Volume 15 Issue No. 19 May 9-15, 2014
THE FACE OF FRAUD? Councilman Ruben Wills arrested on charges of defrauding government agencies, Southeast Queens officials react. By Natalia Kozikowska … Page 3. Also Inside: Editorial – Enough is Enough! … Page 6
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Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
News Briefs Jamaica Man Convicted Of Rape Of Two Girls
On May 6, Jamaica resident Lee Samuel was sentenced to 14 years in prison for having sex with two sevenyear-old girls on separate occasions in South Ozone Park last year. According to a statement issued by Queens District Attorney Richard Brown, Samuel pleaded guilty last month to first-degree criminal sexual act and first-degree sexual abuse. He has been held without bail since his arrest in May 2013. In pleading guilty, Samuel admitted that he approached one of his young female victims from behind on the afternoon of May 1, 2013, as she was tying her shoe on the sidewalk and touched her on the buttocks. Several hours later that same day and approximately two miles away, Samuel approached his second victim and asked if she wanted to play a game. Samuel told her to cover her eyes with her hands and stick out her tongue. When the girl opened her eyes, she saw that Samuel had exposed himself. Samuel then grabbed her by the waist and engaged in a sexual act with her. “The defendant has admitted to being a sexual predator and, as such, he has proven himself to be a threat to children and a clear and present danger to society in general,” Brown said in the statement. “The lengthy sentence imposed by the Court is more than warranted and punishes the defendant for his crimes.”
Jamaica Man Convicted Of Sexually Assaulting Teen
On May 7, Jamaica resident Andrew Bennett was convicted of first-degree course of a sexual conduct, first-degree rape, first-degree attempted murder and third-degree robbery, according to a press release issued by Queens District Attorney Richard Brown. According to the release, the 22-year-old defendant was connected to the attacks, in part, by forensic evidence obtained from a condom that he used during one of the sexual assaults. According to trial testimony, the then-19-year-old female victim was in the vicinity of 108-30 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, at approximately 3 a.m. on Oct. 13, 2011, when Barrett, also 19 at the time, began following her from behind and approached her wearing a black bandanna that covered his face. Barrett then displayed a box cutter and swung it at her before dragging her behind a dumpster where he sexually assaulted her. Barrett then took her to another
location nearby where he again sexually assaulted her, this time using a condom which he discarded nearby when he was done. He then robbed the victim of her iPod, $10 in cash and a bank debit card. Police recovered the used condom at the crime scene and turned it over to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner for DNA analysis of the semen found inside. The DNA was positively matched to a DNA profile of Barrett that was in the state data bank known as CODIS (Combined DNA Index System) as a result of a previous conviction. “The defendant stands convicted of being a sexual predator who subjected his victim to a terrorizing ordeal. While the scars of that which occurred will be with her for the rest of her life, she proved to be resilient and exhibited grace and dignity as she confronted her attacker at trial,” Brown said in the statement. “She is to be commended for her bravery in ensuring that the guilty did not escape justice.” “This case also underscores the crucial importance of DNA evidence which is irrefutable proof of guilt or innocence,” he added. “Jurors returned a swift and decisive verdict and the defendant now faces a lengthy prison sentence.” Barrett faces up to 25 years in prison.
Man Killed Near Site Of Year’s First Murder
According to reports, Darrell Lynch, a 24-year-old Jamaica man was gunned down on the evening of May 5. And the location of the fatal shooting took place in front of the very same house where the City’s first homicide in 2014 took place. Police arrived to the scene to discover the victim, Lynch, suffering from a leg wound. He was taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and pronounced dead on arrival. No suspects have been arrested, although media reports that Lynch was shot in front of his mother, allegedly by a man whom he had a fight with over a parking space that day. The reports allege that both the victim and his mother fired shots at the killer as he fled.
Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to: PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
Presstime
Ruben Wills Arrested On Corruption Charges BY PRESS STAFF Another prominent Queens official is facing criminal charges. Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica) was arrested early Wednesday following a detailed investigation from State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman. According to the indictment released Wednesday afternoon, Wills has been charged with third-degree grand larceny, first-degree scheme to defraud, first-degree falsifying business records and first-degree offering a false instrument for filing. If convicted of the grand larceny charge, Wills could face up to seven years in prison. The Attorney General’s office investigation alleges that Wills and a member of his family, Jelani Mills, defrauded approximately $30,000 in state funds from the City Campaign Finance Board and the State Office of Children and Family Services that were illegally redirected to a nonprofit, New York 4 Life, which Wills controlled. Mills was charged with third-degree grand larceny and first-degree falsifying business records. “New Yorkers are repeatedly asked to have faith in our leaders, and it appears that faith has been shattered once again,” Schneiderman said. “Every time my office arrests a corrupt public official, it sends the message that elected office does not come with
Above: Ruben Wills outside of the Queens Criminal Courthouse after facing a judge. Left: The mug shot of Ruben Wills taken Wednesday morning. (Top photo taken by Luis Gronda.) a blank check or a license to break the law.” Wills has reportedly been under investigation for some time, in connection to the arrest of former State Sen. Shirley Huntley, who was charged with fraud connected to a non-profit in 2012. Wills served as Huntley’s chief of staff for two years. After facing a judge Wednesday morning, Wills spoke to reporters outside of the Queens County Criminal Courthouse. Standing with attorney Christopher Renfroe, Wills defiantly stressed his innocence and said he would hold a press conference in the next two weeks to address the charges. “I’m telling you and my district
that I’m innocent. I have full support from my district and the City Council. I am not resigning on charges,” Wills said. “This is America, people. We are presumed innocent until you are proven guilty.” During the press conference, Wills indicated that he was being targeted because of the color of his skin. “I know because of where I come from and the color I am, it doesn’t usually work like that with you guys, but I am presumed innocent and that’s what we’re going with,” he said. Wills declined to elaborate on the comment. Since Wills’ arrest, a number of Southeast Queens politicians have offered their reactions – most of
Norris Seeks Candidate To Replace DA Brown BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Prominent and vocal Southeast Queens leader, the Rev. Chuck Norris, is doing all he can to drive District Attorney Richard Brown out of office. The former staffer to John Santucci, Brown’s predecessor, says that the DA is not doing enough for the minorities in New York, charging that Brown is too eager to put first-time offenders behind bars. “Brown does not give our young people a second chance. I’m talking about African American children,” he said. “They are happy to send them to Riker’s [Island], send them upstate, and that’s all.” Norris argued that, under Santucci’s administration, there were second chance programs available for the misguided youth – an element he feels is missing at Brown’s office.
“He [Santucci] set up the second chance program that gave people who were involved in their first offense to appear before a group of clergy and listen to their problem,” he explained. “They had to admit their guilt and then, we would give them a second opportunity.” “But Brown is sentencing these kids without any consideration,” Norris added. “That’s why Mr. Brown just needs to not be on the ballot next time. He’s got to go.” The Reverend also accused Brown of not appointing enough women and minorities as assistant district attorneys since he was elected in 1991. “When the DA gets his allotment of assistant district attorneys every year, very seldom does he get more than one or two women or African American people in that group,” Norris said. “It’s not right. This county has a multiplicity of people and dif-
ferent ethnic groups and Mr. Brown needs to consider that.” Norris noted that he is in the midst of searching for a candidate to replace Brown in the upcoming primary. He said he plans to meet with U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) to discuss kicking Brown off the ballot. “I am looking for someone who is qualified to run for the district attorney spot,” he said. “I don’t care if he is a judge or a lawyer, Black, white, Asian or polka dots – we need someone who has administrative ability and who will be fair to everybody.” The DA position is not up for reelection until 2015. There is no primary until next year, either. Editor’s Note: Queens DA Richard Brown provides an overview of his time in office on Page 12. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
which edge on the side of safety. “I am brokenhearted. It’s another burden on the backs of a weary community,” said State Sen. James Sanders (D-Jamaica). “We deserve better than this.” Sanders also said that Wills does deserve his day in court just like everybody else in this country. When asked to respond to a comment by Wills referencing the color of his skin, the Senator harkened back to a forum he hosted on the subject titled “Attack on Black Leaders: Conspiracy or Corruption?” Sanders said he feels that it is a little bit of both, and while he believes the system is harsher on leaders of color, there are those that get themselves in trouble and the community needs to hold them accountable. “There is a certain amount of corruption that we need to root out,” he said. Former City Councilman Archie Spigner, who is often referred to as “the dean of Southeast Queens,” declined to comment about his thoughts that Wills was targeted because he is Black, although he did offer a reaction to the news. “It’s a sad day for Ruben Wills and his family and Southeast Queens,” he said. Much like Spigner, former Councilman and current State Senate candidate Leroy Comrie offered a cautious response to Wills’ arrest. “I’m sad that this has happened and I am confident that Ruben will make every attempt to prove his innocence,” Comrie said. “It’s a difficult time for Southeast Queens.” When asked whether he felt that Wills was targeted because of the color of his skin, like he had proclaimed to reporters, Comrie simply responded, “that’s his belief, and he’s entitled to his beliefs.” Wills was stripped of his member items and his chairmanship, according to sources within the City Council. The office of City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito has been designating funds to be allocated to the district. Wednesday morning, Mark-Viverito sent a statement about Wills’ arrest. “The City Council takes these troubling allegations from the New York State Attorney General very seriously and will be reviewing them thoroughly,” the statement read. “New Yorkers expect and deserve a government that is ethical and responsible and that is the standard we’re seeking to uphold.”
Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
Vanel, Comrie Clash At CUCE Breakfast Earlier this week, close to 100 clerical leaders gave Clyde Vanel the chance to speak about his candidacy for the 14th Senatorial district. But there was also one unexpected guest who came out to hear Vanel’s speech – former Councilman Leroy Comrie, who announced that he had resigned as Deputy Borough President to run for the seat last week. At the May 6 breakfast, which was sponsored by Vanel, the Cambria Heights attorney delivered his address to the influential Southeast Queens group, Clergy United for Church Empowerment, in the hopes of convincing the crowd he is the best candidate to replace embattled State Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-Jamaica) – even better than Comrie. Vanel began his address, which he said was “not a campaign speech,” by noting that the upcoming Democratic Primary for the 14th Senatorial district is a critical election for Southeast Queens. He highlighted some of the community’s biggest problems – failing schools, foreclosures, crime, unemployment and flooding – and argued that these fixable issues have been plaguing the district for far too long
Photo by Natalia Kozikowska
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
Senatorial candidates Leroy Comrie and Clyde Vanel had an unintentional showdown at a clergy United For Church Empowerment breakfast earlier this week.
