Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 14 Issue No. 14 April 5-11, 2013

WEDDING FOR LESS... PAGE 9

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

$MITH’S $CANDAL State Sen. Malcolm Smith and Councilman Dan Halloran were arrested this week after an alleged plot to get Smith on the list of Republican Mayoral contenders.

By Natalia Kozikowska … Page 3.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

News Briefs Meeks Honors Parent Coordinators

Please Join Student Sponsor Partners for an

Application Day Saturday, April 20th at 11:00 a.m.- 2:00 p.m.

The Mary Louis Academy 176-21 Wexford Terrace Jamaica Estates, NY 11432

Student Sponsor Partners helps 8th grade students attend non-public high schools. Come out for our Application Day to receive a student application and learn more about SSP. Questions? Contact Manuela Rodriguez, SSP Student Recruiter mrodriguez@sspnyc.org ∙ (212)-986-9575 x115

On Friday, April 5, Healthfirst and TD Bank will host a “Parent Coordinator Recognition Award” breakfast honoring New York City Dept. of Education parent coordinators.

The breakfast event will be hosted in Queens by Congressman Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica), who will be recognizing parent coordinators based in Queens public schools within the 5th Congressional District. Honorees will receive certificates of appreciation presented by the congressman.

The breakfast will be held at York College, 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. in Jamaica, from 8:00am to 11:30am. The morning will be spent having breakfast, networking and recognizing the contributions parent coordinators have made throughout the years in Queens schools. This year’s theme for the series is focused on “healthy choices” children have to make every day.

“The important work and support that NYC Department of Education Parent Coordinators provide to school administrators, families, students and community organizations often goes unnoticed,” said George Hulse, Healthfirst VP of External Affairs in a statement. “Healthfirst is pleased to partner with Congressman Meeks to recognize the vital contributions of these coordinators, who make a difference and touch lives on a daily basis in the Queens communities they serve.”

Additional breakfasts are scheduled throughout the spring in the boroughs of Brooklyn, the Bronx and Manhattan, each hosted by an elected official.

Jamaica Revealed To Retailers And Brokers The Jamaica Center Business Improvement District, along with its partners Sutphin Boulevard BID, 165th Street Mall, and Greater Jamaica Development Corp. are looking for a few good retail businesses and restaurants to bring to the area.

The group is making a concerted effort to create a better retail mix in downtown Jamaica, and now that they have completed a market analysis, they are ready for the next step.

Next month, the group will be hosting an event for commercial property owners and commercial real estate brokers to enroll them in the BID’s plan to attract new stores and restaurants to Jamaica. This event will simplify the process of locating the perfect retail space, where all

vacant commercial spaces will be viewed on a trolley tour.

The event, “Jamaica Revealed,” will be held on Friday, April 19th at the John F. Kennedy Corporate Square Marketing Center located at 93-43 Sutphin Blvd. It will begin at 9:00 am with a breakfast reception.

Retail specialist firm JGSC Group will make a short presentation about the research that was performed that revealed the desires of local consumers, the under-served categories of retail, and the levels of previously undocumented spending power and unmet demand that led to the selection of retail prospects that the BID now seeks to recruit to the Jamaica business district.

A representative of the City’s Dept. of Small Business Services will also attend to discuss the City’s commitment to Jamaica’s business recruitment effort. An exciting workshop lead by New York City Business Solutions Center on business Marketing and Branding Strategies will follow. Afterwards, the group will take participants on the trolley tour of the district.

Brokers that attend the session will receive a packet of market research data showing the categories of retail that are most sustainable in downtown Jamaica, together with a list of retail prospects (with their contact information) that the BID would like to recruit into the district.

“We want people to see and feel the excitement and energy that is Jamaica,” said BID Director Laurel Brown in a statement. “The Jamaica Center BID wants to make the experience even better, by attracting new stores and restaurants to meet the demands not only of people who live here, but of our visitors who work in offices here, attend university classes here, and come to the courts and other services here by the thousands on the subway, bus lines, AirTrain, and LIRR. This event will help local brokers understand our goals, so that they will work with us to recruit great businesses.”

There is no charge for the event, but participants are requested to register in advance: http:// www.jamaicarevealed.eventbrite.com.

Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd. Whitestone, NY 11357

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

Smith, Halloran Nabbed In FBI Sting Halloran is being brought up on charges of wire fraud and Travel Act bribery conspiracy and two counts of wire fraud.

If convicted, he also faces up to 45 years in prison.

Although the councilman did not speak at the hearing, his press office did release a statement which was also posted on his Facebook page.

“The councilman denies the allegations and City Councilman Dan Halloran ignores reporters as he looks forward to clearwalks to his car after his appearance in court on April ing his name,” the state2. ment read. “When the A number of other secret meetings full story comes out he is confident were also documented in the complaint, that he will be vindicated.”

By Wednesday afternoon, the detailing recorded conversations in which all six defendants implicated Facebook post had more than 150 likes.

All defendants will have a prelimithemselves in the corruption scheme.

In one instance, Halloran is even nary hearing on April 23. Both Smith quoted as saying, “That’s politics, and Halloran have been stripped of that’s politics, it’s all about how much. their committee assignments and the Not whether or will, it’s about how power to allocate funds.

“Shocked” Response much, and that’s our politicians in Multiple Republican leaders exNew York, they’re all like that…And they get like that because of the drive pressed shock when they heard the that the money does for everything allegations against Halloran.

“He never struck me as a person else. You can’t do anything without who gets involved in outer borough the f***ing money.” politics like this,” Councilman Eric Facing the Music Hours after being taken away by Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said. “The Dan feds from their respective homes, Halloran I know is not the Dan Halloran Smith and Halloran, as well as the I’m hearing about in the newspapers.”

Although Ulrich said he was surother four defendants, appeared in prised by Halloran’s involvement, he front of a judge in White Plains.

The arraignment was presided over did admit he was not nearly as stunned

by Judge Lisa Margaret Smith and the to hear that Smith and the others case is being handled by the Office’s could be involved in the scheme. He White Plains Division and Public Cor- referred to the other defendants as ruption Unit. Assistant U.S. Attor- “knuckleheads” and expressed a need neys Douglas Bloom and Alvin Bragg for change in New York City politics.

“This totally confirmed what I’ve are in charge of the prosecution.

The judge set bail for each at $250,000 and confiscated all of their passports. Halloran was also ordered to surrender all of the firearms he owned.

Smith is being brought up on On April 1, Councilman Jimmy Van charges of wire fraud and Travel Act Bramer (D-Sunnyside) joined a crowd bribery conspiracy, wire fraud and of more than 50 rallying meat departHobbs Act. If he is found guilty of all ment workers of the United Food and charges, he faces up to 45 years in Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local prison.

342 at the Long Island City Trade Gerald Shargel, Smith’s defense Fair location, at 22-30 36th Ave. lawyer, gave a brief statement to the UFCW, a labor organization, has filed press, denouncing the charges. several Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) “There is much more to this story. charges with the National Labor RelaI ask anyone reading this or reading tions Board (NLRB) against the about this to withhold judgment,” company’s owner, Farid Jaber, more Shargel said. “We plan to enter a plea commonly known as, Frank. The of not guilty if and when an indictcharges include intimidation, threats ment is returned.” of termination, harassment and asShargel also said the senator has sault. “no plans on resigning.”

known all along,” Ulrich said. “We need a house cleaning.”

Prominent Queens Republican Tom Ognibene also seemed taken aback by the news of Halloran’s arrest.

He said he feared that there might be problems within the GOP as a result.

Halloran, who was running for reelection for the 19th City Council district, also drew criticism from some of his potential opponents.

“The shock to me is the arrogance.

I’ve seen it happen over and over and people never learn their lesson,” said candidate Paul Graziano in a statement. “The reason I jumped into the race for the 19th Council District is because I saw a lot of things being done by Dan Halloran that I thought were inappropriate.”

“These are serious and disturbing charges from the FBI which need to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said candidate Austin Shafran in a statement. “Public service is a privilege, and violations of the public’s trust cannot be tolerated.

Anyone involved in this scandal should immediately come clean because the people deserve to know the truth so justice can be done.”

Rev. Floyd Flake, a former congressman and prominent leader in southeast Queens, was also saddened by the news of Smith’s arrest. Flake, who is a personal friend of the senator and his pastor, said he was disappointed by the allegations.

“No one can be above the law and nothing is worth the price of selling your soul,” Flake said. “If this is actually correct, then he sold his soul.”

Reporters Luis Gronda and Joe Marvilli contributed to this report.

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

Calling For Justice: Photo by Trisha Sakhuja

State Sen. Malcolm Smith (DHollis) and City Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) were taken from their homes in handcuffs early Tuesday morning. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the prominent pair of politicians were arrested for attempting to rig this year’s mayoral election by paying Smith’s way onto the ballot.

Investigators also nabbed four others in the corruption case, including Bronx Republican Chairman Jay Savino, Queens GOP vice chairman Vincent Tabone, the mayor of the Rockland County village of Spring Valley, Noramie Jasmin, and her deputy, Joseph Desmaret.

According to the unsealed 28-page criminal complaint, Smith, who had avidly denied he was a Republican in a Jan. 30 town hall meeting, was considering running for mayor on the GOP ticket and made payments to Halloran in exchange for setting up meetings with Republican leaders to gain their support.

The charges claim that Smith agreed with a confidential cooperating witness and an FBI agent posing as a wealthy real estate developer to bribe Republicans leaders to obtain a Wilson Pakula – an authorization given by a political party to a candidate for public office which allows the candidate who is not registered with that party to run on its ticket for an election.

