Volume 14 Issue No. 23 June 7-13, 2013
PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen
CAUGHT!
Kevin McClinton, the alleged killer of 14-year-old D’aja Robinson, was caught this week in South Carolina and arraigned in Queens court. By Natalia Kozikowska … Page 5.
Online at www.QueensPress.com
Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
News Briefs Father Killed While Waiting For Daughter
Last week, on Friday, May 31, Kelly Mullins, a devoted father, was shot and killed in his car outside the South Jamaica’s 40 Projects while he was waiting to pick up his young daughter and take her to school. According to reports, an unidentified gunman approached the vehicle and fired around five shots, two of which struck the father. Police responded to the scene around just before 7 a.m. and pronounced Kelly dead. No suspect is in custody yet and police are currently investigating the murder. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577. All calls are strictly confidential.
St. Albans Couple Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking
Last week, District Attorney Richard Brown announced that a St. Albans couple, Hikeem Green, 39, and Darcell Marshall, 22, have been accused of brutalizing two runaways and charged with sex trafficking. According to the statement, Green and his girlfriend, Marshall, allegedly held a 19-year-old from Rockland County and a 20-year-old from New York City in a foreclosed home they illegally occupied at 119-02 Springfield Blvd. According to prosecutors, Green picked up the runaways by pretending to be a “John,” or prostitution customer in Brooklyn and the Bronx. Once he picked them up, he revealed that he was a pimp and told them that they had to work for him. He took the victims back to the
house on Springfield Boulevard in St. Albans and snapped photos of them, posting them online and advertising their services as prostitutes. It is also alleged that the suspect forced the victims to take drugs. It is additionally alleged that numerous men responded to the ads and the victims met with them either at the Springfield Boulevard address or other locations in Queens where they were forced to perform various sexual acts for money, which they had to turn over to Green and Marshall. Green threatened both victims with physical violence and that, on occasion, he choked and slapped the face of the 19-year-old victim and slapped and punched the face of the 20-year-old victim. According to the statement, Nov. 30, 2012, Green punched the 20-yearold victim in the face more than 20 times, causing her face to swell and her tooth to break. He also allegedly forced her to perform oral sex on him, after which she managed to call 911. Responding police officers allegedly found Green in a basement bedroom and Marshall and the two victims in the living room. Police allegedly recovered a stun gun, a loaded semiautomatic handgun and a box of ammunition in the basement and two bags of marijuana in the living room. Green is being faced with charges of kidnapping, rape, criminal sexual act, sex trafficking, promoting prostitution, among others. He is facing 25 years to life in prison if convicted and is being held on $800,000 bail.
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June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
Presstime
Queens BP: Comrie In, Peralta Out As one Queens elected official bows out of the Borough President race, another reinforced his intentions to run, despite rumors that he too would exit stage left. State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst) dropped his bid to be Queens Borough President last Friday while Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St Albans) announced that he will be in the QBP race at a press conference on Monday afternoon. In a statement emailed by Peralta’s spokesperson, the State Senator
State Sen. Jose Peralta
said that he is dropping ough president, this entire out “In the best interests borough is taken care of,” of my campaign, my famhe said. ily and the Queens DemoWhen asked about the cratic party.” amount of money he has “I want to thank the raised for his campaign thousands of Queens resicompared to two of his opdents and civic and components, Katz and Counmunity leaders that I had cilman Peter Vallone (Dthe pleasure of meeting Astoria), he said that he during the course of the believes he can still run a campaign. Your warm regrassroots campaign beception of my candidacy cause there are many voland your encouragement unteers who are willing to and support are enorhelp his campaign. He is mously appreciated,” he Councilman Leroy Comrie stands with supporters outside also asking 1,000 people Borough Hall on Monday as he reinforced his desire to win to donate $20 each to add said in the statement. In addition to ending the Borough President election. to his campaign amount. his campaign, Peralta an“I know that there are nounced that he is supporting Me- BP at a press conference outside of a lot of people that have been promlinda Katz in her bid for Queens Bor- Queens Borough Hall on Monday ising me money; now is the time to ough President. Katz, a former City afternoon. give,” Comrie said. Flanked by a crowd of supporters, Council and State Assembly member, According to the latest filing to got the endorsement of the Queens he said that he has “a burning desire” the New York City Campaign Fito be the next Borough President of nance Board, Comrie has raised Democratic Party last month. Peralta also said in the statement Queens and he intends to run a posi- $145,901 in total so far for his QBP that even though he is no longer in tive campaign that focuses on the is- run, compared to $465,883 that Katz the running for the seat he will con- sues affecting Queens residents the has made and more than $1 million tinue to advocate for affordable hous- most. in total that Vallone has. “I have had the opportunity to ing and tougher gun laws. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at Meanwhile, Comrie officially an- make results for people over my time (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or at lgronnounced his intentions to run for in office. I want to make sure, as bor- da@queenstribune.com. Photo by Ira Cohen
By LuIS GRONDA
Forest Hills Lawyer Runs For District 28 Forest Hills attorney and Rochdale Village resident Hettie Powell has officially thrown her hat in a crowded race to replace Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica) later this year. Powell is the third woman to announce her candidacy for the District 28 Council seat. She joins community activists Breina Payne and Christina Winslow. Minister at Maranatha Baptist Church in Brooklyn, David Kayode, is also challenging Wills. Powell, a native from the Island of Jamaica, is no stranger to the southeast Queens community. She sat on the board of directors of Rochdale Village for 15 years and was a member of Rochdale Village Social Services, where she helped implement programs for the youth. Powell has also volunteered for a number of politicians including the late Tom White. Before she moved to the United States, Powell was a trained teacher in the Caribbean. Her experience there is crucial in understanding the importance of educating children, she said.
She has carried attorney for the Lemany of these lessons gal Aid Society. and techniques with “With that experiher to America, foundence, I will be able to ing the Rochdale Vilstart the ground runlage Youth Council ning,” she said. “As where students have a practicing attoraccess to counselney, we have to view ing, tutoring and SAT laws and we have to prep classes. As a canreview laws and chaldidate, she hopes to lenge the rulings.” make education her “In terms of my key platform. background, it has “For me, education Forest Hills attorney and prepared me to go is the key because I do resident of Rochdale Village into City Council believe if our children Hettie Powell is the third and be the best repdo not get the proper woman to challenge Coun- resentative I can be education and that cilman Ruben Wills for his with my training. foundation, it is diffi- seat later this year. And as a teacher, I cult for them to mainunderstand educatain a good living and standards with- tion and need of getting kids eduin the community,” Powell said. “I cated,” she added. “I come in with believe we should put education first two strong experiences to stand up and all of our young people should get for the people of my district.” a good education. We need to bring If elected to council, Powell also resources into the community.” hopes to curb violence in her neighIn addition to her education back- borhood. She explained that many ground, Powell has a strong legal residents still walk the streets in fear background. She is currently a man- of both criminal activity and the poaging attorney for the Queens Law lice. Associates. She was also a practicing “For me, safe streets should be Photo courtesy of Hettie Powell
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
when residents are able to walk streets free from criminal activity and that our young people should be able to walk down the streets without fear of the police – that they are going to be pulled over without reason and stopped and searched,” she said. Her interest to run for the seat, she said, was ignited by the lack of transparency in government. In light of the arrest and conviction of multiple southeast Queens reps, Powell hopes to bring change to the 28th council district. “It [transparency] is really missing. I guess there are some people who would want to make what they’re doing known everywhere you go,” she said. “We want to know what is happening. We want to know how we are spending money and who is getting it and what type of work they are doing and that is important to me.” “That’s why I’m running. I’m running for change,” she continued. “I want people to know they have choices. They can make determinations for themselves.” Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.
Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
By JOe MARvilli Elected officials came together with community leaders at the intersection where a pedestrian was killed by a hit-and-run to introduce a package of legislation that would combat such incidents. On May 30, Councilmembers Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans), Peter Koo (D-Flushing) and Rosie Mendez (D-Manhattan) introduced legislation to help protect people from hit–and-runs and to increase the tools the NYPD has to find those responsible. The package includes an assortment of legislation and resolutions to make sure the hit-and-runs are greatly decreased. One piece of legislation would require the NYPD to report to the City Council on an annual basis about hit-and-run occurrences that result in a fatality or sever injury. Two different resolutions are part of the package as well. One of them would call on the State Legislature to pass legislation allowing the City to install and operate red light cameras in more than 150 intersections. The other one would call on the State Legislature to create a tax credit for
property owners who install surveillance cameras on their property. In addition, the City Council has already passed another resolution for the State Assembly Bill A04327, which would let the City create a pilot program for speed cameras. The press conference took place at 41st Avenue and Union Street in Flushing, the same location where Dante Dominguez was killed during a hit-and-run by a black SUV on Nov. 2. Surrounded by family, friends and children from PS 20, Dante’s widow, Diascha Dominguez, expressed her anguish and anger that the driver left the scene of the accident. “I have no words to describe the pain and suffering that my family is currently going through at this moment,” she said. “To flee the scene? That’s heartless. That’s the crime. That is what has torn me apart. An accident is when you hold accountability for your actions. This was no accident, the moment that he continued to drive off.” All three of the legislation’s cosponsors said a few words about the bill’s importance. “We understand that the police have a difficult a job and we hope that this legislation will create better
Photo by Joe Marvilli
Officials Push For Hit And Run Bill jor opportunity, method and piece of technology to try and solve a crime that didn’t have to happen,” Comrie added. “As you can see, this is a busy intersection. It’s an intersection that we need to put up some cameras in to try to make sure that this never happens again.” “We are here today because we are asking not just for justice for Dante, but for everyone,” Mendez said. “So that no other family will have to go with what the Dominguez family has gone through.” NYPD Deputy Inspector Brian Maguire was on hand as well to ask for the public’s Diascha Dominguez, whose husband was assistance in catching the killed by a hit and run in Flushing, speaks at hit-and-run driver who killed a rally calling for legislation to combat such Dominguez. incidents from occurring. “I’m here to request that if anybody has any information communication and clearly define on this crime, call the TIPS hotline. investigative expectations,” Koo said. It’s 1-800-577-TIPS,” he said. “I want “More importantly, we hope that this to remind people that getting into an legislation will lead to the arrests of accident is not a crime. It’s only a more hit and run drivers so families crime when you flee the scene.” Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at like the Dominguez get the justice (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, or at jmarthey deserve.” “This is an appeal to use every ma- villi@queenstribune.com.
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st. albans Cop Kills Wife, Then self By Luis Gronda An off-duty police officer shot and killed his wife and then turned the gun on himself in an apparent murder-suicide on Wednesday night. According to police and published reports, Sherlon Smikle shot his wife, Lana Morris four times with a shotgun at the couple’s home in St.
Albans and then turned the weapon on himself a short time afterwards. Smikle was a police officer at the 103rd Precinct, which covers neighborhoods such as Jamaica, Hollis and Lakewood. Morris was a school safety agent for the NYPD as well. Law enforcement said that the first incident happened at their home at 183-74 Camden Ave. Cops
responded to a 911 call at around 7:45 p.m. and they found Morris, 46, shot multiple times outside the house when they arrived at the scene. She was taken to Queens General Hospital where she was pronounced dead upon arrival. They later found Smikle’s body inside a home at 108-60 Camden Ave. He had a gunshot wound to the head
and was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police. Smikle reportedly had his service weapon confiscated from him after a domestic dispute with his wife. He was also reassigned from the 83rd Precinct in Brooklyn to the 103. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or at lgronda@queenstribune.com.
suspect in shooting death of 14-year-old nabbed By naTaLia KoZiKoWsKa After more than a two-week manhunt, the alleged triggerman who opened fire at a Q6 bus in South Jamaica on May 18 killing 14-yearold D’aja Robinson, was arrested on Tuesday morning. According to a statement released by Queens District Attorney Richard Brown, the suspect, Kevin McClinton, 21, was picked up by authorities in South Carolina in the Riverland section of Cayce, S.C around 6:30 a.m. Robinson was on her way back from a Sweet 16 party when her bus, riding along Sutphin Boulevard, was sprayed by 10 rounds from a .40 caliber handgun. One of the bullets fatal-
ly struck the South Jamaica teen in the head. She was taken to Jamaica Hospital where she was pronounced dead shortly after. In the days following the shooting, multiple reports surfaced claiming Robinson’s death was gang-related. It is believed that the shots were intended for another young 14-year-old girl on the bus who was affiliated with the EBK gang, a rival of the street crew, the Snow Gang. McClinton, an ex-convict with several prior arrests including an open gun case in Queens, is reportedly a member of the Snow Gang and was trying to get back at the unidentified 14-year-old for a recent Facebook
post in which she “dissed” the gang, but instead of killing her, he killed Robinson. On the day of his arrest, McClinton, who goes by the nickname Red Bottoms Pharoh Da Space Boss, was held in South Carolina and on the following day, he was extradited and arraigned in Queens Criminal Court. He is being charged with seconddegree murder, first-degree reckless endangerment and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. He faces 25 years to life in prison. His next scheduled court appearance is in two weeks. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.
shooting suspect Kevin McClinton was busted in south Carolina earlier this week.
Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
Editorial
Changing Direction 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 Photo Editor: Ira Cohen
Reporters: Harley Benson Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja Art Dept:
Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Alan Goldsher Director of Marketing Maureen Coppola Advertising Administrator Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Nicole Douglas Shari Strongin
A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC
Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller
With years of neglect and months of debate over potential development at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, perhaps the City Council finally plans to step in. On June 7, the City Council’s Committee on Parks and Recreation plans to discuss the condition and needs of the longignored park located in the heart of Queens. Over the years, we have been very vocal about the current condition of Flushing Meadows Corona Park and we hope that this committee makes it clear that the neglect and abuse of this land must stop. As the debate over potential development of the park has raged, many opponents have declared that something like this would never happen in Central or Prospect Parks. And they are right. But those parks have dedicated conservancies raising funds and taking care of them. Flushing Meadows Corona Park does not, and it needs one. Used by many as a place to relax, play soccer or enjoy a day outdoors, the park is too important to allow this neglect to continue. Four members of the City Council’s Committee on Parks and Recreation call Queens home, including Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village), Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights), Julissa Ferreras (D-East Elmhurst) and Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside). We hope that these Council members make an effort to do the right thing and let the City Parks Dept. know that changes must be made, and that anything less is unacceptable.
Letters Grass Proposal
To The Editor: The issue of unkempt properties has plagued our communities since the housing bust. At present, the Dept. of Sanitation can go on properties and clean them once they have been given a status. While, I am pleased with this change in the regulations there is more to be done. The Dept. of Sanitation addresses properties with garbage but does not address those with unkempt grass/ weeds. These properties must be addressed as well. Often half built properties and those in foreclosure do not have garbage but have grass/weeds that are 3 feet high. This is my proposal: DSNY advises property owner/bank that a property is unkempt (failure to cut grass, remove weeds, trim hedges that block sidewalks etc...) and gives the owner 10 or 15 business days to comply. If they do not comply, the
Dept. of Finance will assess a surcharge on the next quarterly property tax bill (percentage amount to be determined). That surcharge will be used to pay for the expenses of having the property maintained on a monthly basis by private landscaper (contract given by RFP). This surcharge can be removed once the property owner/bank can show proof that a landscaper has been hired to address future clean-ups or submits a signed affidavit with the name of the person who will maintian the property. It is in the City’s interest to do this. The banks that have interest in these properties continue paying taxes even when the homeowners fail to pay their mortgages and the escrow for the taxes. The surcharge will be a higher tax and the City would not have to worry about how to collect for the clean-up. Marie Adam-Ovide, District Manager Community Board 8
Cereal Commercial Stirs Idiotic Controversy A Personal Perspective By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Last week, a Cheerios commercial set off a firestorm of controversy. This week the de Blasio family of Brooklyn told how they felt about the matter. The Cheerios commercial, which I have not seen, apparently depicts a young family comprised of one Black parent, one white parent and a mixed race daughter. The family is seen touting the goodness of the family’s favorite breakfast cereal. We know that when it comes to race in America, there is still a lot of ugliness. However, the vitriolic responses to this commercial really prove how far we still have to go toward racial acceptance. We know there are a lot of really despicable people whose main goal in life seem to be that of hurting other people with words. The family in the cereal commercial was meant to reflect the look of the evolving American family. Well, as
proven by the rabid attacks, not everyone has evolved to the point of accepting that some families are mixed and that’s okay too. Wherever you go these days, you will see various versions of what family means in the 21st century; and whether we like what we see or not, mixed-race marriages are getting quite common and mixed-couples produce mixed race children. Get over it! One of my Caucasian colleagues recently married a man who is half white and half Chinese. He married her with two children: one, an adopted Black child, the other, a biological white child. I told her that her family is a mini rainbow coalition. This family is as viable as anyone else’s. That is the message that Public Advocate Bill de Blasio and his wife Chirlane McRae were sending when they released a photo of themselves sitting at the breakfast table with their son, who, with his caramel complexion and towering afro, looks like the teenaged Michael
Jackson, and the Cheerios logo is clearly visible on the cereal box. De Blasio, as most people know by now, is married to an African American woman, who also recently disclosed that she used to “identify as a lesbian” until she met her husband. They live in Brooklyn with their two children. Time was when couples like the de Blasios could have been thrown into jail for marrying in certain southern states. In fact, as recently as 1966, there were still 17 states in the union that legally prohibited interracial marriages. But this couple shows that their family is beautiful and viable too. By recreating the look of the commercial in their own home, the de Blasio family is making the statement that they are just like the family in the commercial and there are many others like them. At the end of the day, these families are no different from anyone else’s. They love, they quarrel and they work to support their children and try to be the best family they can be.