and that there is a need for change. Vanel went on to tout some of his accomplishments, most notably hiring the community’s youth and his success as a business attorney. But his address soon began to shift gears by criticizing Comrie, who had just walked into the room at nearly the exact moment his name was mentioned. “Right now, the esteemed Leroy Comrie entered into the race. He’s a good man but we need to be honest. We need someone who is going to make their own decisions,” Vanel
said. “We don’t run our own politics in our neighborhood. We allow Queens County [Democrats], people that don’t look like us, to tell us when to run and when not to run.” His statement, which referred to Comrie’s decision to drop out of the race for Borough President last summer, was followed by a burst of applause. After Vanel took a few questions from members of the clergy, Comrie took to the mic with a rebuttal. “I intend to be your next State Sen-
ator for the 14th Senatorial district,” Comrie began. His opening remark was met with applause. “I have never been run by anybody,” he said. “I’m run by nobody but God. I’ve never been run by anybody but God and have never run a negative campaign. I’ve always tried to lift all of us up to make sure we get together for the betterment of the community.” “[In my 12 years in the City Council], I was able to deliver more for Southeast Queens than any elected official, and I dare say all the elected officials combined,” Comrie added. “I don’t like to stroke myself, but I think I feel the need.” Comrie concluded his rebuttal by challenging Vanel to a debate and highlighting his loyalty to the Southeast Queens community, which he said was demonstrated by his choice to leave a “cushy position” and take a pay cut for the Senate seat. “I’m serious about what I can try to do for people. I’m a family person and I’ve done everything that I can do unblemished,” he said. “I am not the smartest person in this room, but I know that I’m clear about my mission of giving back to my community.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5
BY JOE MARVILLI Elected officials gathered at Pomonok Houses to deliver a message on the New York City Housing Authority’s downsizing policy: enough is enough. Councilman Rory Lancman (DHillcrest), Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz (D-Flushing) and State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) rallied around Ralph Calinda, a 91-yearold World War II veteran who NYCHA is attempting to move out of his apartment. Despite having lived in Pomonok for more than 60 years, NYCHA is downsizing Calinda out of his apartment and asking him to move to a complex in another neighborhood. Downsizing is part of NYCHA’s rightsizing process to make sure that residents are living in an apartment that is not under-utilized or overcrowded. These rooms qualify as under-utilized if there are more bedrooms than the residents of that apartment requires. The only way to opt out of moving elsewhere for a downsizing is if the move itself puts the resident in a lifeor-death situation. Any other types of inconveniences or hardships are not acceptable excuses for NYCHA, according to Lancman. “We’re here to demand that they
stop, that they treat their longtime residents like valuable citizens and families of the communities they live in, rather than pieces of furniture they can move around,” he said. A few weeks ago, Lancman called out NYCHA during a City Council hearing, addressing his concerns to the agency’s general manager, Cecil House. The councilman said that NYCHA acknowledged that the system was flawed and seemed to put a moratorium on involuntary downsizes until the policy was reviewed. “Cecil House said, ‘We should not be taking enforcement action or inconveniencing residents until we get this policy appropriately in place.’ We thought that was good news, that NYCHA was taking a time out,” Lancman stated, finding out about Calinda’s case in the subsequent weeks. Calinda was given three options for his move; Queensbridge, Ravenswood and Far Rockaway. The closest out of this three, Ravenswood, is still nine miles away from Pomonok. Simanowitz argued that by moving Calinda, you take away his entire support system. “We have a constituent who actually asked for a downsize. They’ve been waiting three years. Where is the common sense? Why are they threatening seniors?” he asked. “I
Photo by Joe Marvilli
NYCHA Downsizes 91-Year-Old WWII Vet
Councilman Rory Lancman (center), State Sen. Toby Stavisky (left) and Assemblyman Michael Simanowitz are protesting NYCHA’s forced downsizing of Ralph Calinda, a WWII vet at Pomonok Houses. have a question for NYCHA. Are they going to come and pack up 50plus years of Ralph Calinda’s life and move it to another apartment?” Stavisky attended NYCHA’s meeting with the seniors of Pomonok a few weeks ago, where the agency laid out their downsizing policy. She labeled the conversation as “double talk” from NYCHA. “To me, in every society, we respect our senior citizens. We respect, especially, our veterans. This, to me, is elder abuse,” she added. “NYCHA is a
prime example of what not to do.” Monica Corbett, president of the Pomonok Residents Association, was also upset that longtime seniors who have become part of the community are being forced to leave. “Our seniors are the fabric of where we live. We don’t want them to keep moving. They invested so much into Pomonok. It’s not fair,” she said. “We don’t want to interrupt their lives. Let them live out their golden years.” When asked to comment, NYCHA’s dept. of communications sent a statement on its policy. “Rightsizing helps us fulfill our mission to provide safe, decent, affordable housing to as many people as possible,” the statement read. “The New York City Housing Authority will continue to work with our stakeholders, including residents, elected officials and advocates, to ensure that this policy is sensitive and fair.” Calinda himself was on hand, speaking about how he wanted to stay in his current home. “I’ve been here over 60 years. I’ve been very good to Pomonok. I think it’s terrible that I have to move,” he said. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
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Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
Editorial OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens
Editor-in-Chief:
Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:
Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:
Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor
Regina Vogel
Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Jackie Strawbridge Art Dept:
Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend
Enough Is Enough! We cannot hide our disappointment that yet another elected official from our community has been arrested on corruption charges, facing claims that he took advantage of his position to help himself to funds that should have been used for his constituents. Even more shameful, he allegedly helped himself to funds meant for children in his community. Ruben Wills claims that he was targeted by the Attorney General’s office because he is Black. Well, tell that to former Assemblyman Brian McLaughlin, or to Councilman Dan Halloran, or State Sen. Carl Kruger and Assemblyman Anthony Seminario, or any of the too-numerous other officials – who are not Black – who are currently or will be serving time because of their corrupt actions. Mr. Wills, this is not about race. This is about greed, this is about self-empowerment by elected officials who feel they are above the law and flaunt this belief above their desire to help their community. The real issue, we believe, is why we nominate and elect these officials who have a questionable background, who have questionable motives for seeking elected office. Unfortunately, we have not been choosing the most qualified to serve, only the best-connected. Many of those elected in Southeast Queens are those who will carry the water for one organization or party. This paper has frequently asked, where are those community leaders who want to serve, not be served? Where are the leaders who will work for the community, not for special interest groups or local bosses? When will the voters and the community leaders in Southeast Queens stand up and say that enough is finally enough? When will the leadership amongst the clergy get together and demand quality leaders who will represent this community with pride, so the younger generation can look up to and not down on their elected officials? It is time for us to see our leaders leading, not being hauled off in handcuffs. Let’s begin to nominate leaders who will bring dignity and honor to community. Shame on us if we do not change the way we select and elect our leaders. The time for change is now, and we should make the most of it when we go to the ballot this year.
Letters Thanking His Councilman
To The Editor: Open letter to Council Member Eric A. Ulrich I need to thank your staff for helping me resolve a problem. On Tuesday last week I called your office and spoke with Arlene Brown. Told her my problem and she asked me to come in the next day. I did and Greg Mitchell was very helpful in doing what needed to be done to help me resolve my situation. Sal Simonetti was also gracious when I returned. Again, I need to thank those involved. Bernard Solow, Ozone Park
Some Real Brave Musicians
To The Editor: Well, looks like Real Brave Music School has once again provided our Fresh Meadows community with the most outstanding live music performance yet! On May 4, the music school named Real Brave delivered their real Brave Little Musicians as professional would be’s and with the music teachers as backup on stage, added to the glitz of showmanship! Within the classrooms of
Real Brave Music School is the real essence of what the formula of getting through to the students is. The formula is that the Maestro of Real Brave, Dan, used great judgment in selecting the musicians who in turn transcend their love of music into a mentoring and motivating experience for these Real Brave little musicians. This is my seventh year attending these performances and each year the level of professionalism instilled in these children are established in a stress-free, non-competitive arena. I was also raised in music, my dad was a musician/band leader and one thing I remember him saying to me was “Yes, the music industry is competitive, but you are the music you create.” I believe the music teachers in Real Brave get that message across to their students in a fun learning way! The performance level and learning curve these children are exposed to from music is setting their grounded inner self with creativity, expression, and the freedom and strength to be who they are, whether as musicians, doctors or cooks, these are forever skills for life and coping with it! Dee Rao Walker, Fresh Meadows
Maureen Coppola Advertising Director
Derailment: A Lesson Too Important To Ignore
Shanie Persaud Director Corporate Accounts/Events
A Personal Perspective By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE
Advertising Executives Shari Strongin Brenda Jones
A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2014 Tribco, LLC
Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller
When the F Train derailed in Woodside last week it marked the first time many of us had seen such a thing so close to home. Every day, we ride “the iron horse” without giving a second thought to the possibility that she could run off the track. We take it for granted that the rails under us are in good condition. That means that the biggest concerns are to get a seat, pretend to be asleep when the panhandlers come through, and hope the rats and any miscreants stay away from us. As it turns out, the MTA really does work hard to ensure those rails are safe and indeed, the one that had the damage
that led to the derailment was reportedly brand new. However, more needs to be done. Six of the train’s eight cars derailed strewing passengers hither and yon. Amazingly, only 19 out of about a thousand were injured. Only four were reported to be serious. It could have been a whole lot worse and we count our blessings. It is to the credit of the FDNY and NYPD personnel that 1000 passengers were safely evacuated. Not to trivialize the pain and suffering of those injured. No one wants to be hurt, no matter how slightly. But this could have been a much bigger disaster in our city. How can we feel safe taking the train now that we have had an up-close-and-personal experience with this event?
We are New Yorkers; we will think about it, then shake it off and get on with our trip. Like riding a real horse that throws you, it is important to just get right back on the train and go on about your business. But first, the MTA will have to do a serious overhaul of that spot, Broadway and 65th Street, which is said to be the site of sporadic track breaks. In fact, after the accident, we learned that area has had “the second-highest concentration of broken rails between 2005 and 2012.” The area was on track for a major overhaul to replace or reinforce the rails for more durability throughout the network of tracks. That work, however, is scheduled to begin next year. That’s not good enough. If any part of our rail system is
vulnerable, it should be fixed “yesterday” not “next year.” The New York City subway tracks are among the very busiest in the world. Like any overpopulated city, we put undue pressure on our infrastructure. There needs to be more investment made in our bridges, tunnels, rail system. This accident was a warning. If we don’t fix the system, we are in for major disasters. It is imperative that we make the investment in the system now. This derailment last week should be seen as a serious warning. Let’s demand that the problem gets resolved in a more permanent way than has been previously done. Meanwhile, we pray that those injured in the F Train derailment will recover fully both in mind and body.
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
Exercise During Pregnancy A Good Idea For Most Women Exercise is healthy and safe for most pregnant women, and it can help get the body ready for giving birth. Pregnant women should get about 30 minutes of physical activity almost every day. Exercise during pregnancy offers many health benefits. Doctors at Jamaica Hospital recommend at least 2½ hours of exercise each week for healthy pregnant women, about a half hour a day. This can be broken up into ten minutes of physical activity three times a day. The benefits for exercising while you are pregnant include: -- Providing extra energy -- Helping with fitness and controlling weight gain -- Easing some of the discomforts of pregnancy, including constipation, backaches and difficulty sleeping. -- Reducing the risk of gestational diabetes -- Reducing stress Be sure to drink plenty of water before, during and after exercising, and be alert to your body and how you feel. Stop exercising and call your provider if you experience pain, vaginal bleeding, dizziness or breathing difficulties. But not every woman should ex-
ercise during pregnancy. Pregnant women with heart problems, or who experience early labor—before 37 weeks of pregnancy—or a cervix that opens before the baby is full term may not be able to exercise. Women pregnant with twins or triplets—or more— should avoid exercise because of a risk of preterm labor. Doctors at Jamaica Hospital also warn that there are other health issues that would preclude exercise during pregnancy, such as anemia, high blood pressure and diabetes. For women who exercised before they were pregnant, it’s usually safe to continue after they check with their doctor. Obviously, as your pregnancy progresses and your body changes, modify some activities and ease up on your workout. But if you haven’t exercised before your pregnancy, start slowly and increase it little by little. All pregnant women should consult with their physician before starting an exercise program to ask if exercise is safe for you. If you are pregnant and have questions about exercise during pregnancy, or you would like to make an appointment at Jamaica Hospital’s Women’s Health Center, please call 718-291-3276.
Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
MOTHER
of the Year
WINNER: Age 8 and Under Rileigh Olson, 7 Mom: Katie, Woodside My mom is special day through night, She loves me and hugs me very tight, Then she makes the rooms oh-so clean, So you see she is not at all mean. She always washes our clothes with care So we always have something to wear, She is also unique, By how many children she has (5 girls) and I am one, out of them! Also she makes our food, and it is always so good, I asked her to teach then she said that she could! Piano is also something she can do She taught me how to play, too And after laundry she irons. By the end of the day, She is very tired, But she doesn’t stop, She doesn’t stop to rest... ‘Cause out of all moms She is the best!
