Volume 15 Issue No. 30 July 25-31, 2014
PRESS Photo by Jordan Gibbons
CALL TO ACTION
Residents question Dept. of Environmental Protection plans to alleviate flooding in the area. By Jordan Gibbons ‌ Page 3.
ONLINE AT WWW.QUEENSPRESS.COM
Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
News Briefs Richmond Hill Library Closing Temporarily
The Queens Library at 103-34 Lefferts Blvd. in Richmond Hill is closing temporarily after July 26 to install a new roof. Limited service will be provided by the mobile library during the closure. Customers can use any other Queens Library facility. The closest locations are at 118-14 Hillside Ave. in Richmond Hill, 92-24 Rockaway Blvd. in Ozone Park and 128-16 Rockaway Blvd. in South Ozone Park. The project is being managed by the City Dept. of Design and Construction. The library is expected to reopen for public service by the end of September.
Bellerose Library Celebrates Reopening
The Queens Library Bellerose branch is reopening on July 30 with new renovations. Customers can now enjoy a bright, new décor, a new teen area with computers, fast RFID self service check-out and a fully automated 24/7 self checkin. The project cost was $1.66 million. Councilman Mark Weprin (DOakland Gardens) and CEO and President Thomas Galante will be at the library, located at 250-06 Hillside Ave. in Bellerose for the event. At 1 p.m., there will be face-painting and balloon animals for children. At 2 p.m., there will be a formal program and ribbon-cutting. The Library credited Weprin, Assemblywoman Barbara Clark (DQueens Village) and State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) for allocating the funds.
Queens College Gets $2 Million For Lab Upgrade
Last week, Queens College received a significant chunk of change to upgrade a decades-old research and teaching laboratory. State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) presented the college with a $2 million grant on July 17, funding that he secured in this year’s State budget negotiations. The money will go towards renovating a laboratory in Remsen Hall that has had the same benches since it opened in 1950. The announcement was preceded by a tour of other, more modern labs in the building, displaying a contrast to the old lab located in the basement. Chemistry professor Michael Mirkin uses the soon-to-be upgraded lab, teaching and leading a large group in research assignments. However, the age of the equipment is creating significant challenges. According to Mirkin, the benches
and workstations are covered with dust that cannot be removed or cleaned up. The particles infect the experiments and affect the results. The condition of the room also impacts his students’ morale. “It’s hard for them to maintain the feeling that their work is valuable. It’s also important for new group members,” Mirkin said. “It’s real nice to think that we may create a more modern, more reasonable research environment.” Queens College’s interim president, Evangelos Gizis, agreed that the upgrade was long overdue. “There is a rule that every 25 years, you should renovate the teaching and research laboratories,” he said. “So we do the renovation laboratory by laboratory. It’s a difficult process but we have gained some expertise in this. But then, we need the resources to have this renovation of the laboratories one by one.” Gizis added that if enough funds are leftover, the college may try to renovate a second laboratory with the $2 million grant. Robert Engel, an organic chemistry professor, said that a specific plan is not yet in place for the renovation. However, he added that the new laboratory should be roomier and fluid enough to rearrange for any future developments. Students were as excited about the grant as the faculty, as Dibyendu Dana, who just received his PhD from Queens College, thanked Avella for supporting both the professors and the students with the given funding.
Great Lawn Concert At St. John’s University
The 16th Annual Great Lawn Summer Concert will be held on the Queens Campus of St. John’s University on July 30 at 7 p.m. The theme of the concert is Latin Fire and will feature Willie Martinez, La Familia Sextet and members of the Queens Symphony Orchestra. The orchestra will be conducted by Constantine Kitsopoulos, music director. Borough President Melinda Katz will also be singing during part of the event. Admission and parking are free. The Great Lawn is located at 8000 Utopia Pkwy., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 990-1941.
Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to: PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3
Presstime
‘The Beginning Of A New Path With DEP’ Councilmen Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton) and I. Daneek Miller (D-St. Albans) hosted a Town Hall meeting with Dept. of Environmental Protection Commissioner Emily Lloyd Monday night to inform the community about the projects the City is working on to alleviate the flooding problems that have plagued Southeast Queens for decades. Lloyd outlined the projects that are being worked on and planned for the areas where flooding is the most problematic. The two main causes for the flooding is the lack of sewer systems in Southeast Queens and the high water table. “It’s a big problem and it takes a renewed and elevated level of commitment of resources…and that is happening,” Lloyd said. During the past year, the DEP has been focused on cleaning the backup of sewers, Lloyd said. She also said they are focused on cleaning out the catch basins every three years, rather than wait for complaints. Between 2002 and 2013, the DEP built 84 miles of sewers. It still has another 24 miles planned in the current four-year budget. Lloyd said the problem is that it will take more than 20 years to finish building the sew-
ers needed on residential ing were concerned that all streets. these plans and projects are “We understand that just more talk from the DEP, people don’t feel they can which has promised changes wait over 20 years if you during previous Town Hall don’t have a storm sewer meetings in the past. on your block,” Lloyd “We still have a lot of work said. “One of things we’re to do,” Richards said. “We looking at is how quickly want to come back with spewe could accelerate that cifics and what ground was and still have the water broken on particular projects Councilmen Donovan Richards (left) and I. Daneek Miller and when you get particular have some place to go.” She said the DEP is joined Assemblyman William Scarborough to inform the projects in your community, looking at a 10-year capi- public about new DEP projects. we want to hear from you. tal plan and how it can do We want to make sure that we things differently than it has in the is taking is to use green infrastruc- know they are working.” past. Richards said that there are going ture that holds storm water naturally There are several new plans the and can absorb a lot of street water. to be quarterly meetings to keep the DEP plans to implement such as using There are four locations in Southeast community updated on the work bereverse seepage basins. The basins tap Queens that are currently being used ing done. He also reassured that the into high ground water areas and con- in this manner by planting vegetation situation is different than it used to be nect to existing sewer lines to drain off that soak up substantial water in ar- because he is the Chair of the Counthe water to provide relief. Three have eas where there are naturally occur- cil’s Environmental Protection Combeen installed to test their effectiveness ring basins: Twin Ponds, Springfield mittee and with the help of Miller on 175th Street and Sayres Avenue, Lake, Baisley Pond and Brookville they are constantly in the ear of not Linden Boulevard and 155th Street Boulevard. only Lloyd, but Mayor Bill de Blasio and 109th Avenue and 155th Street. The DEP is also conducting door- as well. Lloyd said one worked so well to-door surveys at 200 locations that “There’s actually tangible projects that it stopped draining because it have filed complaints to attempt to that are happening,” Miller said. “These lowered the ground water enough find a pattern and determine where projects are the result of a lot of work that it would not drain into the sewer new curbs, basins and green infra- that has been done over the years. And anymore. The DEP is looking at nine structure, such as large tree pits with we continue to be vigilant.” additional locations where the basins gravel beds to absorb street water, Reach Reporter Jordan Gibbons at could also work. (718)357-7400 Ext. 123, jgibbons@ could help drain storm water. Another new approach the DEP Several residents at the meet- queenspress.com or @jgibbons2 Photo by Jordan Gibbons
BY JORDAN GIBBONS
Katz, de Blasio Oust 8 Library Board Members BY STEvEN J. FERRARI The months-long stand-off between elected officials and the Queens Public Library system received a new twist on Wednesday, as a library spokeswoman announced that several members of the library’s Board of Trustees had received notices, removing them from their posts. Queens Borough President Melinda Katz released a statement late Wednesday afternoon, stating that she has removed six trustees from the Queens Library’s board “because they failed in their duty to properly oversee the finances of the Queens Library.” The six members removed by Katz include board chairman Joseph Ficalora, Jacqueline Arrington, William Jefferson, Grace Lawrence, Terri Mangino and George Stamatiades. Two additional board members, Patricia Flynn and Stephen Van Anden, were removed by Mayor Bill de Blasio. The eight board members had voted in April to oppose the firing of Queens Library director Thomas
Galante, who had come under fire for his near-$400,000 salary while many library workers had been laid off or went without raises. Galante was also taken to task for authorizing a private smoking deck outside his Queens Library office, while also bringing in close to $200,000 as a consultant for a Long Island school district. Complicating matters, the Library also refused to cooperate with an audit into all three City Library systems, conducted by Comptroller Scott Stringer’s office. In letters sent to the ousted members on Wednesday, Katz cited the board’s refusal to remove Galante as a principle reason for the decision. “Mr. Galante’s ability to obtain resources for QBPL to achieve its institutional purpose has been compromised,” the letter from Katz read. “In fact, his ongoing presence appears to deplete QBPL of even more taxpayer money that should instead be going directly to the provision of library services in the borough as provided by law.” Katz indicated to members that they have seven business days to sub-
mit an appeal or response in writing. The decision received support from both Stringer and Public Advocate Letitia James, who had also been critical of the library board’s lack of transparency. “I commend Queens Borough President Melinda Katz for initiating changes to the Queens Library Board that I believe will be in the best interests of taxpayers, accountability and good governance,” a statement from Stringer read. “It is my hope that the information requested by my audit team will be made available without further delay.” James, who noted that her office blocked a meeting last month that would have removed Galante while giving him an $800,000 severance, also applauded the measure. “These changes will ensure more accountability and improve the delivery of library services for 2.3 million Queens residents,” James said in a statement. “In light of recent distractions, it is important that the library return to its main mission of serving all residents, particularly our children, seniors and English-lan-
guage learners. The Queens Borough Public Library is one of the best systems in the country and today’s move will ensure that the system is respected around the country again.” A statement issued by the Library Wednesday afternoon listed no names of removed board members, only giving a statement of support for board members who have “helped make Queens Library a recognized national model of excellence.” “The Board consists of volunteer high-profile professionals and community activists who make time out of their busy schedules,” the statement read. “Every one of the tens of millions who has enriched his life through Queens Library thanks them for their service.” When questioned for more information, a library spokeswoman said the matter involved “confidential information,” and the Library would not release anything else. A call to Ficalora for comment was not returned. Reach Steven J. Ferrari at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 122, sferrari@queenstribune.com or @stevenferrari.
Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
Airport Cleaners In Labor Limbo At JFK BY JORDAN GIBBONS On July 23, 2013, about 300 John F. Kennedy Airport terminal and cabin cleaners employed by Airway Cleaners took part in vote to decide if they wanted to be a part of a union. A year later, the results of that vote still have not been released and were impounded by the National Labor Relations Board. Airway Cleaners, who is contracted by American Airlines, disputed the vote on the grounds that its workers fall under the National Mediation Board, which oversees all railroad and airline workers under the Railway Labor Act. The NLRB protects the rights of most privatesector employees to join together with or without a union under the National Labor Relations Act and conducted the vote but once it was disputed by the employer they were forced to hold the voting results until the NMB reviewed the situation. The NMB requires a national election for a particular craft in order for workers to unionize. Professor Joshua Freeman teaches a labor history course at Queens College and he said that the election under the RLA is harder to achieve than the NLRA election.
“It’s a higher bar,” Freeman said. minal and cabin cleaners are subcon“To get a winning vote you would tracted workers. have to have 50 percent plus one of All the evidence was gathered for the eligible voters.” a hearing last August to determine if The NLRB only requires a major- this was a valid election or not. For ity of voters. The balthe last year, everyone lots had three unions is just waiting for the to choose from: Local “They know the final decision. 32BJ, SEIU, United workers voted for “All these workers Construction Trades the union and this are working without a and Industrial Emunion that they clearis a way to delay the ployees Union, Local ly want,” Hill said. 621 and United Work- result. This whole “Hardworking people ers of America, Local thing would end if who haven’t had the 660; they also had the Airway would drop right to have their option for no union. voices heard for over Under the RLA, it this and let the a year.” would be possible to ballots be counted.” Alberto Grant Jr. divide the votes up, of South Jamaica – Rob Hill have a majority, but has been a terminal still not elect any repcleaner for a little resentation without 50 percent plus over a year and said that they want 1 votes. better benefits and wages they can Rob Hill, an officer with 32BJ rely on. said that Airway is just delaying ev“We just want to hurry up and get erything. in,” he said. “A lot of workers are get“Now, Airway is playing games,” ting impatient and feel unprotected.” Hill said. “They know the workers The workers did benefit from the voted for the union and this is a way new minimum wage policy the Port to delay the result. This whole thing Authority released last month, but would end if Airway would drop this they are not guaranteed benefits or and let the ballots be counted.” protection from their superiors on He said the NMB only covers the job. direct airline employees and the ter“They try to keep the workers di-
vided,” Grant said. “Workers don’t get much respect from our supervisors. They want things to go business as usual.” Shareeka Elliott of Brooklyn has also been a terminal cleaner for the last year and a half. She said the past year has been very stressful. Elliott is a single mother with two daughters, ages 7 and 5. She has to work a second job at night to make ends meet. “Airway alone is not really helping,” she said. “The power is solely with management. What we have is absolutely nothing.” Her mother helps watch her kids while she works from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. five days a week. “The wait is pretty annoying,” she said. “It’s a dire situation and people are tired of waiting and personally, I’m tired.” Reach Reporter Jordan Gibbons at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123, jgibbons@ queenspress.com or @jgibbons2
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Helping To Improve Energy Efficiency Across The City BY JORDAN GIBBONS The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority renewed contracts with five City community-based organizations to help homeowners, small businesses and nonprofits reduce their energy bills and adopt clean energy technologies through the Green Jobs – Green New York program. Since 2011, NYSERDA has partnered with Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, Chhaya CDC in Jackson Heights, El Puente in Brooklyn, Neighborhood Housing Services of Staten Island and Sustainable South Bronx to make energy efficiency accessible in low and moderate income neighborhoods. The new 2014-2016 contract certifies these CBOs to make energy efficiency work for residents and businesses that could benefit the most from lower utility bills. The program’s goal is to reduce energy waste statewide and ensure that populations that have been underserved, such as the elderly, immigrants and people without computer access, are included in a greener future. Tayyab Buksh, director of construction services at the Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica, said that the housing stock is deteriorating and people need to restock and restructure their homes and NHSJ will help homeowners and small businesses pay for the cost. First, the organization offers free energy assessments for any household that makes less than $99,000 a year. “We would like to have everyone at least get an assessment,” Buksh said. “It’s the first step. It’s free. There are no obligations to move forward.” Buksh said that professionals go through the whole house to find any recommendations on how the homeowner can save money wherever possible. They check for ways to save on water, heating, cooling and electricity. The state funds grant up to $40,000. The application process ensures that applicants are eligible based on income. Buksh said that NYSERDA only handles energy upgrades while NHSJ is less restricting. Once a homeowner decides on the amount of improvements they want to make, NHSJ allows them to select any contractor they choose as long as they are reputable, but they will help them along the way. “We make that connection be-
tween homeowner and contracting and hold their hand throughout the entire process to make sure they get what the contractor promised,” Buksh said. NHSJ was contracted to provide assessments to 100 homeowners with the previous deal from 20112013. They completed 119. They have also completed 36 of the 40 energy upgrades as part of the contract. Out of 500 leads they were expected to get, they acquired 765. They still have until September when the new contract starts. Glenford David of Ozone Park was one of the homeowners who followed through on energy upgrades to his home. He purchased his home in January 2013 and when his oil ran out in February, he began researching how to keep his energy costs down. David said his oil heating bills were around $1,200 a month. He has already had insulation installed in his walls, a brand new roof was put on his home and he has converted to gas. He said his energy bill has gone down to $200 a month, although he did point out that he is using less energy in the warmer months. He is also in the process of getting new windows and siding. “My home did not have insulation, my attic and floors had all kinds of air holes,” David said. “The services they offered were pretty unbelievable. Without them, I wouldn’t feel as confident owning this home.” David said all the work he had done totals around $45,000 and NHSJ helped him cover 60 percent of the work. “I had total control without paying the total price,” he said. “I wouldn’t have been able to save that kind of money in 10 years. More people should know about this.” NHSJ and Chhaya CDC plan to expand participation in the program by using the Energy Champions Referral Program, which provides a $200 referral payment to individuals or nonprofits for referring a homeowner who completes a home energy upgrade. “We’re looking at doubling our figures by doing a lot of outreach and trying to get people engaged,” Buksh said. NHSJ and Chhaya CDC cover the entire Borough. For more information, contact NHSJ at (718) 2917400 or Chhaya CDC at (718) 4783848. Reach Reporter Jordan Gibbons at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123, jgibbons@ queenspress.com or @jgibbons2
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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
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Editorial Hope For Flooding Fix One of the most notable infrastructure issues in Southeast Queens over the years has been how prone the area is to flooding and how little the City has done to relieve the issue. During any given severe rain storm, residents know that another disastrous situation could be on the horizon. The people who have been affected by the lack of storm drainage in Southeast Queens have every right to question whether the City is actually serious about fixing the issue now. For too long, promises have not been followed up on and the issue has seemingly been largely ignored. Given the growth potential for Southeast Queens – both with new businesses and other new developments – ignoring the flooding issue does nothing to help the development in the area. While the new leadership within the City Council should lead to a fix for the issue – Councilman Donovan Richards has been named chair of the Council’s Environmental Protection committee, after all – Southeast Queens residents should not be blamed for an attitude “We’ll believe it when we see it.” During a recent Town Hall meeting with the Dept. of Environmental Protection, representatives explained that the DEP has several plans in place to alleviate the flooding, but finishing the work could take years. Quite frankly, Southeast Queens cannot afford to wait years before the flooding in the area is finally alleviated. We hope that both Richards and Councilman I. Daneek Miller, who was also on hand for the Town Hall, keep the promise to stay on both the DEP and the Mayor to get work done quickly.
