Press epaper 072613

Volume 14 Issue No. 30 July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

PRESS Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

FUNDING FOUND Councilman Donovan Richards helps facilitate nearly $3 million in funding for Queens Library branches in Laurelton and Rosedale.

By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 3.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

News Briefs DC 37 Local 1407 Backs Saujani

Reshma Saujani picked up the backing of DC 37’s Local 1407 Accountants, Statisticians & Actuaries, the campaign announced Thursday.

Maf Misbah Uddin, president of Local 1407, praised the former Deputy Public Advocate as someone who fights for the middle class and to strengthen the conditions of workers everywhere.

“Reshma understands the struggle of working people,” said Uddin. “She is well equipped to fight for economic justice for all citizens of this great City.”

Saujani, the founder of national non-profit organization Girls Who Code, expressed her gratitude for the support.

“I’m so grateful to have the endorsement of these men and women who work tirelessly to cross every T and dot every I to ensure accountability for New Yorkers,” she said.

“Our campaign is continuing to grow every day thanks to their support.”

Last week, Saujani received another union endorsement, from Doctors Council SEIU, along with a number of elected officials, including Queens representatives U.S. Reps. Joseph Crowley, Greg Meeks and Grace Meng; Council members Mark Weprin, Karen Koslowitz, Julissa Ferreras, James Gennaro and Peter Koo; and Assemblymen Francisco Moya, David Weprin, Andrew Hevasi, Mike Simanowitz, Mike DenDekker, William Scarborough and Ron Kim.

Oops…He Did It Again

It’s dejà vu for New Yorkers. Mayoral candidate Anthony Weiner is in hot water for yet another sexting scandal.

Weiner, whose career as a congressman was cut short after he accidentally posted sexually suggestive photos of himself to his Twitter followers two years ago, confessed to exchanging a slew of provocative text messages and photos with a 22-year-old Indiana woman, Sydney Leathers.

The alleged conversation, which was originally posted on the gossip website “The Dirty,” revealed that Weiner, using the handle “Carlos Danger,” was talking to the young woman a year after he resigned.

In light of the revelations, mayoral candidates Bill DeBlasio and Sal Albanese have called on Weiner to withdraw from the race. Still, Weiner remains determined and said he has no plans to drop out.

“This race for Mayor isn’t about me. It’s about you. And I’ll never lose sight of that,” Weiner said in a state-

ment. “New Yorkers don’t quit, and I’ll never quit on you.”

This may not be the last of the scandals to surface, however. Reports have surfaced that the married Democrat admitted to exchanging illicit sexts with at least 13 women – three of which came after he resigned from Congress.

Van Holmes Off To Jail

On Tuesday, July 23, a close friend of the disgraced State Sen. Shirley Huntley took a plea deal that will land him six months behind bars for stealing from a children’s nonprofit in Queens.

According to multiple reports, Van Holmes, president of the Young Leaders Institute Inc. in Laurelton, was arrested on charges that he falsified paperwork to try to cover up close to $88,000 in City and State tax dollars he stole from the nonprofit.

It is alleged that from 2007-2010, Holmes got three member items sponsored by disgraced ex-Senator Shirley Huntley, who has yet to begin her 366-day sentence behind bars after pleading guilty to an embezzlement scheme.

Holmes was charged with grand larceny, forgery, falsifying business records and offering a false filing instrument but pleaded down to felony third-degree larceny after agreeing to repay the stolen money. As part of his arrangement, Holmes will also be on probation for five years after he is done serving his time.

He is scheduled to begin his prison sentence Oct. 1 of this year.

Young Dad Gunned Down In Jamaica

On Wednesday, July 24, Marcus Wharwood, a 28-year-old father of two, was gunned down outside his Jamaica home while heading to work.

According to multiple reports, Wharwood was shot in the head once and several more times in the torso near Remington Street and Shore Avenue around 5:15 a.m. He was heading to his job as a merchandise retailer.

The victim was rushed to Jamaica Hospital, but succumbed to his wounds less than two hours later.

Police are still investigating and looking for the gunman. No suspect has been named.

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.

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

richards allocates $3 Mil To Libraries Earlier this year, when the budget for the 2014 Fiscal Year was first proposed, libraries across the City were expected to see cuts in funding.

These cuts threatened to close many libraries, including the Laurelton and Rosedale branches.

“The library was going to close and I did not want it to,” said 10-year-old Darius Barnes. “It was here I went after school and did my homework.”

Luckily, Barnes, and the many other children who rely on the Laurelton and Rosedale libraries, will be able to enjoy the facilities for many years to come.

On Friday, July 19, Councilman Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton) announced that he, along with his colleagues, has allocated $1.6 million in extra funding to the Laurelton Library and $1 million in extra funding to the Rosedale Library to help the branches expand.

“The proposed cuts would have

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

By NaTaLIa KoZIKoWsKa

with the latest technologies,” he added.

“This gives them a reason to stay in the libraries, even in the summer, and off the streets.”

According to Richards, the nearly $3 million in extra funding is also meant to benefit the senior citizens of the comon Friday, July 19, at the Laurelton branch, Council- munity.

“Along with a teen man richards announced that he has allocated nearly $3 million in extra funding to help rosedale and Lau- center in our library, we will build up these relton Libraries expand. libraries so our senior citizens also have a been devastating to our district which is still dealing with the after- place they can call their own inside math of Hurricane Sandy,” Richards the library. You will be able to read said. “Cutting funds from our librar- your book in peace now,” the Counies is the equivalent of cutting funds cilman said.

Richards also noted that he hopes from youth, which is highly unacto continue to bring in funds for the ceptable.”

“The idea is to give young adults Rosedale and Laurelton libraries a place where they can congregate in the years to come. Ultimately, it

will cost $11 million to completely expand the Laurelton Library and another $7 million to completely expand the Rosedale Library.

“I want to be clear – this is a longterm project and much more money needs to be distributed in order to develop the libraries, but rest assured we have officially begun the process due to the allocation of these funds,” he said. “Libraries are a central part of our neighborhoods and we must make sure they are advanced as much as possible.”

This comes as good news to 11-year-old Ruth Wright, who visits the Laurelton site every day after school.

“Today, I am honored to be here today to express how happy I am to have this library in my community and it’s not going to close,” Wright said. “This library is my second home.”

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

Electeds support Community safety act Several members of the City Council’s Queens Delegation reiterated their support for the Community Safety Act last week.

Seven council members pledged that they still plan to back the bill, despite facing criticism since the bills were passed last month. Council members Leroy Comrie (D-St Albans), Mark Weprin (D-Oakland Gardens), Jimmy Van Bramer (DSunnyside) and Ruben Wills (DJamaica) signed a pledge to restate their support for the bills at a press conference at Queens Borough Hall.

The Community Safety Act consists of two separate bills. The first, called the End NYPD Discriminatory Profiling Bill, would allow anyone to sue the NYPD if they have been discriminated against by a police officer. The second, the NYPD Oversight Act, would establish an Inspector General who would oversee the NYPD and publish reports of their findings to the public.

Both bills were approved by the City Council in June, 34 to 17 and 40 to 11 respectively. Mayor Michael Bloomberg has strongly opposed the bills, calling the legislation “life threatening” and plans to veto the acts, although the council voted with

enough majority required to override the Mayor’s veto.

Critics of the legislation say it would lead to countless lawsuits against the NYPD and the inspector general position would create more bureaucracy within the Police Dept.

But the gathered elected officials countered that argument, saying it will improve safety for the public and does not change the Stop and seven Queens City Council members, including Frisk law at all.

Comrie, restated their support for the Community “You can still stop act last week. anyone for any reason that is a law enforcement reason,” thousands of leaflets dropped into said Weprin, who emphatically stat- their districts with misinformation,” ed his support for the legislation. Wills said.

“You have to have some cause, some Councilman Jumaane Williams reason to stop citizens.”

(D-Brooklyn), one of the two sponSome of the council members sors of the bills, appeared at the rally have been criticized for their support and challenged the City to prove that of the bills and flyers have been dis- the legislation is harmful to its police tributed in their respective districts, officers. including Weprin’s, by the Patrol“You point out in the bill where it men’s Benevolent Association, say- says you cannot use descriptions and ing that they did not vote in the best you point out where it says police ofinterest of the public. ficers will be financially harmed, and “Our Council members should I will pull the bill before the override not be attacked; there should not be vote,” Williams said.

Photo by Ira Cohen

By LuIs GroNda

Council members Daniel Dromm (D-Jackson Heights), Julissa Ferreras (DEast Elmhurst) and Donovan Richards (D-Laurelton) also signed the pledge but did not attend last week’s event.

Amidst all the Anthony Weiner hoopla, Mayor Bloomberg officially vetoed both bills on Tuesday afternoon.

Comrie sent out a statement condemning the Mayor’s veto and said that he looks forward to overriding Leroy the veto.

“Mayor Bloomberg’s decisafety sion to veto the Community Safety Act is another example of how out of touch this administration is with communities across the City,” he said in the statement. “Stop, Question, and Frisk has created a deep divide between police officers and the residents they are trying to protect.

This Act will help build back the trust that is critical between precincts and their communities in order to find those who are actually breaking the law, and not the innocent people are who stopped every day.”

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

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

Carver Bank Lends SEQ A Hand

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Photos by Natalia Kozikowska

Like many financial institutions, Carver Federal Savings Bank was hit hard by the economic crisis.

Today, however, the bank has bounced back and is determined to help southeast Queens bounce back too.

On Wednesday, July 24, Carver Bank reps, elected officials and small busi- Community activist and banker at Carver Bank, ness owners gathered at Kevin Livingston, highlights the institution’s York College to network recommitment to invest in small businesses in and celebrate Carver’s re- southeast Queens. commitment to invest in the community it serves.

“We have to understand that small business is the key to our economic development and economic recovery,” Assemblyman William Scarborough (DJamaica) said. “During the recession, the people who have suffered the most are our small businesses and the people who have gotten the least help are the small businesses. We must Assemblyman William Scarborough (D-Jamaica) put our efforts into assist- speaks about the importance of small businesses in the community. ing small businesses.”

Since 1948, Carver Bank has been committed said Blondel Pinnock, president of to serving Black communities, like the community development corpoJamaica, whose residents, businesses ration at Carver. “We realized we and institutions have limited access wanted to do more to deliver outto mainstream financial services. reach to the small business commuThe bank has already committed $45 nity and our customers.” million in loans outstanding in the “We went through a rough patch southeast Queens region in an effort and we are coming out of that. We to boost the economic engine. are lending again,” she added. “We “For Carver, one of the key things understand the needs that exist and the institution was founded around we understand that businesses are was to help the lower income and going through a hard time. We have middle income families to take their the ability to look at their financials aspirations and turn them into a re- and really talk to them.” ality,” said Michael Pugh, president Kevin Livingston, a community chief operating officer at Carver. activist and banker at Carver Bank, “When you do that, it all spells a echoed similar sentiments. strong reinvestment to the commu“I believe in economic developnity and being able to help the com- ment in southeast Queens,” he said. munity in a vital state.”

