazquez in action, and an eight-round bout between undefeated middleweight Frank Galarza and Franklin Gonzalez.

Tickets are available at www. newlegendboxing.com.

SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK SUNDAY 4/6

THE MANHATTAN TRANSFER The Manhattan Transfer, a Grammy-winning jazz fusion vocal group, will perform at Queensborough Community College at 3 p.m. With 10 Grammy awards to their name, the group is the most popular jazz vocal group of the 20th century.

Tickets are $40. To attend, visit qcc.cuny.edu/qpac/boxOffice.asp or call (718) 631-6311.

SUNDAY 4/6 RIDGEWOOD MARKET

Gottscheer Hall in Ridgewood will host the Ridgewood Market from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is the one year anniversary of the market. There will be more than 40 independent and local artisan vendors at the market. There will also be food, pastries and alcohol.

The event is considered kid friendly and date friendly.

Gottscheer Hall is located at 657 Fairview Ave. in Ridgewood.

represented. It remains a touchstone for New York– area Baby Boomers, who visited the optimistic fair as children before the turbulent years of the Vietnam War, cultural changes and increasing struggles for civil rights. Images used in the program were never seen by the public. Fee: Free for GAHS members. $5 for the public.

TUESDAY 4/8

MONDAY 4/7 BALLROOM DANCE

Jing Chen studied ballroom dance at the school founded by internationally acclaimed dancers Mr. and Mrs. Lu Ming Da. Mr. Chen is a skilled instructor who will give lessons in ballroom basics for beginners and offer training for more advanced students. The dance class will run from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. at the Forest Hills Library. The library is located at 108-19 71st Ave.

WORLD’S FAIR TALK

The Greater Astoria Historical Society will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the 1964/1965 New York World’s Fair with a lecture, part of the Long Island City Forum Lecture Series at 7 p.m. at the GAHS gallery, 35-20 Broadway, Long Island City. The fair is best remembered as a showcase of mid-20thcentury American culture and technology. The nascent Space Age, with its vista of promise, was well

DEREK WALCOTT

Nobel Prize-winning author Derek Walcott will appear at Queens College as part of its evening readings series. He is the author of the volumes of poetry “Omeros,” “The Bounty” and “White Edrets.” Walcott will be interviewed Leonard Lopate in the music building. The event costs $20 and starts at 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY 4/9 BEATLES TRIBUTE

A Beatles Tribute band, Beatlemania, will perform at Resorts World Casino on April 9. They will perform classic songs such as “Come Together,” “Back in the U.S.S.R” and “Blackbird.” The show will begin

at 8 p.m. Resorts World is located at 110-00 Rockaway Blvd in South Ozone Park.

A WINE & CHEESE TASTING EVENT

Join us for an evening of cheese and wine as our Maître Fromager, Max McCalman, introduces you to the basics of cheese and wine pairing.

Along the way you will learn the differences between milk types, their range of aromas, flavors and textures, and also how to shop, care for and present fine cheese. Engage your mind and your palate as you enjoy seven carefully selected cheeses paired with four delicious wines over the course of this two-hour evening of bliss! Come join in for only $70. Register two or more and get $10 off each! For information, visit www.artisanalcheese.com.

THURSDAY 4/10 DEVIL SCIENCE THEATER

The Laughing Devil Comedy Club in Long Island City will host an evening of cult films, alcohol and comedians. Finally, a time when people are encouraged to talk at a theater and heckle at a comedy club.

Show begins at 10:30 p.m.

Admission is $6.

GOT EVENTS?

Send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Profile

Former Drug Lords Seek To Inspire Youth

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Former drug kingpins and gang members Lance and Todd Feurtado decided, after a stint in jail, they would turn their lives around and dedicate their time to help the youth avoid going down the same dark path they did.

“We were once upon a time slated drug kingpins, former gang members and formerly incarcerated,” Lance said. “But now, we’re urban specialists.”

While in jail, Lance said that he and his brother spent a lot of time learning about the “business of incarceration.” It was then the duo made it their mission to serve as community liaisons, warning the youth about the dangers of gang violence, gun use and drug abuse.

“I started learning more about the prison industrial complex and I said to myself, we fell into a big trap and I’m going to do everything in my power to keep future generations from falling into the same trap,” he said.