According to a statement released

by Preet Bharara, the U.S. attorney in Manhattan who is prosecuting the case, the Senator allegedly arranged for cash bribes totaling $40,000 to be paid to Tabone and Savino.

Halloran is accused of arranging a meeting with the FBI agent, the cooperating witness, Savino and Tabone and negotiating the amounts of the bribes for the Wilson Pakula certificates. In exchange, the councilman pocketed $20,500 for himself.

The complaint details a series of shady meetings at diners, hotels and cars between the defendants, the undercover agent and the cooperating witness.

In one incident, Smith met with the agent in a Manhattan hotel. The agent promised to arrange a meeting with an undisclosed county chairman and Savino, during which they would negotiate support for Smith as a Republican candidate for mayor.

“You pull this off, you can have the house…I’ll be the tenant,” Smith allegedly told him.

Photo by Ira Cohen

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Mayor Bloomberg Announces 78 New Schools A total of 78 new schools are set to open in the City at the start of the 2013-14 school year.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg and Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott made the big announcement on April 2 at the future site of Energy Tech, a new career and technical education school that will open in Astoria next fall, in partnership with Con Edison and National Grid.

“As a product of the New York City public school system, I know firsthand the importance of solid technical education,” said President of National Grid New York Ken Daly. “Our partnership with the Energy Tech High School supports National Grid’s ‘Engineering Our Future’ initiative to build a qualified and skilled workforce.”

Approximately 10,000 students will join the new schools that are located in all five boroughs.

Bloomberg touted that his administration has opened 656 new schools, which is more new schools than any other administration in the City’s history. According to the administration, graduation rates have risen 41 percent since 2005, and the rate is 20 percent higher in new schools when compared to

Photo by Trisha Sakhuja

BY TRISHA SAKHUJA

Mayor Mike Bloomberg stands with Queens students after the announcement that the City will have 78 new schools opening in the fall. those they replace.

“The 78 schools announced today are part of our commitment to improving public education in New York City,” said Mayor Bloomberg.

“Our administration has created a record number of schools and programs for our students- which have helped to lead record gains. We still have more work to do, and with our new schools and school leaders, we’ll continue to provide our children with the opportunities they deserve.”

The list of new schools includes seven career and technical education schools, and two high schools that

have partnered with the City University of New York that will allow students to take college classes, simultaneously earning a high school diploma and Associate Degree. Of the 78 new schools, 30 will be located in Brooklyn, 20 in the Bronx, 15 in Queens, 11 in Manhattan and two in Staten Island. The new schools range in specific areas of interest – career and technical education schools, software engineering, health, global commerce and environmental exploration schools.

“We no longer believe in a onesize-fits-all approach,” said Walcott.

“We take a variety of different approaches. Our strategy is providing families with more and more options, from our career and technical programs to our new middle schools, and more importantly, it works.”

Walcott continued to say, from 1960 to 2002, no new vocational, career and technical schools opened during that time, but from 2002 till present day, 28 new such schools have opened.

“Those seeking a green school can attend the one in the Bronx; if you want to go to an emergency management school, you can go to the one in the west side of Manhattan, or if you want to go to a career and health school, come to my neighborhood in Cambria Heights,” Walcott said.

“Our new small-sized schools are visionary that will prepare our students for college and their careers,” Walcott said. “Teachers see it; parents say it and data show it: our graduation rates are higher, the achievement gap is closing and the schools announced today will help us continue to ensure that all students – no matter their zip code- have access to high quality education in New York City.”

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718-357-4000, Ext. 128), or at tsakhuja@queenstribune.com.

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April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

Bay Terrace Comm. Alliance Holds B.P. Forum

BY JOE MARVILLI The Bay Terrace Community Alliance hosted a Borough President Candidates Night on March 28 in Bayside, during which all seven contenders discussed issues most important to them and took questions from the audience.

The forum took place in the Clearview Golf Course Clubhouse.

State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside), Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (DAstoria), Everly Brown, Barry Grodenchik, State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst), Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) and former Councilwoman Melinda Katz each gave statements and took questions from hosts President Warren Schreiber, community leader Phil Konigsberg and the audience.

Avella committed to establishing a co-op/condo task force or roundtable to protect owners and residents of those structures. He stated his opposition to all three Flushing Meadow Corona Park projects, which are the United States Tennis Association expansion, the development of Willets Point and the creation of a Major League Soccer stadium.

Avella also promised to be more hands-on than Helen Marshall, as he

said “I want to be able to take the issues and resolve them.”

Vallone began his segment by touting both his experience in public safety and in small business.

“I know how to speak with power.

I know how to work with power,” he said.

When it came to the issues, the councilman favored a co-op/condo task force, opposed the USTA and MLS projects as they currently stand, but supported the Willets Point development, saying that the area is not parkland and needs development.

When it came to Superstorm Sandy, Vallone slammed the City in terms of getting help to the Rockaways.

Brown defined himself as being a businessman, rather than a politician, stating that he was running to serve the people and could not be controlled.

“If you want this borough to move forward, vote for me,” he said.

When asked about big businesses attempting to set up shop in Queens, such as Walmart, Brown welcomed the company, saying it would create jobs and small businesses should not fear the competition.

Grodenchik tackled development, mentioning that CBs cannot be ig-

nored by those looking to build in Queens.

The former deputy B.P. thought CBs should push to get more people involved. He would improve public transportation in Eastern Queens, form a Rockaway Task Force and was for a co-op task force.

The candidate talked about Stop and Frisk, saying the system needed tweaking.

“I believe that there is a role for Stop and Frisk, but I also believe a majority of people stopped are people of color,” he said.

Peralta mentioned he was running for B.P. partially to eliminate the “outer borough” mentality of Queens.

He would create teams at the local, City and State levels in order to get “ahead of the curve” about any issues affecting the Borough.

He supported the creation of a coop/condo task force and felt that the hospital closings in Queens were a “disgrace.”

The senator said he was open to the multiple FMCP projects on the table.

“If there are organizations willing to invest, we have to take a look at that,” he said.

As the chair of the Land Use Committee, Comrie talked at length about

developments in Queens, which should not be approved without the residents’ support.

“We cannot have a land use project that is developed without a community input,” he said.

Comrie also criticized the City as well for cutting back on sanitation collection. However, he mentioned that the lack of personal responsibility is part of the problem as well, using an example of a driver throwing a coffee out of a window. He supported the co-op/condo task force too.

Katz favored neighborhood preservation, mentioning how she tried to keep the avenues upzoned for development and the side streets downzoned for housing.

In terms of parks, she felt the City needed to do a much better job in funding them.

“The problem becomes the expense budget,” she said.

Katz also said she was against the USTA unless there is money put back into the park and there are too many questions about MLS. Katz said she favored a co-op task force, more hospitals and affordable housing.

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

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Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Editorial Unfit To Serve 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

It seems to be all too commonplace when an elected official is brought up on charges, especially here in Queens. Over the years, voters have been betrayed by too many of those who swore to protect and serve their constituents. Instead of asking for nothing more than a vote in return for their efforts, they instead seek out graft, political power and a better life for themselves.

The arrests this week of State Sen. Malcolm Smith and Councilman Dan Halloran are a disappointing reminder that too often the people we choose to represent us in turn choose to represent only themselves.

Our representatives in government should be committed to giving back to the communities they represent and serving as a voice for those who may not have one otherwise. We elect these individuals to fight for us, to stand up for the needs of the community. To turn around and attempt to better serve themselves is not just an abuse of power, it is a violation of the trust we put in those we elect.

The courts will decide the fates of Sen. Smith and Councilman Halloran – they are, of course, innocent until proven otherwise. More importantly, other elected officials should take notice: you are here to serve the people who elected you, not yourselves.

Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Harley Benson Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Alan Goldsher Director of Marketing Maureen Coppola Advertising Administrator Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Nicole Douglas Shari Strongin

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

Letters No Surprise To The Editor: The arrest of Senator Malcolm Smith and Councilman Dan Halloran is yet again another example of dishonest politicians dipping their hands into the money till ille-

gally. Should this be surprising? With the way our government is being run today, it is not at all surprising that this would happen. Whatever happened to honesty, integrity, and respect in politics?

They must have all blown

Letters away, just like Dorothy’s house blew away in “The Wizard of Oz.” Shame on those two politicians for what they did. Their constituents do not deserve this.

John Amato, Fresh Meadows

Speed Kills To The Editor: I find it quite disturbing that the state’s new budget calls for a surcharge on speeding tickets and that extra money would go back to the state and would not be used for more speed cameras.

I feel more kids have been killed by speeding drivers and more will be killed as time goes on. Our law enforcement officers can only catch the few who are speeding. It’s like when you go fishing and you catch what you can but not the many. I live in Glen Oaks Village on Commonwealth Boulevard and the speed limit is 30 mph and there is a school at the end of the block and yet some of these drivers are speeding down past the speed limit and have endanger those of us that live on the block. About

a month ago an elderly man and his dog were killed by a speeding driver as my neighbors have told me.

Many of our towns have speed limits of about 30 mph and yet many disobey these speed laws. I work in Mineola on Jericho Turnpike and travel through New Hyde Park which has a speed limit of 30 mph and yet even though I travel the speed limit there are those flying past me at maybe 40 to 50 mph. In my opinion, we need more of these speed cameras, which I hope will cause some drivers to slow down. Remember all of our lives are endangered and especially our children.

Speed kills and that is a fact that cannot be denied.

Frederick R. Bedell Jr., Glen Oaks Village

WRITE ON: The PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd. Whitestone, NY 11357 email news@queenspress.com fax: (718) 357-9417

Heartbreaking Doozy Of A Political Scandal A Personal Perspective

BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE When my husband got elected more than a decade ago, a reporter he knew from the guy’s days at the Queens Tribune said to him, “Please don’t let me have to write about you.”

