Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 12 Issue No. 31 Aug. 5-11, 2011

Page 18

Postal Service:

LOW PRIORITY

PRESS Photo by Veronica Lewin

The growth in digital communications has eaten into the United States Postal Service’s revenue, forcing it to consider closing four of Southeast Queens’ post offices.

By Jason Cohen… Page 3

Online at www.QueensPress.com

News Briefs More Jobs At Aqueduct A new agreement between Resorts World New York and the New York Racing Association (NYRA) will boost the number of jobs available at new casino at Aqueduct Racetrack slated to open in the next few months.

The agreement states the casino will operate all food and beverage venues at Aqueduct Racetrack. It will add 141 fulltime positions from management level to frontline staff, bringing the total number of permanent jobs for the project to 1,291.

As of July 31, Resorts World NY said it had received more than 18,000 applications for permanent employment, with more than 75 percent submitted by Queens residents.

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Comptrollers Slam MTA A joint audit conducted by City Comptroller John Liu and State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli revealed that subway disruptions and diversions are on the rise, costing taxpayers millions in unnecessary spending, all while keeping riders in the dark.

In the first joint audit between the state and city comptrollers in over a decade, the two found that weekend trips on subways have doubled in duration over the last two decades because of weekend work disruptions while the number of diversions has skyrocketed. The duo also found projects they audited ended up $26.6 million over budget in total.

In a statement, the MTA said it takes "every effort to minimize customer inconvenience by coordinating work, performing multiple jobs in the same area so that we do not have to go back again."

Liu and DiNapoli announced the findings of their audit at Queensboro Plaza on Sunday, beneath the tracks of the 7 train, which was shut down west of Queensboro Plaza that weekend for track work.

"We found that the MTA is leaving subway riders in the dark," DiNapoli said.

"The management of these diversions is wasteful, unproductive and taking New Yorkers down the wrong track."

The $26.6 million figure the comptrollers arrived at was only a fraction of the possible total extra costs, Liu said, because their offices only look at 15 diversions caused by a dozen projects.

Also, between 2008 and 2010, the number of week-long diversions went up from 47 to 74 and the number of monthlong diversions increased from 7 to 57.

Often, work started late and ended early, but disruptions continued.

The audit also blasted the MTA for not communicating service changes to customers clearly. The comptrollers found there were fewer signs explaining the changes than the MTA claimed, were in mostly English-only, and not in elevators at stations that had them.

Recommendations made by the audit included reevaluating the MTA budget, monitoring expenses, ensure work is done on-time and on-schedule, use updated ridership data to schedule shuttle buses and adhere to legal requirements relating to communicating with the public.

Liu, who chaired the Transportation Committee on the City Council and represented Flushing, the 7 train's terminus in the body, noted the line is notorious for suffering disruptions.

"For at least seven or eight years in a row, it's 'Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, now your 7 train is going to be shut down for the next three months,'" Liu said as MTA customers filed out of a shuttle bus from Manhattan to catch Flushing-bound trains on the platform. "It's a consistent frustration that riders and business owners have had to suffer through for too long."

Guv Picks Keizs, Conslato Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced his picks for his local economic development team last week and the list includes two borough notables.

The New York City Regional Economic Council, the last of the ten statewide to be announced, was unveiled by Lt. Governor Bob Duffy in Brooklyn on July 29. It will be tasked with coordinating a relationship between businesses and government to help the local economy grow and create jobs in the five boroughs.

The NYC Regional Economic Council will come up with ideas for economic development and compete with the other nine councils for up to $1 billion in economic development funds.

Among the members from Queens are Dr. Marcia Keizs, President of York College, who previously served on formerGov. Eliot Spitzer's Higher Education Commission.

"I thank Governor Cuomo for this opportunity," she said in a statement. "I look forward to working with distinguished colleagues from business, academia, labor, as well as our public officials, to develop innovative plans to generate economic growth for the New York City region."

The other Queens face on the council will be Carol Conslato, President of the 100-year-old Queens Chamber of Commerce.

"The Queens Chamber supported this economic reform that recognizes local planning, experience and skill as attributes that best empower the five boroughs to stimulate our local economies and create jobs," Conslato said after being appointed to the council. "I intend to serve as a voice for sound initiatives that utilize our local strengths."

The council will be co-chaired by Matthew Goldstein, Chancellor of the City University of New York, who also chaired last year's Charter Revision Commission, and Kenneth Chauvelt, Chairman & CEO of American Express. The council will include 22 members from the fields of business, education, and labor, and will also include the five borough presidents and Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

The council also includes CEOS of New York-based companies, local business owners, chairs of economic development councils from all five boroughs, and labor leaders.

The ten statewide councils, chaired by Lt. Gov. Duffy, will hold both private and public meetings throughout the fall. In September, all ten regional councils will meet for a statewide conference, where members of the Cuomo administration and economic development experts will hold workshops to help council members enhance their strategic plans and applications for the economic development money. Final applications will be due in November and the winners will be announced in December.

Presstime

Four SEQ Post Offices Could Disappear you great concern," Meeks said.

None of the offices are certain to be Clicking send and posting a status up- closed. Over the next few months, the date has surpassed licking a stamp, and it United States Postal Service will inspect could cost the borough each branch, examinup to five post offices. ing foot traffic and A loss of revenue customers in comparito electronic commuson to workers' wages, nication has caused proximity to other the federal governpost offices and mail ment to consider closvolume. ing 3,700 post offices Meeks acknowlnationwide, 35 in the edged that the post ofCity. fices are losing Queens is slated to money, but stressed possibly lose its post there must be a way to offices in Arverne, fix their financial probAstoria, Holliswood, lems without closing Rockaway Beach and Lawmakers, residents and activists them. Borough PresiRosedale. joined to rally against the possible clo- dent Helen Marshall The prospect of los- sure of post offices around the borough. is attempting to get all ing the offices has anof the elected officials gered elected officials from Queens together in Southeast Queens. Councilmen Leroy to find a solution for this problem.

Comrie (D-St.Albans), James Sanders (DLast week, Comrie expressed his frusLaurelton) and U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks trations with the USPS in a letter he emailed (D-Jamaica) all agree these post offices to Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe. are an integral part of the community and All five post office closings would have a negative impact on their respective neighshould not be closed.

"Anytime you have closings, it gives borhoods, the Congressman said.

BY JASON COHEN

Meeks Yes, Others No On Debt Ceiling Deal

BY DOMENICK RAFTER

Campaigns Heat Up For Sept. 13 Vote

BY DOMENICK RAFTER With only six weeks to go until the Sept.

13 special election, candidates for the open Congressional seat and two open State Assembly seats are in full campaign mode.

Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Little Neck), the Democratic candidate for the 9th Congressional district seat vacated by former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner, has been focusing his campaign on the issue of Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, while his Republican opponent Bob Turner has been touting endorsements from key officials like former Mayor Ed Koch and U.S. Rep. Peter King (R-Long Island).

Weprin spent the weekend before the debt ceiling deal discussing social programs at senior centers in Queens, calling out Republicans in Congress for what he deemed “bad faith negotiating” on a debt ceiling deal. Turner endorsed the idea of a Balanced Budget Amendment, a sticking point for Congressional Republicans which passed the House twice, but failed in the Senate and is opposed

by Democrats and President Barack Obama.

In the meantime, third party candidate Chris Hoeppner has secured a ballot line for the Sept. 13 election. Hoeppner, a native of Queens, will be on the Socialist Workers Party line and is running on a platform of expanding Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security and fixing the unemployment crisis by forcing compa-

nies to cut the workweek, while maintaining salaries, to make room for new employees.

One of the two open State Assembly seats is the 23rd Assembly district vacated

by County Clerk Audrey Pheffer. The district, the most Republican in Queens, is considered the most contentious. Republican candidate Jane Deacy has the support of City Councilman Eric Ulrich (ROzone Park), whose district overlaps a good portion of the Assembly district.

Democratic candidate Phil Goldfeder, a former aide to U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer, has raised over $120,000 in campaign cash in just under a month in his attempt to defend the seat that has been in Democratic hands for decades.

The Green Party, which won major party status in last year’s gubernatorial race, has nominated Belle Harbor environmentalist Vivian R. Carter.