KATIE RECEIVES: New York Mets 4 box seats to the Mother’s Day game
Dip Pour & Drizzle, Flushing chocolate basket
Sterling Pharmacy, Bayside $25 gift certificate
Platz Hardware, Ridgewood $25 gift certificate
New York Black Belt, Bayside one week Kick Boxing Class
Shop & Go Wine & Spirits, Maspeth $20 gift certificate
Georgia Diner, Elmhurst $30 gift certificate
Glendale Diner, Glendale $40 gift certificate
Cara Mia Restaurant, Queens Village $50 gift certificate
Associated Market Place, Sunnyside $30 gift certificate
Edison Place, Glendale $25 gift certificate
Associated Market Place, Astoria $25 gift certificate
Edible Arrangements, Glen Oaks $25 gift certificate
Trattoria Neo, Whitestone $25 gift certificate
Honorable Mentions Nozifa Zaman, 10, Helali Mallik, Wdsd. Sofia Diaz, 8, Diana Botero, Elmhst. Fatemah Alloo, 5½, Malika, Elmhst. Pollena Sangana, 11, Rohani, S. Richmond H. Marc Ramos, 12, Alma, Hwrd Bch. Anthony Sanroli, 12, Julia, Hwrd Bch. Kumayl Alloo, 11, Malika, Elmhst. Forid Ahmed, 10, Farida Begum, Wdsd. Aidan Alvarado, 10, Andrea, Wdsd. Diego Alvarenga, 10, Edda Sanchez, Wdsd. Hanna Cardona, 9, Lina, Wdsd. Rickey Dong, 9, Guowei Zhang, Wdsd. Nia Washington, 10, Monica Carroll, Qns. Harpreet Singh, 10, Gurminder Kaur, Rchmnd. H. Oren Blackwood, 10, Ramon, Rosedale Hasan Jeremiah, 10, Fana, Rosedale Avah Wheeler, Maria Edwards, Far Rkwy. Kaylin Jones, 11, Kareeta, Qns. Shaneeka Bailey, 10, Joy, Sprngfld. Gdns. Shania Evans, 10, Donna Hunter, Sprngfld. Gdns Christian Adison, 11, Andrea, Jamaica Sariah Grant, 11, Charlene, Qns. Imani Campbell, 11, Shushan Kerr, Qns. Yemis Babalaa, 11, Helen, Qns. Alicia Taitt, 11, Ebony Lewis, Qns. Ache Okdio, 10½, Muriel, Rosedale Mikaela Sinclair, 10, Sherine Johnson, Qns. Tiara Gustiantri,9, Josephine Julian, Elmhst. Molly English, 9, Yvonne, Maspeth Marsha Rahman, 10, Rashida Begum, Maspeth Tanisha Rene, 9, Sholeli Hossain, Wdsd. Gabriella Gallardo, 9, Blanca Ovalles, Wdsd. Alison Rodriguez, 10, Nubia Ayala, Wdsd. Mia Palli, 9, Dianna, Wdsd. Jessie Lin, 11, Fei Zhuang, Wdsd. Julian Lin, 10, Bl Zhu Zhang, Wdsd. Ken Li, 9, Yang Yun Zheng, Maspeth
Garofalo, 9, Leeana Hua, Maspeth Afra Hossain, 10, Roushan Jahan, Wdsd. Thomas Ronconi, 10, Cecilia, Wdsd. Julianne Esmenda, 8, Queens Cesar Torales, 10, Casimira Martinez, Wdsd. Winson Tung, 10, Yan Shu Lan, Wdsd. Marco Vallerugo, 9, Jennifer, Maspeth Frank LaBella, 9, Daniela, Wdsd. Laura Xia, 9,Opbelie Xia, Mspth. Naiar Islam, 9, Nasrin Mannan, Wdsd. Keeley Hurd, 9, Linda, Maspeth Manvir Dulky, 11, Paramjit Kaur, Floral Pk. Roman Panchmia, 9, Gloria, Wdsd. Isabella Deblois, 9, Alexandra Caro, Wdsd. Roxana Kopec, 9, Ewa, Maspeth Bansri Patel, 9, Kinnair, Wdsd. Yanisha Lormil, 11½, Marie Davily, Jam. Mahika Mazmudet, 8, Suparna, Bellerose Cheyanne Isaacs, 6, Amanda Blanchard, Kew Gdns. Julianna Salce, 12, Cecilia Estevez, Hwrd Bch. Jimmie Cassamar, 10, Davely Thelusma, Jam. Jameel Gayle, 11, Marlene, Jam. Aiden Rogers, 11, Nicole Vasiu, Mdl. Vlg. Himesha Mapalogome, 12, Hiruni Presansani, Blrs. Rachel Segarra, 12, LoriAnn, S. Ozone Pk. Alika-Joy Kumasi, 9, Dusida, Rdgwd. Celina Huyah, 9, Phuong Nguyen, Mspth. Brandan Naraisuer, 11, Wanda DeLopaz, Qns. Derek Ramcharan, 11, Loretha, Wdhvn. Samantha Espinal, 11, Jackie, Ozone Pk. Jameela Hoyle, 11, Jennifer James, Bklyn. Brandon Denalver, 7, Avra, Qns. Vlg. Karah-Mercy Kumasi, 7, Dusida, Rdgwd. Audrey Binder, 8, Elis, Wdsd. Zaid Patanker, 8, Minaz, Elmhst. Julia Mousikasawan, 7, Liana Lewy, Elmhst.
Continued on page 9
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
MOTHER
of the Year WINNER: Age 9 to 12 Isabel Hernandez, 12 Mom: Frances, Richmond Hill
Look up the word mother in the dictionary. “A woman in relation to a child to whom she had given birth.” My mother is more than those thirteen words. She is loving, compassionate, forgiving. I could go on, but I have a word limit and you can’t feel the fiery burst inside me when I think about her. She brought me into this world. Something that no one else can do. She has been there for me all my 12 years of living, giving unconditional care to my family and me. I still don’t understand how one person can give so much love to another. I guess I would know if I had my own child. I read a poem, “The Lanyard,”
by Billy Collins shown to me by my teacher Mrs. Rizzo. It is about a boy who made a lanyard for his mother in the hope that it would make up for all the things that she ever did for him. The poem shows how much mothers do for their kids. I wrote this to show my mother how much she means to me. This is my “lanyard.” She’s always there for me when I need help getting back on our carousel-like lives. Sometimes I get dizzy and fall, but my mother is there. I believe in love at first sight because I have loved my mother since I opened my eyes. I love you mom. You really are mother of the year.
FRANCES RECEIVES: New York Mets 4 box seats to the Mother’s Day game
Garden World, Flushing $50 gift certificate
Just Peachie Boutique, Whitestone $25 gift certificate
Silver Bell Bakery, Middle Village $25 gift certificate
New York Black Belt, Bayside one week Kick Boxing Class El Patron, Flushing $40 gift certificate Mediterranean Grill, Whitestone $15 gift certificate Greek Family Kitchen, Hollis Hills $20 gift certificate
Nevada Diner, Elmhurst $30 gift certificate Edible Arrangements, Glen Oaks $25 gift certificate Dip Pour & Drizzle, Flushing chocolate basket Associated Market Place, Sunnyside $30 gift certificate Iavarone Bros., Maspeth $25 gift certificate
Honorable Mentions Jordan Conway, 10, Eshana, St. Albans Cashmere Thomas, 9, Joh-Shawa, St. Albans Malik Person, 8, Gerri Whitworth, Qns. Lucio Salazar, 7, Germania Luna, Qns. Vlg. Brandy Guangaltai, 7, Maribel Castillo, St. Albans Brianna Trotman, 8, Sabrina Morales, S. Ozone Pk. Lozjana Gega, 13, Ermanela, Hwrd Bch. Lauren Peconio, 14, Grace, Hwrd Bch. Stuart Friedenthal, 48, Jackie, Flushing Ronald Izzo, 53, Constance, Lynbrook Julia Hirt, 13, Francine, Whtstn. Leena Giakoumas, 18, Eleni, Whtstn. Sherrell Jordan, 41, Patricia Suber, Fl. Cheryl Rizzo, 30, Lisa Josephson, Hwrd Bch. Jasmine Boothe, 16, Sherry Hazel, Hollis Nelson Collado, 13, Elizabeth Garcia, Bklyn. Raymond Encarnacion, 13, Lissette Levakis, Hwrd Bch. Danny Cruz, 13, Mercedes Rodriguez, Hwrd Bch. Gino Lorrondo, 60, Luz Palacios, F.H. Ethan Ramoat, Meena Khuball, Qns. Zaid Patankar, 7, Queens Lyric Mouchette, 7, Andrena Swindell, Bysd. Amanda Singh, 11, Pamela, Rchmnd. Hill Ariyana Maharal, 8, Queens. Vikrant Sahotta, 12, Kamai Kaur, Qns. Rebanta Singh, 12, Queens Mikayla Sturm, Arlene, Oakland Gdns. Justin Ranjitsingh, 12, Jamaica Aliya Masihuddin, 12, Binu, Bellerose Shelby Saimon, 12, Lalamma, Belelrose Ayesha Hamid, 12, Shalimar, Qns. Jenny Mullady, 12, Natasha, Qns. Vlg. Nicole Ferris, 12, Queens Shizza Atlaf, 13, Queens Evarette Davis, 10, Ann Marie Posyvale, Rchmnd. H. Jaspreet Sandhu, 10, Palwinder Kaur, Qns.
Sukhraj Singh, 10, Charanjit Kaur, Qns. SAbriya Khan, 10, Sabrina, Queens Harshdeep Kaur, 11, Sotwinder, Richmond H. Mandy Bhagwandeen, 11, Shiroon, Richmond H. Bryan Bhagwansingh, 10, Carol, Richmond H. Karizma Lowery, 89, Queens Mark Jackson, Queens Ashley Marquez, 11, Norma Villanueva, Ozone Pk. Keeley Hurd, Queens Bianca McKinney, Queens Sujay Sundar, 9, Jayalakshmi, Bayside Juilian Reyes, 12, Adela, Howard Beach Kaitlyn Brooks, 13, Cristina, S. Rchmnd Hill Temi Ayeni, Atinuke, Queens Karamveer Toor, 10, Pardeep Kaur, Richmond H. Kyarah Rodriguez, 13, Queens Aditi Pardeshi, 12, Queens Harsahib Singh, Queens Kavita Heeralall-Madray, Queens Simranjeet, 12, Jasmeet, Glen Oaks Amar Sargodiya, Queens Prabhjot Kang, 12, Kulwinder Kaur, Qns. Malik Habib, 12, Dianne, Qns. Angelica Haly, Queens Hans Tristan Curz Lim, Theresa Lim, Qns. Amissia ‘Jade Wright, Glen Oaks Sahan Leelaratne, 12, Queens Hernoor Ranu, 12, Queens Jack Whelan, 12, Bellerose Rachel Duze, 12, Rachel, Qns. Vlg. Makayla Rodriguez, 12, Faith, Qns. Sarah Johnson, Floral Pk. Ulaan Hyder, Queens Dylan Guglielmetti, Queens Carlos Sandoval, 10, Maribel, Queens
Continued on page 10
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
MOTHER
of the Year
WINNER: Age 13 AND UP Thomas Lee, 31 Mom: Bang Ha Lam, So. Richmond Hill My mother’s story echoes the American immigrant experience. She was prevented from finishing her university studies in Saigon due to the Vietnam War. By the end of the war, she had lost her home, had faced years of harassment from the invading army, and her family was split up around the world. When she immigrated to NY, she faced a new world with a foreign culture, an unfamiliar language, and poverty. Then came a series of low-paying, uninsured jobs, and an adulterous and abusive husband. My mother is special, but not be-
cause of her harrowing experiences. She is special because of her character and grit in the face of this adversity. Despite two-hour work commutes, we always had dinner in the evening, and she never stopped trying to improve her skills by taking evening and weekend classes. She believed that by working hard, we could improve our situation little by little and find solutions to our problems. She always held me to the highest standards and encouraged me to take advantage of the opportunities she was denied. I’m lucky to have such a strong woman for my mother.