What the reporter meant was, “please stay out of trouble because it would pain me to have to write that kind of story about you.” And that is how it feels to me each time I have to write about someone I know who gets into trouble.

It is difficult to write about people I know when they are at a low point; because I have to see them in the neighborhood. Political scandals are difficult to write about when you live in a glass house. But when you have a job to do, you have a responsibility to do it, and to do it honestly.

Queens has had its share

of political doozies. But as doozies go, this week’s events rank very high among them.

Sadly, my state senator is part of this one.

State Sen. Malcolm Smith has been part of the Southeast Queens political landscape since he was a child going to the Guy R. Brewer United Democratic Club. Years before he ever got elected, he worked for popular elected officials in the community and at one point even worked for Mayor Ed. Koch. He has been around the block several times so he knows the pitfalls. That is why his arrest this week in a bribery scandal does not make sense to those of us who know him.

Trouble impacts more than the accused. There is always a family feeling the pain as well.

Smith has a beautiful family and it pains us to see them suffer through this. Those of us who know them are praying that this will blow over soon.

This case, unfortunately, involves more than Smith. It is almost like being caught in net. Five other people were arrested in the early morning sweep on April 2. The geographic swath went from St. Albans to Whitestone, where Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) was also picked up by the FBI along with a Queens County Republican official, to the Bronx for another Republican County official, to Spring Valley where the mayor and deputy mayor were also hauled into the net.

So what was the foolhardy venture that has led to all this shock and sadness? Smith wanted to run for Mayor on the Republican line while holding on to his Democratic affiliation. According to reports, he stands accused, along with the other five, of trying to pay to get on the Republican ballot or to put it less delicately, “bribery.”

Halloran for his part was arrested allegedly for “quarterbacking” the deal between Smith and the Republican Party bosses or subordinates in Queens and the Bronx.

It makes no sense whatsoever. The race is filled with candidates with less baggage than Malcolm has. Even John Liu, who has been under investigation for possible campaign finance infractions, is still seen as a more viable candidate for Mayor than Smith would have been on the Republican line.

This is heartbreaking.

However, he has a lot of community support and that is a big help. We will continue to root for this family as they weather this new storm. This is a praying community and so a lot of people are “holding them up in prayer.”

We are praying for the family’s strength and this passes quickly. But oh what a tangled web!

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Police Blotter 103rd & 105th Precincts Armed Robberies The NYPD is seeking the public's assistance identifying the following individual wanted in connection with three armed robberies and one attempted robbery in the confines of the 103rd and 105th Precincts.

The first incident occurred on March 9 inside a deli located at 11401 Colfax St. The suspect entered the location, struck an employee in the face with a shotgun, removed money and fled the scene.

The second incident occurred on March 11 inside a deli located at 20519 Hollis Ave. The suspect entered the location, struck an employee in the face with a shotgun, removed money and fled the scene.

The third incident occurred on March 13 inside a deli located at 20602 Hollis Ave. The suspect entered the location, struck an employee in the face with a shotgun, removed money and fled the scene.

The most recent incident occurred on April 2 inside a dry cleaner located at 110-50 Springfield Blvd. The suspect struck an employee in the face with a shot gun and fled the scene without any money.

The victims in all four incidents were treated and released from hospitals.

The suspect is described as a Black male armed with a shotgun.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

107th Precinct

as a Black male in his 20s, 5-foot-10, 120 lbs., with a blond Mohawk haircut and wearing a dark-colored sweatshirt.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

108th Precinct

Attempted Bank Robbery Grand Larceny The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in locating two males wanted in connection with an attempted bank robbery that occurred at approximately 12:30 p.m. on March 24 at a Chase Bank located at 71-41 Main St., Flushing.

The first suspect entered the location and passed a note demanding money to the teller. The second suspect entered the location and waited by the customer service area. The teller walked away and both suspects fled the location on foot, empty handed.

The first suspect is described as a male in his 20s, 5-foot-7, 120 lbs., with a slim build, a moustache and wearing a black knitted hat and dark sweater.

The second suspect is described

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the following suspect wanted for a grand larceny.

At 5:20 p.m. on Feb. 27, the victim, a 65-year-old female, was praying inside the mosque located at 5716 37th Ave., when the suspect removed the victim’s pocketbook containing cash and bank cards. There were no reported injuries.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

Accident Investigation At approximately 11:16 p.m. on March 26, police responded to a 911 call of a pedestrian struck at the intersection of 47th Street and Laurel Hill Boulevard. Upon arrival, officers determined that Juliana Busto, 22, of Maspeth, was attempting to cross Laurel Hill Boulevard within the crosswalk, when she was struck by a 2002 Chevy Avalanche traveling westbound.

The operator of the vehicle remained on the scene. EMS also responded to the location and transported the pedestrian to Elmhurst Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. The investigation is ongoing.

113th Precinct Homicide At approximately 2:24 a.m. on March 31, police responded to a 911 call of a person shot at the intersection of 110th Avenue and 179th Place.

Upon arrival, officers observed the victim, identified as Roshane Morrison, 21, of Jamaica, with a gunshot wound to the torso. EMS also responded and transported Morrison to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

There are no arrests at this time and the investigation is ongoing.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

Create Your Dream Wedding For Less When it comes to the big day, you want a wedding that suits you and your fiancé perfectly, whether it’s a casual outdoor affair or a formal blacktie event. One thing every couple can agree on is that planning a wedding shouldn’t be stressful.

A few insider tips and trends will help you plan the wedding of your dreams without undue stress. Start by utilizing online resources. Planning months in advance can help ensure you get every detail perfect for your dream wedding. A variety of helpful online resources will provide everything you need.

For the latest trends without the extra cost, renting has never been more in vogue. Helpful sites like RentalHQ.com - from the American Rental Association (ARA) - have everything you need to create your dream wedding. From choosing your china and linens to finding the latest decor and color options, it’s a great planning resource. Brides remain stressfree because many ARA rental stores offer complementary professional assistance for wedding equipment rentals, helping you plan all the intricate details for your big day.

Next visit Brides.com, the online website for Brides magazine, which has a plethora of informational articles as well as info on the latest bridal trends. From tips on choosing the right dress to a beauty calendar checklist for up to 12 months before the big day, it’s a fantastic resource for staying organized. For the do-itherself bride, Pinterest.com is a great resource for finding unique decor and ideas to make your wedding completely you.

When you’re feeling stumped about some aspect of planning, Theknot.com is sure to inspire. Start by learning your personal wedding style - are you modern, vintage or offbeat? Then jump into learning about color schemes, fashion, honeymoons and more. MyWedding.com is a helpful resource also, with a variety of planning tools, insightful guides and the opportunity for couples to create a free website about their wedding.

Want to know some of the top bridal trends of 2013? From color to cake, brides today are thinking outside the box. Here are some top trends to consider: Color: When it comes to colors there’s no need to be coy - top trends of 2013 are bright and bold. From ruby reds, rich blues, vivid violets and sunshine yellows, splashes of color

FORMAL

Some helpful tips can make an extravagant wedding affordable. liven up your decor and create a memorable atmosphere. It’s easy to seamlessly incorporate a fun color without going over the top when you rent - consider renting runners, centerpieces and even stemware in the color of your choice.

Dessert: While traditional brides may prefer a multilayered wedding cake, many others are taking a fun approach to desserts. Do you and your honey love apple pie? Place homemade apple pies on each table.

Have your first date at an ice cream parlor? Set up an ice cream bar with a variety of toppings for guests to create their own sundae. You can rent all the extras to create an authentic ice cream shop atmosphere.

Go Virtual: It’s unlikely that every guest you invite will be able to attend, so now technology is bringing people closer together no matter where they reside. Couples with guests who live far away or family who aren’t able to attend are now sharing their special day by live-streaming the ceremony and reception. Guests can then attend the wedding virtually.

Bouquets: Flowers are beautiful, but creative brides are taking a fresh look at traditional bouquets. Adorn your blooms with gems or feathers for a stunning accent as you walk down the aisle. Or, skip flowers altogether and create a family heirloom - gather vintage brooches from friends and family and make a sparkling jewelry bouquet with supplies from your local craft store.

Whatever trends you decide to incorporate into your big day, renting your dream wedding supplies rather than buying is a wise decision. You’ll get the latest trends at an affordable price.

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Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Season Preview:

Step Right Up And Meet The Mets The New York Mets head into the new season looking to continue their rebuilding process and finding out how they can build a winning team around superstar third basemen and newly-named captain David Wright.

This past off season, the Mets continued to ship out veteran players in favor of young prospects, which has been the cornerstone of General Manager Sandy Alderson’s plan to build a winning ball club in Queens.

The biggest of these moves was trading R.A. Dickey to the Toronto Blue Jays for a package of young players.

Dickey had a terrific season last year, going 20-6 with a 2.73 earned run average and 230 strikeouts in 233.3 innings pitched and, winning the National League Cy Young award. Dickey had one year left on his contract with the Mets before he was to become a free agent.

In return for Dickey, the Mets got a package of players headlined by catcher Travis d’Arnaud, the top rated prospect in the Blue Jays farm system and among the top in Major League Baseball overall, according to MLB.com. They also got another catcher in the trade, veteran John Buck, who will serve as a stopgap at that position while d’Arnaud polishes his game in the minors.

Other notable transactions included extending Wright’s contract to the tune of $138 million for seven years and buying out former outfielder Jason Bay’s contract.