In the 27th Assembly District, Democratic candidate Mike Simanowitz is facing a Republican challenger, Marco Desena of College Point, the first time a Republican is contesting the seat since 1996. A third party challenger, Justin Wax Jacobs of Briarwood, who served as President of the University Of Albany Student Association, petitioned to get on the ballot, but was kicked off on a technicality. He said he was pursuing legal options to get back on the ballot.

Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 125.

Assemblyman and Democratic Candidate David Weprin recently stumped against cuts to social safety net programs.

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

With only hours to go before the country faced its first default ever, Republican leaders in Congress and President Barack Obama agreed to a deal to raise the nation’s debt ceiling by $2.4 trillion through 2013, and enact spending cuts aimed at cutting the long-term deficit. But the bill did not have much support from New York’s delegation.

The high-stakes political battle ended Monday night when the House of Representative passed the bill by a 269-161 vote.

Most of the votes came from Republicans, with Democrats splitting 95-95. The Senate passed the bill Tuesday morning 74-26 with New York’s two Senators on opposite sides; U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer in support, and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand against.

The bill extends the debt ceiling, but also establishes a mechanism to cut $2.4 trillion in spending over 10 years, with most of the cuts beginning in Fiscal Year 2013. Progressives said the bill would negatively affect the struggling economy and asks too much of the poor and middle class and too little of the rich, while some conservatives, including some tea party members, opposed raising the debt ceiling entirely. Democrats had tried to get new revenues in the bill by closing tax loopholes that favor the rich, but Republicans rejected them.

All but two members of New York City’s congressional delegation voted no. The only “yes” votes were U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-Staten Island) and U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica). Meeks acknowl-

edged the bill wasn’t a great bill but said he was not willing to “play politics” with the debt ceiling.

“I voted in support of it because I could not in good conscience put our economic well-being any further at risk,” he said.

“Republicans may be comfortable with playing politics with our good standing as a nation and our economic stability but that is not an option for me.”

Queens’ other U.S. Reps. Carolyn Maloney (D-Astoria), Joe Crowley (DJackson Heights) and Gary Ackerman (DBayside) all voted no.

“I am pleased default has been avoided, but disappointed in how it was accomplished,” Crowley said. He added that he would have supported a compromise that included revenues from billionaires and oil companies.

Ackerman was harsher in his criticism, calling the Republicans “thugs.”

“It’s been long obvious that we have no partner with whom to negotiate; only a party that started as our comrades in government, then our colleagues, who evolved into our opponents, declared themselves our enemies and now demand that we be their enablers. I refuse to play,” he said.

Gillibrand, one of only six Senate Democrats to vote no, said she did not think the bill was balanced enough.

“I do not believe this proposal is a fair, well thought out, or balanced deal for our fragile economy,” she said.

Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 125.

"According to the United States cen- cause poor mail delivery and anger many sus, the borough of Queens is home to the residents, he said. second largest population of foreign-born "My district is being disproportionresidents in the nation," Comrie said in the ately impacted," Sanders said. letter. "For our immigrant constituents, Reach Intern Jason Cohen at 718-357the post office plays a critical role in their 7400, Ext. 124 or jcohen@queenstribune.com. ability to connect with their homeON THE CHOPPING BLOCK: lands."

Sanders said he couldn't under- Rosedale ........... 145-06 243rd St. stand that his district of 160,000 Holliswood ........ 197-33 Hillside Ave. people delivers less mail than other Rockaway .......... 90-14 Rockaway Beach, Blvd. parts of Queens. There are 115,000 people in Rockaway and if two of Arverne ............. 329 Beach 59th St. the post offices are closed, that will Astoria ............. 45-08 30th Ave.

Some Mosquitoes Carry West Nile Virus

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Lorraine and Howard Schwartz have lived in Jamaica Estates for 40 years. While summer is a time of year many partake in outdoor activities, the Schwartz's have been worried each time they leave their home. The Schwartz's and other residents in Jamaica Estates are fearful they will get bitten by the Asian Tiger mosquito. Unlike most nocturnal mosquitoes, the Asian Tiger bites 24 hours a day.

"It is literally impossible to step outside of one's house and not be bitten by an Asian Tiger mosquito," Councilman Jim Gennaro said, who lives in Jamaica Estates.

The City Dept. of Health issued an advisory July 22 to residents of Jamaica Estates and Pomonok Houses after detecting the West Nile Virus in mosquito pools in the area. The Dept. of Health does not spray insecticide in an area until it has tested positive for West Nile Virus.

Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) called on the City Department of Health last Friday to take action and spray to rid the neighborhoods of these disease carrying mosquitoes before someone gets infected. The councilman was joined by residents, community board members and Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Little Neck), who said the mosquitoes were affecting the quality of life in the area.

Community Board 8 Chair Mark Lefkof said if the City fails to take

Photo by Veronica Lewin

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Councilman Jim Gennaro advises constituents to keep bugs away with spray. action and a resident becomes infected with West Nile Virus, he would consider it negligence.

"We are putting the City on notice now that we are tired of being second-class citizens and they're being negligent," Lefkof said. "We want the spraying, and we want whatever can be done now - not tomorrow, and not the next day."

Gennaro said the Asian Tiger mosquito is not native to the area and has only been around since 1995. "Not all mosquito spe-

cies do transmit West Nile, but the Asian Tiger does transmit it, and it transmits it very well," Gennaro said. The mosquito can hold on to the West Nile Virus for two egg cycles, increasing the risk of transmitting the disease.

The mosquito problem is not limited to residents of Jamaica Estates and Pomonok Houses. Councilman James Sanders (D-Far Rockaway) held a meeting last week to protest the Dept. of Health's inaction to spray the neighbor-

hoods of Arverne, Somerville, Edgemere and Bayswater despite numerous complaints from members of the community.

Since the meeting, the DOH has agreed to take action and will begin spraying on Thursday, weather permitting.

"It's a shame that we have to wait until it gets to this point every single year, but at least we're making progress," Sanders said.

"I thank our friends at the Health Department for hearing our cries and heeding our warnings about the dangerous situation out here. It's my sincere hope that we don't have to have another meeting like this next year, as we should be spraying before the deluge of mosquitoes actually arrives."

To stay protected, the DOH recommends using mosquito repellants containing DEET, oil of lemon eucalyptus, IR3535 or picaridin and use the product according to label instructions. Wear protective clothing when outside if possible, such as loose-fitting pants, long-sleeved shirts and socks. Residents should make sure that all doors and windows have tightfitting screens, and fix any screens with tears or holes. As mosquitoes are attracted to standing water, residents should eliminate any standing water on their property and remind neighbors to do the same.

Residents can also call 311 to report standing water.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123.

Helping Jamaica In Sean Bell’s Memory

Photo by Veronica Lewin

with the fifth offense costing children $2.25.

Liu’s 34 summer interns spent last Thursday cleaning and painting the outside of the center blue, Bell’s favorite color.

“Today, these wonderful public servants, left their calculators and computers and all of their office supplies and traded them for brooms and brushes for paint, hammers and nails, and they really – in many ways – remade this place,” the comptroller said.

Liu presented Bell’s parents, William and Valerie with a plaque for “strengthening the community by creating a safe haven for all,” including programs the center’s GED programs, tutoring and other services the center provides the community.

For more information on services the Sean Elijah Bell Community Center provides, call (718) 291-3512.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123.

Family Fun Day:

Photo by Juliet Kaye

Bell was shot 50 times by the police after a dispute outside of Club Kalua in Jamaica, Almost five years after his tragic death, although Bell was unarmed. The shooting the memory of Sean Bell lives on in Down- happened just hours before Bell was to town Jamaica. Bell’s parents, William and marry Nicole Paultre.

Valerie, opened a community center in Two months later, the site has transtheir late son’s name. formed from a vacant building to a space To kick off the opening of the Sean with artwork, computers and instruments.

Elijah Bell Community Center, Comptrol- The community center welcomed Liu and ler John Liu and others marched on May Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (D-Ja21 from the place where Bell was killed to maica) on July 28 to show the progress the center, located at 107-52 Sutphin that has been made over the last two Blvd., in Jamaica. months. To show their appreciation, the On Nov. 25, 2006, 23-year-old Sean children at the center played the drums for the Liu and Cook and sang songs, including “Lean on Me.” Liu said the community center has been an “incredible success because of the volunteers who put all of their hearts into this.”