Seeing their goals through, in 2005, the Feurtado brothers created the King of Kings Foundation, a nonprofit which does just that.

“It was created as a way of giving back and reaching out to our at-risk youth with the mission of educating

all about the consequences of being involved with drugs, guns and gang,” Lance said.

“More importantly, we promote the importance of education because we know the lack of education can lead to homelessness, poverty and incarceration.”

Since the nonprofit was founded, the Feurtados have helped thousands of City teens and conducted more than 100 workshops, summits and school presentations.

“One of our biggest goals is to help build stronger and safer communities,” he said.

“And one way we achieve these goals is through a lot of community events that bridge the gap in communication between our young folks, adults and seniors.”

Every year, the King of In 2005, former drug kingpins and gang memKings Foundation sponsors bers Lance (left) and Todd Feurtado (right) six major community events, founded King of Kings Foundation – a nonwhich include annual Easter profit which aims to educate the youth about egg hunts, turkey giveaways the dangers of gang violence, gun violence and substance abuse. and food drives.

The nonprofit also offers a On average, the King of Kings series of workshops that explore issues such as gang awareness, anger Foundation is in three to four schools management, interpersonal relation- annually. This year, they will host ships, substance abuse, HIV/AIDS workshops at August Martin High School, Catherine and Count Basie awareness and obesity.

Middle School 72, Samuel Huntington PS 40 – all of which are in Southeast Queens.

Lance believes that it is critical to have organizations like this in the community so that the youth can learn about the consequences of poor decisions.

“Resources are definitely missing in the community. We look at violence as a learned behavior, so we take a public health approach and there are a lot of things missing,” he said.

When asked what he loves most about his job, Lance said he enjoys making a difference in somebody’s life.

“We are giving them the learning tools to help them navigate through life and recognize those stumbling blocks, those pitfalls and traps that are out there – the ones that we didn’t recognize,” he said. “My brother Todd and I, had we known it felt this good to do the right thing, we would have been doing it a long time ago.”

To donate to the King of Kings Foundation or to learn more about its programs, visit www.kingofkingsfoundation.org.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ nkozikowska.

People Mount Zion Baptist Church, located at 106-60 Union Hall St., Jamaica, has announced the date of its inaugural Women’s Day Street Fair, to be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

June 7. For information, call (718) 297-4331.

Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2013 semester at SUNY New Paltz. They include: Cambria Heights: Ashley Cummins.

Jamaica: Mili Ali, Zoe Penina Baker, Jozina Campbell, Luana Horry, Farzana Rahman.

Laurelton: Sarah Broughton.

Queens Village: Olutayo Oni. Rosedale: Xavier Avery.

South Ozone Park: Rosemarie Mulligan.

The New York Army National Guard recently announced the reenlistment of members in recognition

of their commitment to serve community, state and nation.

Specialist Corey Hines of Jamaica has reenlisted to continue service with the 4th Finance Detachment.

Specialist Joanne Newson of St. Albans has reenlisted to continue service with the 4th Finance Detachment.

Specialist Rovin Seosankar of South Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the 4th Finance Detachment.

Elliot Debrosse of St. Albans was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta, the national honor society for firstyear students, at Dominican College in Orangeburg.

Shenae Miranti of Springfield Gardens was one of 23 students at Herkimer College named to Who’s Who Among Students in American Junior Colleges.

Local students enrolled at Fordham University were recently inducted into the Phi Kappa Phi honor society. They include: Jamaica: Christopher Rogers.

Queens Village: Kerren Griffith.

South Ozone Park: Javed Yunus.

25 Grand Ave., Elmhurst. 6:15-8:15 p.m. For information, call (718) 4574200.

A financial education seminar will be held at the Astoria branch from 6:15-7:45 p.m. May 14. For information, call (718) 274-5400.

Ridgewood Savings Bank has announced a series of homebuyers’ workshops and financial education seminars at select branch locations through June. Seminars and workshops are open to the public.

First-Time Homebuyers’ Workshops will be held at the following times: April 8: Main office, 71-02 Forest Ave., Ridgewood. 6:15-8:15 p.m. For information, call (718) 240-4800.