Opening Day The Mets kicked off the 2013 season in dominating fashion, comfortably beating the San Diego Padres 112. The team hit early and often during the game, leading 7-1 after four innings and forcing the Padres to pull their starter, Edinson Volquez, after three innings. The icing on the cake was a seventh inning grand slam by Collin Cowgill – the first of his career – that put the Mets up by the final score of the game. The hit was barely a home run, hitting the orange line in left field that runs through the outfield.

Jonathon Niese also put in a solid performance, pitching six and twothirds innings and giving up the two runs. The Padres were mostly stymied by Niese’s pitching, forcing 12 ground ball outs in total. The one big hit they had was a solo home run by

Photos by Ira Cohen

BY LUIS GRONDA

enth overall by the Mets in 2010 and has been considered one of the team’s top prospects in the farm system. He started 10 games for the Mets last year after spending most of last season in Triple-A. Harvey was impressive in several starts, including striking out 11 in his MLB debut against the Arizona Diamondbacks.

Now in his first full season in the majors, everyone will get a good look at Harvey and see if he can fulfill expectations of being a top-of-the-rotation starter for years to come. If he Collin Cowgill hit his first career grand slam on Opening Day, helping the Mets secure an pitches well, the front of the team’s starting rotation, includ11-2 win over the Padres. ing Niese and Dillon Gee, figfirst basemen Yonder Alonso, which, and the Boston Red Sox and served a ures to be the club’s strength this year.

Another young pitcher to keep an in part, forced Collins to take out 50 game suspension for violating MLB’s drug policy. They also brought eye on is Zack Wheeler, who they Niese. in 26-year-old Cowgill, who spent last acquired in the Carlos Beltran trade Players To Watch in 2011. He will start the season in Besides obvious players like season with the Oakland Athletics.

Manager Terry Collins took most Triple-A, but could be called up durWright and Ike Davis, these guys will need to step up and play well if the of spring training to figure out who ing the season if he excels or if the Mets are going to surprise many crit- would be the three that he would back-end of the rotation struggles. ics and experts and be a contender name as his starting outfield. Even- With Johan Santana likely out for the in the National League East, which tually, he settled on Duda in left field, season once again, the team is calllooks to be a tough division this year. Cowgill in center field and Byrd in ing on Shawn Marcum and Jeremy The Outfield: This may not be tar- right field. This figures to be a fluid Hefner to fill out their pitching staff. geted towards any one specific situation throughout the season, with If one of those guys gets injured or if player, but the Mets will need to piece Collins switching players in and out they struggle, the team could bring together a productive outfield, an depending on who is pitching on a up Wheeler to reinforce the rotation. area of the team that has a lot of un- certain day or if one of them is playSeries to Watch certainty going into the new season. ing well or struggling. In any case, Here are some key series to watch Some familiar faces are back from unless the Mets acquire a superstar last year, including Lucas Duda, Kirk outfielder during the season, which during the season. As is the case with Nieuwenhuis and Jordany Valdespin, does not seem likely given Alderson’s every season, their importance will to contend for the three open out- plan to rebuild from within, the out- be determined by how the Mets play field spots, but with Bay and Andres fielders currently on the roster will during the year.

The New York Yankees (May-27Torres leaving the team, a couple of need to be productive in order for 30) - this may seem like an obvious new guys were brought in to compete the team to be successful.

Matt Harvey: Their 24-year-old choice, but New York fans look forfor the jobs.

The team signed veteran out- right-hander will be one player many ward to the subway series every seafielder Marlon Byrd, who played spar- will be watching this year to see his son. This year’s series has a little bit ingly last year with the Chicago Cubs progression. Harvey was drafted sev- of a different twist this year, with the teams playing a single four-game series, with two each at Citi Field and Yankee Stadium. Although both teams could struggle this year, fans and players of both teams should be pumped to play these games to decide bragging rights for a year.

Atlanta Braves (Sept. 2-4) – By this time, you will know how the Mets’ 2013 season will probably finish: Either way, a late-season series against a division rival figures to have some importance. They could play the role of spoiler against a Braves team that should be in the hunt for a playoff spot or play a huge series that could Fans file in to Citi Field through the Jackie Robinson Rotunda on Opening Day. decide if the Mets make the playoffs or not.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

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Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

pix Live Jazz at Jamaica Market Pictured clockwise from above left: In between songs at the performance, ensemble members pictured (from left) are saxophonist Kunal Singh, bassist Charlie Buonasera, alto saxophonist Sean White, keyboardist Yoichi Uzecki, percussionist Sylvia Cuencia and trumpeter Lex Samu. Kunal Singh’s renowned Jazz Experience ensemble performed at Jamaica Market on March 30. The performance was free for the lunchtime crowd in the downtown Jamaica area.

Jazz aficionado Laurence Holder, father of Queens Supreme Court Justice Kenneth Holder, dug those soothing Saturday sounds. Photos by Walter Karling.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

Profile

Rosedale Attorney Lends a Helping Hand

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA When she was just nine-years-old, Sabrina Hannam was taking care of her parents’ finances.

“I’ve always saw myself as an entrepreneur,” the Rosedale attorney said. “I always had a business mind and wanted to do things from a business perspective.”

Growing up, Hannam was around many celebrities and began to notice a similar trend among them – a mismanagement of money. Many of the celebs, she felt, did not have the knowledge to protect their assets and plan for their future.

“It wasn’t just about being a celebrity lawyer and the big bucks and the upward mobility, it was how do we help them [celebrities] from poverty to millionaire and keeping that status,” she said.

Now, some two decades later, Hannam has made it to the big leagues, working as a big shot corporate lawyer, representing some of the biggest athletes, entertainers and businesses across the United States.

Equipped with two law degrees, an impressive list of clientele and signifi-

Sabrina Hannam cant transactions under her belt, Hannam felt as though she needed to do more for the community.

Inspired by many of the entertainers and athletes she represented and got to know, she now sits on the board for multiple charitable organizations and is hosting an exclusive NBA Pink Tie Event to benefit breast cancer research.

“This is my personality, my calling, just to help people,” she said. “That’s where I’m gifted and talented. What satisfaction do I get? It fills my calling

to help someone. If I can do that in whatever means, I can sleep better at night.”

The event is also a good opportunity to gain the support of influential organizations like the NBA and its athletes.

“It’s more of giving back to the community for the athletes. Most of them come from communities that are not as affluent,” she said. “These athletes inspire me – the ones that want to give back to breast cancer – male breast cancer, because men suffer from it too, and female breast cancer.”

The Pink Tie Event, scheduled for Monday, April 8, has the support of NBA stars, including Carmelo Anthony, J.R. Smith, Jason Kidd and Amar’e Stoudemire, as well as retired legends like John Starks and Anthony Mason, who are scheduled to make an appearance at the event.

“It’s a fun event, a good event for people to come and see and network,” she said. “We’re actually meeting and greeting you – we’re mingling with the crowd, you can touch us, talk to us, you can take pictures so we’re happy to put an event like this together in support of breast cancer.”

“Everyone is coming together and supporting this event,” she continued. “This shows the athletes are not just playing ball, this is about them making a difference in someone’s life.”

The event will be held at Carlyle on the Green, Bethpage State Park, 99 Quaker Meeting House Road in Farmingdale at 6:30 p.m.

Tickets to the event are $150 per person. It will feature a cocktail hour, a dinner, an open bar, casino tables, cigar girls and live entertainment.

To reserve your ticket, visit pinktie.org. The tax deductible portion of each ticket is $70.

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

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Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Mother

OF THE

Year

The Press of Southeast Queens and its advertisers are pleased to once again present our “Mother of the Year” contest. Our Mother’s Day issue will feature winning entries plus thoughts from the children of Queens. This is our small way of paying tribute to the moms out there who help make Queens a better place to live.

The contest rules are simple.

Just submit 250 (typewritten when possible, otherwise legible) words or less as to why your mom is special. You or your mom must be a Queens resident. Entries must be received by Friday, May 3, 2013.

Enclose a photo of mom, with her kids if possible (sorry they can't be returned).

Mail entries to “Mother of the Year” Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357, or email them to editor@queenstribune.com Entries will be judged in three age groups: A) 8 and under; B) 9-12 and C) 13 - adult. Judging will be based on content, creativity and sensitivity.

We are open-minded about this contest and even mother-in-law entries will be accepted.

Don't Delay: get your entry in today and pay tribute to your special "MOM" (and get Mother's Day gifts too!)

OVER $1,000 IN PRIZES Attach this or a facsimile to your entry Your Name Address

Age

Phone

Mom's Name Mom's Address Phone Mail to "Mother of the Year" Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357 or editor@queenstribune.com

Mother's Day Prizes Include:

Over $1,000 In Prizes Plus Mets Tickets CONTEST RULES

1. Submit 250 words as to why your mom is special. You or your mom must be a Queens resident.

2. Entries must be received by Friday, May 3, 2013.

3. Give your age (18+ acceptable), address, phone number, plus mom's name and address.

4. Enclose a 4x6 photo of mom or mom and her kid(s) where possible; put full names on back of photo. Sorry, they can't be returned.

5. Mail entries to “Mother of the Year,” Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357.

6. The entries will be judged in three age groups A) 8 and under; B) 9-12 and C) 13 - adult. Judging will be based on content, creativity and sensitivity.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

A&E

Knicks Great Visits Queens College New York Knicks legend and current assistant general manager, Allan Houston, completed his iStar Charity 5 Borough Basketball Tour with his last stop at a Queens College gym.

On March 30, the former NBA allstar brought his revolutionary Father Knows Best program to the Fitzgerald Gymnasium on campus in an effort to stress the importance of a good father-son relationship.