BANG HA RECEIVES: New York Mets 4 box seats to the Mother’s Day game
King Yum, Flushing gift certificate, dinner for two
Massage Envy Spa, Bayside gift certificate for one hour massage
Dip Pour & Drizzle, Flushing chocolate basket
Arya Kabob Restaurant, Flushing $25 gift certificate DePhillips Sports, Flushing $25 gift certificate Garry Service Station, Glendale gift certificate for one oil change Stop N Shop, Maspeth $25 gift certificate
Shops at Atlas Park, Glendale $25 gift certificate O’Neills Restaurant, Maspeth $50 gift certificate Il Triangolo, Corona $25 gift certificate Associated Market Place, Sunnyside $30 gift certificate Associated Market Place, Astoria $25 gift certificate
Honorable Mentions Anjali Dilchand, Queens Hina Zahid, New Hyde Pk. Harshul Singh, 12, Archana, Bellerose Aaron George, New Hyde Pk. Naiar Islam, 9, Queens Pallavi Singh, 9, Saroja, S. Rchmnd. Hill Nicole Aung, 10, May SHein, Bayside Lukas Tarrao, 10, Monica, Bayside Rabul Kapur, 11, Parkai, Floral Pk. Simrat Parmar, 10, Harvinder, Floral Pk. Harsabib Singh, 9, Bhupinder Kaur, Qns. Kavita Madray, 9, Karmina, Richmond H. Mellisa Rohit, 9, Jamaica Akasha Turner, 9, Roberlyn Tinnin, Qns. Shazia Barnett, 9, Queens Jaiahna Gadsden, 9, Queens Akiara Phillips, 9, Queens Nayshawn Adams, 9, Queens Jayden Johnson, 9, Queens Sy’rai Pierre, 9, Queens Jayden Jefferson, 9, Queens Keith Foster, 9, Queens Ashley Straker, 9, Queens Gabrielle Dacosta, 9, Queens Khianna Deseide, 9, Queens Guillaumme Hollant, 12, Queens Roshni Patel, 11, Nimisha, Floral Pk. Hailey Bellafiore, 11, Amy, Woodhaven Bryanna Caqrdenas, Queens Angelina Mustafa, 11, Irma, Floral Park Tia Vernon, 11, Sita Benisnew, Richmond H. Nicah Phillips, 9, Collette, Queens Kirgey Paran, 12, Queens Dylan Hoosein, 12, Queens Ariyana Maharaj, 8, Nikky, Richmond H. Sahana Sundar, 5, Jayalakshmi, Bayside Rowan Ramsammy, 8, Queens Othea Borsha, Queens Julian Belio, 8, Queens Salma Hoxha, Queens
Jaden Carcamo, Queens Alison Caccanza No, 8, Margarita, Wdhvn. Aliya Santram, 10, Rafena, Richmond Hill Athina Belgrave, 9, Pamala, Queens Shayna Jamison, Queens Kailani Bonne, 9, Racheal, Queens Lozjana Gega, Queens Jadora Ducran, 9, Queens Navneet Sohal, 13, Ramandip Kaur, Glen Oaks Thomas Lee, 31, Bang Ha Lam, S. Richmond Hill William Aiello, 58, Concettina, Howard Beach Karen Hubela, 49, Elizabeth Thomas, Bayside Lauren Peconio, Grace, Queens Giovanni Tavarez, 12, Queens Ashika Bhatt, 10, Minal, Queens Emma Melnikov, 11, Nana, F.H. Valerie Lulgjuraj, 13, Liza, Hwrd. Bch. Sukveer Kawr, Queens Henshann, Kaur, 8, Sandeep, Queens Sadat, 8, Sajeda Sila,Wdhvn. Sukveer Kaur, 13, Kuljit, Floral Pk. Victoria Schirten, 13, Ioniac, Hwrd. Bch. Khushi Talati, 13, Bellerose Abigail Ramscroop, 13, Ranie, S. Ozone Pk. Georgina Larranondo Palacios, Luz, Queens Danibel Rodriguez, 13, Maria Martinez, Ozone Pk. Kimberly Perez, 13, Maribel, Wdhvn. Samantha Louraro, 15, Jennifer Osff, Hwrd. Bch. Nicole Villegas, 13, Angela, Wdhvn. Meagan Ramsawak, 17, Pamela, Queens Paavan Dasrat, 10, Queens Temi Oni, 12, Helen, Jamaica Remi-Simone Turner, April, Queens Namal Fiaz, 9, Shabana, Queens Alicia Santiago, 12, Queens Diego Loja, 12, Queens Sofia Escobar, 12, Queens Johnathan Overton, Queens Ryla Pasaoa, 12, Queens Jasmine Fleming, 12, Queens Xavier Naraine, 12, Queens Ashley Hurtado, 12, Queens Max Quintong, 8, Shantay Hernandez, Queens Maximus Quintana, 8, Queens Alondra Garcia, 8, Queens Essence Greenfield, 11, Qns. Angelica Aboderin, 11, Queens Girisha Mehmi, Queens Vlg. Nathaniel Pyram, 11, Marie, Queens Jakari Knoell, Chantay Richardson, Fl. Claire Shin, 10, Queens. Adriana, 8, Queens Uwakmfon I. Aka, Queens Aditya Gosain, 7, Neelam, Qns. Vlg. Jessica Castro, 8, Ana Mejia, Hollis Jonathan Niranjan, 7, Subrina, Queens Rhea Kapoor, 7, Sabina, Holliswood Orange Pierre, 8, Arielle, Queens Maria Sueed, Queens Dana Pon, 6, Delphia Lee, Rego Pk. Fatima Salazar, 7, Zoer, Queens Evelyn Espinoza, 8, Queens Queen McCormick, 8, Beverly Bathard, Hollis Nikita Volochento, 10, Queens Daniela Zavlun, 11, Irina Kimyagar, Qns. Nataniela Zavlun, 11, Irina Kimyagar, Qns. Sydney Bonn, 10, Jennifer Bottoms, Cambria Hts. Stephanie Chouhan, 10, Cristina Mihailescu, Qns. Carl Smith, 10, Queens Shakerah Jairam, 12, Queens Bruce Santos, 12, Queens Milagros Torres, 12, Queens Nathalie Costillo, 12, Queens Kiana Powell, 12, Queens LaRayah Jackson, 11, Kevina, Sprngfld. Gdns. Aliyah Taylor, 8, Desiree, St. Albans Shyasia Arnold, 9, Shaevon, St. Albans Dante Rodney, 9, St. Albans Darius Adell, 10, Aisha, St. Albans Maurice Cambridge, 11, Remona, Queens Zarieya Pugh, 10, Shomika, Jamaica Marie Floras, 12, Manette Orguston, Queens Anyah Napier, 10, Cynthia Delaney, Jamaica Isaiah Western, 10, Nicole, Queens Chinelle Nelson, 10, Ophelia Barcia, Queens Annalisha Hakim, 10, Nadia, Jamaica Thalia Austin, 10, Stacie, Queens Brianna Davey, 10, Queens Kathleen Stephens, 10, Telcia, Queens Dajamar Nicholson, 11, Queens Julianne Esmenda, Maria, Woodside Rachel Laikram, 9, Peggy, S. Richmond Hill Joseph Tibaldi, 12, Betty Jane, Queens Village
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
OP-ED
DA’s office setting Trends For 21st century By Queens DA RichARD BRown The Queens County District Attorney’s Office is a busy, trendsetting 21st century prosecutor’s office working hard to keep the residents of our county safe and criminal activity at a minimum. We are completely computerized and linked together by a modern voicemail and Blackberry system – and by our 24/7 NYPD Command Center that keeps us apprised of everything and anything that is happening in our county. We make a concerted effort to get involved in our cases as early in the process as possible and as a result, you will find us not just at crime scenes at all hours of the day and night, but at police precincts and hospitals and in the homes of crime victims. Last year, we handled over 78,000 arrest cases and had the best arrest to arraignment time in the City – and the highest percentage of cases arraigned within 24 hours. Our assistants supervised close to 400 lineups in police precincts in 2013. We are the only office that has an assistant
present at every lineup to make sure that we get it right. The results speak for themselves. In 2013, we had not only the highest violent felony conviction rate in the City but also the lowest felony complaint dismissal rate. And crime – particularly violent crime – continues to plummet. Last year, we had 59 homicides – a far cry from the 361 homicides that we had in 1991, my first year as District Attorney. Our auto theft numbers have also dropped dramatically. In 1991, we had 52,000 cars reported stolen in Queens County. In 2013, that number was just over 2,400. Our Domestic Violence Bureau is on the cutting edge in the use of new technology and innovative procedures to prosecute abusers. As a result, we have the highest domestic violence conviction rate in the City and the lowest dismissal rate. And we take more pre-indictment domestic violence pleas than the rest of the City combined. Our Investigations Division continues to dismantle violent gun and drug gangs, rescue young women from sex trafficking rings and take
Don’t just party, party with a purpose! Party on behalf of the non-profits that work for the betterment of Jamaica, Queens! Presenting
The Jamaica Ball The 3rd Annual Party With a Purpose Saturday, May 17th, 2014 8:00 pm to 1:00 am $50 Per Person
Queens DA Richard Brown
down complex criminal enterprises involved in identity theft, auto crime, credit card fraud, mortgage and insurance fraud, money laundering and trademark counterfeiting. Last year, we drafted over 1,000 search warrants and handled 8.5 percent of the non-federal court-authorized wiretaps in the entire country. Our office also maintains a broad array of alternative sentencing programs. We have both felony and misdemeanor Drug and DWI Treatment Courts, a Mental Health Court – and
courts that respond to the needs of our youthful offenders, as well as those of our returning veterans. Our office pioneered a human trafficking court to address the needs of those victimized by sex traffickers – a court that has been so successful it has been replicated by the rest of the State.We maintain a host of prevention, education and outreach programs. And in collaboration with the NYC Department of Education, we run the Queens Court Academy -- a mini high school, right inside our office to serve court involved youth in achieving their high school educational goals. In short, we are an office committed to the highest level of professionalism and to doing everything in our power to prevent crime while at the same time making certain that the innocent are never wrongfully convicted and that justice is done with respect to each and every one of the cases that we handle. I am very proud of the men and women who serve in our office – for their dedication and professionalism – and look forward to continuing to serve as District Attorney of this county for many years to come.
Target Your
Future
The Jamaica Performing Arts Center 153-10 Jamaica Avenue Jamaica, New York 11432 Beautiful Attire • 21 and Older Presented by A Better Jamaica, with the generous support of Resorts World Casino New York City, and The Greater Jamaica Development Corporation 90% of every $50 ticket will go to the participating non-profit partner of the ticket buyer’s choice Tickets for The Jamaica Ball can be purchased at: http://www.thejamaicaball.com
Local, Optimized Job Search Results
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Some 20 years ago, Cedrick Walker, a rap festival and gospel play promoter, noticed a disconnect between parents and their children. Using his experience in the entertainment industry, he dreamt of bringing families together under the same roof – ‘the big top.’ “He [Walker] was noticing that kids were going in one direction and parents were going in another direction,” said Hank Ernest, a spokesperson at UniverSoul Circus. “He wanted whole families to be able to get together to go out and enjoy family entertainment.” UniverSoul Circus has come a long way since its first show in 1994. What started as a stationed variety show in Atlanta, Ga., has since expanded to performances across the globe. Today, UniverSoul Circus has presented more than 10,000 performances to live audiences, exceeding 19 million people, and has been seen in more than 60 million households on both local and national networks. And after
seeing the show this past weekend at Roy Wilkins Park in Jamaica, its rise to fame comes as no surprise. UniverSoul currently uses about 75 performers and features 12 remarkable and unique acts. From acrobatics to high-wire acts, to trapeze artists to magic – each of the circus’ segments left audience members in awe, and many times, in disbelief. While each of the acts were impressive in their own right, two stand-out performances truly left their mark. The Wuhan Flying Trapeze segment tops my list as one of the most captivating parts of the show, featuring a number of daring aerial tricks while using the momentum of a swing. The dynamic and fluid movement of the trapeze performers was not only artistic, it also demonstrated a high level of skill, requiring all of the artists to master timing. Equally as breathtaking was the circus’ magic segment performed by the Soul Illusion. Their act, which featured drastic costume changes in mere seconds and magically transforming harnessed cages of women to cages with tigers, left the audience bewildered, asking themselves one thing
Comedy Club To Bring Laughs To Seniors BY LUIS GRONdA Seniors at the Kew Gardens Community Center will be belly aching by the time this show is over. Center Attendees will get to see a live comedy show on May 14, when Gotham Comedy Club presents its second comedy show at the senior center. Giulio Gallarotti, a comedian who also stars in the MTV show “Totally Clueless,” will perform at the senior center as part of its Community Center Laughter-Therapy presentation from its Gotham Comedy Foundation. That organization was designed to bring “laughter therapy” to hospitals, nursing homes and senior centers. This will be the second time the Manhattan-based club brings its show to the Kew Gardens center, but this year it will have a bit of a different twist. In addition to Gallarotti’s performance, six of the seniors will take the microphone and give their own comedy routine for the audience in attendance. Rachel Epstein, the program director of the senior center, which is sponsored by Queens Community House, said this allows the seniors
themselves a chance to show off their talent. “We wanted to give our members a chance to participate in the program,” she said. Members of the Senior Center have been taking a comedy workshop class, according to Epstein, to hone their comedic skills for the big performance. Epstein said one of their challenges is getting their name out there and letting people know about the different services they offer and events like the comedy show help to spread the word. The average attendance at the senior center is 50 to 75 people, according to Epstein. They are based out of the office complex at 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, which houses a Queens District Attorney office as well as the meeting place for Community Board 6 meetings. The free show will begin at 2 p.m. on May 14. It will be at Suite 202 at the 80-02 Kew Gardens Road location. For more information, call the Kew Gardens Community Center at (718) 268-5960 or log onto gothamcomedyfoundation.org. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.