April 22: Astoria office, 43-14 Ditmars Blvd., Astoria. 6:15-8:15 p.m. For information, call (718) 2745400.

June 3: Grand Avenue branch, 74-

Vincent Smith School in Port Washington will hold an April admissions open house from noon to 3 p.m. April 26. Learn how students with learning disabilities such as ADD, ADHD, Asperger Syndrome, expressive and receptive language issues in grades 4-12 succeed.

For information, call (516) 3654900 or visit www.vincentsmithschool.org.

Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements & honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

Faith

Church To Hold Empowerment Conference

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA From April 15-17, the Peoples First Baptist Church will hold its first-ever empowerment conference, “Get Out of the Cage,” which aims to help community residents transform their lives and find healing in God during Holy Week.

The woman behind the conference, the Rev. Simone Lord, pastor at the church, came up with the idea as a way to educate church leaders and locals who are dealing with a variety of issues, ranging from relationship problems to financial struggles.

“A lot of people right now are dealing with financial problems and business woes. The community has a lot of issues so the goal of the conference is to bring relief to some of these issues that we face,” she said.

“It’s truly a conference that will empower people and activate them.”

The reverend went on to explain the significance behind the conference’s unique title – “Get Out of the Cage.”

“A lot of people are held by emotional setbacks and bondage. We are going to be freeing people, where we will help them break free of all the mental restraints,” she said. “We are trying to get to the root of the problem.

We want them to leap with faith.”

As part of the conference, pastors at Peoples First Baptist Church will lead different workshops and seminars, each of which will have different goals and focuses.

One of the workshops, a social media boot camp, is geared towards church leaders and business owners who are looking to utilize social media platforms to gain new parish-

ioners and customers, respectively.

Representatives from 30 churches, most of which are in Southeast Queens, will be at the conference.

“It will teach them how to use social media for economic growth,” she said. “Churches and businesses can benefit from a workshop like this, especially during these rough [economic] times.”

Another goal of the three-day event, Lord said, is to reach out to the community’s youth. On April 16, the second day of the conference, special guest Carol Minaj, the mother of Jamaica rapper Nicki Minaj, will host a youth gospel fest, where young singers will get the chance to compete and perform.

“One of our goals is to reach out to our youth. We’re calling on all the young artists to come perform at the conference,” she said. “It’s a wonder-

ful opportunity for the youth to follow their dreams.”

According to Lord, the winner of the youth gospel fest will win a cash prize. There will also be another notable guest in attendance, an American Idol finalist coach and vocalist, who will offer the best young performer a chance to appear on the BB King show.

Tickets to the conference are $15, but PRESS readers will get free admission if they present this article at the door. You must register to attend prior to coming. To register, or learn more about the empowerment conference, visit www.GetOutTheCage.org.

The conference will be held at Occasions Banquet Hall from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

Notebook

Humanities and the Arts HS

A&E Networks Chairwoman Visits Alma Mater Late last month, the chairwoman of A&E Networks, Abbe Raven, visited her alma mater, the Humanities and the Arts High School in Cambria Heights, formerly Andrew Jackson High School, to serve as principal for a day.

The nationally recognized business woman was a 1970 graduate of Andrew Jackson High School, which is now divided into four small high schools in the Campus Magnet Complex. This visit marks the seventh time Raven has come back to the school to lend a helping hand.

When she was a student at Andrew Jackson High School, Raven’s passion for theater grew. She loved the theater arts and later attended SUNY Buffalo. She also earned her Master’s degree at the CUNY Hunter College. When she realized she would not make it in theater, she refocused her efforts to a similar field– the Cable TV industry.

Since her career has blossomed, Raven has been mentoring the students and the faculty at the HUMHS. During her visits at the school, she often meets with student leaders and talks to them. She also takes the time to answer any questions they may

have, giving them a chance to ask questions about the business world.

“They look forward to speaking with her and getting to know a lady with such an important presence,” Principal Rosemarie O’Mard said.

“She is now the chair of A&E Networks and they watch the shows. They want to know how it all works.”

As Raven sat in for O’Mard, she also got a chance to ask students about their goals, where she shared her story of success.