“The reason it has been prevalent in these communities for us – there’s a hunger and thirst for men in the

urban community to have a connection with their kids because statistics have shown they just haven’t,” Houston said. “The kids that come from the inner city, they’re growing up and they’re becoming fathers before they have learned what it is.”

Multiple prominent Queens leaders were at the charity shoot out to support Houston’s program and praise the good message it brings to the Borough’s families.

“This initiative is incredible,” said Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica).

“My district, as well as many like mine, suffer from a lack of male participa-

Italian Done Right Il Triangolo Ristorante 96-01 Corona Ave., Corona Tues.–Thurs., Sun.: noon–10 p.m.; Fri.-Sat.: noon–11 p.m. Closed Mondays.

Delivery: No Takeout: Yes Credit Cards: Yes, all major.

If you’re looking for a terrific restaurant to go with your family or to take someone for a nice date, then Il Triangolo is a great choice.

This Italian restaurant, right on the corner of Corona Avenue and Junction Boulevard in Corona, offers fresh, home-cooked meals in a quiet, soothing setting that enhances the overall experience.

To start off my visit, I first ate the homemade antipasto calabrese, a popular appetizer at the Italian eatery. The starter features sopressata, an Italian dried sausage, pecorino cheese, olives and wild mushrooms bathed with extra virgin olive oil.

The restaurant’s owner, Mario Gigilotti, explained that most of the ingredients used in the eatery, including the sopressata, come from the region of Calabria, Italy, which is where his family originates. For me, the olives were especially tasty as each bite had a spicy kick to it that made it even more delicious.

Next, I sampled their gnocchi pasta dish covered in a Bolognese sauce. All of the ingredients in this meal synchronize with each other to create a dish worth trying. The pasta itself is soft and cooked to perfection and the sauce is strong enough to add flavor but does not overpower the pasta and potato the gnocchi is stuffed with. A side salad

was also served with a special dressing exclusive to Il Triangolo.

Gigilotti would not divulge details of the dressing, saying that it’s a long-guarded family secret.

I also tasted one of the establishment’s signature dishes: the veal alla grappa. This meat dish is battered in eggs and sautéed in bread crumbs, cream and fermented grapes. The veal tasted so fresh and the grapes added a level of juiciness and taste that cannot be duplicated at any other restaurant.

Finally, I finished dinner with a cannoli, a popular Italian dessert and a hot cup of cappuccino. The cannolis at Il Triangulo are handmade to order by Mario’s wife, Pierina. With each loud crunch of its shell, you could tell how fresh the dessert, and the food overall, is at this establishment. The cream inside the cannoli is made with heavy cream, ricotta cheese and peppered with chocolate chips to satisfy your sweet tooth even more.

If you’re looking for a terrific meal in Corona, with its relaxing atmosphere and food that’ll make your taste buds dance, Il Triangolo has perfected the way Italian food should be done.

-Luis Gronda

tion in our kids’ lives. For this to be a five-borough tour to end up and culminate in Queens – I’m all for it.”

Councilman Leroy Comrie (DJamaica), a borough president candidate, was also on board to support the cause.

“Sports activities are not only a way for people to stay physically fit, but they also serve as a great bonding tool between father and child,” Comrie later said in a statement. “Events like the iStar Charity Shootout not only help build this relationship, but also show how important it is for fathers to be with and care for their families. Participating in sports can allow young people to develop character, sportsmanship and leadership skills.”

The interactive tour launched in Manhattan last fall Former Knicks all-star Allan Houston preand has since been traveling all sents the kids with their participation awards. across the City with the purpose of strengthening family relationships, educating the youth, packed the gym Saturday morning, promoting human rights and fight- all of whom had the chance to play ing against poverty. alongside Houston himself. They all Jay Sugarman, the event founder participated in games and competiand CEO of iStar Financial, ex- tions together all while emphasizing plained the importance of expand- the importance of values like sportsing the tour to communities like manship, leadership and quality time.

Queens.

One South Jamaica volunteer, “We’ve been running an event in West Gordon, works as a mentor for Madison Square Garden for the last a company called Good Shepard few years and we decided it was time Services and brought two of his sixto go out to the boroughs,” Sugarman teen-year-old mentees. said. “We’re bringing Allan Houston’s “I brought them out to this event Father Knows Best program into the because they love basketball,” Gorcommunity, but people just don’t don said. “This should be incorpowant to hear about it, they want to rated all throughout the City because see it in action so having this basket- a lot of young men are headed in the ball program and the iStar Charity wrong direction and need positive shoot out, it’s fun – it was a much programs like his.” better way to get the message out.”

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska Hundreds of kids and volunteers at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queens-press.com.

Photos by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

A Local Jeopardy! Winner Rebecca Rider, a 28-yearold office supplies sales assistant from Fresh Meadows, is building up a winning streak on the nationally-renowned quiz show, Jeopardy! As of press time, Rider was crowned as a champion starting on March 28 and running through the episode on April 2. During that latest show, she won $6,400.

Her winnings now total more than $100,000.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Faith

Discovering Your Personal Power

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA On Sunday, April 7, the Women’s Council of the First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica will host a free enlightening four-week seminar to help residents discover themselves and their purpose in life.

The seminar, “Discover Your Personal Power,” which will be presented

by Winnie Benjamin, will focus on a vast number of topics meant to help people explore the importance of their own personal power, using core biblical principles as a guide.

“The Women’s Council, our concentration is to encourage, nurture, serve and support women in the congregation and in the community,” said Stephanie St. Clair, a member and volunteer at the church. “This is just one venue by which we are doing that.”

Although the Women’s Council’s mission is to help women in the community, the seminar will be open to both men and women.

“The seminar is about how you can tap into your own personal power,” St. Clair said. “It’s based on

Word

‘Declaring the end and the result from the beginning, and from ancient times the things that are not yet done, saying, My counsel shall stand, and I will do all My pleasure and purpose.’

-Isaiah 46:10

biblical principles. You can find out what is holding you back from succeeding in life. What are the things that are preventing you from being successful?”

“It can help you look within yourself and find out what you are doing and then based on the biblical principles, figure out how you can utilize those principles to help you move forward,” she added.

St. Clair, who participated in the workshops last year, found them to be incredibly useful in her own life.

“I’m getting ready to enroll in the second part of the workshop. You really find out your power. You find out how you can be a better leader and you bear different phases of this whole process. It is more of a motivational type of speaking,” she said.

“The classes were excellent. It actually helped me figure out what I’m not doing. It really made me stop and think.”

The seminar was also useful in helping St. Clair deal with people, she said.

“Whether it’s dealing with cranky

people, with nice people – where am I in this whole scheme of life?”

In today’s fast-paced world, St. Clair said it is important to just reexamine your life and learn about yourself. This workshop, she said, has helped her do that.

“There is a need for this in the community,” she said. “From a biblical standpoint, we are here to serve others – that’s what we are here to do, that is our purpose. You have that sense of serving and helping.”

The ‘Discover Your Personal Power’ seminar will be held on Sunday, April 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Magil Library at First Presbyterian Church.

First Presbyterian Church is located at 89-60 164 St. in Jamaica.

Registration is required for the seminar. Three other related workshops will be held every Sunday thereinafter.

For more information about the seminar or to register, call Stephanie St. Clair at (718) 526-4775.

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

Notebook Archbishop Molloy H.S.

Curran’s Legacy Lives On At Molloy

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA AND JOE MARVILLI Less than one month after legendary Archbishop Molloy coach Jack Curran passed away, the high school is taking a number of measures to ensure that his legacy lives on.

Curran, who coached both basketball and baseball at the school, won more games in both sports than any other high school coach in the United States. He was elected into nine different Halls of Fame and has served as coach for the school for more than five decades.

His numerous achievements include winning the Catholic High School Athletic Association Coach of the Year award 25 times for baseball and 22 times for basketball. His teams won 17 baseball CHSAA City Championships and five basketball CHSAA City Championships. In 1969, 1973, 1974 and 1987, Curran accomplished the feat of having both his basketball and baseball

teams win CHSAA City titles, a success never repeated by any other coach.

Curran’s overall win total, combining both basketball and baseball, is 2,680 wins against 960 losses, a victory rate of 74 percent. For his accomplishments, the coach was inducted into multiple Halls of Fame, including the National High School, St. John’s University, NY State Basketball, CHSAA and NY City Basketball.

“Coach taught us all how we should act on and off the court or field,” Athletic Director Mike McCleary said. “Not being around such a great man is going to be difficult for all of us. Coach will be sorely missed.”

Curran also was the coach of NBA star Kenny Anderson who tweeted when he heard the sad news.

“I lost my favorite coach, mentor and just a great soul. Jack Curran, you will be missed. I will have you in my thoughts everyday.” “I was so lucky

to attend Archbishop Molloy and play 4 years for a coach like Jack Curran,” he tweeted.

In honor of his service and memory, Archbishop Molloy High School will invite the coach’s friends and former baseball and basketball players to the school on Saturday, April 27. The event will also be coinciding with their Rededication of the Jack Curran Gymnasium.

The event check-in will begin at 11:30 a.m. The school’s outdoor tailgating portion of the day, including food and beverages, will begin around 12 p.m. near the Stanner Field as the Molloy Varsity baseball team will take on their rival, Chaminade.

Following the conclusion of the baseball game, guests will be invited inside for the rededication of ceremony, where the high school plans to pay tribute to the man who pioneered basketball and baseball at Molloy for generations of students.

There will also be a special view-

ing of MSG Varsity’s “Legends of Coaching” video, which features Curran, Lou Carnesecca and Frank Rienzo.

There is no registration fee. To attend, contact the Stanner Alumni Center at (718) 441-9210 or email Joe Sommo 03’ at jsommo@molloyhs.org for more information.

Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 125 or jmarvilli@queenstribune.com.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

What’s Up APRIL 6 Camp Logan Held at York College Performing Arts Center at 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, Camp Logan tells the story of the Black decorated veterans from the 24th United States Infantry Regiment who were executed after clashing with the white townspeople whereby the harassment of the soldiers led to the revolts of 1917 that took place in Houston, TX. Celeste Bedford-Walker’s play premiered at the Victoria Five Theatre in New York City in 1994. The men of the all-Black 24th Infantry had fought bravely on behalf of the United States and received a distinguished record. They served in the Mexican-American dispute against Pancho Villa in Cuba under Teddy Roosevelt and in the Philippines during the Spanish-American War. Many of the men were 20year veterans, yet less than four months after returning from service, thirteen soldiers from the 24th were hanged without appeal or review under sentence by the largest courtmartial ever convened in the United States. Performances will be held at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. For pricing and additional information, call (718) 2622281.

mance of the classical music and dance traditions of Egypt, Lebanon, and the greater Arab world. The concert is free and occurs at 3 p.m. at 8911 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica.

This one-hour webinar running

The Women’s Council of the First Presbyterian Church at 89-60 164th St., Jamaica invite you to “Discovering Your Personal Power.” At this free seminar that runs from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., you will be introduced to the meaning of Personal Power, the importance of having personal power, knowing when your personal power is activated and how it helps you to achieve greatness.

Please note; this presentation is founded on biblical principles.

For additional information, contact Stephanie St. Clair at (718) 526-4775, ext. 29.

APRIL 8 Stay Well Learn how special exercises and relaxation techniques can make a difference in your life at the Queens Library Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. The free program begins at 10 a.m.

Simply To Empower’s GRAND The Kiwanis Club of Cambria Business Networking Affair

APRIL 7 Urban Book Club The Queens Urban Book Club reviews books from various genres, both fiction and non-fiction. Many of the books reviewed are urban themed.

Books are voted upon by club members. Supplementary activities are also incorporated into club meetings on a regular basis. Their next meeting is at 2:30 p.m. at the Queens Library Central Branch, found at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica.

Arab Music and Dance by Zikrayat Part of the Sunday concert series at Queens Central Library, Arab culture takes center stage in this perfor-

Becoming a Nonprofit: Seeking Federal Tax Exemption

Discovering Your Personal from 12 to 1 p.m. will focus primarily Power on applying for federal tax exemp-

Property Clean Up

Heights in association with Cozy Homes Realty, the Law Office of Clyde Vanel and the office of Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) are holding a “clean up” of private, distressed properties in and around Cambria Heights. To see if you qualify or to get further information on time, location and pricing, please call the office of Leroy Comrie at (718) 7763700; Frank Spalding Bey at (347) 732-7408; Carl Johnson at (917) 975-1038 or Dr. Arlene Allen at (718) 578-6712.

for help. Call (718) 480-4300 to schedule an appointment.

Business professionals come from all boroughs to Queens to attend this GRAND Affair at Idlewild Terrace at 157-13 Rockaway Blvd., Springfield Gardens from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. You are invited to attend, connect with other professionals, share your product and service and build major business relationships. Guest Speaker Debra Dixon, an esteemed Public Relations and marketing specialist will share tools that will help you “Brand Your Business to Effectively Stand Out Among Your Competition.” Come learn strategies that will add value to your growing business. The GRAND Business Networking Affair is for serious entrepreneurs looking to keep their business moving forward, while staying motivated. Light refreshments will be served and vendors/sponsors are welcome. The event costs $10 to attend. For additional information, contact Sherise Patterson at (718) 2894080, ext.

2 or spatterson@simplytoempower.com.

APRIL 9 Are You Ready for the GED? The Adult Learning Center, found at 91-14 Merrick Blvd., 6th Floor, Jamaica, will host a free GED assessment for ages 17 and up. Starting at 9:30 a.m., the free program will also teach attendees how to find a class

tion, but will also include information on applying for New York State and local tax exemption. This webinar will discuss the benefits and obligations of being a tax exempt organization. For additional information and pricing, visit http:// www.lawyersalliance.org/ workshops_descriptions.php#298 or call (212) 219-1800 or send an email to info@lawyersalliance.org.

York College Faculty Concert Hear dedicated teachers who are gifted musicians take the spotlight.

The evening will feature Mark Adams, Mike Espar, Matt Koza and Tom Zlabinger. They will perform at York College Illinois Jacquet Performance Space at the Chapel of the Three Sisters at 94-15 159th St., Howard Beach at 7 p.m.

ing a series of youth summits to educate the community regarding youth crews and trends in your respective neighborhoods. Parents, teenagers, educators, community leaders and representatives of community based organizations that work with youth are invited to attend. The forum is free and open to the public. It will take place from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at PAL Edward Byrne Center at 116-25 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., South Jamaica. For additional information, call Sgt. Orsini at (212) 343-3707.

York College Observatory Open Night The York College Observatory is open to the public every second or third Wednesday of the month, rain or shine, from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the York College Academic Core Building, which is found at 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica. Gather in room 2E01 and then proceed to the 4th floor terrace off G corridor if it is clear. For additional information, contact Tim Paglione at paglione@york.cuny.edu or (718) 262-2082.

APRIL 10 Power Of Attorney Workshop The ABC’s of Buying a Home The Jamaica Service Program for Older Adults will hold a free “Preparand Obtaining Grants Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, Inc. is holding a free workshop to inform the community about grants for buying a home. It will take place at the Multi-Service Center at 114-02 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. To register, call (718) 291-6656.

ing Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxies” workshop at 92-47 165th St., Jamaica at 1 p.m.

For additional information, call Cynthia Ellington at (718) 657-1581 or the Jackson Center at (718) 6576500.

ONGOING Homeowner Grants for Repairs Group Sessions Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, Inc. is holding a free workshop to inform the community about grants that are available for home repairs. It will take place at the MultiService Center at 114-02 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. To register, call (718) 291-6656.

ShapeUp NYC: Aerobics for Adults ShapeUp NYC’s Aerobics for Adults provides a free, moderate workout that burns calories and improves cardiac function. Instructor Danielle Howell will lead the 4 p.m. class at Queens Library Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. Space is limited. Participation is on a first-come, firstserved basis.

NYPD Youth Summit The Juvenile Justice Division of the Community Affairs Bureau is host-

Clergy United for Community Empowerment, Inc. Group Sessions are located at 172-17 Linden Blvd. Second Floor, St. Albans, for the community on various topics such as domestic violence, mental health, substance abuse intervention, decision making, condom use, high risk behaviors leading to HIV, and self – esteem awareness. All group sessions offer light snacks and beverages. Group sessions are open to the public.

Round-Trip Metro Card reimbursement is available at the end of each completed session. For further information call (718) 297-0720. All services are free. Call for next group date.

What’s Up With You? Send your community events to the PRESS for a free listing at 150-50 14th Rd. Whitestone, NY 11457 All events will be considered for publication, without a fee.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!

PARENTS PSYCHOLOGICAL CTR Family and child therapy, parent management training and more. 5700500 sliding scale.

KIDS KORNER Weekdays Central Queens YM-YWHA in Forest Hills. For K-6. 2685011, ext. 203.

ANIBIC Association for Neurologically Impaired Brain Injured Children, Inc. sponsors programs for those through adulthood.

423-9550.

TALKS

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

92-12 Jamaica Ave., Woodhaven, NY (718) 850-3313

HAND IN PERIL Sunday, April 7 talk addresses the nature of personal communication, its interest to historians and the dangers it now faces.

Queens Historical Societ y. $5 members, $8 others. 939-0647, ext. 14.

NYC LANDMARKS Monday, April 8 Grand Central Station. Monday, April 15 Woolworth and Flatiron Buildings.

100 Years News: The Immediac y of NYC Landmarks for Our Lives Today. Flushing librar y at 6:30.

HILLCREST BOOK Tuesday, April 9 “The Language of Flowers” discussed at the Hillcrest library at 3.

JEWISH STUDIES Thursday, April 11 “The Rescue of Jewish Cult u ra l Tre a s u r e s d u r i n g the Holocaust.” 7:15 at the Rosenthal Library 230, Queens College.

Free and open to the public. 997-5730.

CYBERCONFLICT Friday, April 12 Cyberconflict: Threats, Responses and the Role of Law 9-5:30 at St. John’s School of Law. 990-3014 to register.

SENIORS COMPUTER CLASS Beginning in April Selfhelp Rosenthal Center will hold a variety of computer classes, including basics, email, internet and advanced classes, Word, PowerPoint, Excel, digital photography and more. 5594329.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Experienced in community outreach, social media, public relations and assisting in various activities with seniors at the Jackson Adult Center.

657-6692.

SAFETY PROGRAM Lease expired and can’t afford new rent increase?

Eligible for food stamps or Medicaid? Jamaica Service Program 6576500.

DIRECTOR/ACTORS STAR is interviewing for a Director of the senior acting group and senior actors. 776-0529.

ALZHEIMERS Adult Day Care MondayThursday 9-4 in Flushing.

358-3541.

SOUTH ASIAN Alternate Saturdays Selfhelp BR-PS Senior Center in Flushing. Ind i a n - st y l e activities, lunch. 886-5777.

AARP TAX HELP Mondays, April 8, 15 Pomonok library at 11:30.

AARP DEFENSIVE DRIVE Monday, April 8 defensive driving class at the Hollis library. 465-7355 to register.

MEN’S CLUB Mondays 10-noon Men’s club for those over 65 at the Central Queens Y in Forest Hills. 423-0732.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE Mondays Lunch, lesson and congenial play. Pride of Judea. 423-6200.