Children in the community have been enjoying the Sean Elijah Bell Community Center all summer. The center provides activities for children of Jamaica, such as arts and crafts, drama and yoga. In order to promote discipline, the center has a dress code and a fine for swearing. First time offenders pay a fine of 50 cents, City Comptroller John Liu’s interns paint the outside of the which exponentially inSean Elijah Bell Community Center in Jamaica. creases for repeat swearers,

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Councilman Leroy Comrie held his Annual Wyanda Park Family Day with free food, music, inflatable games and festivities. (pictured r. to l.) Maurice Muir, Esq. Queens Legal Services, Assemblyman William Scarborough, Comrie, Ramon Cameron, CEO, Project Hope, Dorita Clark, You Can Go To College Exec. Dir., Shaun Francois, Chapt. Sec. Exec. Bd. Local 272.

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OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens Associate Publisher

Brenda Jones Executive Editor:

Brian Rafferty

Editorial Four Too Many

It has been three years since we saw the demise of three borough hospitals. Clearly, we have not navigated out of the storm yet.

The likely closure of Peninsula Hospital piles onto Queens' healthcare woes. What has been done since Parkway was forced closed by the state in 2008; or when Mary Immaculate and St. John's collapsed under financial pressure in 2009?

The answer is, quite simply, nothing. And the blame falls on the familiar cast of hapless legislators in Albany. Our borough's state representatives have had enough time to formulate some solution to the dire fiscal situation facing our hospitals.

Going forward, we should forego counting lost hospital beds and increased emergency room wait times. The true measure is lives lost.

Devising solutions to these tough issues is what we elect lawmakers to do. Call your state legislator. Let him or her know if they're not up to the job, you'll hire someone who is next time they're up for a review.

Deputy Editor:

Joseph Orovic Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie

You Serious, Mike?

Production Manager:

To The Editor: A sports legend from Queens upon reading Michael Schenkler’s latest column might well say, “You can’t be serious!”

Ed Koch is right. Anyone who is a Liberal-Progressive like David Weprin, by definition, no matter their own personal religious beliefs, cannot bring influence nor can he change the course chosen by a Chief Executive and a Secretary of State, both of whom are committed to the Socialist cause.

As to the country being on

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Harley Benson Domenick Rafter Jason Banrey Veronica Lewin Art Dept:

Sara Gold Rhonda Leefoon Candice Lolier Barbara Townsend Advertising Director James Mammarella Sr. Account Executive Shelly Cookson Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie

A Queens Tribune Publication. © Copyright 2011 Tribco, LLC

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Letters

Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher

Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher

the right path under President Obama, that statement alone gives cause for alarm. Regular gas is now selling for over $4 per gallon; the latest Gallup poll shows Obama’s numbers at a new low; his lack of leadership in the debt limit debate and the failure of every policy of his from “Cash for Clunkers” to the so-called stimulus have been failures. The American people by overwhelming numbers don’t want Obamacare and he has managed to alienate every important ally and to disparage the United States at every opportunity.

Letters Liberal-Progressives like Mr. Schenkler should realize that it takes more than reading either Clothard & Piven, Rules for Radicals, the Communist Manifesto or wearing a Che T-shirt to govern this, our country.

David Rivkin, Jamaica

A Simple Solution To The Editor: There is a simple answer to the budget crises in Washington.

What is wrong by starting with a return to 2008 spending levels?

On a one-for-one basis, cut a dollar in direct spending for every dollar you raise the debt ceiling. Government functioned very well that year with a significantly less spending and borrowing compared to 2011.

Many of us still have a desire to return to limited government.

This means requiring both the President and Congress to take real action today. This should include immediate implement “pay-as-go” budgeting, means testing for all government assistance programs, sunset provisions for agencies and programs that have completed their missions. End pork-barrel member item spending and stop paying farmers to not growing crops. Abolish corporate welfare subsides via favorable tax code deductions. Start a real campaign against waste, fraud

and abuse. The IRS needs to go after both individual and corporate delinquent taxpayers, along with overdue student loans.

These combined owe hundreds of billions of dollars in uncollected debts. Close down obsolete military bases abroad and reduce United Nations and foreign aid to those who offer us no support when needed.

Ask our European and Arab friends to reimburse the costs of our military adventure in Libya.

End the wasteful war in Afghanistan. Return to an open budget process agency by agency rather than the midnight omnibus budget adoption. Use the Presidential line item vetoes when Congress fails to follow all of the above.

Failure to do so will result in America going from the World’s Superpower to the World’s Super debtor nation. Not only the poor, but our vast middle class will suffer. There will be no safety net for anyone if we don’t have a real plan to pay our bills now rather than kicking the can to future generations. We need real action today, rather than to wait until 2023 to balance our budget, as President Obama and too many members of Congress propose.

By then it will be too late for America to save itself.

Larry Penner, Great Neck

A Tuskegee Airman Remembered A Personal Perspective

BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE

flying combat missions to Germany, Austria, Hungary, Greece, Yugoslavia and other parts of The recent passing of Europe, escorting allied bombTuskegee Airman William "Bill" ers during World War II in his Wheeler was a surprise to all Red-Tail P-51 Mustang. Many of who knew him. At 87, the white pilots they he still looked and acted were escorting were much younger. Along so impressed, they with other members of came to respect the local chapter of the these honorable heTuskegee Airmen, Lieuroes. But despite tenant Wheeler still entheir airborne herojoyed sharing the story ics over Europe, the of the men who helped Tuskegee Airmen win World War II for and their on-ground America and the Allied Tuskegee Airman colleagues came nations; but it took de- Lieutenant William back to the United cades for them to get "Bill" Wheeler States to the same their due. discrimination they Bill was one of the several had endured before leaving.

Tuskegee Airmen who visited Many of the pilots, and they schools and colleges in the area were mostly, if not, all college-eduto ensure that young people un- cated, tried to pursue careers as derstood that but for their sacri- commercial airline pilots only to fices, the freedom young ones be told there were no jobs or that now take for granted would still the only jobs available were to be a dream. The Tuskegee Air- clean the aircrafts. But they would men kicked down barriers not not be insulted. They turned to only by becoming the first Afri- employment outside of aviation can Americans to f ly combat and became successful in other missions, but by daring to suc- industries such as publishing, ficeed in their post-war lives de- nance, academia, automotive, spite America's racist attitudes. politics and corporate leadership.

Lt. Wheeler served his counAn impossibly good looking try as a decorated fighter pilot, man in his youth and in matu-

rity, Lt. Wheeler also enjoyed a long and happy marriage with his gorgeous wife, Minnie, for nearly 60 years until she was hit and killed by a car near the couple's Hempstead, Long Island home in 2004. He carried that deep grief with him for the rest of his life; but he survived it by becoming even more active as a historian.

It is a rare treat to meet people who are part of history.

World War II ("The Big One") was a larger-than-life event that brought down a terrorist regime and freed a people. Remains of American MIAs are still being discovered, identif ied and brought home for burial after nearly 70 years. The once-young people who fought in that war are now dying off at a fast pace.

Last year alone, three of the Tuskegee Airmen from our area died within months of each other. We've already lost another two this year.

America is trying to play catch-up in honoring the African Americans who served in that war. In 2007, President George W. Bush awarded all the original Tuskegee Airmen (and women) with the Congressional Gold Medal and feted the group in the

Capitol. President Obama invited them to his inauguration and various colleges and universities have awarded them honorary doctorates (Bill Wheeler had two of those) and York College honored members of the local chapter at a gala in 2009. The sight of nearly 20 Tuskegee Airmen - including Bill Wheeler and 95-year-old Spann Watson, who had trained many of the pilots - lining the stage of the college's Performing Arts Center was sublime.

But not all Tuskegee Airmen were literally airmen. Some were mechanics, chefs and general servicemen and women. The inclusive terminology just simplifies identification.

For me, the world is a lesser place for every Tuskegee Airman who dies. Cer t ainly Lt. Wheeler's passing has left us bereft of one of the dearest people I have ever met.