People of all races see Barack Obama as the nation’s first Black president and on the face of it, he is. But they tend to forget that he too is the result of a mixed-race marriage. He is half white. It goes to show that mixed marriages are nothing new. They’re only getting more common. There is no need for anyone to be unleashing such disgusting sentiments against a family in a cereal commercial. Bi and multicultural relationships are all over our television shows, whether they are scripted or they are the reality shows we love to hate. It’s in all our families whether immediate or distance. I am not a sociologist, but based on what I see in Manhattan, Queens and Brooklyn, in 50 years most New York families will probably be headed by a mixed couple -- whether racially, ethnically, religiously or otherwise diverse. If that is the case, then the folks who are screaming about a TV commercial now should know that they are not winning.
June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
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astoria real Estate agent Cons apartment Seekers A story very similar in its entirety was recounted by 15 individuals during a monthly 114th Precinct community council meeting on May 28 at Ricardo’s in Astoria. An advertisement for an apartment in Astoria on Craigslist has duped many people into believing they would eventually move in after signing a contract and receiving a receipt for a security deposit and one month’s rent. Mario Lalicata, a local real estate agent, who also goes by the last name, Lamagra, has allegedly scammed more than a dozen people, by showing his apartment on 25-55 48th St. in Astoria. He promised them all a move-in date, but has repeatedly disappeared and avoided them soon after an initial encounter. Lalicata, a former school teacher, is also a former Community Board 1 member. “He has been removed from CB 1 since 2003,” said District Manager Lucille Hartman. She did not elaborate on why he was removed. Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (DAstoria) said he was not surprised when he found out the man behind the scam is Lalicata himself. “He may be the only person I have removed from CB 1 during my tenure as Councilman,” he said. “You know when you have that feeling about someone.” “These types of agents aren’t special to Astoria, but everybody should be on guard about these types of scams, by making sure to have written agreements between the two parties. Also, have an attorney look over the agreements and
Photo by Trisha Sakhuja
By TriSha Sakhuja
Some of the victims are shown from left to right, Edgar antillon, Daniel antillon, Paul Morales, Steven Mihalik. do your own research about the real estate agent on the Internet,” Vallone added. So far, Lalicata is responsible for scamming more than $20,000 from those who believed his advertisement, saw the apartment and made contractual obligations to move-in on a date set up the two parties. “Fifteen people are here for the same reason, we all have been stolen from,” said Lee Ostraski, a victim who gave Lalicata $1,425. “We have all been shown the same apartment, either the basement, the individual rooms or the apartment in its entirety, by the same man. He is ripping people off.” “Within 24-hours of giving this man $600, I realized this was a scam because I searched his name on the Internet and immediately asked him
Photo by Trisha Sakhuja
a copy of the contract and receipt given to Steven Mihalik by Mario Lalicata.
for my money back,” said Steven Mihalik, 26, a resident of Brooklyn. “He said he spent my money on an electric bill for the apartment,” Mihalik added. Three friends, each of whom gave Lalicata a total of $2,400, saw the apartment together and were ready to move into the three bedrooms, two of which are downstairs and one upstairs. “He promised us a move-in date in April, but he kept pushing back the date by telling us the apartment needs to go through an inspection and the electrician needs to come in to fix the lights in the bathroom,” said Yonghwan Jim, 25, a resident of Woodside. Lalicata has also promised to pay them a compensation for the temporary house they stayed in while waiting to move into the apartment. Rudy Tieu, 30, a resident of California seeking an apartment in western Queens, was ready to move in to the apartment on May 1, but to Tieu’s surprise, Lalicata pushed back the move-in date by stating the same excuses. After numerous attempts of contacting Lalicata, Tieu was able retrieve $100 of his $1,100 down payment, but was told by Lalicata that he does not have the rest of his money to give back. Paul Morales, 23, and Josh Benson-Merron, 22, also traveled from California in search of a new home in Queens. Morales was able to retrieve the keys to the apartment before handing Lalicata a deposit of $1,200. His friend, Merron, saw the apartment after Morales and gave the owner an additional deposit of $600.
“After I saw the apartment, I immediately contacted my friend Josh and told him I found us a great apartment,” said Morales. “But we were fed up after three weeks of being told we can’t move into the apartment because it was not ready. He said it needed to go through an inspection and it still needed light fixtures in the bathroom.” “He told me he was going to give me the house, but then I couldn’t move in after a month of my move-in date,” said Neel Dholaria, who gave Lalicata a total of $600. “I tried to call him many times, but he eventually turned his phone off. “When I first went inside the house, I felt bad because his mother is really old and so is his wife,” he said. “His wife and mother definitely know what is going on because 30 people have probably shown up to his house asking for their money back,” Dholaria added. “I was told the house had been signed over a couple years ago because of his gambling debt and now the mafia owns his house,” said Jack Stone, 30, a resident of Woodside, who gave Lalicata a deposit of $550 and was ready to move into his new apartment. “I heard Mario had to leave his house for a little while because they were going to come kill his mother and his wife,” Stone added. The victims began to match their stories on a forum, www.Astorians. com, which led many to the 114th Precinct monthly meeting. Some of them have previously tried to contact the police, but were turned away because they were told this case is a civil matter. However, during the meeting, Deputy Inspector Stephen Cirabisi of the 114th Precinct assured the victims that this case will resolve in a matter of time, since Lalicata’s criminal activities have come to light. “He is obviously a scam artist,” said Cirabisi. “The District Attorney’s office has already assigned a DA to the case because so many people are complaining.” Everyone was asked to lodge their contact information, as well as present all of the evidence, such as their contracts and receipts. The Queens District Attorney’s office has declined to comment, since no arrest has been made as of yet. If you are involved with this case, contact Lauren Steele at LDsteele@ queensda.org. Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, or at tsakhuja@queenstribune.com.
June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
Police Blotter
A sampling of the items recovered during a search in the 107th Precinct.
107th Precinct
Arrests
On May 29, the 107th Precinct conducted a search warrant inside of 77-15 168th St., Flushing, and recovered the following items: 443 Apple iPhones, 20 Apple iPads, 11 Apple iPod Touches, a black imitation pistol, a small amount of marijuana and $9,180 in cash. The following individuals were arrested and charged with trademark counterfeiting, criminal possession
This suspect is wanted in connection to a public lewdness incident on a Queens-bound 7 train. of stolen property, criminal possession of a weapon and unlawful possession of marijuana. Adam Jaffer, 22; William Chen, 20; and Justin Pinder, 20. All three lived at the above address.
108th Precinct
Public Lewdness
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying a suspect want-
ed for public lewdness. At 11:45 a.m. on May 13, the victim, a 64-year-old female, observed the suspect masturbating on a Queens-bound 7 train. The suspect then left the train at the Main Street stop in Flushing. There were no reported injuries. The suspect is described as a white male, 33 years old, 5-foot-9 inches tall and weighing 160 lbs. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577. All calls are strictly confidential.
112th and 115th Precincts
Burglary Pattern
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in locating an individual wanted in connection to 13 burglaries that occurred within the 112th and 115th Precincts. The suspect entered apartment buildings and forcibly removed cash from the change machines in the basements of these loca-
tions between April 18 and May 20. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577. All calls are strictly confidential.