The chairwoman of A&E Networks, Abbe Raven, visited her alma mater, the HuBefore she became chairmanities and the Arts High School in Cambria Heights, formerly Andrew Jackson woman of A&E Networks, she High School.Raven took on the role of principal for a day and lent the students a answered phone calls and cophelping hand. ied scripts. As her grasp of the television industry grew, she A&E offices once a month to meet ternships and mentoring students at slowly began to work her way up the with mentors and to observe compa- her City office. corporate ladder. She emphasized to ny functions. Two seniors are also seAlthough Raven has left a laststudents that every high school class lected as Big Brother/ Big Sister par- ing impression on her alma mater, is important and will help in the real ticipants. They visit with officials to she also left her legacy behind many world. learn work etiquette, apply to colleg- years ago when she was student…

“She gets to speak to a new group es, create a resumes and experience a Right across the hall from the of students, and over time, the stu- real work environment. A Town Car Office of the HUMHS is the old dents get to know her,” O’Mard said. even comes to bring the students to wooden Honor Rolls from Andrew “Her message to them every year Manhattan from Cambria Heights.

Jackson High School, where Raven’s is the same – you must be willing As part of her commitment to the name is decorated. to start at the bottom and work ex- students, Raven has assisted the high Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowstremely hard to be successful.” school by providing scholarships, of- ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or Six high school juniors go to the fering career awareness through in- nkozikowska@queenspress.com.

Photo by Anna Mooney

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

April 4-10, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

What’s Up APRIL 5 YorkJam 2014

APRIL 6 Tabou Combo

YorkJam is a celebration of New York City high school jazz ensembles. YorkJam 2014 will feature the Fordham High School for the Arts Jazz Ensemble, Talent Unlimited Jazz Ensemble and the York College Blue Notes. The performance will take place in room 3D01 in the Academic Core Building at York College. The show will begin at 2 p.m. and is free to attend. York College is located at 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica.

The Queens Central Library will feature a free concert by Haitian dance band Tabou Combo. This group will perform a mixture of grooves and textures in English, Spanish, French and their native Creole. The concert starts at 3 p.m.

Mixed-Level Line Dance Join Barbara Fraser between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at the Cambria Heights Community Church for her coed, adult, mixed level line dancing. Loose fitting clothing, water and supportive shoes are highly suggested. No high heels or sandals. Medical clearance is advised. The event costs $10. No checks. Bring exact change. The church is located at 11602 220th St.

Islam and the Blues Award-winning historian Sylviane Diouf will speak about how the blues, which originated in the American South, may have evolved from the techniques of the recitation of the Qur’an and the call to prayer in West Africa. This free event will use images and recordings to prove her point. The lecture will take place at the Queens Central Library in Jamaica.

APRIL 7 Science-In-The-Park

more information, call (718) 262-0682.

Learn To Dance Soca The Queens Central Library will hold a class on soca, a masquerade dance at the annual Caribbean Carnival Festival.

Learning soca will prepare you to learn house, African, Latin ballroom, jazz, hip hop, Indian Tabou Combo will perform at the Queens Central classical and Bollywood, ballet Library on April 6 at 3 p.m. The concert is free and other dance styles. The free to attend. class starts at 4:30 p.m.

Children ages 8 through 12 are invited to participate in the Idlewild Park Science-in-the-Park Spring Program, “Wetlands and Estuaries in the Eye of a Storm.” Participants will discover the wonders of wetlands and how they protect us from “the eye of the storm” and the effects of storms on estuaries. Students will also learn how to care for the center’s resident animals, providing them with handson experiences handling and caring for a snapping turtle, red-eared sliders, frogs, anoles, a bearded dragon and a 3.5-foot long iguana.

The event will run from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. and costs $15. The Idlewild Environmental Salt Marsh Science Learning Training is located at 14920 Springfield Lane, Rosedale. Space is limited to 15 students. To register, please call (347) 824-2301 or email idlewildesc@easternqueensalliance. org. Pre-registration is required.

DIY Movies Create, shoot and edit your very own short film in this three-session

class at the Queens Central Library.

The class will be using a simple handheld digital video camera and iMovie to create the video. Basic Mac skills are required. Register online at jobmap.queenslibrary.org. Customers are required to attend all sessions of this program. The classes start at 6 p.m. Call (718) 990-8625 for additional information.