“Not only do we have a big forecloCarver’s community investment sure rate, but we are economically goes beyond lending to small busi- deprived in terms of our small business owners and prospective hom- nesses. I believe that being that Carveowners. The institution seeks to er is a community institution, we need inform residents and provide small to pour those resources back into the business owners with information community and I am looking forward that may help them succeed. to spearheading that momentum.”

“For us, we thought it was imporReach Reporter Natalia Kozikowstant that we brought all of our re- ka at (718)357-7400 Ext. 123 or sources together and really reached nkozikowska@queenspress.com or @ out to our businesses in Queens,” nkozikowska

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

albanese: small Business Needs More help

Photo by Trisha sakhuja

As Democratic Mayoral candidate Sal Albanese began his “Save our Neighborhoods” tour from Roosevelt Avenue and 57th Street., he walked in and out of an array of small businesses, asking them how their business is doing and what the City could do better to help them function properly and expand.

On the afternoon of July 18, Albanese listened closely to the concerns of the shoppers and merchants at local appliance stores, florists, bodegas, bakeries, restaurants and delis.

More than a dozen languages were spoken on the bustling strip of businesses as they all spoke English with a unique accent.

Albanese, an advocate for small

Mayoral candidate sal albanese speaks to jim, long-time owner of C & j Prime Meat Market.

businesses, said the City needs to do a lot more for the “new American” business owners, especially when it comes to the language barrier.

“There is no place more diverse than Queens,” Albanese said in comparison to other parts of the City. “The City only helps the big corporations, but I feel like I can make a difference.”

Albanese said the main concerns surrounding the local business owners are the hefty fines being hit by City agencies for minor violations that the owners can easily fix or avoid if given a warning before the fine.

“City agencies should warn them first and give them a chance to mitigate the problem before fining them thousands of dollars in violations,” said Albanese. “A lot of these owners are operating on small margins and most of them are immigrants.”

“The Dept. of Sanitation will fine for little things,” said owner Soon Kim of Junes Cards and Such, located at 58-17 Woodside Ave. “They came into our backyard and saw we did not separate our garbage, but we put garbage in the back when we are in a hurry and we do recycle when we put the garbage out in the front.”

Another concern was the need for more safety patrols, especially during the evening hours.

Albanese said even though crime rates are down in the City, “the business owners still feel intimidated.”

For Gift, Games and Toyshop owner, Julie Eugermio, whose business is located at 67-13 Roosevelt Ave., she worries about her high rent and where she will relocate after the lease of her building ends because

her business is not doing so well.

During the next part of the ongoing “Save our Neighborhoods” tour, Albanese said he will advocate for parkland and against the development of Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

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

Landing Scare:

Photo provided by George sinopidis

BY Trisha sakhuja

Passengers aboard a southwest airlines jet received a jolt Monday, as the plane’s front landing gear collapsed shortly after reaching LaGuardia airport, skidding 2,175 feet on its nose. The landing gear damaged avionics and electronics underneath the plane. about 10 of the flight’s 150 passengers and crew were treated for minor injuries and the damaged plane remained on the runway overnight.

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

Editorial What Does It Take?

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

The Landmark Preservation Commission revealed earlier this month its decision to not grant landmark status to Flushing Meadows Corona Park, citing a lack of cohesiveness and the park’s changing nature as its reasons against the status. A spokesperson for the commission also noted that the park is not considered an “important example” of its designer.

A park that has hosted two World’s Fairs, is home to Queens’ most identifying structure (the Unisphere, landmarked in 1995), and is relied upon by hundreds of thousands of people for green space, days at a museum or a night at the theater is, clearly, not worthy of a landmark status.

The most frustrating notion in the LPC’s decision is the citation of the park’s evolving nature over the years. The park has changed so much over time because City officials have not protected Flushing Meadows Corona Park the way they have Central Park or Prospect Park. This continues even now, as debate continues over a proposed soccer stadium.

We need our City officials to put a stop to these plans, to dedicate time and resources to fixing Flushing Meadows Corona Park, because if we continue as we have, there will not be any park left.

Queens Today Editor

Letters

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja Intern: Asia Ewart Art Dept:

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

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

A Differing Viewpoint

To The Editor: There were three half-page articles and editorials in the

July 19 PRESS of Southeast Queens on the untimely death of Trayvon Martin and on the trial for second-degree murder and the acquittal of George Zimmerman in San-

Letters ford, Florida. Perhaps a few comments on the material would be appropriate.

One should concentrate on the martial arts skills that Trayvon carried with him.

Trayvon was a known martial arts expert and trainer and he was a Mixed Martial Arts fighter – a skill that could kill in an unsupervised street fight.

Although Trayvon was only a child, he blind-sided Mr. Zimmerman with at least one blow to the face that broke and bloodied Mr. Zimmerman’s nose. He knocked Mr. Zimmerman to the ground. That was not enough for Trayvon.

He jumped atop Mr. Zimmerman’s prostrate body and straddled it – Mixed Martial Arts style according to one witness at the trial. Trayvon was still not finished – he then beat Mr. Zimmerman’s skull bloody against the cement sidewalk. Mr. Zimmerman could not “tap out” of Trayvon’s attack.

What could Mr. Zimmerman have thought at this point? He must have thought he was being killed. I am sure

his life f lashed before his eyes. I am sure he thought of his wife and family. “I have only one way to stay alive.”

Mr. Zimmerman fired his gun to keep himself alive – from being beaten to death against the concrete – self-defense as the jury ruled.

Trayvon’s mother was quoted as saying that they do not know what advice to give their other son and is quoted as saying, “I’m very afraid right now. I have no clue if I should tell him to run or walk.

If I should tell him to defend himself or just lay there.”

Defend yourself, surely. That is what Mr. Zimmerman was forced to do.

It could have been me, too, Mr. President and I would have defended myself from being killed on that sidewalk with a gun if necessary.

Charles F. Fromme, Jr., Queens Village

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

Oops, Weiner’s Done It Again A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE For me, embracing Anthony Weiner’s mayoral candidacy was never about giving him a second chance.

I am not interested in chances. Rather, it was about qualification and options. I felt he had the potential to be a good mayor and as such, he was on my short list. I have always admired Weiner’s spunk and tenacity. He has good ideas for our City and he was a surprisingly competitive candidate given that it was only two years ago that his congressional career crashed and burned due to his sexting scandal. That is because a lot of people were convinced he would be a good mayor.

He was doing such a good job at campaigning, even New York’s famous tabloids had started to cease and desist with the naughty puns. He was neck and neck with Christine Quinn and sometimes even pulling

away from her. In short, he was a contender.

But Anthony Weiner has now proven once and for all that he has a knack for self-destruction. He has a strange addiction to sexual exhibitionism.

He warned us when he entered the race for mayor that there were more lewd photos and texts than those that derailed his congressional career in the summer of 2011.

We were fine with that. We figured that would be part of the same scandal and he certainly must have learned from that fall from grace. We just did not know until this week that he was also referring to newer ones exchanged after the initial scandal erupted.

Once more we are seeing a blurred image of what is supposed to be his private part, on display. Dude, really?

Are you stuck in some sort of developmental stage? What is it with you and your genitalia that you are willing to risk career, marriage and public

respect just to show it off to strange women?

His preoccupation with his sex life and his “weiner” is a real problem for any sort of public reconciliation and trust he has been seeking. He apologized and most of us forgave him once. The Black community in particular has been very welcoming to him, because most of us are churchgoers and forgiveness and reconciliation are crucial to our faith.

Back in April, when the contrite mayoral wannabe entered the race, I wrote that “if he’s good with the wife, he’s fine with me.” However, even my patience is wearing thin. I now believe that the wife needs to wake up and smell the coffee.

I am starting to question her judgment in the matter as well.

Stop enabling him, Huma!

There she was standing by his side at a press conference and even speaking out on his behalf saying that she loves and forgives him and that these indiscretions are between the two of them.

No, they are not just between them when he is trying to be our Mayor. A Mayor of “the greatest City on Earth,” has to be taken seriously. How can anyone be taken seriously when he keeps making the same mistakes centered on his sexual predilections?

Just because she keeps forgiving him does not mean we have to keep embracing him. I accept that we all make mistakes. But when we keep making the same dumb mistakes over and over, then there is something lacking. We need to work out our personal issues. Weiner needs longterm counseling.

He swears he is not dropping out of the race; but support for his candidacy will wane; so even if he stays in, he will become invalid as a contender. That is very unfortunate. He has some good ideas and he made the race interesting.

I wish him healing and I wish us a great mayor who keeps privates private.

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

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Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

PhiliPPA KARTEROn

dR. MARCiA KEizS

Council for Airport President, York College Opportunity, Executive director On Valentine’s Day 2005, York achieve dreams of higher education.

Philippa Karteron is a seasoned veteran in the field of working with transportation throughout New York City. She has served as executive director for the Council for Airport Opportunity in Jamaica for the past four years.

Karteron has also had a hand in starting a number of transportation hub projects throughout the City.

“I worked as an administrator for the City for 32 years. In that time, I’ve developed a partnership with projects like Port Authority and the Air Train,” she said.

“When the position of executive director became available, I was interested. I’d already had experience with aviation, and transportation as a whole, so I went for it.”

Karteron has worked with Metro Tech in Brooklyn and founded the flagship location of the Workforce One Community Center in Queens.

She has also played an instrumental

role in opening various centers for the latter across the City.

Regarding her position as director, Karteron believes that she has taken the position into the 21st century.

“I’ve refurbished the offices, positively increased our statistics annually and rebranded the organization. Economic and work force development is what I do and what I want others to benefit from,” she said.

Karteron expressed her happiness with being able to work in Queens again. After working in Lower Manhattan for most of her career, she is “happy to be in her home community.”

A sense of giving back is also important in how Karteron runs the work place.

“That is always important. I was brought up to understand that my goal was to help people,” she said.

- Asia Ewart

College in Jamaica welcomed its new president – Dr. Marcia Keizs.

During her eight years at York, the college has seen tremendous success and growth, due in large part to her strong leadership.

But her journey to the top has not always been a walk in the park for the Kingston, Jamaica native.

“My initial year and a half or two was difficult because I tried to assert leadership,” Keizs said. “Not everyone was happy. However, once I was able to balance that assertiveness with listening, I found with that approach, we could be successful.”

Dr. Keizs has more than 30 years of experience in the CUNY system, both as an administrator and a professor. It is her passion for the students that has kept her in the same field after all these years.

“I really love working in an educational institution,” she said. “You’re working actively to help students

I love to engage with my students even though I am not in the classroom anymore.”

And it is not just the students that give Keizs the fuel to keep running.

“I also get a chance to work with some phenomenal faculty. They bring a wealth of experience,” she said.

“That’s one of the beauties of my job – I get to engage and interact with them.”

Her commitment and dedication to York College goes well beyond her role as president. Keizs has also pledged to donate $100,000 to the school, which she has been paying off in installments.

“I would not put my hard-earned money into a place that I didn’t love and didn’t feel the legacy was good,” she said. “I was raised to be generous with what I have and so when we were fundraising for the school two or three years ago, I made a pledge to give $100,000.”

-natalia Kozikowska

Joins the Southeast Queens Press in saluting exemplary women leaders in Queens, especially The inimitable CLAIRE SHULMAN as QUEENS BOROUGH PRESIDENT

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COUNCIL FOR AIRPORT OPPORTUNITY

DR. MARCIA KEIZS YORK COLLEGE

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EILEEN AULD CITIBANK

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CAROL CONSLATO CON EDISON

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July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

EilEEn Auld

CAROl COnSlATO

Citi Comm. develop.