It is only appropriate to say goodbye using his own words - a stanza from "Beyond The Veil," one of the elegies he wrote to his beloved Minnie: "Just beyond this world of sadness and strife/ you have found a new, glorious life enriched with peace, happiness and God's love, /beyond the veil in Heaven above."

To Ed Koch: An Apology & A Map To Find Your Way

By MICHAEL SCHENKLER We received a letter from Ed Koch (printed below) reacting to my column of last week. He was highly critical of my position stating he had gone astray in his oneman crusade to turn the Special Election to replace Anthony Weiner in Congress (9th C.D.) into a vote to send a message to President Obama on Israel.

The Special Election is between little known Republican Bob Turner and long-time public servant David Weprin.

First an apology to the former Mayor who informs us that he has never made reference to the fact that “Weprin’s father, Saul, former Speaker of the New York State Assembly, was one of the few New

York Jews who did not the page to connect the support him over Mario dots, but it leaves a picCuomo and, as Koch ture that is not clear or pointed out, Ed Koch understandable. has a long memory,” as David Weprin is I stated in my column clearly the stronger of last week. the two candidates on If Ed says it’s unIsrael but don’t vote for true and his support of him because of that. the Republican has This election is not a referendum on Israel. nothing to do with Weprin history, I accept I am an American it and apologize. My Jew; I’ve been to Israel criticism of Ed Koch is and am a supporter of the only democracy in certainly not meant to challenge his integrity. the Middle East. HowHe says what he beever, I am an American lieves and is as honorfirst and believe the able as they come. job of our Members of David Weprin and Tribune Publisher Mike Schenkler That doe s not Congre ss is much make him right. cial Election in the 9th C.D. is a more diverse than the issue of Sometimes, he is off base or referendum on Israel. The President Israel. as I opened last week’s column: “Ed will not and should not modify his This past week, the job was foreign policy because Ed is an- clearly centered around raising the Koch has lost it”.

No Ed, I am not suggesting nouncing new standards upon debt ceiling. And last time he ran you are senile, just suffering from which the people should vote. for office, Bob Turner sang, to a And Ed, c’mon, voting for Bob reporter of this paper, the praises a belief that you have the ability to change the reasons people Turner, the guy with little record of Congressman Paul Ryan’s ecovote and the way the President suppor t ing Israel over Dav id nomic policy which is the center interprets votes. Sorry, it is this Weprin, a long-time supporter of of the Tea Par ty movement that t yp e of absur d crusadi ng that Israel, is not a me ssage to the nearly toppled this nation’s credit causes the voters to lose faith in President that the people want him rating. to be stronger on Israel.

If you care about Israel, it is the process.

Yes Ed, perhaps you and oth- crystal clear that Democrat David Ed Koch cannot tell President Obama that the results of the Spe- ers might be able to zig zag all over Weprin is the person who can de-

Mike Schenkler & then-Mayor Ed Koch liver the right me ssage to t he Democratic President.

If you care about our country, stay as far away from Tea Party sympathizers as possible.

In the weeks to come, prior to the September 13 Special Election, the Tribune will look at the entiret y of both candidates and make its recommendation. On Israel and the Economy, it seems to me David Weprin is by far, the clear choice.

Ed, I apologize for any error or if I offended you.

Howe ver, when you tr y to come from Manhat tan into our borough and hijack an election with misthink, your many years of good will won’t get you across that bridge without paying a toll.

MSchenkler@QueensPress.com

Koch: ‘Surprised To Read Schenkler Column’ fact that his son Mark Weprin became a member of my Mayoral administrat ion and I suppor ted David Weprin when he ran for the City Council.

Now to the substance of the issue of why I am endorsing Bob Tumer. It is to send a message to President Obama that he can no longer take the Jewish community for granted. He received 78 percent of their vote in 2008. Those concerned with the security of Israel — Christians and Jews alike — were shocked when President Obama orchestrated a campaign of vilification against Israel and its prime minister, Bibi Netanyahu.

You w il l recal l t hat Pre sident Obama insulted the Israeli prime minister at the White House and had Vice President Biden (a great supporter of Israel) and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (also a supporter) denounce Israel because of its housing construction in East Jerusalem and on the West Bank.

More recently, Pre sident Obama, in seeking to reopen peace talks between the Israelis and the Palestinians, sought to limit Israel’s ability to negotiate by stating the parties would be limited to the pre1967 borders with agreed upon swaps. Those borders, as he knows, are indefensible: at one point, the West Bank is 9 miles from the Mediterranean coast.

The President did not demand of the Palestinian Authority, now

comprised of Fatah and Hamas, that Hamas, in advance of settlement discussions, give up violence and terrorism and agree if a settlement accord is reached to recognize Israel as a Jewish state.

Hamas, in fact, has in its charter that ever y Jew who entered the Pale stinian Mandate after 1917 must be expelled from the land. My hope is that the 9th CD, with one of the largest Jewish constituencies in the nation, along with all other supporters of the State of Israel, will, in the only contested Congressional district in the countr y, by their repudiat ion of the Democratic candidate, send the President who will be running for reelection in 2012 a message. It is very disturbing to me that a Gallup poll taken in February 2011 reported “that whereas 85 percent of Republicans support Israel, (up from 77 percent in February 2009), and 60 percent of Independents support Israel, (up from 49 percent in February 2009), only 48 percent of Democrats support Israel (down from 52 percent in February 2009).”

I want to likewise send a message to the Republican leadership that it cannot privatize Social Security, Medicare; nor turn Medicaid into a block grant. All three programs must remain entitlement programs. Bob Turner is not only a supporter of Israel, he is also a critic of the Republican national

leadership seeking to privatize these entitlement programs. I believe his election will send a strong message to that leadership, as did the election of Republican Scott Brown who ran and won the Senate seat for merly held by Ted Kennedy in the blue state of Massachuset ts. As a re sult of t he latter’s election, President Obama clearly moved to the center on economic issues, to the consternation of former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who said of President Obama, “When we take a look at Social

Security, then look at it on its own table, but do not consider Social Security a piggy bank for giving tax cuts to the wealthiest people in our country. We are not going to balance the budget on the backs of America’s seniors, women and people with disabilities.”

On September 13, the eyes of the nation will be on the 9th CD, the only contested Congressional election in the country.

All the best.

Sincerely, Edward I. Koch

Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

To the Editor: I was surprised to read the patronizing editorial by Michael Schenkler, publisher and editor-inchief of the Queens Tribune, denouncing me for endorsing Republican Bob Turner over Democrat David Weprin for Congress in the 9th CD. I have no problem that we disagree on what is best for the U.S. and the voters of the 9th CD. I do take exception to his implication that I am senile for having made the decision I did. Even more distre ssing a nd outrageous was Schenkler’s assertion, “during this ridiculous process, Koch has made reference to the fact that Weprin’s father, Saul, former Speaker of the New York State Assembly, was one of the few New York Jews who did not support him over Mario Cuomo and, as Koch pointed out, Ed Koch has a long memory.”

This statement on the part of Mr. Schenkler is totally untrue, and I ask that he provide a single reference indicating I said that or apologize. I have never critically referred to Speaker Saul Weprin when he was an Assemblyman or as Speaker.

I was not close to him, and his support of Mario Cuomo, a colleague in state government and a family friend of the Weprins in 1977, was absolutely an honorable position for him to take. The fact that I had no enmity against him or his sons is demonstrated by the

On A Gurney:

Potential Closure Of Hospital Will Stretch Boro Medical Services Thin

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Woefully Unprepared President of the Queens Medical Society Dr. Jay Tartell said freestanding hospitals, such as Peninsula Hospital Center, have trouble staying open because they are unable to negotiate reasonable compensation from Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance companies, causing hospitals to accrue overwhelming debt. He warned if this trend does not change, hospitals in the City will continue to struggle. Tartell said bordering Brooklyn is facing its own hospital crisis, with at least five hospitals pending closure.

Queens has already lost too many hospitals in recent years, he added, resulting in extremely overcrowded emergency rooms. With the City's main airports, JFK and LaGuardia, in the borough, Tartell is concerned the borough would not be able to handle a major disaster.