Photo by Natalia Kozikowska
UniverSoul Circus Comes To South Queens
UniverSoul Circus will be at Roy Wilkins Park in Jamaica until May 18. – how is this humanly possible? But in addition to their stellar acts, UniverSoul Circus stands out for two other reasons. The first of which, UniverSoul is a highly-interactive show and its staff is committed to getting the audience involved. Whether it is pulling members out from the crowd to the middle of the ring or getting into the crowd and dancing with the entire family, UniverSoul really had a way of bringing people to their feet. Another element that truly set UniverSoul apart from other circuses was its hip and modern feel. Rather than the standard, tacky circus mu-
sic you would normally hear at such a show, UniverSoul’s acts were complemented by timely relevant songs by artists such as Rihanna, to urban classics by Michael Jackson and Aretha Franklin. UniverSoul Circus will be at Roy Wilkins Park until May 18. Tickets start at $16. For tickets and show times, visit www.ticketmaster.com/ Roy-Wilkins-Park-at-Merrick-Blvdtickets-Jamaica/venue/959. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ nkozikowska.
Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
Photo by Natalia Kozikowska.
pix
Circus Time
Starting Up
Just two days before his arrest on fraud charges, Councilman Ruben Wills served as ringmaster for the UniverSoul Circus. He is seen here enjoying the festivities during a rendition of “Respect.” For more on the circus performance, see page 13.
New York Blasters Win The Queens Economic Development Corp. recently announced the winners of its StartUp! Business Plan competition. Pictured (from left) are QEDC Executive Director Seth Bornstein; Christopher Murillo from Astoria Distilling Company (Food-Based Business Category); Jaime Montalvo, who works at Soraya Sobriedad (Innovative Business Category); Gamal Byfield from The Branch of Life martial arts studio (Community Business Category); Bridget Quinn-Carey, EVP and COO of Queens Library; Ed Odom, Citi Foundation; Ricardi Calixte from QEDC; Sante Antonelli from QEDC; and Michael Gillen from QEDC.
Bar Association Annual Gala The New York Blasters celebrate after winning the New York T20 Big Bash Cricket Tournament, which was held on May 2-4 in Queens.
Photo by Walter Karling
Citizenship Hotline Visit
Gathered together at the Queens County Bar Association annual gala at Terrace on the Park include (seated, from left) Carol Sigmund, President-elect of the New York County Lawyers Association; William ferris, president-elect of the Suffolk County Bar Association; and Thomas Hall, president of the Richmond County Bar Association; (standing) Glenn Lau Kee, president-elect of the New York State Bar Association; Joseph Carola III, new president of the QCBA; William Condon, Justice of the Suffolk County Supreme Court; and out-going QCBA president Joseph DeFelice.
Queens Borough President Melinda Katz greeted volunteers answering the phones in the call center for the Citizenship Now immigration assistance hotline at CUNY’s Stella and Charles Guttman Community College in Manhattan on May 2.
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
Police Blotter 102nd Precinct
Burglary
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance locating the following suspect wanted in connection with a burglary that occurred within the confines of the 102nd Precinct. At 1:20 p.m. on April 22, the suspect entered an apartment building located at 87-17 102nd St., and attempted to break into an apartment through the front door. The suspect then fled the location without any property. Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.
105th Precinct
City Employee Arrested
On April 23, police arrested Faride Francklin, 43, an off-duty NYPD sergeant, and charged him with third-degree assault, fourth-degree criminal mischief and harassment.
City Employee Arrested
On April 28, police arrested Yong Wu, 34, an off-duty NYPD officer, and charged him with promoting
sexual performance, child younger than 17 and possession of sexual performance by a child.
City Employee Arrested
On April 24, police arrested Jay Poggi, 57, an on-duty NYPD detective, and charged him with driving while intoxicated.
107th Precinct
Fatal Collision
At 3:51 a.m. on May 1, on the Long Island Expressway at the Clearview Expressway entrance ramp, police responded to a 911 call of a vehicle accident within the confines of the 107th Precinct. Upon arrival, police observed the victim, identified as Aaron Jung Hay Wu, 22, of Bayside, unconscious and unresponsive with severe head trauma. EMS responded and pronounced the victim dead at the scene. Upon preliminary investigation, police determined that the victim was operating a Nissan Altima, traveling eastbound on the Long Island Expressway, and struck a wall as he attempted to exit the ramp and merge onto the Clearview Expressway at exit 27. There were no additional vehicles involved. The investigation is ongoing.
112th Precinct
Fatal Collision
At 8:28 p.m. on May 3, police responded to a report of a vehicle collision at Queens Boulevard and 71st Avenue. Upon arrival, officers discovered an unidentified female in her 60s unconscious and unresponsive with head trauma. EMS responded to the scene and transferred the woman to Jamaica Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. A preliminary investigation revealed that a tan 2000 Chevrolet Malibu was traveling north on the Queens Boulevard service road approaching 71st Avenue when it struck the pedestrian as she crossed Queens Boulevard in a marked crosswalk against the traffic light. The operator of the vehicle remained on the scene. There were no arrests made and the investigation is ongoing.
113th Precinct
Attempted Abduction Arrest
On May 1, police arrested two individuals in regards to two attempted abductions that occurred on April 30, the first in the vicinity of 111th
Avenue and 208th Street, within the confines of the 105th Precinct, and the second around 113th Avenue and 196th Street, within the confines of the 113th Precinct. Police arrested Joshua Wright, 17, of Jamaica, and Andrew Ghulam, 16, also of Jamaica and charged both with two counts of attempted unlawful imprisonment, endangering the welfare of a child, harassment and criminal possession of a weapon.
114th Precinct
Robbery
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying the following suspect wanted for a robbery within the confines of the 114th Precinct. At 3:30 p.m. on April 24, the victim, a 14-year-old male, was walking in the direction of 30th Road and 14th Street when the suspects approached him and removed his Samsung cell phone. There were no reported injuries. The suspects are described as Black males in their mid- to lateteens. Anyone with information should call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS, visit www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637 (CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.
Borough Beat
Community Leaders Upset With Water Rates BY JOE MARVILLI Queens civic leaders are feeling drowned by a proposed increase in the City’s water rates. On April 23, the City proposed a 3.35 percent increase in water rates, the smallest annual hike in nine years. While the number is lower, many civic leaders and elected officials are still upset that after years of percentage increases in the double digits, the City is asking for more. Although there is a rate hike this year, the Dept. of Environmental Protection stated that it is less than half of the projected 7.8 percent increase that was expected. The reduction was achieved through cost-cutting measures and by redirecting part of the excess rental payment that had been adding to ratepayers’ bills. Councilman Rory Lancman (DHillcrest) is at the forefront of the protests against the water hikes, saying
that it is unfair for the City to put forward yet another increase, after years of double-digit percentile jumps. “Middle class homeowners, co-op and condo owners and small business proprietors expect that New York’s new, ‘progressive’ government will make the City fairer and more affordable for us, too,” said Lancman. “But the proposed rate increase only means that we will continue to be gouged through a dishonest and deliberately opaque water rate system.” Civic leaders also attacked the proposed hike. “Based on the Water Board’s own charts, the water and sewer rates, compounded over the last decade, are 2.5 times higher for this essential service,” Queens Civic Congress president Rich Hellenbrecht said. “Most homeowners in Queens have seen huge increases in home ownership costs including real estate taxes and oil and insurance costs, at a time
when income has risen only a percent or two a year.” Since former mayor Michael Bloomberg took office, the City’s water rate has cumulatively gone up by 165 percent. “Many people are living paycheck to paycheck and cannot bear any further hits to their income,” Angela Augugliaro, president of the Queens Colony Civic Association, said. “Water is a necessity and shouldn’t be held hostage for ransom.” The DEP argued that it has put several cost-saving measures in place to keep the rate as low as possible. Through 75 belt-tightening initiatives, the DEP said it would save about $69.4 million per year. The widespread installation of automated meter reading devices resulted in a 79 percent reduction in estimated bills since 2009. To further help customers, the DEP is proposing to freeze the minimum water charge of 49 cents per
day for those who use less than 100 gallons per day. A Home Water Assistance Program is being created to identify low-income homeowners who would be qualified to receive an annual credit on their DEP bill. The agency is also extending the deadline for customers to file an appealing with the Water Board to 60 days. “We are able to deliver the lowest rate increase in nearly a decade,” DEP Commissioner Emily Lloyd said. The water board will vote on the water hike on May 23. The Queens hearing is on May 20 at 7 p.m., at the Bayswater Jewish Center in Far Rockaway. If that location is too difficult to get to, the hearing in Brooklyn is on May 14 at 7 p.m. at the Visitor Center of Newtown Creek, less than a mile away from Queens. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
A&E
Review: Lady Day At Emerson’s Bar & Grill Queens-native Audra McDonald has won five Tony Awards for her work on Broadway. She’s been recognized for her extraordinary singing as well as her skillful acting. Now in a limited-run performance as Billie Holiday in “Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill,” she is once again thrilling audiences and gener-
ating Tony buzz. Playwright Lanie Robertson wrote a 90-minute play about Billie Holiday giving one of her last performances at Emerson’s Bar & Grill in Philadelphia. That night, accompanied only by a piano player, obviously high, she sang 10-12 songs in front of the seven people in the audience. She
Barbara Cook Ends Kupferberg Season BY JOE MARVILLI The 2013-2014 season of Kupferberg Presents will wrap up this weekend with a Broadway legend. Barbara Cook will present an evening of tunes and tales at Colden Auditorium on May 10 at 8 p.m. Her concert is the last one for this season of Kupferberg Presents, which is ending along with Queens College’s school year. Cook, a Grammy- and Tony-award winner, became famous through her roles in “She Loves Me,” “Candide” and “The Music Man.” On Saturday night, she will perform some of those Broadway hits, along with a repertoire of jazz, swing and songs from the Great American Songbook. Kupferberg chose the 2011 Ken-
nedy Center Honoree to close out the season because she perfectly fits the program’s mission, according to Jeffrey Rosenstock, the executive director of the Kupferberg Center for the Arts. “She embodies the mission of the Kupferberg Center for the Arts to bring world-class art and entertainment to the heart of Queens. Barbara Cook is one of the theatre world’s defining artists,” Rosenstock said. “You would expect to see an artist like her at the Met or Carnegie Hall.” The concert will run for about 90 minutes. Tickets are $45, $55 or $69 and are available at http://kupferbergpresents. org or by calling (718) 793-8080. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.