Regional director

Con Edison director of Public Affairs

Throughout her storied career, Eileen Auld has worked to improve the lives of those who needed it the most.

Auld is the regional director of Citi Community Development, a part of Citigroup dedicated to economically empowering underserved individuals and families. Covering New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, Auld and her team dedicate resources to affordable housing, college success and small business.

She recently worked with New York City to put funding towards helping immigrant parents become naturalized citizens.

Auld credited her career in service as having come from her parents, who were community activists.

“They felt they had a responsibility to make their neighborhood a better place,” she said.

One of the most impactful eras of Auld’s life was her time with the New York Police Department. As the assistant commissioner for community

From her time as president of the Queens Chamber of Commerce to her position as director of public affairs with Con Edison, Carol Conslato has dedicated much of her life to staying active within the Queens community.

Conslato has worked for the electric company for 34 years. As director of public affairs, she works with the community and elected officials to resolve any number of issues that arise, not just in Queens, but throughout the City.

In the last year alone, Conslato has attended a number of public meetings in southern Queens and the Rockaways, addressing the concerns of residents who lost power in the weeks after Superstorm Sandy.

“I’m very fortunate to work with a company that is so heavily involved with the community,” she said.

affairs, she helped bring communities and the NYPD closer together.

She also worked to bring relief to the families and victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the Rockaway plane crash later that same year.

“My experiences with the police department were really unique and life-changing,” Auld said. “The NYPD is always in my heart.”

Having grown up in Queens, the Borough has played a large role in her life. To this day, she still calls it home, living in Forest Hills.

“I was born in Queens, I went to Queens College,” Auld said. “I love Queens.”

Auld owns a summer home in Breezy Point. After the devastating damage caused by Superstorm Sandy to the Rockaways, she was thrilled that Citi Community was helping with the recovery. The company put up $250,000 for a store front improvement program.

- Joe Marvilli

Conslato also served as president of the Queens Chamber of Commerce for three years, with her most recent term ending earlier this year. Her time at the Chamber saw Long Island City emerge as a tech hub, as the Chamber continues to bring more tech enterprises to the Borough.

The former president of the Chamber also worked on the This is Queens iPhone app that came out earlier this year.

She said that their aim was to market the Borough as a place people can visit.

“With events like the U.S. Open and with people flying into our airports, we wanted to tell people that you can stay in Queens,” said Conslato, who was born in Southeast Queens.

-luis Gronda

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

ShAniE PERSAud

ClAiRE ShulMAn

Executive director, GABPC Community Activist Queens is widely known as the most diverse county in the world.

With so many different groups, it can be a challenge to provide for all of them. Shanie Persaud, the executive director and one of the founders of the Guyanese and American Business and Professional Council, is dedicated to bringing the Guyanese and American communities together.

The Guyanese and American Business and Professional Council is a not-for-profit organization whose mission is to develop stronger ties between Guyana and the United States and forge closer relations between the professional groups of both nations.

“A group of us, both Guyanese and Americans, put it together,” Persaud said.

“It formed primarily for that and to give more prominence to the Guyanese community over here and to allow Americans to market themselves for this community.”

Persaud put her media experience in both Guyana and Queens to good use, using her ability to make con-

tacts as a way to drive together the Guyanese community with organizations, such as the Queens Chamber of Commerce, the Queens Economic Development Corporation and the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation.

“More and more, I try to partner with other organizations within the community to bring services to our members and the business community at large,” she said.

The South Ozone Park non-profit provides business and career services as well.

GABPC also works with charities, doing activities like raffles to assist the American Cancer Society and others.

For the future, Persaud said she hopes that GABPC’s membership will continue to grow and that the organization will be able to do even more to help members of the Queens Guyanese community.

“My heart and soul has always been Guyana and always will be,” she said.

-Joe Marvilli

Former Queens Borough President Claire Shulman has continued to stay involved in the Borough since leaving as Queens Borough President in 2001.

Currently, she serves as chief executive officer at the Flushing Willets Point Corona Local Development Corporation and as a board member of New York Hospital Queens as well as York College in Jamaica.

Part of the work she has been doing at the Flushing LDC is planning how to develop 60 acres of land in downtown Flushing close to Willets Point.

She describes the area as underdeveloped with scattered businesses in that portion of Flushing. They hope to change the zoning in those 60 acres to encourage more businesses to move there.

What ends up happening with the nearby Willets Point project is another key factor into deciding what to do with the 60 acres.

“Whatever development we encourage there, it has to be compatible with whatever happens across the river at Willets Point,” Shulman said.

Her work on the York College

board, she said, was getting the college more recognized so that more funding and programs were allocated for that university. Shulman said that York would often be forgotten about by the City because of its location and they have worked to change that.

Although she is now 87 years old, Shulman said she will continue to be active in the Borough for as long as her health permits her to.

She added that she loves being involved in Queens and to make things happen so it is a better place to live and visit.

- luis Gronda

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

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Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

new york City’s Harlem Week Kicks off by naTaLia KoZiKoWSKa For years, the people of New York City have been coming together in the month of August to celebrate the rich culture of Harlem. What began in 1974 as a one-day tribute to the neighborhood’s history has since evolved into a month-long celebration and this year, more than 100 events have been planned.

This year’s Harlem Week will officially kick off this Sunday, July 28, with a family-oriented event, “a Great Day in Harlem.” On this day, participants can enjoy an outdoor festival, a picnic, a fashion show, multiple concerts, arts and crafts and food from all over the world.

The day-long event will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation and is anticipated to draw out 40,000 attendees.

The international Cultural Showcase, featuring Millenium Dance Company, National Dance Institute and The African Chorus Ensemble will be held at the U.S. Grant National Memorial Park located at W. 122nd Street and Riverside Drive from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free.

The international Gospel Showcase will be held at the U.S. Grant National Memorial Park located at W. 122nd Street and Riverside Drive from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission is free.

The Fashion Fusion Showcase, featuring cutting-edge fashion from designers of color, will be held at the U.S. Grant National Memorial Park located at W. 122nd Street and Riverside Drive from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Admission is free. “a Concert Under the Stars,” a tribute to 50 years of Stevie Wonder, will be held at the U.S. Grant National Memorial Park located at W. 122nd Street and Riverside Drive from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Admission is free.

From Aug. 1 through Aug. 21, Holcombe Rucker Park will hold one of the most prestigious basketball competitions in the City – the entertainer’s basketball Classic. Admission is free.

Holcombe Rucker Park is located at 155th Street and Fredrick Douglass Boulevard. Games start at 6 p.m.

On July 31 and Aug. 21, U.S. Grant National Memorial Park, located at W. 122nd Street and Riverside Drive, will hold Jazzmobile. For more information, visit www.jazzmobile.org or call (212) 886-4900. Admission is free.

On Tuesday, Aug. 6, Harlem Week will be celebrating its senior citizens with nyC Senior Citizen Day. Seniors can enjoy a farmers market, a senior expo as well as the Elder’s Jubilee Awards Luncheon. The event will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the A.C. Powell, Jr. State Office Buildings located at 125th Street and

A.C. Powell, Jr. Boulevard. Admission is free.

From Aug. 8 through Aug. 11, Holcombe Rucker Park will host Golden Hoops – “each one Teach one.” The event will showcase the finest boys’ and girls’ high school athletes from the New York region.

The free showcase will be held from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, the Dance Theatre of Harlem will hold its Family Street Festival. The outdoor festival, which will be held from noon to 7 p.m., will feature a variety of performance showcases, arts and crafts, vendors, food and entertainment. It is free to attend.

Every Sunday in August, the Studio Museum, located at 144 W. 125th Street, will hold Kids and Family Programs from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

For more information, visit www.studiomuseum.org. Admission is free.

The Apollo Theater is one of the most famous venues in the world and has been a part of Harlem’s unique culture and history. This year, the Apollo Theater will salute Harlem Week with amateur nights featuring special Harlem acts. The performances will be held on Aug. 14 and Aug. 21 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $19 and half-price for Harlem residents.

The Apollo Theater is located at 253 W. 125th Street.

The Studio Museum, located at 144 W. 125th Street, will hold free guided tours and dances on Aug. 9 and Aug. 23 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

From Aug. 15 through Aug. 18, Harlem Week will present the TriState Jr. Tennis Classic. Held in concert with The Greater Harlem Chamber of Commerce, the U.S. Open and Harlem Week, this fourday competition will showcase some of the most talented youths from the tri-state region. The event will be held from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the Mill Pond Park Tennis Courts located at Exterior Street and E. 150th Street in the Bronx. Admission is free.

On Aug. 23 and Aug. 24, Marcus Garvey Park will host The Charlie Parker Jazz Festival. Friday night’s festival, which will be held from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., will feature the Jimmy Heath Big Band. Saturday’s event, which will be held 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., will feature Kenny Garrett, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Kim Thompson and Jaleel Shaw. The festival will be held at the Richard Rodgers Amphitheater at the park located at 123rd Street and Morris Park West. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.harlemsummerstage.org.

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

First ethiopian is Crowned Miss israel

by Maxine Dovere At a gathering of New York Jewish community leaders and philanthropists, the young Israeli is, quite literally, outstanding. She is tall — almost six feet, even in low heels — young, beautiful and black. She is the first Israeli of Ethiopian heritage to be crowned “Miss Israel.”

Yityish Aynaw, “Titi,” chosen to represent the Jewish State on the international stage, impresses with far more than her physical presence.

This poised young woman is smart and able to charm everyone she meets across multiple generations.

In just over a decade, a 10-year-old orphan from a village near Gondar, Ethiopia, has transformed into a modern young woman, an officer in the Israel Defense Forces and now, the reigning Miss Israel 2013. Says Titi, “I am very busy representing Israel.”

“I grew up in a Zionist family. We always felt that we belonged in Israel.

We were eager to get there,” she said.

But when Titi was 10, her mother died. She and her brother were sent to Israel by an aunt and the Jewish Agency. Making aliyah was “challenging.”

recalls Miss Israel. “Language was the first barrier to overcome. The first thing I wanted was to learn Hebrew — to know the language in and out.”

She began her studies in an intense learning program at a religious boarding school near Haifa. In a few months, she gained the fluency needed to successfully become part of her new culture. In high school, Titi was a student leader and a prizewinning filmmaker. After yityish “Titi” aynaw became the first woman graduation, she served in the pian decent to be crowned Miss israel.

IDF and became an officer, training and supervising a unit of military police manning — and Miss Israel, she traveled with an Israeli woman-ing — checkpoints outside news team to document a journey that of Jerusalem. “The safety of Israel is helped bring a cousin to Israel.

Her first visit to the U.S. was a joint dependent on safety checks made by these young people. ... In the army, venture working on behalf of the NeI learned things I could not learn in tanya Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Netanya municipality. any other place.”

She advised a group of students at The Foundation sponsors a commua Solomon Schechter school in Ber- nity center serving the needs of the gen County, N.J., [to] “consider go- city’s children. The Center, called Ezroim, provides after-school and ing into the army.”