APRIL 8 Conversations With Isa AbdurRahman Isa Abdur-Rahman is hosting a series of community conversations designed to stimulate progressive talk in the heart of Jamaica that will help lift the individuals in our community in the ways we most desire; and to show that downtown Jamaica is emerging as a destination for culture and consciousness. This discussion is titled “The Word not the Street: Young Adult Ministry in Jamaica.” It will take place at 5 p.m. at the Applebee’s at 161-21 Jamaica Ave. For

ONGOING Youth Organizations

LP FAM’s Youth Organization is holding youth baseball registration for boys and girls ages 5 to 14 every Saturday, 12 p.m. until 3 p.m. at Dunton Presbyterian Church, located 109-29 135th St., South Ozone Park. Call Derick Braswell at (917) 692-4775 or Paul Cox at (718) 8358416 for more information.

The organization is also holding registration for its basketball program.

Boys and girls between 8 and 16 years old can register every Saturday from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the Queens Transition Center, located at 142-10 Linden Blvd., South Ozone Park.

For more information, call Mike Glasgow at (917) 442-0479, Paul Cox (718) 835-8416, or David Reid at (646) 241-4211.

LP FAM is also looking for volunteer youth baseball and football coaches. Please call Paul Cox at (917) 607-2421 or Derick Braswell at (917) 692-4775 for more information.

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT QUEENS COUNTY SUMMONS AND NOTICE Index No. 10699/12 Borough: Queens Block: 9470 Lot: 25 NYCTL 1998-2 TRUST AND THE BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON, AS COLLATERAL AGENT AND CUSTODIAN, Plaintiffs, vs.

The heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors,successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through JOSEPH J. BEDNARIK, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT AU-

THORITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; ELIZABETH MUNOZ; JOSEPH BEDNARIK, JR., if living, or if he be dead, his wife, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors, successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said JOSEPH BEDNARIK, JR., by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs; ALEXANDER BEDNARIK, if living, or if he be dead, his

wife, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors, creditors, successorsin-interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said ALEXANDER BEDNARIK, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and all creditors thereof, and the respective wives, or widows of his, if any, all of whose names and addresses are unknown to plaintiffs AND "JOHN DOE #4" THROUGH "JOHN DOE #100", the names of the last 96 defendants being fictitious, the true names of said defendants being unknown to plaintiff, it being intended to designate fee owners, tenants or occupants of the liened premises and/or persons or parties having or

claiming an interest in or lien upon the liened premises, if the aforesaid individual defendants are living, and if any or all of said individual defendants be dead, their heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, committees, devisees, legatees, and the assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest of them, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by, through, or against the said defendants named as a class, of any right, title or interest in or lien upon the premises described in the complaint herein, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in the aboveentitled foreclosure action, and to serve a copy of your answer on the plaintiffs’ attorney within thirty (30)

days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner than by personal service within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. Queens County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the subject premises. Dated: January 9, 2014 TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an Order of Honorable Rudolph E. Greco, Jr., a Justice of the

Supreme Court, dated February 25, 2014, and filed with supporting papers in the Queens County Clerk’s Office. This is an action to foreclose a tax lien covering the property known as 127-11 97 Avenue, Borough of Queens, New York and identified as Block 9470 and Lot 25 (the “Tax Parcel”).

The relief sought is the sale of the Tax Parcel at public auction in satisfaction of the tax lien. In case of your failure to appear, judgment may be taken against you in the sum of $10,626.44, together with interest, costs, disbursements and attorneys’ fees of this action, and directing the public sale of the Tax Parcel.

Anthony J. Iacchetta Phillips Lytle LLP Office and Post Office Address 1400 First Federal Plaza Rochester, New York 14614 Tel. No. (585) 238-2000

ACTORS OF QUEENS

Emma Wisniewski

Q

CONFIDENTIAL

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 4-10, 2014

QConf is edited by: Steven J. Ferrari

For Emma Wisniewski, acting is not just an interest. It is in her DNA. Both of her parents were actors and she remembers watching her mom perform when she was very young.

“My parents were both actors as well - in fact, my earliest memory is of my mother playing Lady Macbeth, and as a kid I always thought, that is the absolute coolest job in the world,” she said.