"If God forbid there is a crisis, there

An Early Warning In November 2006, Borough President Helen Marshall released a report called "Vision for a Comprehensive and Sustainable Health Care and Delivery System in Queens" that warned the borough could face a health care shortage if serious action wasn't taken soon.

"The health care delivery system in Queens is not sustainable in its current St. John’s Episcopal Hospital will attempt to carry some of the burden of Peninsula’s closure, as it seeks state," Marshall's 2006 re- state approval to expand. port reads. The main finding of the report was there Should debt-ridden Peninsula Hospiare not enough hospital beds to serve the will be used for medical services.

State Sen. Shirley Huntley is also contal Center be taken off life support, those demand for health care in Queens.

Marshall said this results in people leav- cerned about the vanishing hospital beds who depended on the Far Rockaway hospital for care will have to travel elseing the borough for specialties such as throughout the borough.

"I think it's pure, pure stupidity," Hunt- where. St. John's Episcopal Hospital, cardiology, orthopedics and cancer care.

The report also revealed that people who ley (D-Jamaica) said. Jamaica Hospital soon to be the lone hospital on the penhave the ability to choose their care are Center, located in her district, is already insula, announced Tuesday that it plans leaving, meaning a growing number who overcrowded, she said, and the hospital's to accommodate the residents of Far those who seek healthcare in Queens de- emergency room is packed from sunrise Rockaway and Five Towns of Nassau as to sunset. On good days, the emergency much as possible. pend on Medicaid or lack insurance.

"Peninsula has been a valuable resource Marshall's study recommended a new room has a three hour wait.

Huntley said people who relied on to this community for decades," said hospital should be put in Western Queens to better serve residents. Two years after Peninsula Hospital Center for care can Nelson Toebbe, CEO of St. John's Episthe report came out, New Parkway Hos- drive to Jamaica for their medical needs, copal. "We have been aware for some time pital closed its doors in November 2008, but she is worried about those who do of the financial challenges Peninsula faces with the closing of St. John's and Mary not have a car. Huntley stressed that an- and we have both short-term and longother medical center needs to be put in term plans in place to care for Peninsula Immaculate following soon after.

The closing of these three hospitals place for the residents in Far Rockaway patients who wish to use our services."

Pending state approval, the hospital left the borough with a total of 3,766 beds so they can receive the care they need.

"I don't know where people expect plans to increase the capacity of its emerto serve more than 2 million people in the entire borough of Queens. Closing people to go for medical care anymore," gency room, ambulatory care, surgery, intensive care and in-patient facilities in the Peninsula Hospital Center will bring the Huntley said. coming weeks and months. St. John's also number of beds down to 3,593. plans to hire up to 250 former Peninsula Few Options Left "I cannot imagine how St. John's Episcopal Hospital - the only other hospital on The remaining hospitals in the borough employees, particularly nursing staff. Acthe peninsula - will be able to handle the are preparing for the addition of Far cording to the hospital, an accelerated overcrowding in the emergency room that Rockaway patients and employees. Though hiring process is already in place with will take place as a result of this closing," former Peninsula patients will likely travel Peninsula and their employee union, 1199 Marshall said after Peninsula Hospital Cen- to seek care at a hospital closer to them SEIU. In order to keep Far Rockaway resiter announced its possible closure last week. than Long Island City's Mount Sinai, the dents informed about the transition, St. John's is launching a website, "We have already seen the effect on sur- hospital is open to its employees. rounding hospitals when St. John's and "We're always open for qualified medi- careforrockawayfivetowns.com, to proMary Immaculate hospitals closed." cal professionals," said Mount Sinai vide information.

While an expansion of St. John's Marshall plans to call on state health spokesperson Shelly Felder. officials to convene an emergency meetBrian Mulligan, spokesman for the Episcopal helps residents affected by the ing to discuss the future of the Far North Shore-Long Island Jewish Health Peninsula closure, it may only put a Rockaway hospital. It is unknown at the System, said the hospital is disappointed Band-Aid on a hemorrhaging hospital time what the building will be used for to see yet another closure of a Queens hos- system within Queens.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at next, but the borough president wants to pital, but hopes to be able to serve any pamake sure that the building that houses tients in need of care. The medical system vlewin@queenstribunes.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 123. the outgoing Peninsula Hospital Center operates three hospitals in the borough.

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

The expected closing of the Far Rockaway's Peninsula Hospital Center will add to the list of borough hospitals that flat-lined over the last three years.

While some area hospital centers are prepared for the influx of patients, some are wondering which borough hospital will pull its own plug next.

As of Monday, the hospital has submitted a draft closure plan to the State Dept. of Health for their review and approval. Each hospital employee received a Warn Act notice on July 29, which contained an outline of employee rights, contact information, job retraining options and benefits employees are entitled to in the event of a closure. The hospital could shut its doors as early as 90 days after approval is granted.

"Peninsula has been struggling financially for several years prior to its sponsorship by MediSys, the Queens and Brooklyn based network that has attempted to make Peninsula financially viable in the current difficult economic market," the hospital said in a statement.

It declined requests for further comment.

The news about the potential closure came the day before the trial of former MediSys CEO David Rosen. Rosen is accused of bribing State Sen. Carl Kruger (D-Brooklyn) and the late Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio for preferential treatment towards MediSys, which operates several hospitals in the area, including the at-risk Peninsula Hospital Center, Flushing Hospital Medical Center and Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

Queens has already lost hospitals in Forest Hills, Elmhurst and Jamaica since 2008, leaving thousands without care close to home. Should Peninsula be shuttered, the borough's already overburdened hospitals will face another influx of patients, and further cripple a healthcare system many claim is already unable to handle disasters.

will be no excess capacity to accommodate an emergency," Tartell said, adding excess capacity is necessary for emergency situations. If the City faced a plane crash, natural disaster or terrorist attack, there will not be an adequate number of hospital beds to treat those in need of immediate care.

Police Blotter Compiled by DOMENICK RAFTER

110th Precinct Toddler Struck On Saturday, July 30, at approximately 6:40 p.m., in front of 42-20 82nd St. in Elmhurst, police responded to a 911 call of a pedestrian struck. Upon arrival, officers discovered Andrew Ramirez, 2, of 4189 Denman St., Elmhurst, had been struck by a van. EMS also responded to the scene and transported the child to Elmhurst General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. A preliminary investigation determined that the boy, who was crossing from the south side to the north side of 82nd Street, was struck by a 2007 Chevy Van,

driven by a 39-year-old Hispanic man that was traveling westbound on 82 Street.

There was no criminality suspected and the investigation was ongoing.

112th Precinct Motorcycle Accident On Saturday, July 30, at approximately 7:11 p.m., at the intersection of 72nd Road and Union Turnpike in Forest Hills, Police responded to a 911 call of a motorcyclist involved in an accident. Upon arrival, officers discovered Andres Rodriguez-Mojica, 37, of Miami Beach, Fla., unconscious and unresponsive in the street. EMS also responded to the scene and pronounced him dead at the scene.

A preliminary investigation determined that the motorcyclist was traveling east bound on Union Turnpike when he drove over the median and struck a Ford van, driven by a 29-year-old man that was traveling westbound on Union Turnpike.

There was no criminality suspected and the investigation was ongoing.

114th Precinct Shoot And Run

Police are seeking this man in connection with a shooting in Astoria.

The NYPD is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a man wanted for a shooting that took place on July 17 at approximately 4:50 a.m. in front of the En Express Deli located at 9-20 Main Ave. in Astoria.

The victim, a 28-year-old Hispanic man, was making a purchase when he became involved in a dispute with the suspect. The victim exited the location and was followed outside by the suspect, who fired numerous times, striking the victim in the leg. He then fled in an unknown direction.

The suspect is described as a black man, 26 to 34 years old, last seen wearing a white and green striped polo shirt, blue jeans and sneakers.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers Web site at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

Police are seeking this man, who allegedly misrepresented himself as an armored security guard and made off with over $14,000 in cash in Astoria.

Wrong Guard: The NYPD is seeking the public's assistance in identifying and locating the following suspect in regards to a Grand Larceny that occurred in Astoria.