Titi has returned to Ethiopia twice; summer activities, including cultural first, following her army service, to visit activities, such as music and dance, family; and again, soon after becoming as well as a range of sports activities.

One of Titi’s special projects is the development of a kindergarten for Netanya children. During her recent trip she and Shlomi Warnor, CEO of the Netanya Foundation, introduced the community center project to several groups of leaders of the Long Island Jewish community.

Titi looks forward to representing Israel in the Miss Universe contest. When her of ethoterm as Miss Israel — and perhaps, Miss Universe — is completed, she plans to continue her education, and then pursue a career in modeling.

She is a proud spokeswoman for Israel, pleased to be part of the modern state.

“I can say what Israel is for me, how Israel accepted me, educated me, offered me every option to dream, to be a Jew and keep the traditions that make us who we are. I am,” says Aynaw, “proud to be a Jew.” Editor’s Note: This story originally appeared in the July 19 issue of Long Island Jewish World.

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

EXPERIENCE CARE AT HARLEM WEEK Join EmblemHealth for some active summer fun.

For 32 years, EmblemHealth has remained a proud sponsor of Harlem Week. And this year we continue that tradition. It’s part of our commitment to help our neighbors stay healthy, get well, and live better. Stop by for FREE health care tips and tools that can help keep you healthy.

July 28th | 11am - 4pm | Grant’s Tomb | All Day Festival Come to 124th Street and Riverside Drive to enter the Jump Rope Challenge. Meet the EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care team, visit the EmblemHealth Experience to have your picture taken, and grab a FREE EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care Package while supplies last.

August 17th | Summer in the City | Children’s Festival Part 1 Come to West 135th Street between Malcolm X and A.C. Powell, Jr. Blvd. at PS 175 schoolyard.

Bring the whole family and enjoy a full day of activities such as: face painting, basketball, jump rope, fun-filled picture taking, and the Knicks Groove Truck.

August 18th | Harlem Day | Children’s Festival Part 2 At West 135th Street between Malcolm X and A.C. Powell, Jr. Blvd at PS 175 schoolyard.

The fun continues with the EmblemHealth Neighborhood Care team. Get your questions answered, join the basketball challenge, win prizes, and much more.

August 24th | Percy Sutton Harlem 5K Run & NYC Family Health Walk–A-Thon Join EmblemHealth at 135th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue for a day of healthy fun and to celebrate a great cause. Run or walk for peace in our local communities. After all, a peaceful neighborhood means a happy one for adults and children alike.

Coverage underwritten by Group Health Incorporated (GHI) and HIP Health Plan of New York (HIP). ©EmblemHealth Inc. 2013, All Rights Reserved.

Learn more at EmblemHealth.com

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

Police Blotter 108th Precinct

113th Precinct

Homicide

Fatal Collision

The NYPD is asking the public’s At 6:14 p.m. on July 18, police reassistance identifying a suspect want- sponded to a report of a person struck ed for a homicide and assault that by a vehicle at 132nd Avenue and occurred on July 13 at approximately Rockaway Boulevard. An investigation 4:49 a.m. in front of 68-10 Roosevelt revealed that the pedestrian, an 18Ave. year-old female, was crossPolice responded to ing 132nd Avenue from a call of a male stabbed the south side to the north and observed two vicwhen she was struck by a tims; the first victim, 1999 International truck. identified as Isaac MarThe truck was traveling tinez, 26, of Astoria, northbound on Rockaway was found with a stab Boulevard and turning left wound to the chest. He onto 132nd Avenue when it and a second victim, struck the pedestrian. with a stab wound to the The pedestrian suffered torso, were transported This suspect is want- head and chest injuries and to Elmhurst Hospital, ed for a homicide in was transported to Jamaica where Martinez was the 108th Precinct. Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. The pronounced dead on arrivsecond victim was listed in stable al. The operator of the vehicle remained condition. on the scene and there were no arrests The suspect is described as be- made. The investigation is ongoing. tween 5-foot-3 and 5-foot-8, Asian or Hispanic, weighing between 120170 lbs. with dark hair. He was last seen wearing a white T-shirt and blue Arrest jeans.

On July 17, police arrested Ron-

114th Precinct

ald Rhodes, 46, of fourth-degree crimiBrooklyn, in connal mischief. nection to two atRhodes faces up tacks on a blind 73to 25 years in prison year-old man in his if convicted and was residence in Long ordered held on a toIsland City, the first tal of $175,000 cash on June 29, the secbail or $300,000 ond on July 9. Both bond. He is schedtimes, the suspect uled to return to followed the victim court on Aug. 5. before taking items This suspect is wanted in confrom his person.

According to nection with an armed robbery a statement from in the 115th Precinct.

Queens DA Richard Brown, Rhodes allegedly admit- Robbery The NYPD is asking the public’s ted to police that he followed the victim to his residence both times, assistance in locating a suspect wanttaking property and cash from the ed in connection with an armed robvictim. He allegedly sold a necklace bery that occurred at approximately he stole during the first incident in 2:30 a.m. on July 7 at the Asia Bazaar, Brooklyn for $50 and five bags of 71-14 37th Ave., Jackson Heights.

The suspect entered the location, heroin.

Rhodes was arraigned on July sprayed the store clerk with an irri18 in Queens Criminal Court on tant, removed an unknown amount two criminal complaints, charging of money from the cash register and him with first- and second-degree fled on foot.

The suspect is described as an burglary, second- and third-degree robbery, criminal obstruction of Asian male in his 30s with a bald breathing or blood circulation and head and a beard.

115th Precinct

Borough Beat

FMCP Proposed Landmarking Rejected While the flagship parks of Manhattan and Brooklyn have been landmarked, it does not look like Flushing Meadows Corona Park will be as lucky.

The Landmark Preservation Commission revealed its decision on July 9 to not grant landmark status to the 897-acre park, a decision attributed to its changing nature over time and its lack of cohesiveness.

“We determined that the park does not rise to the level of a scenic landmark because its design lacks cohesiveness and it’s been changed over time,” LPC communications director Elisabeth de Bourbon said. “In addition, the park is not considered an important example of its designer, the landscape architect and engineer Gilmore Clarke.”

Not everyone agreed with that assessment, though.

Borough President candidate State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside) met with a few other civic leaders in front of the Unisphere, which was landmarked in 1995, on July 19 to protest the LPC’s denial and the lack of pub-

Photo by Joe Marvilli

BY JOE MARVILLI

families here in Queens County,” Henry Euler, first vice president of the Auburndale Improvement Association, said. “The Landmarks Preservation Committee cannot ignore us any longer.”

“I don’t think there’s any place else where you will find collectively all these structures that together have historical significance,” Christina Wilkinson, president of the Newtown Historical Society, said.

“I respect the Landmarks (from left) Christina Wilkinson, Henry Euler, State Sen. Tony Avella and Paul Graziano protest FMCP’s Preservation Commission’s landmark rejection. decision, but I will continue to work to preserve, protect and lic input in the decision-making pro- enhance Flushing Meadows Corona cess. He made mention of the park’s Park,” Borough President Helen historic history as the home to two Marshall said in a statement.

World’s Fairs and the General AsBP candidates Councilman Peter sembly of the United Nations before Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria) and Melinda its permanent headquarters was built. Katz both felt the park needed pro“Why does Queens always get tection but the LPC was not the best treated like a stepchild?” he said. method.

“You mean to tell me that Queens “It would have been a long, ardudoesn’t deserve the same recogni- ous process and never would have tion? This park is a treasure.” been completed in time to affect “It’s the background for a lot of these projects,” Vallone said. “Luck-

ily, the City Council has the final say and I will fight to ensure no Queens parkland is ever given to a sheik for one dollar.”

“The landmarks process requires that a site not have been significantly altered in the last 30 years--which automatically disqualifies Flushing Meadows. But more importantly, communities need to have a seat of power when these decisions are made,” Katz said.

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is facing three development proposals within its boundaries: the United States Tennis Association’s expansion, the Willets Point retail center and Major League Soccer’s stadium.

None of New York City’s 10 scenic landmarks are found in Queens.

When asked about Avella’s call for the LPC to reconsider its decision and include a public hearing, Bourbon said, “It’s unlikely; however, if more evidence about the park’s architectural and historic significance comes to light, we will carefully evaluate it.”

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

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

pix

Backing Katz

Business Spotlight

Former Councilman Archie Spigner addresses a crowd of Queens elected officials and civic leaders gathered at Borough Hall in a show of support for former Councilwoman Melinda Katz’s Borough President campaign.

Photo by Ira Cohen.

Promoting Safety

On July 24, Carver Federal Savings Bank representatives honored Saladin Buckhalter, owner of Nation’s Fish in Jamaica, as their Spotlight Business Client at York College. The bank has already committed $45 million in loans outstanding in the southeast Queens region in an effort to boost the economic engine and help small business owners like Buckhalter. Photo by Natalia Kozikowska.

Manny Caughman, a candidate for the 27th Council District, held a breakfast last week aimed at informing people about increasing safety in the community, bringing together clergy and law enforcement to discuss how to prevent break-ins in light of a recent rash of church burglaries.

Ramadan Celebration

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall hosted her sixth annual event celebrating the Islamic holy month of Ramadan on July 18, presenting citations of honor to distinguished members of the Queens Muslim community who have assisted with Superstorm Sandy relief or have otherwise contributed to the public good.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

A&E

Charlie Scott Overcomes Addiction, Turns To Music

BY JOE MARVILLI Staff Writer

“I know that, especially for people in my generation, they listen to hip-hop,” he said. “They appreciate Unlike many of today’s mainstream lyricism and wordplay so I use that to rappers, Charlie Scott uses his music my advantage to help reach people.” both to inspire others and as an outlet While he has studio records, to talk about relatable issues. such as his latest mix tape “Lyrical The Whitestone-based Therapy 2,” performing musician not only started live is where Scott truly writing and performing feels at home. He feeds as a source of encouroff the energy of the agement for his listencrowd, whether it is in a ers, but to heal himself typical concert venue or from a drug addiction. at a rehabilitation facilHe started writing while ity, where he performs at a treatment facility in to empower those going Florida. through the same prob“While I was there, Whitestone musician lems he did.

I wrote music and it be- Charlie Scott.

“There is nothing I encame really inspirational joy more than reaching a for the people around me,” Scott live audience. There’s nothing I enjoy said. “When I came back home to more than that, because of the interNew York, I decided I want to see action with the audience. I build off how far I can take this and it’s taken of it,” he said. “If I had an audience off fairly well since then.” with me in the studio, my energy level Part of what makes Scott stand would be through the roof.” out from the crowd, he said, is his When playing live in New York philosophy of being a poet before a City, Scott draws support from his hip-hop artist. Scott said he is not friends and family from Queens, a interested in rapping about money big source of encouragement for or flash. Instead, his muse is spurred him. Even though both of his parby old-school rap that dealt with real ents are hearing-impaired and his world problems. mother was born deaf, they have

Cemetery hosts 5k Run For Slain Officer

BY LuIS GROndA Staff Writer A cemetery sitting on the Queens-Brooklyn border will host its first-ever 5K run in honor of a slain police officer.