Finback Brewery To Open On Saturday BY LuIS GROnDA Bottoms up! After months of building and perfectly crafting its headquarters, Finback Brewery will open its doors on May 10. The brewery’s co-founders, Basil Lee and Kevin Stafford, will host the grand opening this weekend, beginning at 2 p.m. Although there will not be anything extra special for the brewery’s grand opening, Lee said they will offer special-priced beer for visitors on its first day. The brewery was originally scheduled to open last November, but delays during construction held back the opening until this weekend, Lee said. During the brewery’s normal hours, Lee said they will offer visitors a guided tour of the brewery, as well as the ability to taste test the ale that it sells. “We’re super excited to open up to the community,” he said. “We’re look-
ing forward to people coming and trying our beer.” The brewery also ships its beer to several bars in Queens and the rest of the City. You can get the Finback beer at watering holes such as Forest Hills Station House and Austin’s Ale House. Lee said they are still in the midst of hiring people to work at the brewery and people who are interested in working there should visit their web site, finbackbrewery.com. For its grand opening on Saturday, the brewery will be open from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. It will be open three days a week, Friday through Sunday, with different hours for each day. Friday from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.; Saturday from noon until 6 p.m., and Sunday from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. Lee said they will probably add more hours and days in the future. Finback Brewery is located at 7801 77th Ave. in Glendale. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127, lgronda@queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.
even brought her dog Pepi onstage composed of a dozen or so songs, including a couple written by Holiwith her. The Circle in the Square audience day. She sings “God Bless The Child” which she wrote for numbers several hundred her mother. Holiday’s song with some folks sitting at “Strange Fruit” was writround tables in front of the ten as a reaction to the trip stage and the rest in regular down south and the lynchtheater seating. Audra Mcings. Donald is accompanied by a McDonald is so good three-piece band. that she becomes Lady Last year, Dee Dee Day before our eyes. With Bridgewater gave a fine perAudra a blues/jazz sound and the formance as Holiday in the McDonald unmistakable influence of off-Broadway show “Lady Day.” However, the show felt con- Louis Armstrong, she charms the trived when Holiday “recreated” cer- audience. The sad events that inspired Latain traumatic events in her life. In Emerson’s version, Holiday nie Robertson was one of the last gives some of her background, in- concerts that the real Holiday ever cluding some of her disappointments gave. Yet her memory and her muand tragedies. She makes references sic continue to entertain audiences’ to the people who influenced her years after her death at age 44 in life and her career while their pho- 1959. In the show, Holiday refers to tographs flash on the screen behind the audience as her “friends.” Fortunately for us, Queens-born Audra her. The flow of the story never inter- McDonald is has come home to her friends. rupts the flow of the music. -Elyse Trevers The bulk of the performance is
Big Apple Circus Returns To Queens May 18 “The dogs feel that performing in the Big Apple Circus is all about having fun,” said Jenny Vidbel, an animal trainer and performer who mainly uses mutts rescued from shelters in her act, plus horses and other animals. “They’re just so happy to be out of the pound. They want to learn every trick I have to teach them and they learn them very quickly. No pressure is ever put on them.” Vidbel grew up traveling and eventually performing with her grandparents’ circus, which she and her sister later ran. “Elephants were my babysitters,” she said. “They treated my sister and me like family and wrapped their trunks around us protectively to keep us safe.” In the act she performs at the Big Apple Circus, returning to Cunningham Park in Fresh Meadows, she has Liberty horses, well-trained horses that run freely around the ring without harnesses or bridles, a miniature horse and a very large Gypsy Vanner horse. When her animals aren’t touring, they live at her big farm in upstate New York. Recently, she toured for two years with Ringling Brothers Barnum & Bailey Circus. ”The first time I performed by myself was at age 11, with a pony,” she said.
The performances in the new show, “Luminocity,” are centered around activities in Manhattan’s Times Square, so in Vidbel’s act a dog rides on the miniature horse when it’s costumed to look like a New York City taxi. The acts include Ty Tojo, an incredible teenage juggler from Japan (the holder of several records in the Guinness Book of World Records); the amazing Dosov Troupe from Russia, that works with a teeterboard; and the Russian Acro-Duo; Duo Guerrero (Werner Guerrero and Aura Cardinali), fantastic high-wire performers from Portugal who are both descended from circus families; the Canadian acrobat Daniel Cyr; and Pierre Ginet from France, whose clever act is full of surprises. The Big Apple Circus will be at Cunningham Park, located at 19622 Union Tpke. in Fresh Meadows, just west of Francis Lewis Boulevard, from May 18 to June 15. The show is two hours long with a 15-minute intermission and takes place in an airconditioned tent. For tickets, go to www.bigapplecircus.org or call (888) 541-3750. For more information, call the ticket information line at (800) 9223772. -Barbara Arnstein
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17
Queens today
saTURDay 5/10
HistoRiCAl tAlK
The Greater Astoria Historical Society will host “Anarchy in Astoria: the Making of the Marx Brothers’ First Two Movies,” as part of Marxfest, a citywide Marx Brothers festival. The discussion begins at 1:30 p.m. For information, visit www.marxfest. com/astoria.html.
spRinG ExHiBition
Queens Council on the Arts will celebrate the accomplishments of young artists in the High School to Art School portfolio development program from 2-4 p.m. at the QCA, 37-11 35th Ave., Astoria. Student portfolio artwork will be exhibited at QCA, highlighting the many techniques and concepts central to the HS2AS program.
Bush, Christian James and Forever. For information, call Hayden Horsham at (718)523-3069.
momix
“Momix” is coming to the Queens Theatre, with shows at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. on May 10 and at 3 p.m. on May 11. “Momix” transports audiences from their everyday lives to a fantasy world through its trademark use of magical lighting and imagery. Artistic director Moses Pendleton combines athletic dance, riveting music, outrageous costumes, inventive props and pure talent to create an entertaining multimedia experience. Tickets range between $25 and $46. For more information, call (718) 760-0064.
nyC’s RisinG stARs
ARtist REsidEnCy BootCAmp
Head to the second floor theater in the Queens Museum for some refreshments as artists affiliated with the Queens Museum and their guests share their experiences working abroad and answer your questions about the residency process in general. Hosted by Nung-Hsin Hu, coordinator of the Queens Museum Studio Program and José Rodríguez, manager of the New New Yorkers Program, the event runs from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Call (718) 592-9700.
motHER’s dAy ConCERt
Margaret Community Corporation will present a free Mother’s Day concert with special guest State Sen. James Sanders from 5-7 p.m. at Springfield Gardens High School, 143-10 Springfield Blvd., Springfield Gardens. Performers include Martha Wash, Jeff Redd, Charisa Dowe Rouse, Latrese
The Queensborough Performing Arts Center will highlight up-and-coming talent at its “NYC Rising Stars” concert. Directed and hosted by Broadway choral director/arranger Chapman Roberts, the show will feature young talent hand-picked from New York’s most prestigious performing arts schools, including Juilliard, Manhattan School of Music, American Musical & Dramatic Academy, Mannes School of Music, NYU Tisch School of the Arts and many more. Tickets are $35. For information, call (718) 631-6311.
SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK saTURDay 5/10
BARBARA CooK Broadway legend Barbara Cook is set to take the stage at Queens College’s Colden Auditorium at the Kupferberg Center for the Arts. Starting at 8 p.m., this concert will give attendees a chance to see Cook perform songs from throughout her legendary career. Tickets range between $45 and $69. Call (718) 793-8080 for more information.
spRinGtimE ConCERt
The Youth Orchestra, CYCNY will perform at a springtime concert at the Poppenhusen Institute. These musicians, who have played at Lincoln Center, will play classical and contemporary songs, starting at 1 p.m. Tickets are $15 for the general audience and $10 for seniors, students and members. Poppenhusen is located at 114-04 14th Road, College Point.
At the Flushing Library, the Rob Crowe Situation will perform in the lower level auditorium from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. This acoustic sextet mixes poetry into their songs to produce an eclectic mix of folk, jazz, Latin and rock performed on violins, congas and guitars. The concert is free. Flushing Library is located at 41-17 Main St.
sUNDay 5/11
At 2 p.m., the Museum of the Moving Image will hold a special screening of the movie-musical Hello, Dolly! to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Louis Armstrong knocking the Beatles off of Billboard’s #1 slot with his song of the same name. A short presentation of rare footage of Armstrong performances will precede the screening. Tickets are $12 and include admission to both the Museum of the Moving Image and the Louis Armstrong House Museum. For more information, call (718) 7776800.
MoMA PS1 will be holding its seasonal Night at the Museum, with special programming and extended viewing hours of the current exhibitions. Live performances and musical guests in the VW Dome will play into the night. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 day-of. For more information, visit http://momaps1.org/calendar/view/507.
tHE GoldEn vAnity
This weekend, the Long Island City Youth Choir will perform The Golden Vanity, a children’s opera that tells the story of a sea battle with pirates, a courageous cabin
at 208 Totten Ave. Sample the very best the neighborhood has to offer, with food from Bourbon Street, Brian Dempsey’s, C.J. Sullivan’s, Marbella, Papazzio, Trattoria 35 and Vivaldi. Tickets are $35. To purchase them, go to www.baysideba.com.
WEDNEsDay 5/14
liC ARts opEn
HEllo, dolly!
niGHt At tHE musEum
RoB CRowE situAtion
boy and a treacherous captain. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 for children age 14 or younger. For more information, call (718) 392-0722.
moNDay 5/12
BownE HousE lECtuRE
Join the Bowne House Historical Society in the Flushing Library meeting room on the third floor at 6:30 p.m. for a lecture. Dr. Janna Weiss, PhD, will talk about cross-cultural influences on medicinal and culinary traditions in Eastern and Western societies. The talk is free and open to the public. Flushing Library is located at 41-17 Main St.
TUEsDay 5/13 tAstE of BAysidE
The Bayside Business Association is holding the 11th annual Taste of Bayside at the Castle in Fort Totten Park, located
Wednesday kicks off the fourth annual LIC Arts Open, the biggest art festival in Queens. More than 250 artists in 54 venues across Long Island City will display their work for a total of over 80 exhibitions and events. The venues range from factories and warehouses to a glass tower on the LIC waterfront. For a full list of festival events, visit licartsopen.org/exhibitions-events.
THURsDay 5/15
dEvil sCiEnCE tHEAtER 3K
Cult Films plus Alcohol plus Comedians equals Devil Science Theater 3000! Finally, a time when people are encouraged to talk at a theater and heckle at a comedy club. Each Thursday at 10:30, the Laughing Devil Comedy Club in Long Island City hosts “Devil Science Theater 3000”, a late night cult film screening. Cost is $6. For information, visit www. laughingdevil.com.
Got EvEnts?
send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, Ny 11357
Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
Profile
United Black Golfers Break Stereotypes BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA The United Black Golfers Association, a newly-established not-forprofit, is seeking to swing past stereotypes by rolling out a new co-ed golf club in Southeast Queens. According to the group’s president, Vernel Bennett, UBGA’s mission is two-fold. The first is to expose residents in his community to the sport. The retired tax auditor from Laurelton said that he hopes this new golf club will help shatter the myth that golf is a “white man’s sport.” “A lot of Blacks don’t play this particular sport because they don’t know it or understand it because they didn’t grow up with it as a child,” he said. “Some people still associate Black guys with basketball and white guys with golf. What we’re doing is opening of the eyes of the Black community to say you can play this sport.” Bennett, who founded the group
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with Laurelton attorney Jacques Leandre, also said he has hopes of reaching out to the community’s youth by introducing them to a sport they might not normally consider playing. “We’re trying to introduce the game to the younger guys also because this is a sport from the blue collar worker to the doctor,” he said. UBGA’s second goal, Bennett said, is to become a beneficial resource in the community. The not-for-profit has vowed to donate funds raised at fundraisers to neighborhood kids in pursuit of higher education – either in college or a trade school. “College is not for everybody, and we understand that. You might be a good mechanic and want to go to trade school,” he said. “If they are in a quality school, we will award them scholarship money toward school as a way to give back.” Bennett also noted that UBGA will aim to support other nonprofits and charities in the area, so long as they share the same goal of serving the community. Ironically, Bennett admits that when he first touched a golf club about seven years ago, he was put off by the sport. His first experience on a cruise ship with a less-than-pleasant
instructor, he said, had driven him away from golf. But luckily, a year later, Bennett decided to give golf another shot and this time around, there was no tearing him away from the course. Soon after his passion for golf ignited, Bennett joined a golf association in Roosevelt, L.I., where he slowly began to rise up the ranks as a member of the executive board. A few years later, having realized there was a need for something like this in Southeast Queens, Bennett left the association to start UBGA. “This is a club that is for anybody who wants to join. Our club is co-ed and is open to people who are expert golfers to people who have never played before,” he said. “Here in Southeast Queens, we have soccer leagues and baseball leagues, even tennis leagues, but we didn’t have a golf association.” To learn more about UBGA and how you can become a member, call (917) 300-8310. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
Southeast Queens residents Vernel Bennett (right) and Jacques Leandre (left) have started a golf club in an effort to break racial stereotypes about the sport and to give back to the community.