Letters NYCHA Is To Blame
To The Editor: I am writing this essay in regards to Jordan Gibbons’ story, “NYCHA Residents Call For More Help” (PRESS of Southeast Queens, July 11-17). What I have surmised is this. One can only blame NYCHA for this enormous, and convoluted, and overwhelming problem. NYCHA is more than the perpetrator. And the former CEO can be the only one to blame. Instead of creating at the inception of this problem an infant inconvenience, NYCHA has created a gigantic beast. Now with the myriad economic, social, civic and political problems. Now it could take many, many years before these gigantic problems can be rectified on a minute basis. However, during this long intervention, the residents at NYCHA must suffer these aggravating, humiliating, depressing and intimidating mental aberrations, while this former CEO is probably enjoying the monies he has taken from hundreds of thousands of residents under his charge. One may only surmise under his management their lives
were truly a hell hole! However, under these incessant, capricious and vicissitudes the residents at NYCHA must be not only compensated by only renovations. I believe there should also be monetary compensation in the form of free rent for a period of six months. Melvin L. Setta, Jamaica
A Tragic Incident
To The Editor: The death of Eric Garner was indeed very sad. Based on the video, it appeared that the one police officer who put him in a chokehold was responsible for bringing him down to the ground, assisted by the other officers. This unfortunate tragic incident involving Mr. Garner must and will be investigated by the District Attorney’s office, and hopefully the entire truth regarding this incident will come out. Why didn’t the EMTs who responded to this incident not render Mr. Garner medical aid immediately? He was heard saying on the video that he could not breath. John Amato, Fresh Meadows
A Local Trailblazer Passes On A Personal Perspective BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Queens lost a history maker this month. New York City’s first African-American deputy mayor died at 87 after blazing a trail that many others have far more easily traversed. Paul Gibson, Jr. died at his Jamaica Estate home on July 11, less than a month shy of his 87th birthday. He was a dedicated family man who served his country in the U.S. Army, served his city and served his people, doing it all with skill and dignity. Empowered with an NYU law degree, Mr. Gibson wasn’t just someone who earned a living as a practicing attorney, he also used it to advocate for others less fortunate. He was a civil rights activist; member of the Board and one-time president of the NAACP Jamaica Branch, co-founded the NAACP Daycare Center, Inc., chairman of the South-
ern Queens Park Association, chairman of the Advisory Commission, which was responsible for developing an outstanding aviation program at August Martin High School and so much more. In the early 1970s Mr. Gibson became American Airlines’ first African-American Vice President but was tapped by Mayor Abraham Beame in 1974 to become his Deputy Mayor for Planning. He was in charge of planning and development, youth services, decentralization and health and education matters for the administration. He later returned to American Airlines where he re-launched his career as an aviation executive. Gibson also had a protracted tenure with the law firm of Davidoff, Malito and Hutcher, LLC., one of the most respected law firms in New York City. I had long admired Paul Gibson before profiling him in this publication about 13 years ago. He invited me to
his Jamaica Estates home for the interview and couldn’t have been more charming. Sometimes you think someone who has seen and done some much in their life would be a little hard to know; but not Mr. Gibson. He and his wife, Marcia, were charming and forthcoming. They were a couple who wore their part in City history with humility. The Beame administration existed during the worst fiscal crisis in City history. But Deputy Mayor Gibson worked with the people to ensure they got as much as was available to his office. He served honorably and returned to corporate America when it was over. The hundreds of mourners dating all the way back to the Beame administration, at the wake and funeral were testament to that. You couldn’t help but marvel that so many friends and colleagues from Mr. Gibson’s multi-faceted career remembered him so fondly
that they would take the time to come to Jamaica and celebrate his life. Not everyone gets that, but Paul Gibson clearly did. It wasn’t just because of his political success, it was because of the man he was. He was always willing to help others less fortunate and gave of his time, talent and treasure to try to make life a little better for someone else. Born and raised in Brooklyn, Mr. Gibson took advantage of the then free-tuition of a CUNY education, graduating from City College then going to the prestigious NYU Law School. Education made the difference for him, and he in turn encouraged our young people to do well in school. The Paul Gibsons of this world are getting rarer and rarer, but we are glad he was here. May his soul rest in peace and may his wife and sons take comfort in knowing that his community truly appreciated his service.
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7
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Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
City Council States Opinions On Federal Priorities BY JORDAN GIBBONS This week, City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito and State and Federal Legislation Committee Chair Karen Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills) announced the City Council’s 2014-15 Federal Agenda. The agenda’s purpose is to outline the federal budget and legislative priorities the Council believes are important to the future of the City and all New Yorkers. “This is a comprehensive agenda that addresses many important issues on every level of government, including economic measures, public safety, housing and environmental protection,” Mark-Viverito said. “I urge our partners in government on the federal level to review these suggestions and take action to improve both our City and our country.” A few of the most important federal actions that the Council is committed to achieving to make the City more progressive and inclusive include: extending the unemployment insurance benefits to unemployed families, bringing City Housing Authority facilities into a state of good repair, strengthening gun laws to help prevent future violence and mass shootings and creating pathways to citizenship and ensuring immigrants and their families can continue to thrive in the City. “In order to move forward on some of the Council’s legislative and budgetary priorities for the residents of New York City, the Council needs the cooperation of other partners in government,” Koslowitz said. “The submission of this federal agenda should have a positive influence on attempting to achieve these priorities.” The economic measures highlighted in the agenda were the extension of Unemployment Insurance Benefits, the Fair Minimum Wage Act of 2013 and the expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit to work-
Port Authority workers march for fair wages earlier this year. Fair wages is one of the priorities the City Council is supporting on the federal level.
ferent note the transportation and ers without qualifying children. The EITC proposal, which was highway benefits that would come introduced by President Barack from the funding reauthorization of Obama, would double the maximum ‘Moving Ahead for Progress in the EITC benefits for workers without 21st Century,” Miller said. The Federal Student Loan Refichildren from the $500 to $1,000. It would also increase the maximum in- nancing Act would enable individucome workers can receive the credit als who have an interest rate above and lower the minimum age from 25 four percent to refinance for a lower, fixed interest rate of four percent. to 21. MAP-21 provides Councilman I. funding for surface Daneek Miller (D-St. “Why should we transportation proAlbans) supported the grams nationwide for agenda as Chair of the have poverty run fiscal years 2013-14. Council’s Civil Service rampant when we Councilman Donoand Labor Commit- can do something as van Richards (D-Lautee, especially the Fair relton) also said he Minimum Wage Act a City government?” – Councilman was a strong propoof 2013 and the extenDonovan Richards nent of the Minimum sion of Unemployment Wage Act. Insurance Benefits. “People are workHe also noted some human services and transportation ing and can’t afford to live in New legislation that would help the City York City,” Richards said. “Why should we have poverty run rampant progress. “Considering the vast number when we can do something as a City of our residents of all ages affected government? We want to be sensitive by student loan payments, I also to small businesses as well, but there support the expansion of U.S. Sen. are businesses making a lot of money Kirsten Gillibrand’s Federal Student and their workers are on welfare.” Richards is also pushing for FedLoan Refinancing Act and in a dif-
eral Funding for Hurricane Sandy Relief since he sees how many residents are still struggling to recover in his own district everyday. He said that the foreclosure crisis hit the City hard and then was hit even harder by the storm. “We still have a lot of families in the Rockaways that are recovering,” Richards said. “We were punched before and then we were sucker punched.” One other important priority for the Councilman is to strengthen gun laws, which Richards said is a personal issue, because he started in politics when he was 19 after one of his childhood friends was murdered. “Gun laws are so lax, we can be upset every time something happens, but we have to get to the stem of the problem and that is weak gun laws,” he said. “While I respect our right to bare arms, it’s a problem when the arms are getting in the wrong hands.” Majority Leader Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside) said that the Council looks forward to working with Capitol Hill to implement a progressive agenda and send a positive message throughout the nation. He also highlighted some human rights issues that he would like to see get passed to make New York a better place to live. “From ensuring equal rights for all same-sex couples with the passing of the Respect for Marriage Act, to guaranteeing fair wages for all Americans, as well as revising the FDA Blood Donation Rules to allow gay and bisexual men the ability to donate blood, we urge the nation’s capital to work with New York City to develop a comprehensive agenda to deliver results we care about, results that make the lives of New Yorkers better and more just,” Van Bramer said. Reach Reporter Jordan Gibbons at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123, jgibbons@ queenspress.com or @jgibbons2
NYFAC Hosts Bike Ride Benefit This Weekend BY LuIS GRONDA Residents will be able to take in the scenic views of Jamaica Bay and southern Queens while riding a bike this weekend. The New York Families for Autistic Children Center in Howard Beach will host its first annual bike ride loop around Howard Beach, parts of the Rockaway Peninsula and Brooklyn on Saturday, July 26.
Participants will pay a fee to enter the bike race and they can either take the full course or ride the half loop if they feel the full race is too lengthy. Tonia Cimino, director of development at NYFAC, said that they wanted to come up with new and interesting events for area residents and families of autistic children to go to and they felt this was a good fit, since many of them actively ride their bikes.
Included in the event will be a breakfast as well as a barbecue with a DJ playing music as part of a full day of activities. Cimino said pre-registration on the NYFAC website is preferred, but there will be a registration table available on the day of the bike ride if anyone decides to come last minute. Registration that day starts at 8 a.m., with the bike ride itself kicking off at 10 a.m.
All proceeds from the event will go directly to NYFAC, Cimino said. The organization plans to make this a yearly event, she said. According to Cimino, among the guests expected to attend is Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), and all the other area elected officials have been invited as well. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com or @luisgronda.