Cypress Hills Cemetery will host the 5K on Sunday, Sept. 8 in remembrance of fallen NYPD officer Peter Figoski of the 75th Precinct in Brooklyn.

Figoski was shot and killed while responding to a burglary in December 2011. Four men were arrested and charged in relation to the shooting. One of the men, Lamont Pride, received a sentence of 45 years to life in prison earlier this year for being involved in the killing.

Anthony Desmond, Vice President of Field Operations at Cypress Hills, said they chose to do the 5K because it hits close to home for them and the surrounding community.

“We know how it’s affected people who live in this area,” he said.

“And this is a little more local with the cemetery being a few blocks

from the precinct.”

Desmond said they designed the course to only go through the entire cemetery and to pass by some of the famous people buried there, including Jackie Robinson.

They do not have a specific target for how much money they want to raise, he said, but they want the race to be a positive experience for the family and the community as a whole, while raising cash that will go towards a fund to benefit deceased police officers.

If this event is successful, Desmond said that they intend on having other races in the future for different causes, as well as continue to run the race to benefit slain police officers like Figoski.

The run starts at 9 a.m. with inperson registration beginning 90 minutes before its scheduled start time. If you would like to register beforehand, log onto runsignup.com/ race/ny/Brooklyn/cypresshillscemetery5krunthroughhistory.

Reach Luis Gronda at (718) 3577400, Ext. 127, lgronda@queenstribune.com, or @luisgronda.

been behind his musical pursuits.

“At my first showcase, [my mother] came out and supported me. She was sitting right in the front row and she loved it,” he said. “I’m happy I came back home.”

His two greatest musical inspirations are Frank Sinatra and North Carolina rapper J. Cole. He is a fan of Sinatra for his ability to make any song or style sound beautiful and classic. As for J. Cole, Scott enjoys his inspirational work and the fact that he graduated from college, a goal for the Whitestone artist as well.

Scott, 23, is a student at Queensborough Community College, the first step in his goal of going to a four-year college and getting a degree in psychology. He even takes his psy-

chology lessons and applies them to his lyrics and music.

While a degree is a large ambition of his, Scott wants to take his musical career as far as he can.

“The amount of success I’ve gained over just one year of recording and performing has been so drastic and beyond exceeded my expectations,” he said. “I’m going to take music as far as it lets me go. I really have no idea where it’s taking me. I’m just leaving it all up to God.” To find out more about Scott’s music and live shows, visit www.charliescotthiphop.com or www.soundcloud.com/charliescotthiphop.

Reach Joe Marvilli at (718) 3577400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

Citi Bike Comes To LIC

BY TRIShA SAkhuJA Staff Writer Queens residents will see more cyclists on the streets as part of a new program, New York City’s Bike Share network, Citi Bike. By September, 10 select locations across Long Island City will enable Queens to become a part of the nation’s largest public bike share system.

Combined efforts in part by Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (DSunnyside), State Sen. Michael Gianaris (D- Astoria) and community advocates for Citibike, led the Dept. of Transportation to include Bike Share to Long Island City in Phase 1 of its Citywide initiative.

“I am proud to have worked with Department of Transportation Commissioner Janette Sadik-Khan to bring Bike Share to Long Island City in Phase 1,” said Van Bramer. “This had not been part of the original plan but we were able to change the map to include western Queens.”

Gianaris said the residents of Queens have been seeking additional transportation options. “Our community has worked for years to make western Queens more bike-friendly and our efforts have been largely successful,” he said. “I am pleased to see that Long Island City is included in future plans.”

In the first two weeks of Citi Bike’s launch in May, after being delayed twice before in its initial plans, docking stations in Manhattan and Brooklyn have been reported to work smoothly.

He sought to see the program in Western Queens after seeing the neighborhoods of Paris and Vienna on

a bicycle from a bike share program.

“The bike share program supports our local businesses because you will be more inclined to pick up a quick bite or a drink if you pass a restaurant while biking,” said Van Bramer.

“It also encourages a healthy life style.”

Intended to provide New Yorkers and visitors with an environmentallyfriendly means of transportation that is fun and convenient, Citi Bikes are available 24/7, 365 days a year. The solar-powered, wireless docking station locations were chosen through a participatory pubic input process that determines its need according to population and transit needs.

Each station is equipped with a touch screen kiosk, a map of the service area and the surrounding neighborhood and a docking system that releases a bike for rental with a card or key.

Depending on the type of membership a biker signs up for, the 24- hour access pass or the seven-day access pass, it allots bikers with a 30- minute ride, and if you are a frequent rider with an annual membership, bikers can ride for 45-minutes at a time without incurring overtime fees.

In a recent letter sent to Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the DOT in July, Gianaris formally requested that Woodside, Sunnyside and Astoria also be a part of the future plans for Citi Bike.

“Western Queens is bike friendly because of the additional bike lanes added to the streets and the waterfront,” Gianaris added.

Reach Trisha Sakhuja at (718) 3577400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

Faith

Jamaica Church Explores Faith Through Film

BY ASIA EWART Even pastors like to switch up the flow of worship every now and again.

This is the case with First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica and their approach to appealing to a younger crowd.

This month, the church held its first-ever “Faith in Film” series. The doors were opened to the community every Saturday and all who enjoy a good movie were invited to come in and take part. The next day, at Sunday afternoon service, the movie would be tied to the message. Associate Pastor Aqueelah Ligonde said she was aiming for an event completely unrelated to a regular weekend church gathering.

“I wanted to do something not related to church. This is something open to the public and not everyone in the community is a Christian,” she explained. “Saturday was just for enjoying the movie. Sunday, if the people who went enjoyed the movie and wanted some fellowship, we unpacked the movie with the message.”

Ligonde said that exploring faith through film is something that has been on her mind for the last few years.

“I love movies and I’ve wanted to

meeting soon to discuss bringing the movies back in the fall. The series included “Wreck It Ralph,” “The Dark Knight Rises,” “The Vow” and concludes July 27 with “Here Comes the Boom.”

Each film explored faith in a number of different areas – in who God meant for us to be, in dark places, in real love and in what one believes, respectively.

Ligonde said she also put together the series in an attempt to reach a younger crowd.

“Part of our mission was to attract youth and young adults, between about 16 and 30. The turnout was so much The First Presbyterian Church in Jamaica aims to better than we thought spread the word of God in a unique way. it would be. Each week, the numbers rose highdo something like this for a long time. er and higher,” she said.

I believe that God is everywhere and This also went for the youthissues of faith can show up even in designed Sunday afternoon service, non-Christian films,” she said. which includes a DJ playing the latThough this was just a test for July, est hits, a dark club-like atmosphere the youth group and Ligonde will be and lively messages.

“With the movie series, we had people sharing it on Facebook, live tweeting it, sharing pictures on Instagram – it was very social media driven,” she said. “We want to keep using that to appeal to the younger crowd and show them that worshipping and how we handle things at church can be very modern.”

Ligonde said she hopes that those who attend the movie series, and even the Sunday afternoon services, will walk away with “a sense of community.”

“I want everyone to feel good.

It’s a good feeling after you’ve seen a good movie. Everyone is invited to spend time with good people, and if they’re comfortable, come worship and connect with us the next day,” she said.

First Presbyterian Church has held a number of events in the past, including housing missionaries from across the country, soup kitchens, food pantries and health days.

Those interested in upcoming events or attending a service can visit the church’s website at www.firstchurchjamaica.org.

The church is located at 89-60 164th St., Jamaica. For more information, you may also call (718) 5264775.

Notebook

Committee for Early Childhood Development

Hollis After School Program At Risk of Closure

BY ASIA EWART The Committee for Early Childhood Development, an afterschool program that has been on the corner of Jamaica Avenue and 193rd Street since 1984, and in existence for nearly five decades, is facing closure at its Hollis site on July 31.

The CECD dates back to the early 1960s, when a group of young parents and their preschool children met weekly at the Grace United Methodist Church in St. Albans. Offered to these families was childcare before we knew it as we do today.

Parents came together, along with members of the church family, and took on the responsibility of taking care of the children. The adults shared their experiences and parenting techniques, all while the children were played with, read to, fed and introduced to music and art. For

many children, the program was a first experience in that kind of group setting.

The church’s proposal for the establishment of the Committee for Pre-Kindergarten Education was accepted in 1966. In 1968, the program expanded to 60 children and relocated to the First United Methodist Church on 191st Street in Hollis.

As the years passed, CECD increased the number of children accepted, and today, the Hollis location has 133 enrolled children and a waiting list of 60. It moved to its present headquarters in 1984, though a number of different locations exist around Queens, from Sutphin Boulevard to St. Albans.

Each location possesses a large amount of children and an evergrowing waiting list.

Over the years, CECD has focused on parents and their own de-

velopment, as well as the well-being and flourishing of children. The role fathers play in their children’s lives is enriched in the group “I Can,” which meets monthly to discuss family preservation, parenting skills and community development.

The Women’s Empowerment Group also meets monthly and is designed to create a supportive and caring atmosphere for the female parents and staff. With as many accomplishments reached, the potential closing of the Hollis site brings great sadness to the children enrolled in the programs and their families.

According to a statement released by the program in spring 2012, the program was informed by the NYC Administration for Children’s Services that the area was a “non-target” area based on their zip code, which is 11423. CECD’s official statement

calls the claim “outrageous.”

“Now we have been informed that we are in jeopardy of losing the Hollis site because there is a Federal interest in the building,” the statement said.

The Hollis site has been operating on New York City Council Discretionary Funds allocated by Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica).

Because of this, it is no longer supported by Federal funds; “therefore, [they] cannot stay at [the] site,” the statement explained.

The parents, teachers and staff at CECD have been working to collect signatures in support of keeping the Hollis site open. They sent their petition and signatures to the Federal Government on July 19 at their annual Family Day. With nearly five decades invested in Queens, CECD vows that it will continue to fight for their place in the community.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

Profile

Political Newcomer Enters District 27 Race Political newcomer and founder of A Better Jamaica, Greg Mays, has officially thrown his hat in the crowded District 27 City Council race.

Mays, 50, joins Democratic candidates Manny Caughman, Daneek Miller, Joan Flowers, Clyde Vanel and Sondra Peedan in the race to replace the term-limited Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica) later this year.

The long-time St. Albans resident revealed that he has not always been interested in politics. Mays said that he did not consider a run for City Council until a colleague of his suggested he would be good at it given his background and community involvement.

“Politics is new to me. I didn’t necessarily think that I was going to run until March or April of this year,” Mays said. “What he [my friend] basically said is you’ve been doing a lot of the work a councilman would do and it would give you a larger platform to base your work off of.”

This suggestion piqued Mays’ in-

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

orative and effective approach.

“He [Comrie] understands that it takes a lot of community partners to build up a community,” Mays said. “For me, as someone who runs a nonprofit, I feel that his approach was critical to the ongoing success of the community. I think that, more than anything else, is what pushed me.”

While Mays has praised Comrie, he also feels that there is a lot of room for improvement in the district – primarily in education.

“Less than 50 percent of third Greg Mays, long-time St. Albans resident and fifth graders are passing the and founder of the nonprofit A Better Ja- English Language Arts exam. To maica, has thrown his hat in the race to me, that tells the entire story,” replace Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Ja- he said. “It tells a story of underachievement happening on maica) later this year. the middle school and it tells the terest and eventually, he decided he story of underachievement on the had the resources and experience to high school level.”