On July 22, at approximately 10:15 a.m., inside Lorenzo's Enterprises, located at 35-40 31 St. in Astoria, a man entered the location wearing a GARDA Armored Courier uniform stating he was there for a pick-up. The employee turned over $14,800 dollars and the suspect left the location. A few hours later, another uniformed GARDA Armored Courier arrived at the location to make the scheduled pick up and was informed that the pick-up had

been made. Upon further investigation, it was determined that the first courier was not an employee of that company.

The suspect is described as a Hispanic male, 33-34 years of age, and was last seen wearing a GARDA uniform.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto the Crime Stoppers Web site at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

BEST IN QUEENS 2011

PR WIN IZ ES

The Tribune will publish a special edition showcasing the places, people and things readers love about Queens. The editors will comb the borough to find that great slice of pizza, that phenomenal rib shack, that beautiful vista or building that is part of what makes living in Queens so special.

But we need your help. Send in the form below, name your “personal bests” and we’ll print your entry. Need more room? Send as many pages as you'd like or e-mail bestofqueens@queenstribune.com.

Mail To: THE BEST OF QUEENS 2011 C/O The Queens Tribune, 150-50 14th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357 Desserts: Diner: French: Fried Chicken: Happy Hour Bar: Ice Cream: Italian: Japanese: Pizza: Seafood: Steak: Sushi:

RETAIL Auto Dealer: Bike Shop: Clothing Store: Florist: Hardware Store: Jewelry Store: Liquor Store: Pharmacy: Supermarket: Toy Store:

HEALTH & BEAUTY Day Spa: Dermatologist: Doctor: Hair Salon: Massage Therapist: Nail Salon: Personal Trainer: Veterinarian:

YOUR ADDRESS:

NIGHTLIFE Local Band: Local Musician: Movie Theater: Nightspot: Theater Group:

Handyman: Landscaper: Mover: Painter: Plumber: Roofer:

SERVICES Auto Repair: Cleaner: Contractor: Electrician:

YOUR PERSONAL BESTS:

Please attach any additional comments, photos or information about your entries to this coupon.

For Advertising Information On "The Best Of Queens 2011" Edition Call The Tribune At (718) 357-7400

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

FOOD & DINING Bagels: Bakery: Bar: Breakfast: Burgers: Butcher: Chinese: Coffee Shop: Cookies: Deli:

YOUR NAME:

pix

Childhood Discovery Mark Lambert Jr., 6, and Ashley Garcia, 10, experiment with elementary physics at Queens Library’s new Children’s Library Discovery Center, located adjacent to the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. in Jamaica. A “grand opening” will take place in mid-September, but it is open for fun and learning right now. Admission is always free. Hours are 10 am - 8:45 pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 1 pm - 8:45 pm on Tuesday; 10 am - 5:30 pm on Saturday and noon - 5 pm on Sunday (except holidays).

Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

Bookworms Rejoice

Queens Probation

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Queens Library staff gave a roaring standing ovation to a City Council delegation when the Speaker and Council Members surprised them during a staff meeting on July 13. The library staff spontaneously expressed their appreciation for the restoration of more than $23 million that was proposed to be cut from the library’s budget. The restoration saved hundreds of jobs and averted widespread reductions in library service. Pictured l. to r.: Queens Library CEO Thomas W. Galante, Councilmen Jimmy Van Bramer, Vincent Gentile, Leroy Comrie and Ruben Wills join Council Speaker Christine Quinn to address Queens Library staff.

Queens residents who are on probation worked alongside their Probation Officers and other NYC Department of Probation staff to help clean up Roy Wilkins Park in South Jamaica. This event was organized to recognize Probation Week.

Borough Beat

Pomonok Residents Await Cameras

BY JASON COHEN

Miscommunication between elected officials and the residents of the Pomonok Houses in South Flushing has finally reached a tipping point. With elected officials saying they allocated money for video cameras two years ago, the question remains: where are they?

After a year of increased gun violence at Pomonok, a town hall meeting on public safety was held July 20 to address the community's concerns.

"Surveillance cameras serve not only as a deterrent, but also as a prosecutorial tool," State Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flush-

ing) said. "If we had cameras in this housing complex, the perpetrators could have been caught on camera, and their photos promptly distributed to law enforcement, the community and the media."

Stavisky was joined by Councilman Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows), Borough President Helen Marshall, a representative from the New York City Housing Authority and Pomonok residents.

The murder of Laseam Hogan in October 2010 and two shootings on June 28 have made the residents of Pomonok feel that public safety measures need to be ramped up.

Crystal McMoore, a resident of Pomonok, said nothing was accomplished at the meet-

Missing Teen:

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

Jian Yuan Xu, who resides at 136th Street in Flushing, has been missing since Monday at 10 a.m. The 15-yearold was last seen by his parents when he informed them that he was going to his school library to study. He is currently a student at John Bowne High School. According to his family, Jian Yuan is shy and spends his time either going to class or the park near his home.

He is about 5’7” and was last seen wearing a green plaid shirt, gray shorts and sandals. Jian Yuan speaks and understands Fuzhounese and has limited English proficiency.

If anyone has information regarding Jian Yuan’s whereabouts, please call his parents at (646) 726-1188 or the 109th Police Precinct at (718) 321-2250.

ing and it took place only to appease the elderly in the community. McMoore cofounded Let's Succeed, Empower, and Motivate (LASEAM), after her friend Laseam Hogan was gunned down on Oct. 15, 2010.

There is one gaping hole in the community created by the lack of video cameras, she said, adding the surveillance devices would make the area a safer place.

Stavisky, who empathizes with the members of the community, said she knows they need cameras and has done everything she can to get them. She allocated $200,000 in April of 2009 to the Senate Finance Committee, but there is a $250,000 minimum needed to allot money. Since the allocation didn't meet this requirement, she needed to sign a waiver, which she submitted six months ago.

According to Morris Peters, spokesman for the State Division of the Budget, the waiver was received last week and is currently being processed. Susan Barnett, the public information officer for the Dormitory Authority of the State of New York said once the DOB processes the waiver, they will begin to move the grant forward.

At the meeting, a representative from the New York City Housing Authority said they are about to request bids for cameras from the public. But once the bids are submitted, there is no telling how long it will take until the cameras are implemented, Stavisky said. After working in

the government for a long time, Stavisky said nothing surprises her anymore.

"It's so frustrating when you allocate funds," she said. "Hopefully it will get done quickly."

Gennaro said he would match the $200,000 allocated by Stavisky and the $500,000 earmarked by former Assemblywoman Nette Mayersohn.

In a phone interview after the meeting, Gennarro explained that he did not know Stavisky allocated money for the Pomonok Houses two years ago. Ultimately, the government is about "capital choices," and there are "limited capital construction dollars," he said.

Gennaro explained there are other pressing needs such as money for the Parks Department, libraries, schools and other projects. Although residents of Pomonok have complained about the violence and lack of cameras in the past two years, only Pomonok community leader Monica Cobert has requested cameras, Gennaro said.

Cameras are needed for the buildings, but they cannot stop crime completely, he said. People should trust their police and if they see a crime, they should say something, the councilman said.

"That's a better fighting tool than any camera," he said.

Reach Intern Jason Cohen at 718-3577400, Ext. 124 or at jcohen@queenstribune.com.

A&E

Dancing Her Way Across Your TV

BY MARLENA MATUTE Rockaway native KC Castellano's first performance was at a summer recital held by dance teacher Gertrude Hendry when she was 3 years old. The daughter of former Tribune editor, Vince Castellano and the late Rosemarie "Ro" Castellano, has gone on from summer recitals to intense competition.

As a child, KC was involved in many activities, including soccer, piano, karate and of course, dance.

"The creative side of me surfaced rather quickly," she said, "I knew that this was my career choice."

But of all these hobbies, KC stuck with dance because of the times she shared with her mother, who passed away due to breast cancer in 2001 when KC was 13.

"My mother and I, there were no two

people on Earth closer; she was a big part of my dance life," KC said, "Dancing became an emotional outlet for me. She is with me always, especially when I am dancing."

The 23-year-old will join the line up of dancing reality show "Born To Dance" on BET. A creation of celebrity choreographer and creative director for Lady Gaga, Lauriean Gibson, it is an eight-episode series following 20 aspiring dancers in competition for the number one spot and $50,000.