115th Precinct
Assault
The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in locating and apprehending two suspects wanted in connection with an assault. At noon on May 25, while at the corner of 37th Avenue and 111th Street, two suspects approached the victim, a 17-year-old male, engaged him in an argument and stabbed him once in the stomach and once in the lower back. The victim was removed to St. Barnabas Hospital. Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by visiting nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting their tips to CRIMES (274637) then enter TIPS577. All calls are strictly confidential.
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
pix
Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson
Photo by Walter Karling
Photo by Walter Karling
High Fashion
The Jamaica Center Business Improvement District hosted a fashion show at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center on June 1.
Jamaica Center BID staff welcome guests to the show. Pictured (from left) are executive assistant Valerie Stevens, director Laurel Brown and district services manager Melissa Hidge-Miller.
York College Graduation York College held its 43rd commencement ceremonies on May 31. York College President Marcia V. Keizs (center) stands with Valedictorian Debra Whorms (left) and Student Government President Shirley Jackson (right).
June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Borough Beat
Howard Beach Home Destroyed In Fire A Howard Beach home was e ngulfed in flames and partially collapsed last week, sending one woman to the hospital and leaving questions as to the cause of blaze. The incident occurred last Wednesday afternoon at the home of Joe and Theresa Pepitone at 162-39 84th St. According to the FDNY, the fire started at around 2 p.m., causing parts of the home to collapse. The blaze was contained an hour later. Theresa was sent to Jamaica Hospital that day with burns and Joe was not home at the time of the blaze. He has since had to relocate while the family picks up what is left of their property. A couple who live on the next block over from where the fire occurred said that they heard a loud, bomb-like noise while running errands around the house. At first, they thought that something had fallen in their backyard, until they walked closer to the screen door and saw a lot of smoke coming from the house next door. “When I opened the door, I saw all the brick come down, and then I started to see smoke and then the fire,” said Josephine D., who declined to give her full last name. She said that she dialed 911 as
soon as realized what was going on. Debris from the fire could be seen in their backyard a day later. Fay Greco, who lives a few houses down from the Pepitones, said that the incident is especially distressing because many in the area are still trying to rebuild their homes after Superstorm Sandy. Although the incident is still under investigation and the cause of the explosion is unknown, a FDNY spokesperson said that fire officials have ruled out renovations made under the City’s Rapid Repairs program as the cause of the blaze. Rapid Repairs was created by the City in order to speed up the process of fixing homes damaged by October’s storm. According to the Dept. of Buildings website, the house was approved to have its gas line replaced almost a week before the explosion. State Senator Joe Addabbo (DHoward Beach) said that it was important for fire personnel to rule out Rapid Repairs as the cause of the fire to alleviate concerns residents had about the program possibly being the reason the house collapsed. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127 or at lgronda@queenstribune.com. -Luis Gro
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A house in Howard Beach was destroyed by an explosion last week, and FDNY officials are still searching for the cause.
Must be 18 years of age or older to play New York Lottery Games. Please play responsibly
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
Profile
The 113th Welcomes A New Executive Officer When Capt. Christopher Giambrone was a young boy and just learning how to write, he was playing with the letters of the alphabet and by coincidence, he laid out the word “COP.” He turned to his mother and asked her if the word meant anything and she explained to him that he had coincidently spelled out ‘cop’ – the profession of his father. “I was very happy to follow in my father’s footsteps,” Giambrone, the new executive officer at the 113th precinct said. “My brother was in the NYPD, my father retired as a sergeant in the Nassau County Police Department, so I was very happy to follow in the family footsteps.” Some decades later, Giambrone’s destiny to serve was fulfilled and on May 24, he was promoted to executive officer at the 113th Precinct in Jamaica. This is not Giambrone’s first time at the 113th. When he graduated the academy in 1998, his first job as a police officer was at the precinct.
Photo courtesy of Christopher Giambrone
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
The 113th Precinct welcomes its new executive officer, Captain Christopher Giambrone. “It feels great to be back,” he said. “The 113th has a phenomenal community and to be given an opportunity to come back, I was very eager to take it. Having been there before, and knowing how great the people and cops are here, I’m very happy to be back at the 113th.” Giambrone left the 113th Precinct
in 2003 when he was promoted to sergeant. After this first promotion, he was moved to the 71st Precinct in Crown Heights. He spent five years there until he was promoted to lieutenant and moved back to serve Queens residents at the 115th precinct in Jackson Heights. In 2012, Giambrone was promoted yet again, this time to the narcotics division and just a year later, he made way back to the 113th Precinct with the new title of executive officer. Having served communities in Brooklyn and communities in Queens, Giambrone believes that his diverse experience has helped him grow as a police officer. “Every precinct has a unique situation based on the community they serve,” he said. “You are here to serve the public so you have to tailor how you do your policing based on the community you serve. You take something from that community and you learn from that community.” Although Giambrone has learned many lessons on his journey to become the new executive officer at the
113th Precinct, the one experience that has taught him the most, he said, was September 11, 2001, where he lost a colleague from the 113th. “My greatest accomplishment, I think, was my response to ground zero on September 11. I saw the best and the worst in people at the same time,” he said. “The best of police officers, the best of the public and what some people are capable of.” As Giambrone starts a new chapter in his life in a familiar setting, he has many new goals for the 113th Precinct and the neighborhoods it serves. “I would like to take my experience and my knowledge and use that to help reduce crime while helping the precinct improve communication with the community,” he said. “Every organization in the community, community leaders to anyone in the public who wants to come in and speak with me at the precinct, I will speak to anyone in community any time they want,” he added. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.
People do of Woodside and is a 2010 graduate of Forest Hills High School. Terrance McDaniel of Queens Village was inducted into Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia, Pa. Naomi Anthonio of Springfield Gardens was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Fla.
Jundalar S. Caycedo Air Force Airman Jundalar S. Caycedo graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Caycedo is the son of Osiris Cayce-
Sandra Martinez of Hollis received degrees in gender and women’s studies and mathematics during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Joel Campbell of Saint Albans was named to the President’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Hudson Valley Community College in Troy. Gerard Jean-Baptiste of Springfield Gardens was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Dean College in Franklin, Mass.
Brigid Carragee of Queens Village received a bachelor’s degree in English during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Providence College in Rhode Island. Marie Buckley of Breezy Point graduated cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts degree in administration of Justice during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Salve Regina University in Newport, R.I. Joseph Klein of Broad Channel was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis. Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs. They include: Ozone Park: Regina Ellis, Bachelor of Arts degree. Kew Gardens: Wei Huang, Bachelor of Arts degree, summa cum laude. Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Providence College in Rhode Island. They include:
Breezy Point: Courtney Clerkin, bachelor’s degree in social work. Forest Hills: Samantha Rios, bachelor’s degree in accountancy. Rockaway Park: Sarah Donahue, bachelor’s degree in health policy and management. Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. They include: Breezy Point: Margaret Sheehan, Bachelor of Science degree in counseling and human services. Forest Hills: Elizabeth Abikaram, Bachelor of Science degree in business administration and management; Christie Ruggiere, Bachelor of Science degree in nursing.
Tell The PRESS Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements and honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 All announcements will be considered for publication without fee.
June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
A&E
Bayside Teen Wins National spelling Bee By Trisha sakhuja
The Tastiest Take-Out La Bottega 42-29 Bell Blvd., Bayside (718) 906-6311 www.bellpanini.com hOurs: Mon. – sat. 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; sun. 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. CuisiNE: italian DELiVErY/TakE-OuT: Yes CrEDiT CarDs: Yes, all major If you are looking for a top-ofthe-line take-out experience, then La Bottega is the way to go. The restaurant is the type of place built for bringing the food to you or for you to grab the grub to go. From its astounding assortment of Panini to the large amounts of variety found in its other cuisine, this eatery is sure to set your taste buds alight. In an order delivered our offices, La Bottega offered several samples of their top dishes. I went for the orange Cajun salmon, which came with potatoes. Sweet and bursting with distinctive flavors, the sauce and styling used on the fish made it stand out from your typical salmon dish. It was so enjoyable that I wanted to go back for seconds after savoring each bite. From there, the pollo e mozzarel-
arvind Mahankali, 13, winner of the National spelling Bee, spells the word resilience at his Princpal’s request. broke his bad luck streak of losing to German-origin words for the last two years. Before spelling the word out, he did his signature move, by first spelling the word out on the palm of his hand and then confidently reciting the letters one by one.