Starting with her first drama classes in elementary school, acting has taken Wisniewski from the Frank Sinatra High School for the Arts to The Secret Theatre, from Off-Broadway to St. Louis. The Astoria actress has appeared onstage and on camera throughout her career.

While she described herself as a “shy and insecure kid,” acting gave Wisniewski a way to project herself and have people listen to her.

As she got older, she also fell in love with the art of storytelling and the way actors translate those stories to an audience.

“Actors have a unique power to communicate important things in a way that people understand more deeply, because when you watch a play or film, you recognize and empathize with the people in front of you and that hooks you in,” she said.

Although Wisniewski learned plenty at New York University’s Tisch/Stella Adler Studio of Acting, her time with The Secret Theatre gave her the first taste of a real-world theater program.

She said that experience gave her a behind-thescenes look at the day-today work of a theater as a

business and a career.

“I developed an appreciation for all the other jobs that need to be done to put on a show,” she said. “But most importantly, it was my first opportunity to watch professional actors at work.

There's really nothing like working with someone who's been doing it a lot longer than you.”

Last fall, Wisniewski’s journey led her Off-Broadway to the Pearl Theatre Company’s production of “You Can Never Tell,” by George Bernard Shaw. The four-act comedy is set in a seaside town and tells the story of Mrs. Clandon and her three children who do not know their father’s identity.

“I couldn't have dreamed up a more perfect first professional job. I'll be coming back to the things I learned there for the rest of my career,” Wisniewski said.

Wisniewski temporarily left New York for St. Louis, where she just wrapped up a role in the premiere of “Soups, Stews and Casseroles: 1976” by Rebecca Gilman, her first regional appearance.

“Although I love the classics, new work has always been very exciting to me, and the prospect of being a part of a world premiere was something I just couldn't pass up - especially when the playwright is Rebecca Gilman, whose work I've admired for ages,” she said. “She's one of the best America's got right now, so I was thrilled.”

Wisniewski said she plans to head back to New York and begin auditioning again to find her next role.

To keep up with her latest work, visit www.emmawisniewski.com.

Contributors: Bruce Adler, Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Trisha Sakhuja, Michael Schenkler.

Follow us on Twitter: @QueensTrib Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ QueensTrib

Strange Connection

We are sure the offices of William Scarborough have been busy and chaotic, what with his ongoing investigation and all. But what we didn’t think is that things were getting so out of hand that Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver’s offices would be helping out.

Last week, while trying to get in touch with the Assemblyman for a comment about the recent FBI raids, we got transferred to the most unlikely of places – the offices of Silver… twice!

We here at QConf aren’t sure whether the calls are being forwarded to the Speaker’s office on purpose or whether the lady at the front desk was confused about the extension, but either way, we find the whole thing to be rather humorous.

No Amazin' News For Mets As the 2014 baseball season finally got underway this week, Queens' hometown team got some more disappointing news.

According to a recent poll

by Quinnipiac University, 50 percent of baseball fans in the home of the Mets root for New York's other team, the New York Yankees. Only 43 percent of Queens baseball fans cheer on the Amazin's.

Sure, the Bronx Bombers have been to the World Series - and won it - a lot more than the Mets. And maybe the Mets haven't had the best few years. But there's 162 games to be played this year before the postseason and Mets general manager has predicted

his team will win 90 games this season. So, someone has some hope for the franchise.

Despite the growing popularity in Queens for that other team, we'll still be following the exploits of our hometown team. In fact, be sure to check this issue for a preview of the Mets' 2014 season!

Well That Was Awkward

A workshop discussing the QueensWay last week produced an awkward moment during the presentation.

As last week’s presentation began, Adam Lubinsky, representing WXY Studio, one of the companies involved in designing the proposed pedestrian path, introduced Neil Giannelli, a staffer for State Senator Joe Addabbo, as representing the senator at last Wednesday’s meeting in Richmond Hill.

Giannelli created No Way Queens Way, a neighborhood group consisting of residents living on 98th Street in Woodhaven who are opposed to both creating the QueensWay and reviving the LIRR line that used to run along the vacant land.