Dancing is sacred to KC, holding much more meaning than money, fame or competitive recognition, as it gives her freedom of expressive feeling and artistic ability. This freedom is seen in the diversity in dance genres she has taken up, such as ballroom dancing, contemporary and jazz dancing, as well as hip hop.

She studied under many teachers and

Restaurant Review

A Spicy Delight TEQUILA JOE'S 67-63 Woodhaven Blvd. Rego Park (347) 639-0053 CUISINE: Tex-Mex HOURS: Everyday, noon-1 a.m.

PARKING: Lot in the rear, but also street RESERVATIONS: Accepted CREDIT CARDS: All Major

KC Castellano will show off her best moves on BET’s “Born To Dance.” that is what people remember you for."

"Born To Dance" airs Tuesdays at 10 p.m. on BET. Reach Intern Marlena Matute at mmatute@queenstribune.com

Redone Venue Promises Assorted Concert Treats After much anticipation and curiosity, The Paramount is ready to open its doors, bringing live music back half an hour’s drive out of Queens, in Huntington, for the first time since 2009.

Located at 370 New York Ave., the theatre has undergone massive renovations, infusing it with new, unique energy.

This new, cutting-edge concert space invites guests to enjoy superior treatment.

The 1,500-capacity venue will feature a general admission floor accompanied by reserved seating in the mezzanine and VIP sections. For those who want the “live music but with an extra touch of class,” membership is available to become a Founder’s Room VIP. A private concierge, VIP seating, and entrance to the Founder’s Room, a “hidden member’s only club,” are just some of the perks paid members will receive.

All-star performances are already lined up, the first being Elvis Costello & The Imposters, who will help celebrate the grand opening weekend on Sept. 30. The theatre will also house performances from

artists such as The B-52s, Jack’s Mannequin, NOFX, and more, with dates reaching into early November.

“When the Town began searching for a promoter to bring live performances back to Huntington Village, we envisioned just the type of facility the Paramount is about to become: a venue capable of attracting a wide variety of ages and entertainment tastes,” said Huntington Supervisor Frank P. Petrone.

Tickets will be available, starting Aug. 5 at 10 a.m., at paramountny.com, ticketmaster.com, to charge by phone (800) 745-3000 and select Ticketmaster outlets.

Upcoming Shows: Sept. 30 . Elvis Costello & The Imposters Oct. 4 ......................................... The B-52s Oct. 6 ............. Pat Benatar / Neil Giraldo Oct. 8 ............................. Blue Oyster Cult Oct. 12 ......................... Jack’s Mannequin Oct. 22 ......................... Weird Al Yankovic Oct. 23 .............................................. NOFX Nov. 5 ........................................ The Pixies

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

If you're looking at this address and seem confused, don't be. Yes, it's correct and the reason you've probably not seen a place called Tequila Joe's there before is this is a new establishment, replacing an Irish pub that previously stood there.

Tequila Joe's opened in May and has quickly become a popular hangout spot along Woodhaven Boulevard. It's more than just a restaurant, though that's enough; it's also a sports bar and moonlights as a nightclub. Tequila Joe's occupies two adjoining properties; the Southwestern-influenced restaurant, colored in the reds and browns of the desert, and the full-service bar showing the latest sports games in one and behind the bar, a lounge where on weekends a DJ spins, strobe lights pulsate and patrons dance the night away.

It's Saturday night and I'm here for a grammar school reunion. We make good use of the bar, enjoying the flavored margaritas and mojitos. I tried mango and pineapple, but we also grab a bite to eat.

The restaurant empties out after about 10 p.m. while the bar fills up.

I tried the ultimate nachos, which will require the use of more than just your fingers. Topped with salsa, chili, guacamole and jalapenos, the nachos seem more like a salad than a bowl of chips to pick on. The ultimate nachos are a meal by itself, and better shared with friends over a margarita.

The three-cheese quesadillas are fresh and flavorful and come with salsa, guacamole and sour cream. Choose one, two, or all three to garnish your quesadilla slices.

After 11 p.m., we retired to the lounge behind the bar for drinks and dancing.

The lounge has comfortable sofas to sit on and chat - if you can hear each other over the music - as well as tables.

I returned a few days later to try one of the restaurant's entrees. First, I sampled the stuffed jalapenos. Being a spicy food connoisseur, this appetizer was a must have. The heat of the pepper was soothed by the filling of cream cheese. The bacon it came wrapped in was an extra treat.

For my main course, I decided on the lemon-lime chicken. The sharp citrus taste made it a perfect summer evening treat. The meal came with a salad and I opted for the Tequila Joe's namesake version. It tasted like a regular garden salad except with bleu cheese and a tangy vinaigrette dressing. I chose the jalapeno mashed potatoes as my side dish. I enjoy spicy food and was surprised by the mild spiciness of the mashed potatoes. Even if you're not a fan of spicy food, the mashed potatoes aren't overpowering enough to make you run for the nearest water fountain.

Mix them with a forkful of chicken, or your entrée of choice (the mashed potatoes are an option on all entrees).

Though its focus is on Tex-Mex cuisine, there are some other local favorites.

There's a pizza margarita, three-cheese ravioli, and linguine in white or red clam sauce (Tequila Joe's is a stone's throw from Italian-American-heavy Middle Village) and buffalo wings if you're just coming to watch the game at the bar.

— Domenick Rafter

professionals of the field, picking up many awards on the way; among them are Junior Miss Dance of the United States in 2001 and Miss Dance of the United States in 2004. She has assisted and taught along side her former dance instructors as she did with Tyce Diorie on the hit TV show "So You Think You Can Dance." She has also taken on her own students and aspires to teach more in the future.

"Dancing and teaching, although they are related, are very different," she said.

"To watch young girls do what they love and knowing that I had helped them in some way is truly a wonderful feeling."

KC has also taken part in the commercial side of dancing, touring with recording artist Kat Deluna in Europe and Africa last year as well as appearing on stage with Lady Gaga earlier this year in Atlanta, Ga. According to KC, the point of the "Born To Dance" competition is to give the dancers the tools necessary to make it in, what she dubs, "the dance jungle."

However, even armed with these tools KC stated that through this experience she ended up finding herself as she was forced to find out who she is as a dancer, to open up and be the best that she could be.

This self reflection is part of the words of inspiration that she gives to fellow dancers that wish to advance in their chosen career path.

"A lot of people think us dancers prance around in our tutus and twiddle our thumbs for a living. But we know better," she said. "Strive to be the absolute best version of yourself. Embrace your individuality because at the end of the day

Faith

Aspirations Shine At Youth Revival

BY MARLENA MATUTE New Covenant Baptist Church in Queens Village ended its week of Youth Revival on July 21. The week's events culminated with a presentation by Thomas Morris Jr., an America's Most Wanted investigative reporter.

An episode of AMW, of a case covered

“Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.�

Luke 6:27-28

Notebook Youth Works

Youth On A Mission Helps Bethesda

BY VERONICA LEWIN

PHOTO: Courtesy of Youth Works

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

A group of young adults helped a Jamaica church prepare to celebrate 40 years of service in the community.

Youth Works operates week-long mission trips throughout the country designed to challenge participants while educating people about the word of Christ. The organization has 78 sites, including two in the City. Youth Works has been coming to Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church in Jamaica for the past six years.

Pastor Charles Norris first learned about the program when he received a let-

ter in the mail from Youth Works, asking for his participation in the program. As Bethesda approaches its 40th anniversary, Norris wanted to tidy things up at the church. The students from Youth Works helped out this summer by painting, doing lawn work and picking up trash in the area surrounding the church.

For the past five weeks, Youth Works has also been operating a day camp for kids in the neighborhood. From noon-3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, the young adults plan activities and games for children in Jamaica.

Youth Works also sponsors a commu-

Youth Works staff serves members of the community at a barbeque at Bethesda Baptist Church in Jamaica.

nity barbecue, which is something Norris said the neighborhood looks forward to every year.

During the day, the Youth Works staff does work around the community. At night, there is a 30-minute worship service followed by an activity for the group to do. On Monday night, a scavenger hunt around Jamaica was planned for the group.

So far, Youth Works has sent eight groups throughout the summer. The last group consisted of young people from Connecticut, Minnesota and Missouri.