It will be the last word Mahankali will spell-out on stage, as he is happily retiring from the spelling bee champions and will study physics during his free time. Mahankali was the last standing among the 281 contestants, 42 of which were semi finalists and 11 who were finalists. His victory continues the IndianAmerican winning streak, but breaks the female winning streak, since he is the first boy to win since 2008. “I have watched him compete many times before,” said Brian Gallagher, a math teacher at MS 74 for the past 13-years. “Arvind has inspired my 9-yearold son to compete in spelling bees too,” Gallagher added. Mayor Michael Bloomberg along with School Chancellor Dennis Walcott met the spelling bee whiz on June 4, after his first day back at school, to honor his hard work and perserverance. Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, or at tsakhuja@queenstribune.com.
atlas Park renovation To Finish Next Month By Luis GrONDa
la and a slice of pizza seemed like a good bet. I’m glad to say I was right on both counts. The chicken dish was topped with a layer of mozzarella cheese, tomatoes and broccoli rabe, all fresh. Soaked in a lemon and white wine sauce, the combination melded together perfectly to make a confection of tangy tastes. As for the pizza, it had a unique flavor that was unlike what you would find in a typical slice. It’s hard to stick out when it comes to a regular pizza pie, but this place managed to do so. La Bottega also makes a number of soups, salads, pasta, desserts, gluten-free and vegetarian dishes. With such a diverse menu and so much delicious food, it should come as no surprise that it is worth repeated visits. -joe Marvilli
Photo by Trisha sakhuja
Anthony Armstrong, principal of Nathaniel Hawthorne Middle School 74, asked the 86th National Scripps Spelling Bee champion, Arvind Mahankali, to spell out the word resilience during the first annual General Studies Challenge to Cure Cancer on June 4. Mahankali, 13, of Bayside Hills, stumbled on a letter because he was overwhelmed and excited from the honor he received moments before from his teachers, students and staff on the playground of the school. Armstrong tied the word resilience with the stories recounted by a few of the teachers about their struggles with breast cancer and Mahankali’s fight to win first place after placing third twice at the bee in previous years. “You have demonstrated great resilience,” Armstrong said. “Arvind has proved that team 74 is soaring from good to great and beyond.” Mahankali shyly said many thanks
to his friends, teachers, parents and the staff, while cracking a few jokes, for supporting him during his long and strenuous journey. “I started competing in spelling bees from the second grade because my teacher would quiz us on words during our down time” Mahankali said. “My mom and dad have both quizzed me on many words and I have reviewed the Merriam-Webster’s International Dictonary a few times. For the last five years, I have attempted to study words for at least four-hours a day.” “Words become obscure and it is not that simple to just memorize them because you have to recall the meaning of the word on stage,” he added. The last round of the bee took place on May 30 at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center outside of Washington, where Mahankali won $30,000 in cash and prizes and a large cup-shaped trophy. The winning word, knaidel, is of German-origin, which ironically
The Shops at Atlas Park is set to debut a new look this summer, as the operating company once again attempts to bring customers to the Glendale shopping center. Macerich, the property owner of the Atlas Park mall, officially announced the large overhaul that the area is undergoing. The main addition is a new 10,000 square-foot Center Green, which is a large grass and tree area that is designed to host musical performances and community events. Two popular clothing stores, Forever 21 and Charlotte Russe, will also open new stores at the mall this summer. Finally, glass kiosks will be built for businesses to sell seasonal and specialty merchandise outside of the mall. The mall’s redesign is expected to be completed by July 4 weekend. Liza Diaz, property manager of Atlas Park, said that the changes to the mall are geared towards benefiting the local residents and showing everyone how much it has improved. “It’s going to be great for the com-
munity to come back here and revisit us again,” she said. Diaz said that they took a different approach this time when redesigning the space and make it more usable for customers that go to shop there or if they want to use the lawn to relax during their leisure time. “We’re listening to the community. We are gearing it to a merchandising mix that our community can shop at,” Diaz said. They also wanted to make better use of the space that makes up the Center Green. “We felt that we needed to make that change because the way that we had the ellipse before it, it really wasn’t functional,” she said. As part of their plan to be more involved in the area, Diaz said that Macerich is starting a program in the next two weeks that will allow customers and the surrounding communities an opportunity to voice their opinion on what is going on at Atlas Park. When asked by reporters, she declined to say what the specifics of their outreach plan will be, other than saying “it will speak to the community and customer itself.”
Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
Faith
Mount Moriah A.M.E. Teaches Self-Esteem In an effort to teach children the importance of loving themselves and to celebrate National Self-Esteem month, the Mount Moriah A.M.E Church in Cambria Heights held a special Black Light Performance that showcased the talents of extraordinary youth in the community. The event, which was hosted by the 1930s Young Adult Ministry at the church, took place last week on Friday, May 31, and inspired other young people to use the arts as a means of creatively expressing themselves all while building their self-confidence. “We wanted to highlight youth in the area, and those in our church, who have talents and can be inspirational to other youth,” said Rosslynn Pieters, communications director of the youth ministry. “A lot of them struggle with self-esteem issues and a lack of self-confidence and what they learn is that through performing, it helps build their self-confidence.” The showcase was a tremendous success, Pieters said, with more than
Photo Courtesy of Rosslynn Pieters
BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
er student, played the piano. The audience also had the opportunity to enjoy some unique performances. One teen, Brenden Sanchez, put together an original rap song that embraced his ministry and Christian faith and the Zen Masters Demo Team performed a segment in which they combined elements of mixed martial arts and dance into a show. “I got a lot of positive feedback, not only from the parents but from the children as well,” Pieters said. “We felt the children were appreciating Last week, the 1930s Young Adult Ministry their unique abilities and emat Mount Moriah A.M.E. Church in Cam- bracing being different. I also bria Heights held its annual Black Light Per- think the youth appreciated formance Showcase to celebrate National the talents of their peers. It was an inspiration for them.” Self-Esteem Month this May. It is particularly important 150 guests in attendance. The audito make sure that the youth of ence was able to enjoy the many of Queens continue to embrace themtraditional performances put on selves and the arts, especially in a by the youth. One student, Ashley time that schools are facing multiple Chambers, performed on her alto budget cuts. saxophone while Kelsie Janel, anoth“A lot of the art programs and
extra curricular programs are being cut from budgets so it’s up to the local community organizations and churches to be able to hold these cultural events and let children and the youth know that the arts are important in order to make you a wellrounded person,” she said. With this year’s performance behind them, Pieters and the 1930s Young Adult Ministry at the church are already looking forward to next year’s event and maintaining the Black Light Performance Showcase as a tradition at Mount Moriah A.M.E. “Churches need to involve the community and invite the community into the church to showcase what the church can offer. That’s extremely important to us,” she said. For more information about future events at the Mount Moriah A.M.E. Church, call (718) 276-1908. Mount Moriah A.M.E. Church is located at 116-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Cambria Heights. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com
Notebook
Rush Temple After School
After School Program Ends Season With A Bang BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA
said. “He’s come up through the program and it has really helped him.” When the program first launched in Jamaica, it was only catering to one student, Johnson said. In its 30 years, it has grown tremendously and been embraced by the community. Today, the after school serves roughly 65-75 students a year, but at one point, the program was helping as many as 100 children.
The event will be held at the Rush Temple A.M.E Zion Church located at 119-48 Sutphin Blvd., Jamaica at 3:30 p.m. No are tickets required. Admission is free. Food will be served after the performances. For more information about Tuesday’s event, you can reach the church at (718) 529-5719. Reach Reporter Natalia Kozikowska at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or nkozikowska@queenspress.com.
Star Athlete: Kimani McRae, a football player on the Bulldogs of the Campus Complex, has only been playing football at the school for two years as the Defensive Back with 77 tackles in seven games, finishing number seven overall in the City. McRae, who will be graduating in three years, will be attending Feather River Junior College in California with a $5,000 annual scholarship, where he plans to play football and pursue a future in criminal justice.