“Reading is the foundation of evhelp the district. He touted Comrie’s success as councilman and said that erything – including math,” Mays his work with A Better Jamaica, a went on to explain. “If you cannot nonprofit he founded in 2007, will read, you cannot do anything, so the enable him to take a similar collab- goal is to fix the problem of illiteracy

that’s happening early in the game.”

By improving education, Mays said, many of the other problems in the district will in turn be resolved.

“Education is hands down the most critical issue and it’s related to so many other problems – the economic development, the unemployment in the community,– it’s all related,” he explained.

By improving the school system in the district, Mays said that residents will not only be more qualified for jobs, decreasing the unemployment and foreclosure rate, it will also reduce crime in the district.

“The types of crime that may be going up are theft and to me, those are just crimes of necessity,” he explained. “It becomes even more important for us to make sure there are more job opportunities for young people and adults as well. It’s a sign the community is hurting.”

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

People Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at University at Albany.

They include: Cambria Heights: Anick Lebon, Bachelor of Arts; Francesca Gaston, Bachelor of Science; Seun Omotosho, Bachelor of Science; Sophonie Excellent, Bachelor of Arts.

Hollis: Oluwadamilola Oni, Bachelor of Science.

Jamaica: Jibran Duran, Bachelor of Arts; April Hanna, Bachelor of Arts; George Taylor, Bachelor of Arts; Jonathan Wiggins, Master of Science; Kourtney Martin, Bachelor of Arts; Rayneil St. Clair, Bachelor of Arts; Simone Arthur, Bachelor of Arts.

Laurelton: Shanelle Graham, Bachelor of Science.

Queens Village: Danielle Chu, Bachelor of Science; Sangeeta Singh, Bachelor of Science.

Rosedale: Brandi Wilson, Bachelor of Arts; Alyssa Alexander, Bachelor of Arts; Onyekachi Nwosu, Bachelor of Arts.

St. Albans: Oluwaseun Jolaoso, Bachelor of Arts; Michelle Amartey, Bachelor of Science; Keisha Felix, Bachelor of Arts; Natasha Cooper, Bachelor of Arts.

South Ozone Park: Jahmal Simms,

Bachelor of Arts; Marjorie Salomon, Bachelor of Arts.

Springfield Gardens: Pernel Wilfred, Master of Science.

Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wis. They include: Queens Village: Sheeniza Shah, Tanya St. Julien.

Springfield Gardens: Alfredo Duque.

Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Emory University in Atlanta, Ga. They include: Laurelton: Jazmyn Ferguson, Associate of Arts.

Jamaica: Nabila Madubuko, Bachelor of Arts.

Sacha Chadwick of Jamaica received a Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice and Asian studies during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Mercyhurst University in Erie, Pa. Local students were named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Hofstra University. They include:

Cambria Heights: Folorunsho Atanda, Edward Farquharson.

Hollis: Benjamin Lapinig.

Jamaica: Ashley Freeman, Yakov Mikhaylov, Sha-Quia Francis.

Jamaica Estates: Mahalia Lerebours.

Laurelton: Dianna Blount.

Queens Village: Hillary Alexandre, Ashley Singh, Dominique Antoine, Amanjot Kaur, Randy Kemraj, Alaysia Williams, Danny Lundy.

South Ozone Park: Anil Angad, Aliya Hussain, Alyssa Shahzaman.

Shanice Hinckson of St. Albans received Faculty Honors for the spring 2013 semester at Trinity College in Hartford, Conn.

N’Dea Hallett of Rosedale was named to the Dean’s List for the spring 2013 semester at Tufts University in Medford, Mass.

Local students received degrees during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at Ithaca College. They include: Queens Village: Regina Wuest.

Rosedale: Sheila Pierre.

Community District Education Council 29Q recently announced its

list of officers and members for the 2013-14 school year. They include: Alicia Hyndman, president; Cheryl Rochelle, vice president; Nicole Hammond, second vice president; Regine George, recording secretary; and Shameika Williams, treasurer.

Members of the council include Wyonnie Flaherty, James Goviea, Feline Lazarus, Kellinda Reed and Ericka Williams.

The Queens Library Foundation and Chhaya Community Development were two of the 13 organizations that received grants to help connect unemployed, underemployed, veterans, youth and those with disabilities to training and employment opportunities.

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.

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

What’s Up JULY 26 Sewing Circle for Women in Bengali Learn how to turn sewing skills into a career and earn money working for yourself. Bring your friends.

Space is limited. First come, first served. The free event is scheduled at 10 a.m. at the Queens Central Library.

“In Our Heads, About Our Hair” Do not miss this documentary and a fundraiser for the African Poetry Theatre that examines with candor and humor Black women’s issues regarding hair and self esteem, and advocates for the acceptance of all hairstyles. The show will begin at 7 p.m. at the Afrikan Poetry Theatre located at 176-03 Jamaica Ave. Tickets are $15.

Classic Film Fridays - “For Your Eyes Only” A Better Jamaica will be showing the movie, “For Your Eyes Only.”

James Bond (Roger Moore) must locate a top secret British naval device that has been sunk off the coast of Greece. Along the way, Bond meets Meline (Carole Bouquet), a beautiful woman who will stop at nothing to avenge her parents’ murder. Together they face the mysterious Columbo (Topol) who might be involved in more than just his international smuggling ring. The movie will be shown at the Rufus King Park, near Jamaica Avenue and 153rd Street at 8:23 p.m. It is free to attend.

JULY 27 Health and Wellness Street Fair The Queens Chapter National Action Network will present their Health and Wellness Street Fair with various healthcare providers. There will be vendors and fun and games for the entire family. For additional information, visit www.greaterspringfieldchurch.org/nan.htm or contact Beverly Campbell at (516) 312-9813 or bevy82@gmail.com. The event is free and will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 177-06 129th Ave.

12th Annual Family Day The New York City Dept. of Parks and Recreation, Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica) and Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica are pleased to present the 12th Annual Family Day. Bring the whole

family out for a spectacular day of fun. Bring a blanket or a chair and enjoy a day of free games, rides, health screenings, BBQ, live jazz, face painting, arts and crafts and access to community services provided

by HPD, DEP, DOH, NYPD, NYFD and more. For additional information, visit www.leroycomrie.com or call (718) 776-3700. The event is free and will be held at Wayanda Park from noon to 4 p.m. Wayanda Park is located at the intersection of Hollis Avenue and Robard Lane.

Gimme S.O.M.E. The Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning will present “Gimme S.O.M.E. (Saturday Open Mic Events)”. This event is presented in collaboration with Art Food and Soul and will include a screening of the film “Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes” by filmmaker Byron Hurt.

The guest speaker will be Toni Blackman. Space is limited. To RSVP, please call (718) 658-7400 ext. 2123.

It is free to attend and will begin at 7 p.m. The Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning is located at 161-04 Jamaica Ave.

JULY 28 Sunday Movie: “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” Queens Central Library will host a free showing of the movie, “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” at 2 p.m.

A chimp exposed to a drug designed to cure Alzheimer’s develops superintelligence and leads a captive-ape revolt that upends the destinies of humans and primates.

JULY 29 Stay Well Learn how special exercises and relaxation techniques can make a difference in your life at the Queens Central Library at 10 a.m. This event is free.

Movies in the Park - “Love and Basketball” A Better Jamaica will host a free screening of the movie “Love and Basketball.” In 1981 in Los Angeles, Monica moves in next door to Quincy. They both want to play in the NBA, just like Quincy’s dad.

Their love-hate relationship lasts into high school, with Monica’s edge and Quincy’s top-dog attitude separating them, except when Quincy’s parents argue and he climbs through Monica’s window to sleep on the floor. As high school ends, they come together as a couple, but within a year, both of them are playing ball at USC, Quin-

cy’s relationship with his father takes an ugly turn and it leads to a break up with Monica. Some years later, their pro careers at a crossroads, they meet again. The screening will begin at 8:20 p.m. at the Cambria/ Cabbel Park located at Francis Lewis Boulevard and 120th Avenue.

JULY 30 Arts in the Parks Arts in the Parks is an enthusiastic and educational performance series designed for grade school kids who will get a chance to see professional performances and meet new children in their own community. For additional information, contact Tyra Emerson at (718) 526-8700 or (718) 926-7630.

The event is free and will be held at the Rufus King Park at 10:30 a.m.

Coed Mixed Level Line Dance for the Mature Adult Yearn to know the latest line dances? If so, come take this six-week stress-free series. Dance experience nor a partner is required. Loose-fitting clothing, medical clearance and supportive shoes are highly recommended. No refunds or discounts.

For additional information, contact the Robert Couche Adult Center at (718) 978-8352. Classes will be held from 1:40 p.m. to 2:55 p.m. at the Robert Couche Adult Center located at 137-57 Farmers Blvd. It is $20 for six consecutive sessions.

Technical Tips for PC Devices Are there documents on your mobile device that you would like to share with others but you do not know how to? How about trying to access Wi-Fi services but you are not sure how to do that? Learn the answers to these questions and others in this free intermediate level class at the Queens Central Library. The class will begin at 3 p.m.

dramatic account of the American Civil War’s first all-Black regiment, led by an idealistic, privileged, northern white commander Colonel Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick), fighting not only the enemy, but also convention and prejudice. This stunning drama is based on Shaw’s Civil War letters. The screening will begin at 8:18 p.m. at Baisley Pond Park located at the intersection of Foch Boulevard and Long Street.

Free Tickets to Shakespeare in the Park Ticket vouchers will be distributed while supplies last for an evening performance in Central Park. Each person in line is allowed two vouchers and each voucher is good for one ticket. Vouchers must be exchanged for tickets at the Delacorte Theater Box Office in Central Park from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. on the day of distribution. The Queens Central Library will be distributing the free vouchers at noon.

AUG. 1 Calling All Young Dancers Audition for a spot in the newly formed Distraction Dance Company. The company is looking for teens and young adults that are experienced in various forms of dance including: Hip-Hop, Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, African, etc. If chosen, you must be available Thursdays from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm and Fridays from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. If you have a headshot, bring it. Be prepared to learn new choreography in modern/contemporary and hip-hop. If you would like, you may display a piece of your own.

For additional information, contact ahutchinson@jcal.org. It is free to audition. Auditions will be held at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center located at 153-10 Jamaica Ave., from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Beginning Guitar Tad Schaefer, graduate of Musician’s Institute in Hollywood, CA and Queens College M.A. Jazz Performance, brings expertise and an innovative approach to teaching guitar. Bring your guitar and let us make some music. Space is limited.

Preregistration is required. This class meets every Tuesday for eight weeks.

The free classes will be held at the Queens Central Library at 6:30 p.m.

JULY 31 Movies in the Park - “Glory” A Better Jamaica will have a free screening of the movie, “Glory.” A

Movies in the Park - “Glory” A Better Jamaica will have a free screening of the movie, “Glory.” A dramatic account of the American Civil War’s first all-Black regiment, led by an idealistic, privileged, northern white commander Colonel Robert Gould Shaw (Matthew Broderick), fighting not only the enemy, but also convention and prejudice. This stunning drama is based on Shaw’s Civil War letters.