He has been attending the workshops as a representative of his neighborhood, not on Addabbo’s behalf.

So when Lubinsky introduced him as the Senator’s rep, he launched into a rant in front of everyone in attendance, accusing the presenters of mentioning that on purpose.

“It’s not enough that they’re looking to destroy my property values, the safety of my children and jobs for Ozone Park, but now they want to [expletive] me over with my boss,” Giannelli said, as the audience looked on confused.

Despite Lubinsky immediately apologizing, the rant created an awkward moment for what otherwise was a lively but friendly discussion about the proposed QueensWay. When asked about the incident afterwards, Giannelli said while he may have overreacted, his job with the Senator is to help people as much as he can and he does not want his personal views to interfere with that.

A Fond Farewell

Got Talent?

We want to feature you! E-mail editor@ queenstribune.com for inclusion in a future edition.

The Queens Tribune and PRESS of Southeast Queens recently said goodbye to a long-time advertising representative, Merlene Carnegie (center, pictured with advertising manager Maureen Coppola and Publisher Mike Nussbaum). Carnegie celebrated her retirement at our offices last week before moving to Charlotte, N.C.

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Helps w/career, worry & sorrow.

Call for 1 Free question by phone Call 24/7 316-587-7025

FREE READING

2014 New Year Blessings

316-618-4322

Mother Hope Spiritual Healer, Solves impossible problems! Reunites lost love! Finds Soulmate!

Restores passion. Clears negativity. Removes Obeah Guaranteed Results

• Pruning • Stump Grinding • Planting • City Permits Obtained • Prompt Storm Service

149-57 Beech Ave. Flushing NY 11355 Ph: 718-463-7829 Cell: 917-337-4062

BOILER MAN

Installations • Water Heaters Repairs • Basement Heat Conversions • Separarte Zones Oil Tanks • Air Conditioners Household Renovations

516-815-8510

PRESS CLASSIFIEDS! 718-357-7400 ext 151 ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE IN THE

APRIL

FEATURED EVENTS 03 | THU

Dining Diversities for Diabetics 10:30–11:30 am

12 | SAT

The Entrepreneur in You 10:30 am–12:00 pm

05 | SAT

Legal Seminar 10:30 am–1:30 pm

15 | TUE

HEALTHWISE: Handling Emergencies for You & Your Family Get a free Healthwise Handbook 11:30 am–12:15 pm (EmblemHealth members only)

PUT PUT CARE ON YOUR YOUR CALENDAR CALENDAR 04 FRI

EHNC Community Partnership 9:30–11:00 am Low Impact Zumba 11:30 am –12:30 pm Workout Asthma – Zumba Style 1:00–2:00 pm

05 SAT

Sarcoidosis Support Group 3:00–4:00 pm Spring Fitness 5:00–6:00 pm

07 MON

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon –1:00 pm The National Alliance on Mental Health For Caregivers 4:30–7:00 pm

08 TUE

Intro to Tai Chi/Qigong 11:30 am –12:30 pm Cooking Matters – Walking Supermarket Tour 1:30–2:30 pm

10 THU Cell Phone Literacy For Older Adults 10:30–11:30 am Meditation Made Easy 2:00–3:00 pm

11

FRI

Low Impact Zumba 11:30 am –12:30 pm Workout Asthma – Zumba Style 1:00–2:00 pm

12 SAT

Spring Fitness 5:00–6:00 pm

14 MON

Low Impact Zumba 10:30–11:30 am Sitting Exercise 12:00 Noon –1:00 pm The National Alliance on Mental Health For Caregivers 4:30–7:00 pm

15 TUE

Rhythm & Flow Yoga 6:00–7:00 pm

Visit us at the Neighborhood Room 206-20 Linden Blvd.

Cambria Heights At EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care you’ll find new programs every month to help you stay healthy, get well and live better. All classes are FREE and open to the public.

Group Health Incorporated (GHI), HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP), HIP Insurance Company of New York and EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC are EmblemHealth companies EmblemHealth Services Company, LLC provides administrative services to the EmblemHealth companies. Neighborhood Care is a division of EmblemHealth. ©EmblemHealth Inc. 2014, All Rights Reserved.

Full event calendar at ehnc.com 1-866-539-0999 to RSVP