STAY WELL Mondays at the Central library at 10 and Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East E l m h u r st l i b ra r y. Le a r n how special exercise and relaxation techniques make a difference in your life.

SENIOR COMPUTERS Tuesday, April 9 South Ozone Park library at 10.

AARP 4158 Tuesday, April 9 North Flushing chapter 4158 meets at noon at Church on the Hill, 167-07 35 th Avenue, Flushing.

SELFHELP LATIMER Tu e s d a y s a n d F r i d ay s drawing class 9:30-noon.

Hot nutritious lunch, ESL, Tai Chi, Ballroom Dancing, drawing, ping pong, mah jong. Selfhelp

Latimer Gardens Senior C e n t e r , 3 4 - 3 0 1 3 7 th Street, Flushing. 5594395.

CAREGIVERS Tu e s d a y s C a r e g i ve r s Support group at 3:304:30 Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 2 6 th A v e n u e , B a y s i d e .

631-1886.

STARS Wednesday, April 10 at 2 at the Hollis library and May 24 at 11:15 at SNAP, 80-45 Winchester Blvd., Queens Blvd.

AARP TAX HELP Wednesday, April 10 Windsor Park library at 1.

STARS Wednesdays Senior Theatre Acting Repertory at the Hollis library at 11:15.

AARP 29 Thursday, April 11 AARP chapter 29 meets at Grace House, 155-02 90 th Avenue, Jamaica at noon.

JACKSON SENIOR Thursday, April 11 Preparing Power of Attorney and Health Care Proxies at 1. Beginning April 12 through Oc tober Fridays Senior Strollers – walking at 9:30. Breakfast $1, lunch $1.50. Jackson Senior Center. 657-6500.

AARP TAX HELP Friday, April 12 Pomonok library at 11:30.

AARP DEFENSIVE DRIVE Friday, April 12 defensive driving class at the B e l l e ro s e l i b r a r y. 6 4 1 3911 to register.

STARS Fridays Senior Theater Acting Repertory at the Queens Village library at 11.

AARP 3334 Monday, April 15 St. Kevin’s Parish Center in Flushing. 224-0478.

ALLEN COMMUNITY Allen Communit y Senior Center in Jamaica. 6580980.

CLEARVIEW SENIOR Mondays Qi Gong at 10:45, card playing at 1 2 : 3 0 . Tu e s d a y s a n d Thursdays Wii Time at 1 2 : 4 5 . Tu e s d a y s a n d Wednesdays drawing and painting at 9:30.

Wednesdays bingo at 12:45, tai chi at 2. Thursdays scrabble at 12:45.

Fridays dance fitness at 10:45. Movies, computer classes, discussion groups, more. Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 2 6 th A v e n u e , B a y s i d e .

224-7888.

SAGE SAGE (Senior Action in a Gay Environment). 5336459.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

Queens Today MEETINGS GARDENING CLUB Saturdays in the Steinway library courtyard at 4.

CATHOLIC VETS Mondays, April 8, May 13, June 10 American M a r t y r s C a t h o l i c Wa r Ve te ra n s Po st 1 7 7 2 i n Bayside. 468-9351.

VFW 4787 Mondays, April 8, May 13, June 10 Whitestone V F W C o m m u n i t y Po s t meets. 746-0540.

ORATORIO SOCIETY Mondays at 7:45 at Temple Beth Sholom in Flushing. 279-3006. Auditions required.

COMMUNITY SINGERS M o n d ay s C o m m u n i t y Singers start rehearsals for their spring concert at 8 at Messiah Lutheran in Flushing. 658-1021.

TELEPHONE PION. Tuesday, April 9 Telephone Pioneers of America meet in College Point. 463-4535.

MISCELLANEOUS TAX COUNSELING Tu e s d a y, April 9 Auburndale library at 1.

TAX COUNSELING Wednesday, April 10 Windsor Park library at 1.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Experienced in community outreach, social media, public relations and assisting in various activities with seniors at the Jackson Adult Center.

657-6692.

IMMIGRATIONSERVICE Saturdays 10-1 at Council Member Leroy Comrie’s district office.

776-3700 to schedule appointment.

REHEARSALS Saturdays, Sacred Music Chorale of Richmond Hill begins rehearsals at St. John’s in Richmond Hill. www.richmondhillny.com/ Art sSMC. FH VAC The Forest Hills Volunteer Ambulance Corps needs volunteers. 7932055.

THEATER MARISOL May 3-11 “Marisol” is an apocalyptic urban fantasy which urges societ y to ‘wake up.’ Queensborough Communit y College. 631-6311.

KILLING KOMPANY The Killing Company performs mystery dinner shows. 1-888-SHOOT-EM for information.

GLEE CLUB Tuesdays Bayside Men’s Glee Club rehearses at 7:30 at All Saints Episcopal Church, 214-35 40 th Avenue, Bayside. 9616852.

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

FM CAMERA Tuesdays Fresh Meadows Camera Club. 917-6123463.

FH SYMPHONY Wednesdays the Forest Hills Symphony Orchestra rehearses at the Forest Hills Jewish Center.

516-785-2532.

EMOTIONS ANON. Wednesdays 7:30 Victoria Congregational

ENTERTAINMENT Church, 148 th Street and 87 th Avenue, Briarwood.

Support group for a variet y of troubling emotions..

98 TH STREET ASSN. Thursday, April 11 98 th Street Block Association at 6 at the East Elmhurst library.

TOASTMASTERS Thursday, April 11 Advance for Excellence Toastmasters Club at the Briarwood library at 5:45.

JAMAICA KIWANIS Thursdays, April 11, 25, May 9, 23 Kiwanis Club of Jamaica meets. 5273678.

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

RELIGIOUS YEAR OF FAITH Starting April 7 Great Mission: Year of Faith at Raymond O’Connor P a r k , 2 1 0 th S t r e e t a n d 33 rd Avenue, Bayside at 4:30.

HOLOCAUST MEMORY Sunday, April 7 Young Israel of Hollis HillsWindsor Park, 67-45 215 th Street, Bayside at 8. Also at the Young Israel of New Hyde Park, 264-15 77 th Avenue, New Hyde Park at 7:30.

Screening of selections from the film “Unlikely Heroes.”

JEWISH STUDIES Thursday, April 11 “The Rescue of Jewish Cult u r a l Tre a s u re s d u r i n g the Holocaust.” 7:15 at the Rosenthal Library 230, Queens College.

Free and open to the public. 997-5730.

SACRED MUSIC Sunday, April 14 Sacred Music Chorale of Richmond Hill presents their Spring Concert at St. John’s Lutheran in Richmond Hill. $15, $12 advance. Children free.

Reception follows with wine, coffee, tea, cookies and pretzels.

UNITARIAN Sundays services at 11 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Queens, 147-54 Ash Avenue, Flushing. 3533860.

ALUMNI IMMACULATE CONC. April 27 Immaculate Conception School in Astoria will host a reunion for all graduates. icsastoriaalumni@gmail.com

DINNER

DANCE ST. JOSAPHAT Sunday, April 14 St. Josaphat’s Easter/ Swieconka Dance 2-6 in Bayside. $35 includes cocktail hour, dinner and music. 746-5138 tickets.

IMMAC. CONCEPTION Friday, April 19 Annual Spring Dinner Dance at Leonard’s of Great Neck.

739-0880.

ISRAELI FOLK Mondays 7:15-9:45 at Hillcrest Jewish Center, 182-02 Union Turnpike. $10 session. 380-4145.

LINE DANCING Mondays 6:30-9:30 at Kowalinski Post 4, 61-57 Maspeth Avenue. $7.

Cake and coffee. 5652259.

EXEC. LEADERSHIP Friday, April 12 Executive Leadership Breakfast with “How the Affordable Care A ct Impacts Yo u r Healthcare.” 8-9:30 t York College. 262-3866.

ENVIRONMENT FOOD WASTE DROPOFF Saturdays 10:30-noon at the Sunnyside library and 1-3 at the Broadway library.

GARDENING CLUB Saturdays help with our vegetable and shade garden at the Steinway library at 4.

COMPOSTING Tuesdays Woodside library 5:15-6:30.

TOOMAI STRING Saturday, April 6 Flushing library at 2.

NU URBAN CAFÉ Saturdays live jazz, r&b, open mic 8-midnight.

Free. 188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. 917817-8653.

ARAB MUSIC Sunday, April 7 Arab music and dance by Zikrayat at the Central library at 3.

TAMBURIZANS Sunday, April 7 East European dance at Queensborough Communit y College. 6316311.

BOLEROS Sunday, April 7 Boleros: A Tres Voces at 4 at Thalia Spanish Theatre in Sunnyside. 729-3880.

OPEN MIC POETRY Mondays, April 8, May 13, June 10 Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Tu r n p i ke , F re s h M e a d ows at 7:30.

BINGO Tuesdays 7:15 American Mart yrs C h u rc h in Bayside. 464-4582. Tuesdays 7:15 (doors open 6) Rego Park Jewish Center. 459-1000. $3 admission includes 12 games.

SCRABBLE Tuesday s Fresh Meadows library at 2.

CHESS Tuesdays 4 Rosedale library.

SOUTH ASIA ON FILM Wednesdays through April 25 at 4:30 at the G o d w i n - Te r n b a c h M u seum at Queens College.

997-4747 for titles and other info.

CHAMBER MUSIC Fridays, April 12, 19, May 3, 10 10-noon at Queens College. 9973800.

NU URBAN CAFÉ Fridays live jazz and r&b 9-midnight. Free. 188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans.

917-817-8653.

GAME DAY Fridays 4:30 Woodhaven library.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays 2 Hillcrest library.