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9
BY JOE MARVILLI When many people think of New York City’s nightlife, their first thoughts may go to hotspots in Manhattan or Brooklyn. While both of those boroughs have plenty to see and do, Queens’ nightlife scene can stand up with the best of them. Across the Borough, there are strips filled with bars, clubs and other fun activities to take part in once the sun goes down. Whether you want a drink, want to dance, want to smoke or more, you will likely find what you are looking for in a small business in one of these areas. Bell Boulevard is one of the best examples of a corridor that anyone can wander down and find something he or she would like. The options for food and drinks are diverse, with no two shops looking alike. Walk into Papazzio Italian Restaurant and enjoy a romantic evening, especially with jazz and blues music every Thursday and Saturday. Move down half a block to Beer Belly’s for 50 different drafts on tap, wings, DJs and live music. Bourbon Street, another bar that serves food, holds Vintage Thursdays, where DJ Tommy Nappi spins the best of 80s and 90s alternative and freestyle. Brian Dempsey’s American Ale House has drink specials most of the week, a free buffet on Fridays and concerts on Fridays and Saturdays. “It comes down to the diversity of the businesses. Bell Boulevard has a little bit of everything,” Lyle Sclair, executive director of the Bayside BID, said. “They’d need to come back more than once because there are too many places. We really run the gamut of programming.” Another bustling business strip is 30th Avenue in Astoria. While this avenue has been filled with restaurants and bars for many years, the influx of a young crowd in recent years has made the district even more vibrant. Stop by MexiBBQ to get your fill of food, with specials like all-youcan-eat ribs on Tuesdays and all-night Happy Hour on Wednesdays. Visit Sweet Afton for a low-key night with quality drinks and live bluegrass and jazz every Monday. Go to Era Café and enjoy some hookah on its roof. Swing by Katch nearby on Newtown Ave. and take part in trivia on Tuesdays, Ladies Night on Thursdays and an extended happy hour on Fridays. From 30th Avenue, you are only a quick subway ride away from another nightlife corridor, Queens Boulevard in Sunnyside. One of the most popu-
lar venues is Sidetracks Restaurant and Lounge, which has a high-end atmosphere while keeping prices at a reasonable level. For a more rustic setting, head to The Courtyard Bar, which has 24 beers on tap, a covered outdoor patio and live music four days a week. If you want to dance, there is Allure Club and Lounge. Both its Main Room and the smaller Pulse Lounge have state-of-the-art audio and light systems, as well as a full bar and kitchen. Besides those examples, Sunnyside has one of the largest concentrations of Irish pubs in the City, and a huge number of cultural food options. “Queens Blvd and Sunnyside has an enormous variety of eateries featuring cuisine from around the world – Mexico, Romania, Japan, Nepal, Thailand, Turkey, Lebanon and Italy, just to name a few,” Rachel Thieme, executive director of the Sunnyside Shines BID, said. The center of Queens has plenty to offer for those looking for some nightlife fun as well. Austin Street in Forest
CULTURE
Q
Hills is not only a neighborhood with tons of options, but it is very accessible. “Forest Hills is an upscale neighborhood with many choices of restaurants and bars and movies to choose from. We are easily accessible by subway, LIRR, bus and car. We have had many new places open in the last year that are attracting people from all over Queens and beyond,” Leslie Brown, the Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce president, said. The street is home to a high-end pool hall, The Billiard Company, where you can enjoy fancy cocktails, varied bar food, hookah and ping-pong as well. If you walk a block down from there, you will find yourself near Exo Café, a recent addition to Forest Hills. Besides its seven TVs that show all your favorite sports teams, the lounge also has karaoke every Tuesday night. Another new member of Austin Street is Pride Lounge NYC, the first LGBT bar in Forest Hills. If you want to go out on Sunday night, but need something relaxing before returning to work on Monday, go to Banter Irish Bar and Kitchen. Located just off Austin Street, this pub has a traditional acoustic Irish set every Sunday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Heading further south, Jamaica Avenue and nearby blocks have a few options for nightlife. There is ESEX Lounge, a cozy space with soft lighting, ample seating, a fully-stocked bar and hookah aplenty. If you head to ESEX on Thursdays, you get a chance to hit the dance floor for free all night. Arena
Photo by Jackie Strawbridge
Queens Is The Life Of The Party
Katch Brewery in Astoria has everything from a diverse food and drink menu to heavily-attended events like Tuesday Trivia. Lounge on 130th Street is equally enticing, with 11 private event spaces and a live broadcast on its website after 11 p.m. Although it is not as well-known for its nightlife as Long Island City or Jamaica, Howard Beach has a couple of great spots that are worth checking out, particularly on Cross Bay Boulevard. Vetro Restaurant and Lounge is right on the water, offering a fine dining experience like no other. Head to its rooftop lounge for live music and DJ sets all week. For something more casual, there is CJ’s Bar and Lounge. This locale offers food and drink
specials nearly every day. One nightlife option that has grown more popular in recent years is hookah, a single or multi-stemmed pipe for vaporizing and smoking flavored tobacco. For those who want to explore hookah lounges in Queens, the first stop should be Steinway in Astoria. Particularly between 30th and 28th Avenues, there are dozens of options for hookah fans. Many of these venues incorporate food, alcohol or music for attendees to enjoy as well. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@ queenstribune.com, or @JoeMarvilli.
Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
pix
Celebrating Iftar
Remembering Ferraro Bangladeshi American Advocacy Group (BAAG) held their annual Iftar celebration at King Kabab on Hillside Avenue in Jamaica. Iftar, the breaking of the fast, is one of the religious observances of Ramadan and is often done as a large gathering because feeding and providing food for the community is considered a form of charity.
He Is Iron Man
St. John’s University officials gathered during an event marking the 30th anniversary of Geraldine Ferraro’s nomination as a vice presidential candidate, with a screening of the documentary, “Geraldine Ferraro: Paving the Way.” Pictured (from left) are Hersh Parekh, Queens County Young Democrats; Brian Browne, St. John’s University; Donna Zaccaro; Dr. Conrado Gempesaw, Ph.D. President of St. John’s University and Clavel Gempesaw.
BBDO New York’s Diversity Council partnered with Marvel Custom Solutions to create “Heroes Welcome,” a custom edition comic book featuring The Avengers to promote diversity and explore what it means to be a hero. Along with the Police Athletic League of NYC, BBDO and Marvel hosted an educational event with Iron Man at Pathways Center in St. Albans on July 23.
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11
Police Blotter 102nd Precinct
Grand Larceny
The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in locating and identifying a suspect wanted in connection with grand larceny. At approximately 11:40 p.m. on May 14, the suspect attempted to use a stolen credit card at Rite Aid Pharmacy, located at 96-02 Rockaway Blvd., in order to buy a carton of cigarettes. The credit card was stolen earlier in the day from a vehicle that was parked on the corner of 97th Avenue and 98th Street. The suspect is descried as a light skinned male. Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-tips, visit www. nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637(CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.
Homicide arrests
At approximately 4:34 a.m. on July 9, police responded to a 911 call of an unconscious male in the vicinity of 76th Street and Atlantic Avenue. Upon arrival, police discovered an unconscious and unresponsive Nazmul Islam, 55, of Queens, on
the sidewalk of the location. EMS responded and pronounced the victim dead. There were no apparent signs of trauma to the body. The medical examiner will determine the cause of death. The investigation is ongoing. Carlos Genno, 22, of Queens, and Nestor Rodriguez, 20, of Queens, were charged with murder and robbery in regards to the incident.
The nyPd is asking for assistance finding this individual in relation to an attempted robbery on Parsons Boulevard.
103rd Precinct
robbery
The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance with the whereabouts and identity of an individual wanted in connection to an attempted robbery. At approximately 8 p.m. on July 14, an unidentified male entered Sunshine Grocery, located at 87-60 Parsons Blvd. The suspect displayed a black firearm and demanded mon-
ey from the worker. The suspect then fled on foot from the location without receiving any money. The suspect is described as a Black male, 5’11”, 170 lbs, wearing blue jeans and a blue jacket. Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-tips, visit www. nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637(CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.
104th Precinct
attempted rape arrest
Two suspects wanted in connection with an attempted rape have been arrested and charged. At approximately 2:50 a.m. on July 16, an 18-year-old female was walking in the vicinity of Putnam Avenue and Seneca Avenue, when she was approached from behind by the two suspects. The first suspect punched the victim on her head, while the second suspect choked her, covered her mouth with his hand and attempted to remove her pocketbook, but the victim held on. The first suspect began to sexually assault the victim when a passerby approached, causing both suspects to flee the location. The victim was removed to
Woodhull Hospital where she was treated and released. The first suspect, Franclin Velazquez, 21, of Brooklyn, has been charged with attempted rape 1 and sexual abuse. The second suspect, Jorge Maldonado, 28, of Bronx, has been charged with attempted rape 1, assault and sexual abuse.
114th Precinct
robbery
The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance identifying an individual wanted for a robbery. At 10:45 a.m. on July 18, in front of a Stop and Shop, located at 34-51 48th St., a male, 90, was walking to his car when he was approached by the suspect who grabbed him by the neck and demanded his wallet. The suspect then demanded the victim’s PIN and had him drive to two locations where he removed money from the ATM. The suspect is described as a Black male, in his 30’s, with braids. Anyone with information is asked to call the NYPD’s Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-tips, visit www. nypdcrimestoppers.com or text tips to 274637(CRIMES), then enter TIP577. All calls are confidential.