The screening will begin at 8:17 p.m. at the St. Albans Park located at the intersection of Merrick Boulevard and Sayres Avenue.

Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

Queens today

FRIday 7/26

street FaIr

The Queens Tabernacle will host a children’s street fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on 96th Street near 86th Avenue in Woodhaven.

The fair will feature games, food, face painting and gift giveaways.

thunderbIrd amerICan IndIan Pow wow

Queens County Farm Museum will hold its 35th annual Thunderbird American Indian mid-summer pow wow, the oldest and largest in the City, throughout the weekend. The public is invited to view three days of intertribal Native American dance competitions.

Over 40 Indian nations will be represented at the event, which will take place in the apple orchard. Native American art, crafts, jewelry and foods will be available. Admission costs $10 for adults and $5 for children age 12 and under.

An all-weekend pass costs $15 for adults and $7 for children. The gates open on Friday at 6 p.m., Saturday at 10 a.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. For more information, visit www.queensfarm.org/ events.html.

musIC reCItaL

Major Music International Corporation will hold its Summer Music Recital, featuring Joe’s Music Academy, at 7 p.m. in LeFrak Hall, Queens College. Cost is $20.

LIGht taLk/LIGhtwaLk Join illumination expert Leni Schwendinger and the 82nd Street Partnership for an evening of urban exploration and discovery on a tour of the Roosevelt Avenue and 82nd Street corridors. To RSVP, email sofia@82ndstreet.org or tweet @82ndstqueens.

romeo and JuLIet

The Queens College Summer Performing Arts Festival will go off campus for the first time in its history to put on “Romeo and Juliet” at Flushing Town Hall.

Directed by Ralph Carhart and co-produced with Flushing Town Hall, the story has been adapted to modern Queens; where two first-generation American youths fall in love while their transplanted families (Israeli Jews and Palestinian Muslims) hold old grudges. There will be another showing on July 28. The performances are free and begin at 8 p.m.

For more information and to reserve tickets, email info@kupferbergcenter.org or call (718) 793-8080.

sunnysIde summer stroLLs

Save the date for Sunnyside Summer Strolls. Bring your kids to a children’s Arts and Crafts Fair, located at 46th Street under the Sunnyside Arch. The fair starts at noon and runs until 6 p.m.

satuRday 7/27 rummaGe saLe

Saint Thomas the Apostle Church, 87-19 88th Ave., Woodhaven, will hold a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on July 28 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

New and used items, plus collectibles, will be for sale.

The church will also hold a rummage sale the following weekend at the same times.

suNday 7/28 ‘the Cat’s CarnIvaL’

The JC Players will present “The Cat’s Carnival” from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at Com-

SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK

suNday 7/28

tomorrow’s danCe artIsts Flushing Town Hall will host the Young Dancemakers Company for “Today’s Teen Dancers, Tomorrow’s Dance Artists.” Part of the free summer concert series, the show will begin at 2 p.m. in the venue’s recently renovated garden. The rain location is the Town Hall’s theater. Dance lessons will be available before the concert at 1 p.m.

Directed by Alice Teirstein, the performance will include work by percussionist/music director William Catanazaro and excerpts of work by guest choreographer Doug Elkins.

The event is first-come, first-serve. munity United Methodist Church of Middle Village, 75-27 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village. Cost is $6 in advance, $7 at the door.

Stories, games, crafts and more will be on hand. For information, call (917) 8257418.

the odyssey

Queensborough Community College students in the College Now program will present a production of Homer’s “The Odyssey.”

Adapted by Georgia McGill, professor and chairperson of Speech Communication and Theatre Arts, the show will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center. Tickets are free and available 30 minutes before curtain time. For more information, contact the QPAC Box Office at (718) 631-6311.

the temPest

Hip to Hip Theatre Company will present William Shakespeare’s “The Tempest” as part of their seventh season of free Shakespeare in the Park.

Directed by Jason Marr, the performance will take place from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. in Cunningham Park, Fresh Meadows. There will also be a children’s program 30 minutes before the show.

For more information, call (718) 729-8567 or email contact@hiptohip.org.

moNday 7/29 bIGnyC Commuter ComPostInG

Go green at the Commuter Compost at the 7 Train, located at Vernon Blvd. at 50th Avenue in Long Island City. Bring your frozen foods scraps, like fruit, vegetable, coffee grounds including paper filter; tea bags; egg and nut shells; bread and pasta with no toppings to our weekly food waste drop-off site. Compost will turn them into nutrient-rich compost, but please do not bring meat, dairy, bones or oily foods Composting starts at 8 a.m. and ends at 11 a.m.

tuesday 7/30 summer ConCert

St. John’s University will host the 15th annual Great Lawn Summer Concert, featuring Queens Symphony Orchestra. The event will kick off with a barbecue on the Great Lawn of the Queens campus, 8000 Utopia Parkway, at 4:30 p.m. with the concert starting at 7 p.m.

WedNesday 7/31 outdoors movIe nIGht Watch a surreal film, directed by Adrian Sitaru, titled “Domestic” at Socrates Sculpt ure Park, located at 36-01 Vernon Blvd. The story is a bittersweet comedy about children, adults and animals, who try to have a better life, but sometimes death comes unexpectedly. The film starts at 7 p.m.

thuRday 8/1 Love’s Labor’s Lost

Hip to Hip Theatre Company will present William Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labor’s Lost” as part of their seventh season of free Shakespeare in the Park.

Directed by David Mold, the performance will take place from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Voelker Orth Museum.

There will also be a children’s program 30 minutes before the show. For more information, call (718) 729-8567 or email contact@ hiptohip.org.

onGoInG LIC bar: Comedy and trIvIa show

Starting on Aug. 2, every Thursday night Stephanie Holmes brings you hilarious and creative trivia with three stand-up comedians to entertain you while you add up the points. The Grand Prize for each show is a $50 bar tab! It is free to play and the show starts at 9 p.m.

The LIC Bar is located at 45-58 Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City.

Got events? send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, Ny 11357

July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 21

Queens Today Section editor: reGinA VoGeL

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

ALUMni BLAnd HoUSeS Saturday, September 7 reunion of former Bland Houses residents. 8156697.

enVironMent eco rooFS Saturday, July 27 Sunnyside library at 3:30. Eco- or “cool” roofs discussed. coMPoStinG We d n e s d ay, J u l y 3 1 Worms’ role in composting at the Steinway library at 3.

Food WASte droPoFF Saturdays 1-3 at the Broadway and LIC library. coMPoStinG tuesdays Woodside library 5:15-6:30.

MeetinGS Knit & crocHet Monday, July 29 Douglaston library at 4. creAtiVe WritinG Monday, July 29 Hollis library at 5:30.

Knit & crocHet cLUB tuesday, July 30 at the Windsor Park library and Whitestone librar y at 2 and at the Steinway library at 5:30. cHeSS cLUB tuesday, July 30 Howard Beach library at 4. cHeSS cLUB tuesdays Windsor Park library at 5:30.

SUMMer SeWinG Wednesday, July 31 Central library t 11:30.

WritinG cLUB thursdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Peninsula library at noon. cHeSS cLUB Fridays, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Woodside library at 4. eMotionS Anon.

Wednesdays 7:30 Victoria Congregational Church, 148 th Street and 87 th Avenue, Briarwood. Support group for a variety of troubling emotions.

edUcAtion/GAMeS/crAFtS BeGin PoWerPoint Saturday, July 27 Central library. Register. inter. PoWerPoint Saturday, July 27 Central library. Register.

WAtercoLor Saturday, July 27 Central library. 990-0714. intro coMPUterS Monday, July 29 Central library. Register.

BALLrooM dAncinG Monday, July 29 Forest Hills library at 6:30.

MAc MondAYS Monday, July 29 Central library. 990-8625.

BALLrooM dAncinG Monday, July 29 Forest Hills library at 6:30. crAFternoonS Monday, July 29 Rosedale library at 4.

JoB reAdineSS Mondays Job Readiness and computer assistance 2-6 at the South Jamaica library.

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

BridGe Mondays except holidays 12-4 at Pride of Judea in Douglaston. Lesson & play $10. Partners arranged.

423-6200.

AdULt cHeSS Mondays and thursdays Queens Village library at 5:30.

PerSonAL BrAndinG tuesday, July 30 Personal Branding online at the Far Rockaway library at 2.

BeGin coMPUterS tuesday, July 30 Rosedale library at 11.

WAtercoLor cLASS tuesday, July 30 Flushing library. Register. tecHnoLoGiSt iS in tuesday, July 30 Pomonok library. 591-4343.

GUitAr LeSSonS tuesday, July 30 Woodhaven library and Central library. Register.

BeGin internet tuesday, July 30 Queens Village library. Register.

GooGLe tiPS tuesday, July 30 Central library. Register. cHeSS tuesdays Rosedale library at 4.

SMALL BUSineSS tuesdays Small Business Workshop at the Central library. Register.

Get YoUr YArnS oUt! tuesdays after evening Minyan at 8, knitters, crocheters, needlepoint-ers, and others meet at the Forest Hills Jewish Center.

263-7000, ext. 200.

BeGin internet Wednesday, July 31 Hollis library. Register.

Knit & crocHet Wednesday, July 31 South Ozone Park library.

MocK interVieWS Wednesday, July 31 Central library. Register.

BeGin internet Wednesday, July 31 Central library. Register. reSUMeS Wednesday, July 31 Resumes and Cover Letters at the Central library. Register.

BeGin eMAiL Wednesday, July 31 Windsor Park at 11:30.

JeWeLrY Wednesday, July 31 Art Deco-inspired jewelry Briarwood. Register. intro FAceBooK Wednesday, July 31 Central library. Register.

WAtercoLor Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the National Art League.969-1128.

BeLLY dAncinG thursdays, August 1, September 5 7:30 at the JCC, 10-31 Jackson Avenue. 6090066.

BeGin coMPUterS thursdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22 Ozone Park library.

Register.

BeGin coMPUterS thursdays, August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Rosedale library at 5:45.

LeArn cHineSe thursdays North Forest Park library at 6.

Knit & crocHet Fridays Fresh Meadows library at 11. cHeSS cLUB Fridays at 3:30 at the Auburndale library and 4 at the Woodside library.

BeGin internet Saturday, August 3 Far Rockaway library at 2.

Line dAncinG Saturdays, August 3, 17, September 7, 21 ongoing mixed level, coed line dance classes at Cambria Heights Community Church. $10.

646-229-0242.

dAnce Line dAncinG M o n d ay s 6 : 3 0 - 9 : 3 0 a t Kowalinski Post 4, 61-57 Maspeth Avenue. $7. Cake and coffee. 565-2259. coUntrY Line Wednesdays 7-10 at the STARS Building, 8 Coleman Square, Howard Beach. $10.

tALKS SteinWAY Monday, July 29 “Wolf Hall” discussed at the Steinway library at 6:30.

entertAinMent AQUedUct cASino register now for a trip on thursday, August 29 with the St. Josaphat’s Leisure Club. $25. 917-921-7631.

GoLden AcroBAtS through July 28 at Queens Theatre in the Park. 7600064.

MAGic & MUSic Saturday, July 27 Mario the Magician 3-4 at the Cambria Heights library.