IMMIGRANT VOICES Saturday, April 13 “Vanishing Son” at 8 at Queens Theatre in the Park. 760-0064.

WOMEN IN JAZZ Saturday, April 13 Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.

CHARLOTTE’S WEB Sunday, April 14 at Queens Theatre in the Park. 760-0064.

CHARO Sunday, April 14 Queensborough Com-

munit y College. 6316311.

SACRED MUSIC Sunday, April 14 Sacred Music Chorale of Richmond Hill presents their Spring Concert at St. John’s Lutheran in Richmond Hill. $15, $12 ad-

EDUCATION LESSEN ANGER Lessen anger through creating art at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

CREATE WEALTH Learn How to Create Wealth at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

WRITE SCRIPT Write a Book or Movie Script at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, April 8, 15 Forest Hills library at 6:30.

JOB SEARCH Mondays free job search and computer help every Monday 11-2 at the Astoria library.

BRIDGE Mondays e x c e p t h o l i days 12-4 at Pride of Judea in Douglaston. Lesson & play $10. Partners arranged. 423-6200.

ADULT CHESS Mondays and Thursdays Queens Village library at 5:30.

GED PREP Tuesday, April 9 Are you Ready for the GED? Central library. 480-4300.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Tuesday, April 9 Flushing library. Register.

BASIC COMPUTER Tuesday, April 9 LIC library at noon.

SMALL BUSINESS Tuesdays Small Business Workshop at the Central library. Register.

COMPUTER CLASS Wednesday, April 10 Woodside library at 5:45.

WATERCOLOR Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the National Art League.9691128.

INTRO COMPUTERS Thursday, April 11 Ozone Park library. Register.

LEARN CHINESE Thursdays North Forest Park library at 6.

KNIT & CROCHET Fridays Fresh Meadows library at 11.

CHESS CLUB Fridays at 3:30 at the Auburndale library and 4 at the Woodside library.

vance. Children free.

Reception follows with wine, coffee, tea, cookies and pretzels.

INSEKTA DANCE Sunday, April 14 Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.

HEALTH LEARN CPR Sunday, April 7 Woodhaven-Richmond Hill VAC at 2. $40 (no checks). 516-643-6746.

SHAPE UP NYC Mondays, April 8, 15 stretch and tone LIC library at 6:30.

ALZHEIMERS Tu e s d a y s , A p r i l 9 , 2 3 Caregiver Support Group in Forest Hills.

592-5757, ext. 237.

WELL SPOUSE Wednesdays, April 10, May 8 Well Spouses or Partners of the Chronically Ill and Disabled meet at St. Charles Rehab in Albertson. 516829-8740.

SHAPE UP NYC Wednesday, April 10 Aerobics for adults Central library at 4.

ADULT BALLET BARRE Starting April 10 Central Queens Y in Forest Hills at 7:30. 10 classes for $‘50, free for CQY members. 268-5011, et.

504.

OA Wednesdays Overeaters Anonymous Howard Beach library at 11.

CANCER ACTION Thursday, April 11 Northern Queens Cancer Action Council meets at the Flushing library at 10.

MS SUPPORT Thursday, April 11 National Multiple Sclerosis Societ y Suppor t Group meets at 1 at the Howard Beach library.

SHAPE UP NYC Thursday, April 11 Body Sculpt Fitness at the Lefrak Cit y librar y at 5:30.

SHAPE UP NYC Friday, April 12 Dance Fitness for Adults at the Richmond Hill library at 5.

EXEC. LEADERSHIP Friday, April 12 Executive Leadership Breakfast with “How the Affordable Care Act Impacts Yo u r Healthcare.” 8-9:30 t York College. 262-3866 RSVP. AA Tuesdays at 8 at Grace Lutheran Church in Astoria. 520-5021. Also, call 24/7 a week.

CLASSIFIEDS

Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

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April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 21

People Sakirat Akadri of Jamaica received High Honor Roll for the winter term at Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, Conn.

Isaiah Henderson of Jamaica was recently recognized by coaches and teammates at Pomfret School in Connecticut for an outstanding season in varsity basketball. Henderson was awarded the R. Duane Daentl Basketball trophy.

Henderson also received Honors for the winter term.

Sarah Mae Lagasca of Bellerose was named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2012 semester at Rider University’s Westminster Choir College in Princeton, NJ. Gabriella Carbone of Bellerose, a student at Providence College in Rhode Island, recently spent a week working with Habitat for Humanity as part of the college’s Alternative Spring Break program.

Air Force Airman Joseph B. Saur graduated from basic military training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that in-

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cluded training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Saur is the son of Elizabeth Saur of Oakland Gardens.

The New York Army National Guard has announced the promotion of members in recognition of their capabilities for additional responsibility and leadership.

Damian Smith of Richmond Hill, serving with the 107th Military Police Company, is promoted to sergeant.

Johan Bonilla of Woodhaven, ser ving with the 145th Maintenance Company, is promoted to private.

Jennifer Aragones of Ozone Park, serving with the Company C, 101st Signal Battalion, is promoted to specialist.

Hak Bin Ahn of Forest Hills has been named director of sales and leasing for Kaled Management Corporations’ new residential sales brokerage division.

Julia Karsten of Forest Hills has been named an Aquinas Scholar at Mount Saint Mary College in

Top Honors:

Giresh Rajkaran of Hollis was recognized for his academic achievement at his March 22 graduation for Universal Technical Institute in Exton, Pa. Rajkaran graduated from UTI’s Automotive/Diesel and Industrial Technology Program with a 3.96 GPA and 99.26 percent attendance. He received seven “Student of the Course” awards, as well as 15 Directors List Awards. He is also nominated into the Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society.

Newburgh. Karsten was also named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2012 semester.

Kaitlin Gerdts of Forest Hills was also named to the Dean’s List for the fall 2012 semester.

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Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens April 5-11, 2013

More Pepper

Musicians Of Queens

Neo Blues Maki Although this band is called Neo Blues Maki, don’t think that their sound is limited to that genre. Instead, the New York group takes on a progressive, jazzy sound that touches on everything from R&B to rock to enka, the latter of which is a type of sentimental Japanese ballad.

The band, made up of Soshi Uchida on bass, Kayo Yoshioka on vocals, Junya Yamaguchi on keyboard, David Linaburg/Kappa Tanabe on guitar and Lucianna Padmore/ Mark Bell on drums, formed in New York due to Uchida, Yoshioka and Yamaguchi knowing each other when they lived in Japan.

Ucida moved to New York in 2006 and started performing at the Village Underground’s Open Mic Night, displaying his blues-jazz bass skills. Yoshioka came to New York to learn gospel music, a popular genre in the country. Yamaguchi

had also moved to the City, looking for a place to put his talents as a keyboard player and arranger in jazz fusion, funk and R&B to good use.

“We got together and agreed that we could put together a unique band by having Kayo sing in Japanese while the band played New York-influenced arrangements,” Uchida said.

Soon after adding Linaburg/Tanabe and Padmore/ Bell, the band quickly found a unique sound that combined the soulful aspect of Japanese music with the jazzblues touches of New York. Based in Astoria, thanks to the residencies Uchida and Yamaguchi have there, Neo Blues Maki released their debut self-produced, self-titled record in April 2011.

They are hard at work on their next release as well. In addition to getting that album out to their fans, the group hopes to expand their New York performances to the rest of the U.S. and to other nations, such as Japan.

Pepper spray should not be treated like a toy, a harsh lesson that a TSA worker at JFK Airport learned.

According to reports, TSA agent Chris Dabel accidentally sprayed five co-workers with a canister of pepper spray, sending himself and his fellow agents to the hospital.

Dabel thought that the pepper spray was a laser pointer and was playing with it when he set off the liquid on his co-workers.

We can’t imagine that a laser pointer would be that fun to play with, but a simple double check would have avoided such an embarrassing incident.

Twitback Some people just can't take criticism. Thankfully, Nicki Minaj is there to put them in their place.

After an ousted "American Idol" contestant complained about Minaj's comments, the Queens artist took to Twitter.

"If EYE didn’t want u in that TOP, YOU wldnt have been in that TOP. Fought for ALL of you. So just simply b gracious."

Political Reality?

Brooklyn DA Charles Hynes Reality TV blurs reality as more hit reality TV-shows dominate the ratings. We have seen shows related to cooks, singers, dancers, housewives, stylists, bachelors, businessowners, but do we draw the line on elected officials?

The lights and camera will follow Brooklyn District Attorney Charles Hynes, who attended Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens, as he stars in a new six-part series on CBS, titled “Brooklyn

D.A.,” premiering on May 21. The executive producer, Susan Zirinsky, expects the dramatic day-to-day happenings to be a hit series, like the “Jersey Shore” and “House of Cards.”

Hynes, a long time prosecutor, will soon be a threat to long time reality TV star, Kim Kardashian, as he fights his re-election campaign against two opponents on national television. His challengers aren’t too pleased with the free air time Hynes will receive, even though the producer claims the show will not be about politics.

If producers want to focus on politics, they would be hardpressed to find a more interesting place than Queens.

Although, that could easily turn into a show about life in prison...

TOUGH CHOICES - With both of New York's pro baseball teams opening their seasons at the same time this year, Mayor Mike Bloomberg split his time, heading first to the Bronx before stopping at Citi Field about 90 minutes into the game. Mr. Mayor clearly left the Bronx in disgust - the Yankees were routed by the Red Sox. But the Mets came through, beating the Padres to start the season right. Photo by Ira Cohen.

April 5-11, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 23

The care you need, when and where you need it, to live well at home.

A New York State Authorized Managed Long Term Care Plan      

More than a name, a promise.   

        