Borough Beat
Borough Electeds Hold Pro-israel rally Several Queens elected officials and religious leaders stood together to support Israel last week. Gathered in front of Queens Borough Hall, they called on Israel and Palestine to bury the hatchet and stop the seemingly endless conflict between the two countries. “For the state of Israel, the problem has always been there’s never anyone on the other side to speak to,” said Michael Nussbaum, a member of the Queens Jewish Community Council and PRESS of Southeast Queens Publisher. “When you have an entity like Hamas and the leadership in Gaza that are afraid to make a statement and offer to sit down at a table with Israelis, who have to live and survive by constant strife and terror. That is not a partner that anyone can ask Israel to sit down with.” The QJCC and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York called for the pro-Israel rally in light of escalated tension on the Gaza strip. Both sides have contin-
Carroll, both from the ued fighting despite Flushing Interfaith calls for peace. There Council, said that the have been a few temtwo sides are in the porary cease-fire wrong for this conflict, agreements but the not just Hamas. Carroll battle resumed as said the elected officials soon as that ended. in Queens and abroad Egypt even offered a should be encouraging peace agreement to talks between the two stop the conflict but sides. to no avail. “Instead of panderAs of press time, ing to one community 568 Gazans and 27 or another, we want Israelis have died as elected officials to proa result of the war. Two American-born Civic leaders and elected officials, including Borough President Me- mote dialogue between said Israeli soldiers, Max linda Katz (right), came together in a rally to support israel outside communities,” Carroll, who said he is Steinberg and Sean of Queens Borough Hall. a practicing Muslim. Carmeli, were also “Israelis and Palestinians are traumafor cover when it is attacked. killed. “Every single time Israel is at- tized by this ongoing war.” One by one, Queens elected offiGreenberg, who said she is a Jewcials spoke of their support for Israel tacked, we are out here defending and to urge both sides to end the fight- their right to survive, just their right ish pagan, said both sides are in the wrong and much of what was said at ing. Leading the entourage of politi- to exist, it’s enough,” she said. There was also a small group of the rally against Hamas is also true cians was Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, who said just because individuals that were present at the about Israel. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at Israel has a defense system like the rally, but not necessarily in support (718) 357-7400, ext. 127, lgronda@ Iron Dome, it does not mean its resi- of Israel. Naomi Greenberg and Adam queenstribune.com or @luisgronda. dents should have to constantly duck Photo by Luis Gronda
By Luis Gronda
Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
Best of Queens 2014
PR WIN IZ ES
On August 29th 2014, the PRESS will publish a special edition showcasing the places, people and things readers love about Queens.
The staff will comb the borough to find that great slice of pizza, that phenomenal rib shack, that beautiful vista or building that is part of what makes living in Queens so special. But we need your help. Send in the form below, name your “personal bests” and we’ll print your entry. Need more room? Send as many pages as you'd like or e-mail bestofqueens@queenstribune.com. YOUR NAME: YOUR AddRESS: YOUR EMAIl:
Mail To: THE BEST OF QUEENS 2014 C/O The Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357 email us at: bestofqueens@queenstribune.com Food & dining Bagels: Bakery: Breakfast: Burgers: Butcher: Coffee Shop: Deli: Desserts: Diner: Ice Cream: Pizza: Seafood: Steak: Ethnic Food Asian: French: Indian: Italian: Latin: Other Ethnic:
REtail Book Store: Clothing Store: Florist: Hardware Store: Jewelry Store: Liquor Store: Mall/Shopping Center: Pharmacy: Supermarket: hEalth & BEauty Hair Salon: Doctor: Massage Therapist: Day Spa/Nail Salon: Veterinarian: Gym:
Museum: Local Musician: Movie Theater: Theater Group: Park: Athletic Facility: SERvicES Auto Repair: Cleaning Company: Contractor: Electrician: Handyman: Landscaper: Painter: Plumber: Roofer: youR PERSonal BEStS:
EntERtainmEnt Bar/Nightspot: Local Band: Please attach any additional comments, photos or information about your entries to this coupon.
For Advertising Information On "The Best Of Queens 2014" Edition Call The PRESS At (718) 357-7400
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13
A&E
QBC 15 returns To McFadden’s next year By Luis Gronda The Queens Baseball Convention is making its return next year. After the success of last year’s first event, baseball fans can again celebrate America’s national past time on Jan. 10 at McFadden’s Citi Field. Although planning for the convention’s second edition is in its early stages, tickets for the event are already on sale. Shannon Prior, the convention’s organizer, said they hope people buy the tickets early in order to give them more capital as they go deeper into negotiations for booking guests and
organizing the convention itself. “We’re asking them to take the leap of faith and buy tickets earlier,” Prior said. The focus of the panels during the event will change slightly, according to Prior. He said what they learned from last year is that Question and Answer discussions were more popular among the audience so they will have more of those for the second edition. One idea floated is a possible panel on who is the greatest New York Mets player ever, according to Prior. They do not know who will be appearing at next year’s convention, but Prior did say it is less challenging
logistically to book retired players than current Mets players, as there are additional fees and scheduling issues that may pop up. In any case, Prior said he has “some pretty big asks” out there to appear at the convention. “I’d rather be told ‘no, that’s impossible’ than not try at all,” he said. Ron Darling and Ed Kranepool were among the ex-Mets players to appear at QBC last year. Prior said last year’s event reception was mostly positive, with small complaints like a long food line being the only negative comments. “We were just blown away by
the love that it got,” he said. Now that QBC has established itself as a successful convention, organizers hope they will be able to use that to attract bigger companies and special guests to the event, Prior said. Already setting a date for the convention will also make it easier to plan out the convention as the process moves forward. “It’s a puzzle but it’s a fun puzzle to fill out,” Prior said. Tickets for the convention are available for purchase at QBC15.com. Reach Reporter Luis Gronda at (718) 357-7400, ext. 127, lgronda@ queenstribune.com or @luisgronda.
a Perfect Getaway at new Jersey’s Chimney Hill inn If you’re looking to leave the hustle and bustle of the City behind and allow yourself a perfect getaway full of relaxation, make the trip out to Chimney Hill Inn, a quaint, comforting and hospitable bed and breakfast located in Lambertville, N.J. The Chimney Hill Inn was built in 1820 and was originally intended as a farmhouse, but was later purchased by the Hunt family, who commissioned M.I.T’s first female graduate, Margaret Spencer, to be a credited head architect, in 1920 and turn the prop-
erty into a working bed and breakfast. When current innkeeper Rich Anderson took over the property 20 years ago, he decided to expand the eightroom capacity in the main house to 13 by turning the old barn into five private suites. Some suites have small private backyards, while the others are duplexes with a spiral staircase leading up to the bedroom, overlooking a luxurious country living space, including an extravagant jacuzzi. The inn provides a wonderful home-cooked complimentary breakfast offered to everyone and a beautiful wine and cheese hour on the lawn at twilight. After you’re done indulging, explore the eight-and-a-half acres of land Chimney Hill sits on, including a garden area with ample seating, and an Alpaca farm, where you can feed, pet and admire these rare, kind animals. Once a year, the inn hosts the annual “Alpaca Fest,” among many other commu-
nity events. Chimney Hill Inn is minutes away from hundreds of unique antique shops and parking lot flea markets that will keep you searching for all kinds of treasures to suit your heart’s content. The Chimney Hill Inn is an admirable space suitable for any occasion or event, offering packages with lodging for out of town
guests, and facilities open to cater anywhere from 50-200 people, this destination is intimately rustic. So if you are looking to refresh your mind and body or just need a quick reset, consider Chimney Hill Inn. For more information on the Chimney Hill Inn, call (609) 397-1516 or visit www.chimneyhillinn.com. - Eric Jordan
Beer & Bacon Festival Coming To Citi Field Beer and bacon are staples in the diet of most sports fans, and an event this weekend at Citi Field will combine the two for hundreds of fans. Touring baseball fields across the country, the Bacon and Beer Classic makes its way to Queens on Saturday for what organizers called a “one-ofa-kind event” that combines the nostalgia of baseball with a love of, what else? Beer and bacon. The Bacon and Beer Classic held its first event this year at Safeco Field in Seattle in May. A third event, at Minute Maid Park in Houston, will take place in September. The event will feature hundreds of craft brew samples, along with tastes of bacon-inspired dishes cooked up by local restaurants. The Bacon and Beer Classic will hold two sessions: Brunch runs from noon to 3 p.m. while the evening session runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. The event is not limited to food and drink, though. The experience will include tours of Citi Field, music by DJ Dee and a variety of games, including wiffle ball, batting cages, speed pitching and a
Beer and bacon dishes galore will be available at the Bacon and Beer Classic at Citi Field this weekend.
dunk tank, among other events. Educational classes at the event will also take place, with sessions on bacon cooking tips and beer making offered over the two sessions. Celebrity judges will also be on hand to select the best beer and bacon at the event, including “Bacon Minister” Adam Poch (Big Brother), chef Lisa Fernandez (Top Chef season 4), chef Derrick Prince (MasterChef) and more. Tickets for Saturday’s event at Citi Field run from $39-$129 and are available at the event’s website, www. baconandbeerclassic.com.
Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
Queens today
FRIDay 7/25
pOw wOw
New York City’s oldest and largest pow wow will feature three days of intertribal Native American dance competitions.This spectacular event is held in the apple orchard of the Queens County Farm Museum. The event runs from July 25 to 27, starting at 6 p.m. on Friday and 10 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets cost $10 or $15 for a weekend pass for adults. Call (718) 347-3276 for more information.
INTERNATIONAL DAy
Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Citizens Center is hosting International Day. Share and sample international dishes from different countries represented in the Southeast Queens community. The doors open at 10 a.m. and the official program begins at 1 p.m. The center is located at 22001 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights. Call (718) 528-8238 for more information.
LIVE MUSIC
Queens composer and guitarist Luke Schwartz brings a trio to the Queens Kickshaw for a night of original music, plus lively, groove-based interpretations of music by John Zom and Thelonious Monk, among others. For more information, call (718) 777-0913.
saTURDay 7/26
SUMMER FESTIVAL
A Sprinkle of Fun will host a summer festival on Myrtle Avenue. There will be free popcorn, music, candy and balloons. The festival runs from noon until 3 p.m. It will be at 79-05 Myrtle Ave. For more information, call (718) 381-3334.
pIRATES & pRINCESSES Come meet your favorite fairytale characters as The JC Players host a Pirates
and Princesses Festival on noon at the Community United Methodist Church, located at 75-27 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village. Admission is $6 for adults and children older than 2 years old. There will be a Fairytale performance followed by a Fairytale kids carnival. For further information, call (917) 825-7418.
SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK THURsDay 7/31
LATINO CULTURAL FESTIVAL The 2014 Latino Cultural Festival will return to Queens Theatre from July 29 to Aug. 3. This year, the festival is spotlighting extraordinary women from around the globe. Single tickets range between $14 and $30, but customers can order a mini-pass for any three shows for $75, or a full pass to six shows for $125. To view the complete lineup, visit www.queenstheatre. org/2014-latino-cultural-festival. Use the same link to buy tickets, or call (718) 7600064. a weekly basis, their curated guest teams demonstrate why improv is the fastest growing sector in the live comedy economy. Tickets are $5. For more information, call (718) 392 0722.
LINCOLN CENTER LOCAL
Lincoln Center Local will present two concerts at the Flushing Library, from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 5 p.m. Cain-Oscar Bergeron and his ensemble combine flute, viola, piano, guitar and accordion in classical and Cajun folk styles to recount the journey of a people from the motherland of western France to North America. The concert is free. Flushing Library is located at 41-17 Main St.
pS1 wARM Up FESTIVAL
Every Saturday until Sept. 6, MoMA PS1 in Long Island City holds an outdoor music series with the best in experimental live music, sound and DJs across a range of genres. This Saturday, Warm Up features Cashemere Cat from Norway, Total Freedom from Los Angeles and UniiQU3 from New Jersey, among others. LIC residents receive one free ticket on a first-come, first-served basis, pending availability. For more information, call (718) 784-2084.
sUNDay 7/27
wORLD’S FAIR FEST
In celebration of the 50th and 75th anniversaries of the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs, Queens Theatre will produce a presentation of 10 commissioned ten-minute plays from celebrated local, national and international playwrights. Tickets are $18. For more information, visit www.queenstheatre. org.
moNDay 7/28
ThE gOONIES ShANNON BREEzE
Shannon Breeze will perform at the Poppenhusen Institute at 4 p.m. The band will play a mix of Irish music and some tunes from the 1960s and 70s. The entrance fee is $4. Refreshments and raffles will be sold. The Poppenhusen Institute is located at 114-04 14th Road, College Point.
yOUNg DANCEMAkERS
Join the Young Dancemakers Company, directed by Alice Teirstein, as they present live music and dance at Flushing Town Hall’s garden. The free concert will start at 2 p.m. and features music director William Catanazaro as well as excerpts of work by renowned choreographer Paul Taylor. At the close of the concert, the audience is invited to join the company in lively improvisations on stage. Flushing Town Hall is located at 137-35 Northern Blvd.
The Central Astoria LDC kicks off its Movies on the Waterfront series with the 1980s classic, “The Goonies,” starting at 8:30 p.m. at the Great Lawn at Astoria Park. For information, call (718) 728-7820 or visit www.centralastoria.org.
TUEsDay 7/29
ABBy pOwELL
The Queens Village Library will present a performance by soprano vocalist Abby Powell. The concert will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. This is a teleconferenced event. First-time participants should call (718) 464-0084 for access numbers.
WEDNEsDay 7/30
SLIppERy whEN wET
Slippery When Wet, a Bon Jovi tribute band, will play Resorts World Casino on July 30. The show is scheduled to 8 p.m.
wU wEDNESDAy
DJ Demzta Recka will be spinning Wu-Tang tracks at Queens Tavern. Festivities start at 8 p.m. Queens Tavern is located at 6869 Fresh Pond Road in Ridgewood.
CyMBELINE
Hip to Hip Theatre returns to the Voelker Orth Garden in Flushing to bring great Shakespearian plays to the community. A 90-minute performance of “Cymbeline” begins at 7:30. For information, call (718) 729-5867.
OUTDOOR CINEMA
A SUNDAy SMILE AT ThE SECRET ThEATRE
Sunday nights at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., The Queens Secret Improv Club showcases just how much variety is present in the NYC improv scene. Rotating on
dia show of music and dance, theatrical set and lighting, created as a tribute to those women who quietly wrote the pages of Tango from the very beginning. All performing artists on this show are female. The concert begins at 8 p.m. and tickets are $30.
gLAMOUR TANgO
The 2014 Latino Cultural Festival will kick off at Queens Theatre with Glamour Tango, a multime-
Socrates Sculpture Park and Film Forum, in collaboration with Rooftop Films, present its annual international film festival, which shows a film from a different country or culture each Wednesday evening. Movies start at sundown and are free. This Wednesday’s movie is “Viola,” directed by Matias Piñeiro.
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15
Profile
St. Albans’ Resident Competed In 2013 Food Championship On July 17, Saint Albans’ very own Adrian Ashby was featured in the second episode of FYI’s new reality series, “World Food Championships.” “World Food Championships” is a food competition which follows home cooks and professional chefs in America as they compete to make special dishes that are worthy enough to win their food category. There are seven different categories in the World Food Championships. The categories include burgers, BBQ, sandwiches, bacon, recipes, chili and desserts. Ashby participated in the 2013 Bacon World Championships with 30 other competitors in his category. During Thursday’s show, Ashby talked about his life and what he did before the competition. “I work with administrative services, doing that work allows me to pay for participating in the contest,” Ashby said. In order to participate in the World Food Championships, contestants must compete and win another food competition. Ashby competed
and won the 2012 Brooklyn Bacon Takedown. “Brooklyn Bacon Takedown is where home cooks and professionals around the City compete and bring [their] best recipe around bacon,” Ashby said. “I’ve been participating in it since 2009.” Ashby also mentioned that in the Bacon Takedown the most important judg- Adrian Ashby made bacon nutella brownies during the es are the people. The Bacon World Food Championships. winner of this competition is usually the People’s Choice textures and complexity, the bacon Winner, which is what he won when is an explosion of taste that delights he competed. the senses when combined. The dish Ashby made bacon nutella brown- also consisted of a corn flake crust. ies for both the Bacon Takedown and Ashby sprinkled bacon on the marshthe 2013 Bacon World Food Champi- mallow frosting. onships. In his brownie recipe, Ashby “I wanted to make something included three levels of bacon, each sweet and savory that hadn’t been one with a different texture and com- made before at the Takedown,” Ashplexity. He said that despite different by said.
When asked where he got his passion for cooking, Ashby said that it came from watching his mother and grandmother for years as they cooked during family gatherings. “I’ve been cooking [since] I was a little kid and I’ve been competing since 2008, 2009,” he said. “Cooking to me is really relaxing and a nice stress reliever. It’s a good way to get the ego stroke, [a] nice outside job.” For Ashby, the World Food Championship was an experience that he will use in the fu2013 ture. “The experience was awesome, a great learning experience. Hopefully, I will be able to use that experience to my advantage,” Ashby said. The World Food competitions will continue this Thursday on FYI. To participate in the 2014 World Food Championships, visit worldfoodchampionships.com for more information. — Esther Shittu
People Brittany Farmer of Hollis and Tiffany Squire of Rosedale received degrees during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at SUNY Oneonta. Local students graduated during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at Farmingdale State College. They include: Hollis: Kishan Singh. Jamaica: Luis Guana, Taimoor Khan, Justin Rush. Jamaica Estates: Lisa Ann JeanPierre. Queens Village: Antwan Jobity, Daniel Singer. St. Albans: Adetokunbo Olushoga. South Richmond Hill: Ashley Fana. Springfield Gardens: Bradley Allman, Breann Cooper, Jo-Anne O’Selmo.