PoP MUSic Saturday, July 27 Best of Pop Music at the Jackson Heights library at 3.

HiP HoP Saturday, July 27 It’s All Hip Hop book launch at the Langston Hughes library at 3. nU UrBAn cAFÉ Saturdays live jazz, r&b, open mic 8-midnight. Free.

188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. 917-817-8653. cUnninGHAM PArK Sunday, July 28 Children’s Workshop at 7:30. And “The Tempest” at 8. August 1 “The Music Man” film at 8. August 8 “The Lorax” film at 8. August 15 “North

by Northwest” film at 8.

August 22 “Les Miserables” film at 8. August 29 “Kinky Boots” film at 8. Cunningham Park, 196th Street and Union Turnpike, Flushing.

Bring chairs or blankets.

PLAnet oF APeS Sunday, July 28 “Rise of the Planet of the Apes” movie at the Central library at 2.

YoUnG dAncerS Sunday, July 28 Today’s Teen Dancers, Tomor-row’s Dance Artists. Dance lessons at 1, concert at 2.

Flushing Town Hall’s theater. 463-7700, ext. 222. roMAntic MUSic Monday, July 29 Romantic Music from the Movies at the Flushing library at 6.

GreAt LAWn tuesday, July 30 St. John’s Great Lawn 15 th annual summer concert at 8000 Utopia Parkway. Rain location Marillac Auditorium.

BinGo tuesdays 7:15 American Martyrs Church 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. eLViS thursday, August 1 Elvis Time with Steve Mitchell at 7:30 at the Bayview Swim Club, 214-17 24th Avenue, Bayside. $5. On-site free parking. Cash bar. Special café menu.

MetroPoLitAn oPerA thursday, August 1 Socrates Sculpture Park at 7. 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.

ZiKrAYAt

Saturday, August 3 Arabic music and dance 2:30-3:30 at the Ridgewood library. eAStern reALM ArtS Saturday, August 3 calligraphers and painters will create artwork on the premises 2-5. Free. Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.

SYMP. orcHeStrA Sunday, August 4 Queens Symphony Orchestra performs at the Forest Park Bandshell. Free.

HeALtH BLood driVe Saturday, July 27 Emanuel United Church of Christ, 93-12 91st Avenue from 9-3.

849-1153 for appointment.

ZUMBA Saturdays, through August Ridgewood library at 10.

YoGA Saturdays through September 8 9:30-10:30 and 11-12 and Sundays 10-11. Socrates Sculpture, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC. tAi cHi Sundays through September 9 11-12 at Socrates Sculpture, 32-01 Vernon Blvd., LIC. StretcH & tone Monday, July 29 LIC library at 6:30.

BreASt cAncer Mondays Women Newly Diagnoses and Post Treatment 10:30-noon and Young Women with Breast Cancer 7-8:30 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516-8774314.

MetAStAtic BreASt Second and Fourth Mondays 1:30-3:00 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516877-4314.

Men BreASt cAncer Second Mondays 7-8:30 at Adelphi Breast Cancer Program. 516-877-4314.

ALZHeiMerS tuesday, July 30 Sunnyside library at 3.

AeroBicS Wednesday, July 31 Central library at 4. tAi cHi Wednesday, July 31 Poppenhusen library. Register.

AUtiSM thursdays, August 1, 8 Friendship Workshop for families affected by autism.

Register. Howard Beach library.

BreASt coSMetic thursday, August 1 What’s New in Breast Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery at the Steinway library at 5:30.

YoGA cLASSeS through thursday August 22 yoga class at the Hillcrest Jewish Center. 646250-5379.

SHAPe UP nYc Friday, August 2, 9, 16,

23, 30 Briarwood library at 11:30. dAnce FitneSS Fridays, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Richmond Hill library at 5:30. onGoinG GroUPS AnGer MAnAGeMent Wednesdays and Saturdays Classes, individual, family, couples therapy in Briarwood. 374-6765.

SUPPort GroUPS Alcohol, drugs, domestic violence, martial issues, depression, anxiety, phobia, etc.

Woodside Clinic. 779-1234. doMeStic VioL. 24 hour Domestic Violence Hotline. 657-0424.

PSYcHoLoGicAL ctr Individual and group counseling, family and couple therapy and more. 570-0500 sliding scale.

WAitAnKUnG Sundays 2-5. Total-body workout. Flushing Hospital/ Medical Center. Free. Jimmy 7-10pm 347-2156. tAi cHi Mondays and thursdays 11-12 at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows.

670-1695. $5.

MASSAGe tHerAPY Wednesdays and Fridays half and one hour massages at the Cardiac Health Center in Fresh Meadows. 6701695. oA thursdays Overeaters Anonymous Howard Beach library at 11.

PArentS PArent edUcAtion Mondays, July 29, August 5, 12 Lefrak City library at 11:30. Upon completion of at least 8 sessions and passing the final, participants receive a certificate.

KidS MUSic cLASS Wednesdays newborn to 4 with guardian at the JCC in Jackson Heights. 6090066.

PSYcHoLoGicAL ctr Family and child therapy, parent management training and more. 570-0500 sliding scale.

Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013

GOT Clan Run Through Queens

and finished just before the work day started.

According to one report, they plan on creating a House Targaryen run when they visit Chicago later this month.

Q

CONFIDENTIAL

One Queens resident is taking his running to show his love for the hit HBO series, Game of Thrones.

Gene Lu, who lives in Jackson Heights, has started a Tumblr, runofthrones.com, where he and fellow show enthusiasts draw a run route using the logo of the show’s clans on Google Maps.

The maps are posted to that Tumblr site so people can do the runs as well as create their own maps.

His latest creation was in the Borough, creating a run that covers several neighborhoods in southern and central Queens, including Woodhaven and Forest Hills and is 15 miles long.

It also cuts through Cypress Hills Cemetery. The map replicates the logo of House Stark, one of clans on the show. They completed the Queens run on July 19.

They started it at 5 30 a.m.

One Year Run A Little Twitter Parody Love While hard at work and checking my Twitter newsfeed, this QConf reporter could not help but notice a new follower – ‘Jimmy No Brainer.”

This phony account, meant to take a jab at Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer (D-Sunnyside), even has the Councilman’s face as its main photo.

It appears the account holder

has quite the sense of humor too. Here’s his advice for noisy neighbors: “Try earplugs! I picked up a set today and they are a-mazezing. Wore them on the subway and couldn't hear a thing (almost)!” he tweeted.

Looks like this Jimmy No Brainer guy may be on to something.

By Any Other Name...

The family roller coaster at Flushing Meadows Corona Park, which opened on May 3 and was featured on the cover of our Summer Fun Guide, was finally named last week. Adapted from suggestions by Elizabeth Holmes and Aquilles Nunes, the new ride was christened the Corona Cobra Coaster over the weekend.

Photo by Ira Cohen.

A dare on Twitter led to an 18-year-old Long Island teenager's run across Citi Field during Major League Baseball’s All-Star game Tuesday night.

D ylan McCue-Masone tweeted on Tuesday night: “1000 RTs and ill run across the field…#ASG #CitiField.”

He saw more than 4,000 retweets.

Before he ran across the field, he asked his encouraging Twitter followers to pray for him because his mom would kill him once she found out the tweet has become her worst reality.

McCue-Masone thought he could run across and no one would notice because he was wearing a Robinson Cano Yankees T-shirt. It is too bad no one on the field thought his prank was funny. His dare will cost him hefty legal fees and thousands of dollars in civil penalties.

McCue-Masone was arraigned earlier this week in a Queens Criminal Court on multiple charges, including third-degree criminal trespassing.

He might not be able to start college as planned because if convicted, he could face up to one year in jail.

MUSICIANS OF QUEENS

Viola Laidlaw

Viola Laidlaw loves to sing, and that is something made apparent after only encountering her once. Her passion for music and singing is one that has stemmed from a childhood of compliments.

“I’ve been singing for about 12 years now. When I was 10, I would sing and dance in front of my friends and they’d tell me how good I was.”

Being told she had a beautiful voice took her far. In junior high, she began to enter talent shows, and entered the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music, where she would later go back to perform, to better hone her skills.

“I had a mentor at the time; David Wattley. Marjorie Elliot came after him. All of my mentors encouraged me to sing the best that I could,” she said

Among the Jamaica native’s inspirations are Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington, Bob Marley and Michael Jackson; these are apparent in the types of songs she loves to perform.

“I love singing jazz and R&B. I also try to throw some classical, opera and Caribbean into my performances,” she said.

In her career, Laidlaw has performed at various nursing homes and open mic events.

She went back to former mentor Marjorie Elliot’s home in Washington Heights to perform for her colleagues, sang for music promoter Tony Bellizzi and even had a stint at the Apollo. Her performances can be found on YouTube.

Though currently local, Laidlaw would love to travel the world someday.

“I’d love to go to Japan; they really appreciate jazz over there. Or even down to Florida, where I can sing for my family living there,” she said.

Singing also acts as a sort of therapy for her.

“I love to sing very much.

I love to entertain. It’s very healing. I’ll sing while walking down the street and love every second of it,” she added.

Laidlaw will be seeing a return to Washington Heights in November for another jazz filled performance.

Keeping In Shape With so many wonderful and filling restaurants lined through every neighborhood in Queens, you would think they would lead to expanding waistlines. Luckily, Queens residents are better at keeping in shape than many of their New York neighbors.

According to the Dept. of Health and Mental Hygiene, Queens comes in fourth place out of the five boroughs in terms of obesity rates, with 23 percent of its population listed as such. The Bronx came in first, with 30 percent of its population being listed

as overweight or obese. Staten Island is in second with 28 percent and Brooklyn was third with 27 percent. The only healthier borough than Queens is Manhattan with a low rate of 14 percent obesity.

All of the statistics are from 2011, the latest year available.

Given the large amount of outdoor summer activities, several busy parks, playgrounds, gyms, public pools and sports fields, it should come as no surprise that Queens citizens are out and about all year around. Besides, there was nothing good on TV anyway!

Who's Who at QConf

QConf is edited by: Steven J. Ferrari Contributors: Asia Ewart, Luis Gronda, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Michael Nussbaum, Trisha Sakhuja, Michael Schenkler.

Got Talent? Performers and artists should email editor@queenstribune.com.

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July 26 - Aug. 1, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 23

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Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on JUL 12 2013 bearing Index Number NC-000412-13/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) Tyrone (Middle) Lameke (Last) Harrison My present name is (First) Tyrone (Middle) Limick (Last) Harrison aka Tyrone L Harrison My present address is 248-18 Memphis Ave., Rosedale, NY 11422 My place of birth is Queens, NY My date of birth is April 05, 1977 _______________________ Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Civil Court, Queens County on JUN 05 2013 bearing Index Number NC-000342-13/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

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ALL ROADS LEAD TO JAMAICA HOSPITAL

The many roads that make up our community are the same roads that lead to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

As your neighbor, our wide variety of clinical services are always available to you and your family.

Learn More About our Many Quality Services Including Emergency Medicine • Cardiology • Pulmonary Medicine • Ambulatory Care Advanced Radiology Services • Sleep Center • Obstetrics and Gynecology • Pediatrics

By Calling us at 718-206-6000 or Visit our Website at www.jamaicahospital.org