Photo by Bob Harris
On Tuesday, June 11, the after school tutorial program at the Rush Temple A.M.E Zion Church in Jamaica will celebrate its 30th Year Anniversary and the end of the school season with a special event showcasing their students’ skills. Betty Johnson, director at the after school, has been with program since it first launched. The after school tutorials, which are free and open to the public, aim to help the children in the southeast Queens community do well on their Citywide reading and math exams. The program also helps students learn how to use computers, do their homework, write and get creative with arts and crafts. “This program is absolutely free and open to everyone,” Johnson said. “We’re putting the children first – we have to put the children first.” This year’s event will feature a number of performances by Rush Temple after school students. The
children have put together a singing act and a dancing act using songs from popular artists like Carly Rae Jepsen and Alicia Keys. Tuesday’s event will also serve as an opportunity to honor the academic achievements of its students. The church will present the Oturia Lambert Award to senior Taneisha Barnwell, who will be graduating and attending college in the fall. Student Kayla Reid will also be presented with the Effie Nickels Award for most achieved student. Former Rush Temple after school student Tyrell Hankerson will be a speaker at the event. Hankerson, a young college student, will be sharing his success story to the younger students in an effort to motivate them to focus on their studies and do well in school. He was also the recipient of last year’s Oturia Lambert Award. “He will be speaking to our theme, ‘Yes We Can.’ He will be sharing words of encouragement,” Johnson
June 7-13, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL
Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com
DEFENSIVE DRIVING Monday, June 10 Hollis l i b r a r y. 465-7355. Queens Village librar y. Register. ELDER LAW Monday, June 10 Elder Law, Estate Planning, Trusts and Asset Protection at 6 at the Sunnyside librar y. AARP 4158 Tuesday, June 11 at noon at Church on the Hill, 16707 35 th Avenue, Flushing. New members and visitors
Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!
TEENS
FLEA MARKETS FLEA MARKET Saturday, June 8 Jamaica Branch NAACP at 189-26 Linden Blvd. 10-4. SPRING FAIR & FLEA Sunday, June 9 9-4 at American Martyrs Church, Bell and Union Turnpike. SUMMER FLEA Saturday, June 15 8-5 at the LIRR North Parking Lot, 82-60 Austin street, Kew Gardens. Benefits the Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.
YOUTH
SENIORS
CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2. OPEN MIC Sunday, June 9 Central library at 2. TEEN ADVISORY BD Monday, June 10 Central library at 4. LAPTOPS Mondays-Thursdays Hollis library at 3. THEATER WORKSHOP Tuesday, June 11 Bay Terrace library at 3. ONLINE TEST PREP Wednesdays, June 12, 26 LIC library. Register.
welcome. Speaker from “Access-a-Ride.” LUNCH & LEARN Tuesday s, June 11, 25, July 9, 23 SNAP of Eastern Queens, 80-45 Winchester blvd, Queens Village, offers a Lunch & Learn Cinema Talk 12:304:00. $7.50 per class or $25 for the series. 4542100. BASIC COMPUTERS Tuesday s, June 11, 18, 25 South Ozone Park library at 11. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Tu e s d a y, June 11 Auburndale librar y. Register. DRIVING CLASS Tuesday, June 11 Forest Hills library. Register. LINE DANCING Tuesday s, June 11, 18, 25 Sunnyside library at 2:30. TRANSITIONS Wednesday, June 12 Transitions: Challenge s Facing Older Adults at 2 at the Sunnyside library. AARP29 Thursday, June 13 AARP29 meets at Grace Houses Communit y Room, 155-02 90 th Avenue, Jamaica at noon.
QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and preschool programs and more. Contact local branches. BUTTERFLIES Saturday, June 8 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. $21. CHESS CLUB Saturdays at the Flushing library at 2. MATH HELP Saturdays for grades 48 Flushing library at 10. SCIENCE LAB Saturdays Central library at 11. CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2. TODDLER ADVENTURE Sunday, June 9 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. $16. INSECTS Sunday, June 9 Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. $18. BABY ANIMALS Sunday, June 9 Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. WORD GAMES Mondays, June 10, 17, 24 McGoldrick library at 5. ECO CRAFTS Monday, June 10 Sunnyside library at 4. FAMILY STORY TIME Monday, June 10 Auburndale library at 4. CRAFT KIDS Mondays Flushing library at 3:30. S TORY T I M E Mondays at 3:30 at the Peninsula library. BEGIN CHESS Mondays at 3:30 Windsor Park library. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays Douglaston library at 4. HOMEWORK HELP Daily McGoldrick library at 3. Monday through Thursday at the Fresh Meadows library at 4 and at the Rosedale library at 3:30. MOUSE IN CITY Tuesday, June 11 Flushing library at 4. Friday, June 21 Glendale library at 3:30. “A Mouse in the Cit y: A Puppet Musical for those 3-13. SANDY COLLAGE Tuesday s, June 11, 18, 25 Arverne library at 5. CHESS Tu e s d ay s , J u n e 1 1 , 1 8 Rosedale library at 4. ORIGAMI WINDOW Tu e s d a y, June 11 Origami Window Display at the Langston Hughes library at 4. KNIT & CROCHET Tu e s d ay s , J u n e 1 1 , 1 8
Rochdale Village library at 5. NATURE KIDS Tuesdays Sunnyside library at 3:15. KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays at 5 Rochdale Village library. CRAFT TUESDAYS Tu e s d a y s Cambria Heights library at 4. SING ALONG WITH IRV Wednesday, June 12 Ridgewood library at 11:30. Friday, June 14 Rego Park library at 11. Thursday, June 20 Windsor Park library at 11:30. Irv Plastock entertains children 2-5. Limited space. ECO-CRAFTS Wednesdays, June 12, 26 Astoria library at 11:30 and LIC library at 3:30. READING FOR FUN Wednesdays at the Laurelton library at 3:30. CRAFTIVITIES Wednesdays East Flushing library. Register. CHESS Wednesdays at 3:30 Queens Village library and 4:30 Poppenhusen library. GAME DAY Wednesdays Howard Beach library at 5. ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesdays at the Auburndale library at 4. CRAFTERNOONS Wednesdays at the Ridgewood library. Register. YOUNG LEADERS Wednesdays and Fridays Young Leaders Institute of Laurelton at the Laurelton library at 3:30. ECO-CRAFT Thursday, June 13 for toddlers at 11:30 and 12:30 at the Woodside library. PICTURE BOOK Thursday, June 13 Queens Village library at 1:30. KIDS CRAFT TIME Thursday, June 13 Howard Beach library at 3:30. ETIQUETTE Thursday, June 13 Hollis library at 4. FATHER’S DAY Thursday, June 13 Children’s Father’s Day Craft at the Queens Village library at 4. ECO CRAFTS Thursdays, June 13, 27 for those 6-12 at the Steinway library at 4. FATHERS DAY Thursday, June 13 Father’s Day arts and crafts at the Hillcrest library at 4:30. For those 6-14. MANGA DRAWING
Thursdays South Ozone Park library at 4. GAME ON Thursdays at the Central library at 3:30. CHESS CLUB Thursdays Rochdale Village library at 4:30. SPRING STORY TIME Friday, June 14 South Hollis library at 11:15. CRAFT CLUB Fridays Peninsula library at 3. GAME DAY Fridays at 3:30 Queens Village library. ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays Briarwood library at 4. East Flushing Register. Ozone Park at 3. GAME DAY Fridays Windsor Park at 4. CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale library at 3:30 and W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y. Register. ANIMAL CARE Saturday, June 15 and Sunday, June 30 Animal C a r e Tra i n e e a t A l l ey Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. YOUNG CHEFS Saturday, June 15 Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000. PERFECT PONDS Saturday, June 15 or June 22 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000.
RELIGIOUS JCC LIC June 8 Mommy and Met w i t h To t S h a b b a t 1 1 2 n o o n . J u n e 1 7 To ra h Class 8-9:30. June 26 “ E ve n I w o u l d G o To That” lecture series at 8. Tuesday af ternoons Hebrew School, Torah Hour for adults. Thursdays Taam Shabbat – Mommy and Me. Friday Carlbach Shabbat and L’chaim, Shabbat dinner third Friday. JCC, 10-31 Jackson Avenue, LIC. 609-0066. REGO PARK JC Saturday, June 15 Parashat and Haftarat Club at 12:30. Monday, June 17 Sisterhood meeting at 7. Sunday, June 23 concert at 2:30. Sunday, June 30 “Defending Your Life” film at 2:30. $5. Rego Park Jewish Center. 4591000. QUEENS JEWISH CTR Sunday, June 16 the Queens Jewish Center honors past presidents at its Annual Dinner in Far Rockaway. 459-8432.