People Local students were named to the President’s List for the fall 2013 semester at SUNY Farmingdale. They include: Jamaica: Mohammed Ahnaf, Luis Guana. Queens Village: Ava Cazabonnet, Kenne Frederick Santiago, Varonica Miller. Rosedale: Ashlet Chandler. South Ozone Park: Sharudh Majid, Kuturie Rouse. Metropolitan Hospitality, the world-class event and hospitality company for Citi Field, home of Major League Baseball’s New York Mets, has appointed Amir Shayegan as Event Director. In his new position, Shayegan is responsible for managing all aspects
of the planning, coordination and execution of Metropolitan Hospitality events at Citi Field. Queens Jazz Orchestra will perform its annual concert, 7:30 p.m. May 16 at Flushing Town Hall. The event will feature a pre-show discussion with Jimmy Heath, the orchestra’s conductor and music director. Cost is $32 for members, $40 for non-members and $20 for students. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing.
Amir Shayegan
Flushing Town Hall and Terraza 7 Café will present an LGBTQthemed concert performance at Flushing Town Hall, sponsored in part by Councilman Daniel Dromm, on June 21, to celebrate Pride Month
and the immigrant LGBTQ communities based in Jackson Heights and Queens. Performers will be selected via open call. All LGBTQ musicians, dancers and performing artists based in Queens may submit applications. Latino and other immigrant and minority artists who self-identify as LGBTQ are particularly encouraged to apply. Applications must be submitted via email and should include: a statement of interest, no more than 200 words; biographical details, no more than 300 words; and three work samples. Submit all applications over email by May 16, 2014 to Flushing Town Hall’s Deputy Director Sami Abu Shumays at sshumays@flushingtownhall.org with the subject line: LGBTQ OPEN CALL 2014. Queens College has been selected as one of the most environmentally
responsible colleges in the U.S. and Canada in The Princeton Review’s just released Guide to 332 Green Colleges: 2014 Edition. The college was recognized for such initiatives as water conservation, alternative transportation, and reduction in waste and carbon emissions, as well as for its commitment to achieving LEED Silver certification on 100 percent of all new construction, the creation of a formal sustainability committee, and providing students with research and degree opportunities in environmental science and sustainability.
Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements & honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19
Faith
Jamaica Gospel Rapper Finds His Calling BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Jamaica rapper Paul Coles, also known as Paradigm, is breaking past the negative stereotypes associated with hip hop by rapping about what he loves most – God. Although Coles grew up listening to gospel music and has always had an interest in music writing, he stumbled upon the unique genre of gospel rap accidentally, after his brother challenged him to write gospel lyrics to a rap beat. “Once I started to write the lyrics to the beat, it became rap,” he said. “And before I knew it, I had written my first gospel rap song called ‘Move.’” Excited that he had tapped into an undiscovered talent, Coles decided to go public with his first song, which he performed for the first time at a talent show his Brooklyn church was hosting. “It was like a scary moment of truth. I wanted the people to accept the new me, and I was able to do it and actually excel in it,” he said. “From then on, I decided I would continue with music.”
With the help of a popular producer, DJ Fingers, in 2007 Coles began to pursue his career in music by working on his first album, “No Greater Love,” which was completed three years later. Impressed with the work that Coles did on his first album, his producer recommended Coles for a special project with former NBA star Jerome Williams. Williams, in search of a ghost writer, met with Coles and the two collaborated on a song, “We Got Next” – a song which aims to inspire children and encourage them to read. “We went to a bunch of middle schools to travel and promote reading and music,” he said. “It was such a wonderful experience to get to spread a positive message to children.” Having exhausted many of his financial resources, Coles had strayed away from music for a while. But the break from gospel rap was short lived, as producers of Tate Music Group, a Christian record label, reached out to him and offered to lend him a hand in releasing another album.
With their help, Coles released “No Greater Love: Reloaded” – a rerelease of his first album with a variety of new songs added to the track list. Coles admits that many times, people view mainstream rappers in a bad light, which is why he aims to show people that rap can be used to spread positive messages too. “I feel like I present another light to hip hop. The other aspect is that people judge a lot of hip hop artists only by their music and I know a lot of the secular artists do a lot of things in their community,” he said. “It’s not all bad, but I do think that I just present another option for a young person to understand that they can be themselves.” He added that he loves performing in front of a live audience because he feels that his music connects his listeners to God. “I feel like I prepare the way for God to have this ultimate exchange with the listener. I feel that through my music, God speaks to them and that gives them hope. I provide hope
Jamaica gospel rapper Paul Coles, also known as Paradigm, released his second album “No Greater Love: Reloaded,” in March. music,” he said. “To see someone’s life change through the music that God has placed in my heart, there is no greater reward than that.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
Notebook
Hillcrest High School
Alabama Educators Visit Hillcrest High School BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
Photo by Bob Harris
On April 28, a group of educators from a troubled school in Tuscaloosa, Ala., visited Hillcrest High School to learn about the school’s successful small learning communities structure that has contributed to its recent academic success. According to Hillcrest High School principal David Morrison, the visit was orchestrated by Pedro Noguera, a professor at New York University, who had been in touch with staff at Paul W. Bryant High School. Educators at the Alabama school have just adopted a similar structure and wanted to see the way it worked. “Their school is similar to ours in scale and size, but they feel that they are not achieving the success they can, so they came to see our school’s model to see if they can emulate it,” Morrison said. “They spoke to the former principal, Mr. Duch, who was part of the transformation, but they also spoke with me to see where we are now.” In the early 1990s, only half of the students at Hillcrest High School
“They spoke about how they are located in a college town, but told us that they haven’t even accessed that resource,” he said. “We told them about our affiliation with York College and Queensborough College and explained the benefits of connecting with higher education [institutions.]” The group also got the chance to visit the high school’s classrooms, actively engaging with the students and teachers to learn about the small learning communities structure, which divides students by their academic interests. “They saw the potential of what they can do by seeing what we do. The transformation was not an easy one for us – systems in our school had to change [and] a lot of the adults had to change the way they think about work at the school, but we made it possible,” Morrison said. “And I think that they were able to see that.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @nkozikowska.
A small group of educators from an Alabama school visited Hillcrest High School to learn about its successful school structure.
graduated. But ever since the school adopted its small learning communities structure eight years ago, Hillcrest has seen tremendous academic growth. “We told them about our story of transformation and our current structure of small learning communities and how that personalization has
been working,” he said. “Our teacher teams have been working together to support the students on an individual level, keeping students motivated about school.” One of the biggest pieces of advice offered to Hillcrest’s out-of-state visitors, Morrison said, was to connect with colleges in the surrounding community.
Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
What’s Up MAY 9 Letter Carriers’ Food Drive Help your letter carrier deliver hope for those in need! Deliver non-perishable food items off at any Queens Post Office through May 10.
Rosedale Wanderers All are invited to join the Rosedale Wanderers (formerly the Rosedale AARP). For more information about Rosedale Wanderers, contact Ann English at (718) 276-0016. Annual dues are $10 per year. All are invited to attend their first meeting for free. The meeting will begin at 12:30 p.m. at the Rosedale/Laurelton American Legion Hall located at 240-02 135th Ave., Jamaica.
Mother’s Day Craft Children ages 5-12 will get the chance to create a special craft to take home to mom for Mother’s Day. The event will begin at 4 p.m. at the Queens Central Library.
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Magic, love spells and a fantastical forest encompass the world of one of Shakespeare’s most enchanting and beloved of comedies. Come on out for fun, music, spectacle and a cast of more than 50 actors and dancers. The show will begin at 7 p.m. General admission tickets are $20 and student tickets are $10. The show will be held at the York College Performing Arts Center. There will be another show on May 11 at 3 p.m.
MAY 10 It’s My Park Day The Friends of Brookville Park will be painting, planting and participating in a park clean-up for “It’s My Park Day” in Brookville Park. Volunteers are needed. Dress accordingly. The clean-up will start at 9 a.m. and end at noon. Brookville Park is located at 143rd Avenue and Brookville Boulevard.
Spring Clean-Up and Beautification Day Assemblywoman Barbara Clark will host her 20th annual Spring Clean-Up and Beautification Day. Tools, garbage bags, paint, brooms, rakes and shovels needed for the clean-up will be made available at 8 a.m. Clark’s office is located at 9701 Springfield Blvd., Queens Village. For information about the community clean-up, call the district office at (718) 479-2333.
Mother’s Day Reception State Sen. Malcolm Smith will present a Mother’s Day Reception honoring Southeast Queens women. Tickets may be purchased at the door or online at www.malcolmforny.com. For more information, including ticket prices, call (718) 285-7182. The fundraiser will be held at Thomasina’s Catering Hall from noon to 2 p.m. Thomasina’s is located at 20535 Linden Blvd., St. Albans.
The Tin Throat Ensemble Present New Music The Tin Throat Ensemble excites audiences with intoxicating rhythms steeped in the traditions of folk music and improvisation. The ensemble consists of Alejandro Flórez, guitar and compositions; Dan Blake, saxophones; Ben Stapp, tuba; and Satoshi Takeishi, drums. They will be performing at the Queens Central Library at 2:30 p.m. It is free to attend.
Mother’s Day Concert With Martha Wash The Margert Community Corporation will present Martha Wash, Jeff Redd, Forever, Christian James and MC DJ Cipha Sounds. For more information, contact Hayden Horsham at (718) 523-3069. The event will be held at Springfield Gardens Educational Campus, located at 143-10 Springfield Blvd., Springfield Gardens and will begin at 3 p.m.
MAY 13 Queens Memory: Hip Hop In Your Hood Queens Memory invites you to add your knowledge of hip hop history and culture in Southeast Queens to the archives at Queens Library in St. Albans. Share your stories, photos, event posters and other hip hop mementos and get your artifacts digitized for free to take home on a thumb drive. Bring your bucket hat, wear your bomber jacket or velour tracksuit, rock your door knocker earrings and they will take your picture! Follow @QueensLibrary on social media and use #HipHopElements to join the conversation. The St. Albans Library is located at 191-05 Linden Blvd., St. Albans.
Take Control Of Your Health Take control of your health with this free workshop at Majority Baptist Church. The event is sponsored by EmblemHealth and Councilman I. Daneek Miller. Majority Baptist Church is located at 115-21 Farmers
Blvd., St. Albans. There will be reoccurring workshops on May 20, May 27, June 3 and June 10 from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. To RSVP or for more information, reach Margaret Denson at (718) 776-3700 or at mdenson@ council.nyc.gov.
103rd Precinct Community Council Meeting If you are interested in finding out what is happening in the 103rd Police Precinct, then attend the 103rd Precinct’s Community Council Meeting — generally held on the second Tuesday of the month. For additional information, call (718) 657-8195. The meeting will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Saint Benedict The Moor Church, located at 171-17 110th Ave., Jamaica. It is free to attend.
Southeast Queens Camera Club If you enjoy photography and are looking to meet with others who are enthusiastic about learning more about photography, then you should join the Southeast Queens Camera Club. The SQCC will hold their meetings on the second, third and fourth Tuesdays of the month. Meeting are held at the Roy Wilkins Park Recreation Center from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. For more information, call Lawrence Gallmon at (347) 528-7178.
MAY 14 Resumes and Cover Letters Do your resume and cover letter stand out from the crowd? Make them the best they can be by learning how to get started, different types of resumes, what and what not to include and tips for making them stronger. The workshop will be held at 10 a.m. at the Central Branch of the Queens Library. Admission is free. For further information, visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-8625.
Intermediate Microsoft Excel Build on your basic knowledge of Microsoft Excel for free at the Queens Central Library at 6 p.m. Topics covered include a review of the basics, creating and manipulating tables and using formulas and functions. Basic computer skills and knowledge of Excel are required. Preregistration is required online at jobmap.queenslibrary.org. For more information, (718) 990-8625.
Mock Interviews Practice makes perfect with everything, including your interview-
ing skills. In this workshop, you will learn how to prepare for your interview, successfully deal with difficult questions and follow up properly after the interview. The workshops takes place at 10 a.m.. at the Central Branch of the Queens Library. Admission is free, but space is limited. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center. Mock interviews are held on the Main Floor of the Central Library, in the Job Information Center. The workshop is free.