School in Waltham, Mass. Aria’s award-winning project was titled “Separating NaCl from Piperine.” Local students received degrees during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at Ithaca College. They include: Cambria Heights: Imani Brammer. Hollis Hills: Rose Beckoff. Queens Village: Davisa Mills. Rosedale: Victoria Wells. St. Albans: Sue-ann Pratt. Air Force Airman Shavon Campbell graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, San Antonio, Texas. Campbell is the son of Andrea Greene and Devon Campbell of Jamaica.
Kamil Davis of Cambria Heights and Zoraida Delerme of Jamaica were named to the Dean’s List for the Spring 2014 semester at Becker College in Worcester, Mass.
Domonique Moody of Jamaica graduated magna cum laude with a degree in biochemistry during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia.
Aria Rodney of Jamaica was awarded Honorable Mention at the annual science fair at Chapel Hill-Chauncey
Asia Weisgerber of St. Albans was named to the President’s List for the spring 2014 semester at Wester New
England University in Springfield, Mass. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester at SUNY Oneonta. They include: Hollis: Brittany Farmer. Jamaica: Jamie Pitter. Queens Village: Kharina Rivera. Schella Exil of Jamaica was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester at SUNY Buffalo State. Naomi Anthonio of Springfield Gardens received a bachelor’s degree in aviation management during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at Florida Institute of Technology in Melbourne, Fla. Anthonio was also named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester. Carmela Morales of Jamaica was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. The New York Army National Guard recently announced the promotion of members. Kara McNaughton of Jamaica was
promoted to staff sergeant. Marcel Francis was promoted to staff sergeant. Floyd Wallace was promoted to private. Gregory Hinds of Jamaica was promoted to specialist. Kenvall Small of Jamaica was promoted to specialist. Lindsey Jeanniton of Laurelton was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester at the University of Scranton in Pennsylvania. Timothy Hartigan of Jamaica was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2014 semester at Siena College in Loudonville. Local students received degrees during spring 2014 commencement ceremonies at Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, N.J. They include: Holliswood: Stephanie Windland, Bachelor of Arts degree in theater arts. Jamaica: Nicole Dalton, Bachelor of Arts degree in individualized studies; Ronella Rodney, Bachelor of Science degree in electric engineering technology.
Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
Faith
Community Worship Center Celebrates Renovation On Friday, July 18, the newly renovated Community Worship Center of Seventh Day Adventist had a ribbon-cutting ceremony, more than 20 years in the making. About 20 years ago, the church, previously the Springfield Seventh Day Adventist Church, began a project to renovate the building. During the project, there were legal issues with the contractor, and the church, having to pay the contractor a lot of money, neglected the reconstruction project. Years later, in 2005, a new Pastor was placed in the church, Pastor Clifford Manie, and he decided with the leadership of the church that the reconstruction project should continue. “[We] tried to convince the church that it was in the interest to move forward with [the project],” Manie said. With much encouragement, the church resumed renovations in November 2006. In order for the church to have a place of worship during the project,
the reconstruction focused was because the loan that on renovating the lower level had originally been taken out of the church first. Once the could not sustain the project. lower level was done, serFinally, renovations were vices were held there while finished and the church held work on the upper level bea ribbon cutting ceremony gan. But in 2008, the church on July 18. Other than havhit another hurdle in its ating a brand new building, tempt to renovate the buildthe church also has a brand ing, this time with a different new name to accommodate contractor. the community. According to Manie, when “[Our] purpose is to the church instructed the The Community Worship Center will continue its grand reach out to help people, we contractor to redo parts of opening celebration with a variety of events during the next have a vision of the commuthe work he did, he refused couple weeks. nity fellowship, partnering and removed his work perwith our community, invite mit, which then led the City to put a that it is with the help of the leader- the community to come and worship stop work order on the project. The ship that the congregation continu- with us,” Manie said. “It is our sinally made sacrificial offerings to help cere hope to be a vibrant force in our order was not lifted until 2011. During the time of trying to fix up with the building of the church. community for doing good.” “If I had to describe the mood, it the church, the church went through The Community Worship Center other hurdles in terms of its members. had to do with the leadership,” Manie of Seven Day Adventist is located Manie mentioned that there were said. “Everybody pulled together.” at 145-94 176th St., on the corner of Manie said that his family, as well Farmers Boulevard and 176th Street. members who left and relocated to other churches, some moved out of as other families in the church, made For more information, call (718) state. Therefore, the congregation is donations. The church also held con- 276-6131. fairly new to the church. He believes certs as a method of fundraising. This — Esther Shittu
Notebook
Edge School Of The Arts
Family-Run Dance Studio For All Levels On July 21, The been with ESOTA for Edge School of the Arts 13 years, the school dancers performed as has taught her everypart of the City Park’s thing she needs to take SummerStage series in with her as she moves Rochdale Park. on to college. ESOTA was found“It’s a huge family, ed in 1996 in the image how they say it takes a of the Bernice Johnson village to raise a child, Cultural Arts Center. that’s a village, it’s Kerri Edge, the direchard leaving them but tor of ESOTA, said they’ve taught me evthat her family grew up erything. So I’m ready at the center. to go off to college and “My family grew I think I have all the up at the dance studio, tools I need,” she said. my sisters…my mom Tiffany Lasisopened the school be- The oldest group of Edge dancers performed the hip hop portion of the ter, a dance mom at cause Bernice Johnson SummerStage event. ESOTA, contributes had closed,” she said. to the family atmoESOTA offers classes to all skill hop and a signature work of a song sphere. “As a dance mom, my role levels and teaches different types of called “Stand.” is mentorship and assisting the childances. Edge said that the students “Our repertoire is African Ameri- dren through their day to day when in the school have performed at dif- can dances and ballet with an urban they’re at ESOTA, taking care of ferent locations throughout the City, flare to it. Some of the signature them and doing exactly what a mom country and world. works are ‘Stand,’ ‘His eye is on the does but from a dance perspective” During the SummerStage perfor- sparrow,’ ‘dance machine,’ Edge said. Lasister said. mance this past Monday, the school Lasister also has two girls, ages 10 ESOTA is more than a dance performed about 10 to 12 routines. school, it is also a family. According and 7, at the school. She mentioned Their performance included tap, hip to Bianca Branble, a dancer who has that ESOTA generates intelligent
young ladies who are refined, able to hold their own and go on to dance with other dance companies. ESOTA partnered with the Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning for a summer program. Edge said that ESOTA does not receive funding and partnering with JCAL helps to broaden the reach of intensive dance. This year’s summer program with JCAL started July 7. The program has two three-week sessions. On Friday, July 25, there is a three-week performance showcase at 161-04 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica. The dancers in the summer program also performed at the SummerStage events. ESOTA is a year-round program. The performance on Monday was made possible by Greg Mays from A Better Jamaica, and the greater Jamaica development Corp., who donated a stage so that the dancers do not have to dance on cement. Performances are open to the public. ESOTA is located at 217-12 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 527-2011. — Esther Shittu
July 25-31, 2014 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17
What’s Up JulY 25 ‘Godzilla’ A Better Jamaica’s Classic (Monster) Film Fridays will hold a viewing of “Godzilla” at Rufus King Park at 8:15 p.m. The park is located at Jamaica Avenue (at 153rd street). For information, call (718) 657-2605 or email greg.mays@abetterjamaica.org.
JulY 26 QCNAN’s 3rd Health Fair The Queens Chapter National Action Network, in conjunction with Greater Springfield Community Church, presents their 3rd Annual Health Fair. The fair will include prostate, breast cancer screenings and cardiologists. The fair will be from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Greater Springfield Community Church, located at 177-06 129th Ave., Jamaica. For information, call (718) 949-9500.
‘until Africa is Redeemed’ Author Talk Join author Jahi Issa for a talk about his new book, “Until Africa Is Redeemed,” at Queens LibraryCentral Branch from 2:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. The library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 990-0700.
Fundraising Soiree for leroy Comrie The Southeast Queens Veterans “Espirit De Corps” Coalition presents a fundraising soiree for Leroy Comrie. The soiree will be from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Locust Manor Community Room, located at 17006 Baisley Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (646) 236-1885 or Regina Lashley at (917) 709-2254.
‘Cymbeline’ The Hip to Hip Theatre Company presents “Cymbeline” as a part of its Shakespeare in the Park series. The event will begin at 7 p.m. at Saint Albans Park, located at Merrick Boulevard (at Sayres Avenue). For more information, call (718) 729-8567.
JulY 27 ‘Non-Stop’ The movie “Non-Stop” will be shown at Queens library-Central Branch from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. The library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 990-0700.
JulY 28 Beatz Science Camille Gainer, aka Beatz Sci-
ence, will be presenting at Rochdale Park as part of the summer stage series. The event is from 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www.cityparksfoundation.org/ summerstage. Rochdale Park is located at Guy Brewer Boulevard (at 134th Avenue), Jamaica.
QCNAN General Meeting All who are interested in having a positive impact on the community should join the Queens Chapter of the National Action Network. The general meeting begins at 7 p.m. at the Greater Springfield Community Church, located at 177-06 129th Ave., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 949-9500 or email queenschapternan@gmail.com.