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Queens Today MEETINGS CATHOLIC VETS Monday, June 10 American Mart yrs Catholic War Ve te ra n s Po st 1 7 7 2 i n Bayside. 468-9351. VFW 4787 Monday, June 10 Whitestone VFW Community Post meets. 7460540. TELEPHONE PION. Tuesday, June 11 Telephone Pioneers of America meet in College Point. 463-4535. QHC TOASTMASTERS Tuesdays, June 11, 25 QHC Toastmasters meet at 5:15 in the New Building, 5th floor, room A540 at 8268 164th Street, Jamaica. CAMERA CLUB Tuesday, June 11Southeast Queens Camera Club meets at Roy Wilkins Family Rec. Center 347528-7178. KIWANIS Thursday, June 13 Kiwanis Club of Jamaica meets. 527-3678. CDEC 26 Thursday, June 13 CDEC 26 meets at MS67 for a business meeting at 7 and public meeting at 8. 51-60 Marathon Parkway, Little Neck.
ENTERTAINMENT
HEALTH VICTORIOUS VOSG (Victorious Overcomers Support Group) is a 7 Victory Step Bible based support group that helps all those who are struggling with addiction and compulsive behaviors, anger, fear, depression, etc. 1-800 DRUGWAR. YOGA Saturdays through September 8 9:30-10:30 and 11-12 and Sundays 1011. Socrates Sculpture, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC. BLOOD MOBILE Saturday, June 8 International Evangelical Mission Church on Hollis Avenue, Queens Village 10-2. TAI CHI Sundays through September 9 11-12 at Socrates Sculpture, 3201 Vernon Blvd., LIC. BLOOD MOBILE Sunday, June 9 Street Fair at the Knights of Columbus Maspeth Hall on Grand Avenue 11-3. STRETCH & TONE Monday, June 10, 17, 24 Shape Up NYC at the LIC library at 6:30. HEALTH INFO
Mondays, June 10, 17, 24 health information from the Internet at the Langston Hughes library at 10. CHAIR YOGA Mondays, June 10, 17, 24 Steinway and Langston Hughes library. Register. FEMALE CANCER Monday, June 10 “Look Good – Feel Better” Female cancer support group in Flushing. 800ACS-2345. BREAST CANCER Mondays Women Newly Diagnoses and Post Treatment 10:30-noon and Yo u n g Wo m e n w i th Breast Cancer 7-8:30 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516-877-4314. METASTATIC BREAST Second and Fourth Mondays 1:30-3:00 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516-877-4314. MEN W/ CANCER Second Mondays 7-8:30 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516-877-4314. BLOOD DRIVE Tuesday, June 11 New Franklin Center for Nursing in Flushing 9-2. 6706324.
BIG APPLE CIRCUS Through June 16 Big Apple Circus at Cunningham ark. 888541-3750. STEVEN KROON Saturday, June 8 Steven Kroon Latin Jazz Sextet at the Hollis Presbyterian C h u r c h , 1 0 0 - 5 0 1 9 6 th Street. 776-4646. $25. 7pm. JACKSON HEIGHTS Saturday, June 8 slide lecture on the history of Jackson Heights at 10:45 and 12:15 at the Comm u n i t y C h u rc h , 8 1 - 1 0 35 th Avenue. Free. Exhibition of Vintage Photos and Memorabilia 10- at the Communit y Church. Self-Guided Tour of Private Interior Gardens 12-4. $10 tickets. Sunday, June 9 escorted Walking Tour of the Historic District. $!0. Meet in front of the Communit y Church, 82 nd Street and 35 th Avenue. 565-5344. NU URBAN CAFÉ Saturdays live jazz, r&b, open mic 8-midnight. Free. 188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. 917817-8653.
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OPEN MIC Sunday, June 9 Central library at 2. STREET FAIR Sunday, June 9 Forest Hills Spring Street Fair on Austin Street. OPEN MIC POETRY Monday, June 10 Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Tu r n p i ke , F re s h M e a d ows at 7:30. MEMORY PROJECT Tuesday, June 11 Salvation Army Temple, 86-07 3 5 th A v e n u e , J a c k s o n Heights at 11. Wednesday, June 12 Catholic Charities Bayside Senior Center, 221-15 Horace Harding Blvd., Bayside at 12:15. Friday, June 14 Langston Hughes library at 4:30. The Quintet of the Americas present the Memory Project, based on interviews by NY composers with seniors. Free. 230-5189. BINGO Tuesdays 7:15 American Mart yrs C h u rc h in Bayside. 464-4582. Tuesdays 7:15 (doors open 6) Rego Park Jewish Center. 459-1000. $3 admission includes 12 games. SCRABBLE
Tuesdays Fresh Meadows library at 2. CHESS Tuesdays 4 Rosedale library. SALSA NIGHT Friday, June 14 at Rufus King Park, 153 rd Street and Jamaica Avenue 79pm. NU URBAN CAFÉ Fridays live jazz and r&b 9-midnight. Free. 188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. 917-817-8653. GAME DAY Fridays 4:30 Woodhaven library. GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays 2 Hillcrest library. STAR SAFARI Saturday, June 15 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. $12 adult, $7 child. 229-4000. DRUM & DANCE Saturday, June 15 Jamaica Drum Jam presents West African Drum & Dance Circle 2-3 at the Central library. MARIONETAS Sunday, June 16 “Marionetas de la Esquina,” a bilingual production at Queens Theatre in the Park. 760-0064.
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Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on MAY 15 2013 bearing Index Number NC-000304-13/QU, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 89-17 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, NY 11435, grants me the right to: Assume the name of (First) Sharon (Middle) Abigail (Last) Browne My present name is (First) Sharon (Middle) Abigail (Last) Pierre aka Sharon A Pierre, aka Sharon Abigail Browne, aka Sharon A Browne My present address is 107-50 157th St., Jamaica, NY 11433 My place of birth is Brooklyn, NY My date of birth is March 06, 1986
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Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens June 7-13, 2013
Queens Tweets
Taking a look at some tweets from the people of Queens: Peter Vallone Jr. @pfvjr 1010 traffic reporter just said "the 59st Koch Bridge"? We Want the QUEENSboro Bridge back! Traffic peeps pls stop with the extra syllables Ali Najmi @Ali_Najmi Every South Asian mother to her child today: "why cant you be like Arvind?" Michael Powell @powellnyt Wellllll, DAMN. I realize a Mets victory over Yankees could wake me from the dead. I mean, I really feel bad for the Yankees (not at all) City of New York @nycgov #Queens has its 1st roller coaster. Visit Fantasy Forest amusement park at Flushing Meadows-Corona Park this summer. Donald J. Trump @realDonaldTrump "@Matt_Cad: @realDonaldTrump Why do so many people despise you?" Because I am so handsome! Join the conversation and follow the Queens Tribune on Twitter, @QueensTrib
Performers Of Queens Once Upon A Time Theater Company
Once Upon a Time Inc. 87-61 111th St, Richmond Hill 11428 718-846-9182 www.onceuponatime-inc.com
A Little Piece of History In light of the good news that Rockaway tracks have been rebuilt and the A train service has returned to the Rockaways after Superstorm Sandy, the Metropolitan Transit Authority is bringing people back to the 1930s. A nostalgia train, pictured here, will make a run from Rockaway Park-Beach 116th Street to 168th Street in Manhattan.
Dude, Where's My Car? The NYPD is likely used to reports of stolen items, but this case must have stood out. An FBI agent’s personal vehicle was stolen outside of his Ozone Park home on May 28. The thief gained more than he originally thought when it was discovered that the car, a Toyota Camry, contained both a bulletproof vest and an M-4 assault rifle in the trunk. One day later, the vehicle was luckily found in Forest Hills with both the vest and rifle still inside it. Perhaps the thief realized that stealing from the FBI is high on the list of very, very bad ideas.