MAY 15 Hip Hop Elements: Poetry Live In this free workshop, participants will write poetry inspired by current events and social issues. They will have an opportunity to perform their work in the Hip Hop Elements Poetry and Art Showcase on May 29. Follow @QueensLibrary on social media and use #HipHopElements to join the conversation. The event will be held at the library at 4 p.m.
ONGOING Clergy United Programs Clergy United for Community Empowerment offers group sessions at 172-17 Linden Blvd., second floor, Saint Albans. Topics covered include domestic violence, substance abuse intervention, decision-making and self-esteem awareness. Group sessions are open to the public, but it is important to call ahead for the next group session. Other programs offered by Clergy United include: Early Intervention Services, a simple and accurate way to find out if you have HIV. No needles, no blood test. On-site testing walk-ins welcome Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Infant mortality reduction initiative program provides free services, including case management, parent skills building, crib care, breast feeding education, health education, confidential counseling and more. Free summer vacation for your child, through enrollment with the Fresh Air Fund, for kids ages 6-12. Contact Ms. Richardson at Clergy United for more information. For information on programs offered through Clergy United, call (718) 297-0720. Send your community events to the PRESS for a free listing at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357. Call (718) 357-7400 or email editor@queenspress.com. All events will be considered for publication, without a fee.
May 9-15, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 21
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
SUMMONS Index No. 2312413 D/O/F: December 20, 2013 Premises Address: 11927 198TH STREET SAINT ALBANS, NY 11412 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstTANYA R. CLEMENTS; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION & FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA-INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; JOHN DOE 1 THROUGH 50; JANE DOE 1 THROUGH 50, INTENDING TO BE THE UNKNOWN HEIRS OF THE ESTATE OF MARGARET L. PITCHFORD WHO WAS BORN ON MAY 4, 1925 AND DIED ON MAY 11, 2008, A RESIDENT OF THE COUNTY OF QUEENS, THEIR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST IF ANY OF THE AFORESAID DEFENDANTS BE DECEASED, THEIR RESPECTIVE HEIRS AT LAW, NEXT OF KIN, DISTRIBUTES, DEVISEES, GRANTEES, TRUSTEES, LIENORS, CREDITORS, ASSIGNEES AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE AFORESAID CLASSES OF PERSON, IF THEY OR ANY OF THEM BE DEAD, AND THEIR RESPEC TIVE HUSBANDS, WIVES OR WIDOWS, IF ANY, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCEAREUNKNOWN TO THE PLAINTIFF; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD;; ''JOHN DOES'' and ''JANE DOES'', said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of premises, and corporations, other entities or persons who claim, or may claim, a lien against the premises, Defendant(s), TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your Answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff's Attorneys within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE: YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and
complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. The following notice is intended only for those defendants who are owners of the premises sought to be foreclosed or who are liable upon the debt for which the mortgage stands as security. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. The amount of the debt: $259,292.64 consisting of principal balance of $229,735.13 plus interest of 22,437.63, escrow/impound shortages or credits of $4,859.06, late charges of $396.40; Broker`s Price Opinion, inspection and miscellaneous charges of $105.00; surrogate search fee of $21.73; attorney fee $1,200.00 and title search $537.69. Because of interest and other charges that may vary from day to day, the amount due on the day you pay may be greater. Hence, if you pay the amount shown above, an adjustment may be necessary after we receive the check, in which event we will inform you. The name of the creditor to whom the debt is owed: WELLS FARGO BANK, N.A.. Unless you dispute the validity of the debt, or any portion thereof, within thirty (30) days after receipt hereof, the debt will be assumed to be valid by the herein debt collector. If you notify the herein debt collector in writing within thirty (30) days after your receipt hereof that the debt, or any portion thereof, is disputed, we will obtain verification of the debt or a copy of any judgment against you representing the debt and a copy of such verification or judgment will be mailed to you by the herein debt collector. Upon your written request within 30 days after receipt of this notice, the herein debt collector will provide you with the name and address of the original creditor if different from the current creditor.
Note: Your time to respond to the summons and complaint differs from your time to dispute the validity of the debt or to request the name and address of the original creditor. Although you have as few as 20 days to respond to the summons and complaint, depending on the manner of service, you still have 30 days from receipt of this summons to dispute the validity of the debt and to request the name and address of the original creditor. TO THE DEFENDANTS: The Plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. TO THE DEFENDANTS: If you have obtained an order of discharge from the Bankruptcy court, which includes this debt, and you have not reaffirmed your liability for this debt, this law firm is not alleging that you have any personal liability for this debt and does not seek a money judgment against you. Even if a discharge has been obtained, this lawsuit to foreclose the mortgage will continue and we will seek a judgment authorizing the sale of the mortgaged premises. Dated: December 19, 2013 Shanna J. Black, Esq. ROSICKI, ROSICKI & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Main Office 51 E Bethpage Road Plainview, NY 11803 516-741-2585 Help For Homeowners In Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home. You should be extremely careful about any such promises. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-BANKNYS (1-877226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www. banking.state.ny.us. The State does not guarantee the advice of these agencies. ________________________ INDEX NO.: 1314/2013. Filed Date: 4/17/2014. SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE. MORTGAGED PREMISES: 109-66 153RD STREET, JAMAICA, NY 11433. (BL #: 12142 – 20). Plaintiff designates Queens County as the place of trial; venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situate.
STATE OF NEW YORK SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF QUEENS U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR IN INTEREST TO BANK OF AMERICA, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE, SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO LASALLE BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION AS TRUSTEE FOR WASHINGTON MUTUAL ASSET-BACKED CERTIFICATES WMABS SERIES 2007-HE2 TRUST, Plaintiff, -against- JOSE MEDRANO, if living, and if dead, the respective heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignors, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and each and every person not specifically named who may be entitled to or claim to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the verified complaint; all of whom and whose names and places of residence unknown, and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained by the Plaintiff, CHRIS VRETTOS, NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD, NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOL ATIONS BUREAU, NEW YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, CACH OF COLORADO, LLC, THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, KENNETH JAMISON, SHALIEK JAMISON, JOANNE JAMISON, CHARLES JAMISON, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUM-
MONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $ 380,000.00 (modified to $ 390,180.94 by a Loan Modification Agreement dated January 15, 2009) and interest, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Queens on October 3, 2006, at C.R.F.N. 2006000554311, covering premises known as 109-66 153rd Street, Jamaica, NY 11433 – BL #: 12142 – 20. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. The Plaintiff also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendant and for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises. TO the Defendant JOSE MEDRANO, the foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Rudolph E. Greco, Jr. of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, and dated February 4, 2014. Dated: New Rochelle, N.Y. April 15, 2014. McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, P.C. By: /s/________________ Leroy
J. Pelicci, Jr., Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 145 Huguenot St., Ste. 210 New Rochelle, NY 10801 p. 914-636-8900 f. 914-636-8901 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-226-5697 or visit the Department’s website at www.dfs.ny.gov. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.
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Smith Looking Ahead
Q
CONFIDENTIAL
Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 9-15, 2014
Musicians OF QuEEns
Nick Moran
QConf is edited by: Steven J. Ferrari
State Sen. Malcolm Smith (far right) with recent winners of the Senator's Jump and Ball Basketball tournament.
Looks like embattled State Sen. Malcolm Smith has already set aside the dates for his 10th Annual Jump and Ball Basketball Tournament this August. Only problem? Mr. Smith will likely still be on trial in August, if not behind bars.
While we here at QConf can’t help but wonder where Smith finds the time to organize all the events. Shouldn’t he be focused on his campaign against Leroy Comrie…or better yet, his corruption trial, set for June?
Metta Seeks Queens Peace Everything’s better in, Queens, right? Maybe even post-divorce legal battles with basketball stars. According to the New York Post, former New York Knick Metta World Peace is seeking to bring the legal battle with his ex-girlfriend Jennifer Palma, over tuition for their son’s private school tuition, to Queens Family Court from Manhattan. World Peace argues that the case should be moved because his ex lives in Woodside, and they have conducted all
Contributors: Bruce Adler, Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Michael Schenkler, Jackie Strawbridge.
Follow us on Twitter: @QueensTrib Like us on Facebook facebook.com/ QueensTrib
Astoria's Hot Assemblywoman
previous proceedings in the Borough. We suggest the ex-couple check out our annual Blue Book: The Offical Guide to Queens for ideas on where to get a postcourt battle drink or two.
Cricket Kick Off
Is there anything she can't do? Queens Borough President Melinda Katz bowled off at the opening ceremonies of the New York T20 Big Bash Cricket Tournament at Idlewild Field in Springfield Gardens on May 2. The three-day tournament featured 10 teams competing for $20,000 in prizes.
Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas (D-Astoria) has a quality about her that someone out there seems to really like. The first Greek-American woman elected to office in New York ranked third on a list of the "20 Hottest Female Democrat Politicians" on lifestyle website rantlifestyle. com. Simotas was in good company, beating out some wellknown women, including Hilary Clinton (No. 17), U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (No. 9) and First Lady Michelle Obama (No. 8). The two women above Simotas on the list were U.S. Rep. Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona (No. 2) and Michigan politician Carey Torrice (No. 1). While we do not in any way condone the inherent sexism of such a list (where is the list of sexiest male politicians?), our outrage is somewhat tempered by seeing one of our own elected officials near the top of the list.
The words that Nick Moran sings are always honest. They may be dressed up in stories or metaphors, but the sentiment is always truthful. “I write about things that happen to me. Some of my songs are more playful and figurative, but they always stem from an actual experience I’ve had. I try and write with honesty,” he said. “Some songs may be simple and straightforward; others may require a bit more unraveling. Regardless, every song is honest and truthful, and a lot of thought goes into every song, and every single lyric I write.” As soon as you put on one of his numbers, Moran’s music takes you on refreshing journey of rock and roll and the Blues. With funky guitar parts, a toe-tapping rhythm and emotional, soulful vocals, Moran writes songs that are as welcoming as a warm Spring day. Like many others, Moran started writing his own pieces in college, though he only pursued his craft as a career when he moved into the City, settling at first in Sunnyside and then Astoria. Moran said the latter neighborhood’s numerous talents are an inspiration to him as well. “I’ve always been a singer, but after I moved here, I taught myself guitar/piano, started playing shows, and never looked back,” he said. Moran called his creative process “strange,” as he comes up with melodies at first before he has words to fill the space. So instead, he sings random words or vowel sounds until he falls on one that makes the most
amount of sense. “The word usually starts to form a sentence, and that sentence starts to form a concept and then I’m on my way,” Moran said. That songwriting method helped to form Moran’s debut album, “Who We Are,” which came out in March 2013. The seven-song record captures the spirit of the music that Moran feels inspired by, such as James Brown, Same Cooke and Jackie Wilson. “Ultimately, I wanted a big bold sound while staying true to every song’s original sentiment,” he said. “Growing up, I listened to all sorts of whatever, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t go through a Green Day phase, but I honestly feel that the old soul, funky, Motown sound is what I loved, and still love the most.” This year, Moran competed in the Battle of the Boroughs at the Greene Space. While he did not advance past the first round, he said he enjoyed performing there and was thankful to get the opportunity. “Although my run was a bit shorter than I would have liked, the experience as a whole was very enjoyable,” Moran said. “And I thank WNYC, the Greene Space and WQXR for all the work they put into making it such a great event.” This summer, Moran is going to be hard at work on his next album. To keep up with the latest news from the musician, visit his website, https://heynickmoran.bandpage.com, and his Facebook page, www.facebook.com/ heynickmoran. “Who We Are” is available on Amazon and iTunes.
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NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF QUEENS DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR MORGAN STANLEY CAPITAL I INC. TRUST 2006-HE2, Plaintiff, against LIZ BUITRAGO, et al., Defendant(s). Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly dated 3/3/2014 I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Queens County Courthouse in Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on 05/30/2014 at 10:00AM, premises known as 179-39 144TH ROAD, Springfield Gar-
Legals
dens, NY 11434 All that certain plot piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements erected, situate, lying and being in the Borough and County of Queens, City and State of New York, BLOCK 13089 LOT 91, FORMERLY PART OF, LOT 38. Approximate amount of judgment $737,657.71 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 22987/12. Gregory M. Laspina, Esq., Referee Gross, Polowy & Orlans, Attorney for Plaintiff, P.O. Box 540, Getzville, NY 14068 Dated: April 23, 2014 1091561
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