‘Jurassic Park’ ABJ’s Family Movies in the Park presents “Jurassic Park.” The movie will be shown at 8:15 p.m. at Cambria/Cabbell Park, located at Francis Lewis Boulevard (at 120th Avenue). For more information, call (718) 657-2605.
Beginning Guitar with Tad Schaefer Learn to play guitar with Tad Schaefer, graduate of Musician’s institute in Hollywood, CA and MA. The event is from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Queens Library-Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information or to preregister, call (718) 990-0728. The class will run for eight weeks.
‘Chosen Generation’ Drop by Rufus King Park to see “Chosen Generation.” The park is located at Jamaica Avenue (at 153rd Street). The event begins at 10:30 a.m. For more information, call (718) 526-8700.
Select care Info Session EmblemHealth Select Care network members are invited to an exclusive information session to provide information about health insurance plans, benefits and more. The info session is from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care Center, located at 20620 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights. For more information, call (866) 539-0999.
‘Jurassic Park’ ABJ will show the movie “Jurassic Park” at Brookville Park, located at Brookville Boulevard (at 143rd Avenue). The movie will begin at 8:15 p.m. For more information, call
(718) 657-2605 or email greg.mays@ abetterjamaica.org.
JulY 30 Queens library at Rufus King Park Visit the Queens Library table on the Southern Lawn at Rufus King Park, located Jamaica Avenue to 89th Avenue (between 150th and 153rd Streets). Information about the library will be available from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. For information, visit www.queenslibrary.org/events.
Engineer It Green Children age 8 to 12 are invited to learn how to live green by experimenting with wind and solar energy. The event is from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Queens Library-Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, visit www.queenslirary.org/events.
‘Saving Mr. Banks’ The movie, “Saving Mr. Banks” will be shown at Queens LibraryCentral Branch from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 990-0700.
‘Back to the Future’ Watch “Back to the Future” at Baisley Pond Park, located at Foch Boulevard (at Long Street). The movie will be shown at 8:15 p.m. For information, call (718) 657-2605 or email greg.mays@abetterjamaica.org.
JulY 31 ‘Top Hat’ The movie “Top Hat” will be shown from 2 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. at Queens Library-Central Branch. The library is located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica. For more information, call (718) 990-0700.
‘Back to the Future’ Watch “Back to the Future” at Saint Albans Park, located at Merrick Boulevard (at Sayres Avenue).
The movie will be shown at 8:15 p.m. For more information, call (718) 657-2605 or email greg.mays@abetterjamaica.org.
Medicare 101 Get more information about Medicare at the EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care Center. The center is located at 206-20 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights. The info session is from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Reservations are recommended. To register for the event, call (800) 447-9169. For information, call (866) 539-0999.
ONGOING Mind, Body and Soul-Food Saturdays The Rev. Phil Craig is hosting Mind, Body and Soul-Food every Saturday during the summer at the Greater Springfield Community Church. The event begins at 8:30 a.m. with a 30-minute Power-Up prayer service. From 9-10 a.m., there will be a free food pantry. Immediately following the prayer service, State Sen. Malcolm Smith will be leading a 30-45-minute bicycle ride from 9-10 a.m. Bring your bicycles and helmets. From 10-11 a.m., LaDonna Cunningham will be holding a Zumba class (outdoors when weather permits) for all ages. Greater Springfield is located at 177-06 129th Avenue, Jamaica.
Jump & Ball 2014 LL Cool J & State Sen. Malcolm Smith are pleased to present the 10th annual Jump & Ball Basket Ball tournament. The tournament begins Aug. 1 and will take place every Saturday and Sunday until Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more information, call (718) 528-4290. The tournament will be at Daniel O’ Connell Park, located at Murdock Avenue at 195th Street, Hollis. 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.
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
LEGAL NOTICE
NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME CO U R T CO U N T Y O F 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 Count y Courthouse in Courtroom #25, 88-11 Sutphin Boulevard, Jamaica, New York on 08/08/2014 at 10:00AM, premises known as 179-39 144TH ROAD, Springfield Gardens, 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, LLC, Attorney for Plaintiff, P.O. Box 540, Getzville, NY 14068 Dated: May 19, 2014 1094746
Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 25-31, 2014
Musicians OF QuEEns
The Lucky Tones
The Lucky Tones are a unique band. While they play a good amount of covers, they also write and perform original songs. Although they play genres ranging from rock to country to standards, the band’s origins came from gypsy jazz. “The origins of the Lucky Tones can be found in the music of gypsy jazz legend, Django Reinhardt. We began playing some of his originals, then some of his covers of songs from the American Songbook,” guitarist/keyboardist Steve Peppas said. “To appeal to a wider audience, we added a few classic rock covers and some American country classics by Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, etc. and, of course, some originals.” The Flushing trio, which includes guitarist/ frontman Jack McCarthy and upright bassist Nemo Vera, were introduced to one another by a mutual friend. While they started as an originals band, they morphed into a cover band that also plays their own material. Peppas said that the audience reaction they get from playing well-known songs live is one of their biggest highlights when they take the stage. He said many people dance or sing along, and some have even stronger emotions. “We performed recently in Greenwich, Conn. and a very distinguished, well dressed, elderly gentleman
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requested a song that we had never performed before an audience,” he said. “While we were performing the song, we could see that he was affected quite emotionally by the song and by the time the song had ended, his eyes had teared up. It was a wonderful feeling to see how our performing music could touch someone so deeply and so immediately.” The Lucky Tones determine what songs in their large repertoire should be played based on the type of venue, type of audience and length of the performance. They also try to gauge the crowd’s mood and adjust their set accordingly. While famous tunes like “Beyond The Sea” and “Yesterday” get an expectedly enthusiastic response, Peppas said that a Hank Williams song is surprisingly popular whenever they play it. “We've found, curiously, that 'Jambalaya' is one of our biggest crowd pleasers,” he said. “It's an upbeat song that most people above a certain age have heard and almost everyone in the audience begins to tap their feet as soon as the music starts.” While they have perfected their ability as a cover band, The Lucky Tones still write a few originals as well. Those songs are created by finding a stimulating chord progression and building on it “Once we have a progression we're happy with, we'll keep going through it, searching for an interesting melody that fits well with the progression,” Peppas said. “That will usually suggest a feeling or thought that leads to one or more lyrical ideas.” If you want to catch a performance, The Lucky
Tones will play at Clovis Point Vineyard and Winery in Jamesport on July 27 at 2 p.m. You can also catch them on Aug. 2 at 1 p.m. at the Duck Walk Vineyard in Water Mill. For a complete list of dates, visit www. luckytonesband.com.
U-Haul Back On Time
Hate The Game
Former Councilman Daniel Halloran has become a regular guest on our weekly QConf page, and he continues to make himself worthy of the ink. He took the witness stand to defend himself last week, during his corruption trial in White Plains Federal Court and unsurprisingly did not help his case. He compared the City political machine to a brothel that requires its women of the night to beg for contributions. “Everyone who’s running is in a sense a whore, because you have to go around begging for money,” Halloran said. “It’s not about ideas… all that matters is if you have the money.” Halloran also mentioned the brain tumor he had removed two years ago to try and gain favor with the jury, even though Judge Kenneth Karas already denied that defense. Earlier this month, he tried pointing fingers at former Mayor Michael Bloomberg for committing similar crimes. Don’t worry Dan, you don’t have to wear that red dress tonight. Those days are over. The government has a nice orange jumpsuit waiting for you.
Cops Horsing Around
It seems the 114th Precinct in Astoria is going old school with their patrol. QConf spotted this horse and cop pair out for a trot on Steinway Street last week. They have since been seen hoofing it up parallel residential streets, apparently just keeping an eye (or four) on the neighborhood. The policeman himself seems content with the post, waving cheerfully to the excited kids of Astoria who follow him up the sidewalk. We here at QConf don’t have blinders to the ironies of the situation – horses making a mess of streets during Councilman Costa Constantinides’ “Keep Astoria Clean” campaign; precincts using horses after Mayor Bill de Blasio pledged to ban horsedrawn carriages from Central Park – but we just can’t resist this adorable glimpse into old New York.
Pesky Critters Causing Trouble If you tried to call our offices earlier this week, you may have had trouble getting through. Nature seems to have gotten the best of technology this week. Telecom giant Verizon reported an outage in our area on Monday, affecting close to 100 customers. The culprit: Squirrels. It seems the furry little critters had chewed through the company's fiber optic cables,
according to a tech assistant, wrecking havoc throughout Eastern Queens. Systems were restored on Tuesday, but QConf reporters will be more wary of squirrels from now on...
The U-Haul clock tower in Flushing will no longer be frozen in time. Work has been scheduled to restore the clock tower on top of the U-Haul building, which is on College Point Boulevard near the Flushing River. For several years, the clock has been stuck at 11 o’clock, with seemingly no chance to get it ticking once again. No confirmation was available that a time-traveling Delorean had anything to do with the clock’s stoppage. But now, new equipment is being delivered to get the clock moving again, including a new motor for its mechanical system. The building dates back to 1925 and U-Haul has owned the property, including the clock, since 1979. Hopefully it does not take as long to get the clock on its correct time as it did to fix it!
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