Since 1980, the Once Upon a Time Performing Arts Center and Theatre Street School has provided children in Queens and Manhattan a place to hone their artistic skills and prepare themselves for the world of the performing arts. “It’s a wonderful gem of a place,” says Michael Allen Gray, who has served as a frequent mentor and teacher for the school since coming to New York in 1979. “I teach these kids about professionalism, whether they choose a field of dance, voice work or acting. If you learn how to do it right, you’ll do it right.” Mark Aubel, who founded the school with wife Terri, can also attest to this. “Kids identify themselves at an early age. Once you match them up with the right thing to do, they love it,” he said. Once Upon a Time began
Wait, What Can You Get Today? An Astoria watering hole is giving its regulars an incentive to get rid of those beer bellies. According to an article on DNAinfo New York.com, the Hell Gate Social, located at 12-21 Astoria Boulevard, is hosting its third annual Great Astoria Gut-Off. Each person who enters donates $100 and they complete from Memorial Day to Labor Day to see who has gotten in the best shape between those months. Each contestant has their
pictures taken and weighs in to see how many pounds they are before the competition begins. The same will occur on September 2nd when it will be determined who is the victor. The winner takes all of the prize money, with 2nd and 3rd place prizes possible according to the event’s Facebook page. Eleven people have entered this year’s competition and the money pot is set at $1,100. According to the story, Sal Milazzo, a bartender at Hell Gate Social, started the compe-
tition two years ago, when he bet his friend $100 to see who could be more physically fit by the end of the summer. "We were both just out of shape, we had our beer bellies, so we said, 'I'll bet you $100 that I can get a better six pack than you,'" Milazzo told DNAinfo New York.com "A bunch of people overheard it, and it turned into a thing." They have since continued the event as a way to have fun and draw more patrons to the bar.
as a children’s theatre group, and in 1996, the Theatre School was added for those in grades first through eighth. In addition to offering an academic program, Once Upon a Time serves as a licensed child care location for parents. The school holds 150-175 performances a year at various schools, churches, the Poppenhusen Institute and Queens Theater in the Park. While many children who attend the school do plan on pursuing some sort of artistic career, like Jennifer Kronenberg of the Miami Ballet, Aubel is aware that the arts are just an interest for some. “For some of the kids, this is it for them, and that’s okay. This is just an extracurricular, but we’re lucky and happy to have them."
Heated Exchange While State Sen. Jose Peralta continued to fight for affordable housing in Willets Point, his communications director found himself in an argument with a community bystander asking questions after the press conference. The patron was concerned about the future of the community already living in Willets Point and what would happen once a new mall is built in the area. While asking questions of the Senator, Peralta’s communications director, stepped in and engaged the questioner. Words and gestures were exchanged during the encounter, which led to the Senator having to calm down the situation. We here at QConf wonder if the argument could have led to Peralta’s withdrawal from the borough president race, exactly a day later.
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What’s Up June 7 Learn Arabic at Central This course will introduce you to the basic vocabulary and grammar of Modern Standard Arabic. The workshop will start with the Arabic alphabet and continue to phrases and complete sentences. The course will also explore many common phrases and terminologies used by Arabic speakers today. The workshop is free and will begin at the Queens Central Library at 4:30 p.m.
African American Heritage Tour The Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York Helping Hands Ministry will present the first Queens /Long Island African American Heritage Tour. The tour will include a continental breakfast, history of Bishop Richard Allen, Henry Lloyd Manor Home, Louis Armstrong Museum, Lewis Latimer House, history of old Jamaica in the 1800s, Addisleigh Park, a buffet at Plate of Soul Restaurant and arrival back at Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral. For additional information, contact: Sister and president Anne Nelson at (917) 697-9654 or Sister Fe’Licia Blakes, vice president, at (347) 596-0732. The event will begin at 8 a.m. at the Greater Allen A.M.E. Cathedral of New York, located at 110-31 Merrick Blvd. Tickets are $90 per person.
Branch located at 189-26 Linden Blvd., from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
1st Annual I.S. 8 Health and Safety Carnival Fair The Beacon Program at I.S. 8 will present its 1st Annual Health and Safety Carnival Fair. The target audience for this event will be schoolage children and adults. The objective of this fair is to increase health awareness and disease prevention for the community by providing health screening, educational information, and related activities. Your agency/ business is invited to showcase your services at our event by providing educational information, screening or health awareness activities. If you are interested in participating, contact Mrs. Cat Roberson at (718) 2764630 x151. The fair will be held from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the school located at 108-35 167th St. and is free.
Hands-On History Children 200 years ago had a lot of work to do and the King boys worked hard at their studies. Parents, bring your children to the King Manor Museum at Rufus King Park and let them try some of the chores, like butter churning, children might have been required to do 200 years ago. The event is free and will be held from noon to 3 p.m. The museum is located at 153rd Street and Jamaica Avenue.
Oh So Neo-Soulful June 8 York College Summer Jazz Programs ‘13 Auditions Auditions for the York College Summer Jazz Programs are now open. SJP ‘13 is a college credit, tuition-free program that lasts six weeks (July 8 - Aug. 15) where students study with professional jazz musicians and do real gigs. Auditions consist of a solo piece of any kind that makes the student sound best on his/her instruments. Looking for saxes, trumpets, trombones, piano players, bass players and drummers/percussionists. Audition early for one of these coveted spots. The auditions will begin at 10 a.m. at the York College Performing Arts Center located at 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. It is free to audition.
Summer Flea Market Serie Join the Jamaica Branch NAACP for the kickoff to the summer flea market series. For more information, contact (718) 723-3653 or naacpjamaica@gmail.com. Vendor tables are $25 each. The event is free and will be held at the Jamaica NAACP
Vocalist Stacia Hobdy brings center stage the music of today’s neo-soul artists, including Erykah Badu, Jill Scott, Alicia Keys, India. Arie, D’Angelo and John Legend, in this concert highlighting their poetic sounds. The free concert will be held at the Queens Central Library at 3 p.m. Getting Your Nursing Career Started Are you a nurse trained outside the United States having difficulty becoming a licensed nurse in New York? The New American Nurse Project may be able to help. If you have questions regarding your eligibility or about this program, call (917) 499-6807 or email info@ healthcliff.us. Preregistration is required for this free workshop. The workshop will be held at the Queens Central Library at 3 p.m.
“Esther House” A Dramatic Play The Pioneer Ministry of First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica will present, “Esther House,” a dramatic play about forgiveness. For additional information, visit firstchurchjamaica. org, or contact Stephanie St. Clair or
Donna Winfield at (718) 528-3027 or (516) 223-2062 or stclair2215@aol. com. The play will begin at 6 p.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of Jamaica located at 89-60 164th St. Tickets are $5.
June 9 Open Mic for Poets Tina Chang, the first female Poet Laureate of Brooklyn, will come to the Queens Central Library for an open mic night. She is the author of the poetry collections “Half-Lit Houses” and “Of Gods and Strangers” and co-editor of the anthology “Language for a New Century: Contemporary Poetry from the Middle East, Asia and Beyond.” Her poems have appeared in American Poet, McSweeney’s, Ploughshares and The New York Times, among others. The free event will be held at the library at 2 p.m.
June 10 Stay Well Learn how special exercises and relaxation techniques can make a difference in your life. This free event will be held at Queens Central Library at 10 a.m.
June 11 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 1:30 p.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.
American Sign Language Workshop Learn the basics of American Sign Language in an interactive workshop conducted by the Sign Language Center. The workshop is free and will be held at the Queens Central Library at 4 p.m.
June 12 Mock Interviews Practice makes perfect with everything, including your interviewing 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 2 p.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.
Aerobics for Adults Keep that New Year’s resolution with free weekly fitness classes through ShapeUp NYC. Aerobics for Adults provides a moderate workout that burns calories and improves cardiac function. Space is limited. Participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. The class is free and will be held at the Queens Central Library at 4 p.m.
June 13 Job Fair Councilman Leroy Comrie and the New York State Dept.of Labor join forces to present a job fair. The fair is free and will be held at the York College Academic Core Building located at 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Health Benefits of Vegetarianism Have you ever wondered what being a vegetarian is all about? Is a vegetarian diet healthy? Learn more about this for free at the Queens Central Library. Useful tips and recipes will be offered. The event will begin at 6:30 p.m.
June 14 Salsa Night in Queens Councilman Leroy Comrie in partnership with the New York City Parks and Recreation Department will co-host “Dancing under the Stars”, a night dedicated to Salsa music heritage. There will be salsa instructors present to teach basic dance lessons while deejays play the sounds of great Salsa legends like Johnny Pacheco, Willie Colon and Tito Puente. The event is free and will be held at Rufus King Park from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m
Ongoing Summer Programs New York City Parks Green Teens If your teen is interested in earning school community service credit this summer, they can earn it with the New York City Parks by keeping parklands green and clean. As a ‘Green Teen,’ you will remove litter from neighboring parks, collect recyclables, take care of trees and encourage the public to do the same. To find out what the Green Teens are doing in Jamaica, call Mr. McClain at (718) 276-8686, or visit http:// greenteensnews.blogspot.com.