Youth Works prides itself on being an inter-denominational church and strives to help people in communities all around the

country while spreading the love of Christ.

Every year the organization uses a bible verse that will complement the theme for the program. This year's theme is "being different," and this year's verse is Luke 6:27-28, which says "But to you who are listening I say: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you."

Those interested in participating in a Youth Works mission can visit youthworks.com/join.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123.

Photo by Ira Cohen

Word

"Pick something you like to do," Morris said, "that you think people will pay you to do."

The youth were asked to sit in the front to gain the full message and were reminded that they are not to lose the focus of their aspirations and ministry. Adult members of the congregation were encouraged by the words of Morris as well as the youth, saying that his words rang true as there were many miserable people out in the world that have strayed by New Covenant Baptist Church recently ended its week of not taking control of their des- Youth Revival. tiny and allowing God within church leader, "your ministry is different their lives.

This revival finale allowed one to re- but we need to know that in that ministry examine their place in society and what we have a purpose and we have to find it and go with it." one can do with it.

"God has a purpose for our lives, it Reach Intern Marlena Matute at may not be the same for all of us," said a mmatute@queenstribune.com

by Morris himself, was shown for the audience. The episode dealt with the murder of a New York record producer back in 2004 by an aspiring rap artist by the name of Tracery Boyce. Though the episode ended asking for any help from the viewing public, Morris announced that the culprit's arrest came a few hours after the episode aired as he was identified by police in Florida.

The young people were told that they should take their education seriously, as the things they are taught in school really do apply in everyday life. Examples were used to further instill this point, such as the role of mathematics in the timing of commercials on television and the mastery of the English language in the writing of TV shows.

Morris then asked the young people to speak of their aspirations and potential careers that they were considering, most of which dealt with science. He reminded the youth that money should not be a driving force in the decision of their career paths.

Profile

Fast Food? How About A Smoothie

BY VERONICA LEWIN

In a neighborhood filled with fast food joints offering high calorie meals with low nutritional value, residents in Queens Village now have a healthier option. Instead of getting an unhealthy after-school snack, students can now stop and get an all-natural smoothie from the Fountain of Youth juice bar.

Approaching its first anniversary, the juice bar, located on Hempstead Avenue, prides itself on being a healthy alternative for people in the neighborhood. Having fresh fruits and vegetables is not always the easiest choice, but Fountain of Youth feels it is the best option to give to the community. During the summer months, the business will get more than 20 fruits and vegetables from the local farmer's market.

Maurice Wiggan grew up in a West Indian family, where his father made a lot of his own juices, exposing him to the process.

In February 2010, Wiggan, along with his brother Desmond and girlfriend Sandra Martinez, decided to open a juice bar in the borough. Six months later, Fountain of Youth opened its doors at 217-93 Hempstead Ave. Wiggan said people often ask him why he chose to open a juice bar in Queens Village, instead of an area like Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The Queens na-

tive said it is more important to have Fountain of Youth located in an area that truly needs healthy eating options, rather than a trendy neighborhood that may take it for granted.

Having excellent customer service is something the owners of Fountain of Youth strive to maintain. Months before the store opened, the three researched and tested drink combinations to see what blends taste best. Martinez said she has customers who come in and ask for the "usual," and she will know what drink to make for them. She said it is really special when children will save up their allowance to come and purchase a smoothie, and will help the children make ends meet if they did not save up quite enough for their favorite treat.

Though the menu suggests more than a dozen drink combinations, customers are not limited to what is on the board.

Customers can walk in and make their own creation with the fruits and vegetables available at Fountain of Youth.

"It's all about the customer's imagination," said Wiggan.

He said the name of the juice bar has a double meaning. First, drinking the smoothies and juices offered at Fountain of Youth can help people stay healthy and feel young. The second meaning is more personal to Wiggan, who said a lot

Queens Village's Fountain of Youth juice bar aims to bring healthy food options back to Southeast Queens. of people can lose sight of their passions when they grow up if they do not hold fast to their aspirations like he did. Owning the juice bar, something Wiggan has always wanted to do, allows him to feel young, though he is only 27.

Fountain of Youth averages around 50 customers a day, with many new customers coming every day as word continues to get out. "People are really, really excited to see a juice bar here because it's a healthy alternative," Martinez said.

For those unsure of what ingredients will produce a drink that will meet their health needs, Fountain of Youth offers

books to educate customers on the nutritional benefits of foods, such as wheatgrass.

For those looking to watch their weight, Fountain of Youth offers smoothies designed to replace one meal a day. The juice bar also suggests all-natural blends that will cure everyday ailments, such as a carrot, celery, parsley and spinach drink that will ease headaches.

In addition to smoothies, Fountain of Youth offers other beverages such as tea and coffee, and fresh baked carrot muffins that contain flaxseed. The juice bar plans to expand its menu and begin selling paninis and salads in the near future.

Fountain of Youth has wi-fi available and occasionally hosts events, such as an open mic night, game night and professional networking events.

"We want to do so much, so hopefully we'll really make a mark in the neighborhood," Martinez said.

The trio plans to open up new locations "wherever there is a need." Martinez would like to see a Fountain of Youth location in Brooklyn, where she grew up, but no definite plans have been made.

Fountain of Youth is open until 11 p.m.

Monday-Saturday and closes at 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 123.

People

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Allstate Insurance agent John Lepore, List for the spring 2011 semester.

Shannon Parker of Middle Village was whose office is located at 112-30 Beach Channel Drive in Rockaway Park, has re- named to the Dean's List with Honors; ceived the Agency Hands in the Commu- Morgan Hasson of Hollis Hills was named nity Award for his commitment to volun- to the Dean's List with Honors; and Leshawn McFarlan of Jateering in the commumaica was named to the nity. With this award Dean's List with Honors. came a $1000 grant from The Allstate FounThe New York Lotdation for the the tery announced the Rockaway Partnership, names of area Lottery where Lepore volunplayers who claimed a teers. winning ticket from one "John is an active of the Lottery's live drawand respected member ings between July 10 and of the business commu16. The following winnity, protecting people ners each received a cash with insurance and fiprize valued at $10,000 nancial services prodor more. ucts," said Linda Matthew Viverito of Collora, New York reJohn Lepore Astoria who won gional sales leader at $24,984 on the Take Five Allstate Insurance Company. "He also makes a point of getting drawing of July 9th. Viverito's winning involved personally by dedicating his time ticket was purchased at the Diamond and efforts to making a difference in Candy & Grocery at 25-44 Broadway in Astoria. people's lives.

Joseph Braddock of Queens Village "Allstate believes that it is very important for corporations to take an active who won $43,546 on the Take Five drawinterest in the communities they serve. ing of July 8th. Braddock's winning ticket Allstate is proud to support the the was purchased at the Springfield Fruit & Rockaway Partnership through The Fish at 90-39 Springfield Blvd. in Queens Allstate Foundation," concluded Collora. Village.

Fejzi Zhaku of Woodside who won The College at Brockport, State $10,000 on the Powerball drawing of July University of New York, recently hon- 9th. Zhaku's winning ticket was purored students who excelled academi- chased at the 7-Eleven at 59-01 cally by naming them to the Dean's Roosevelt Ave. in Woodside.

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send typed 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.

IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.

THEATER STOP THE WORLD Friday, August 5 at 8, Saturday, August 6 at 7 and Sunday, August 7 at 3. Jubilee Cluster Players present “Stop the World I Want to Get Off” at the United Methodist Church of Glendale.

Saturday, August 13 at 7 and Sunday, August 14 at 3 at Trinit y Reform Church in Ridgewood. 894-8654.

WEST SIDE STORY August 5-14 at St. Gregory Theatre Group in Bellerose.

989-2451 KILLING KOMPANY Friday, September 23 “The Re a l i t y T V M u r d e r s ” a t Riccardo’s in Astoria. The Killing Company performs mystery dinner shows. 1-888SHOOT-EM for information.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

SENIORS BAYSIDE CENTER Tuesdays line dancing 9:30 and Thursdays 10:00. Fridays ballroom instruction at 10:15, ballroom and social dancing 1-3. Bayside Center for classes in movie, ping pong, bridge instruction, healthy lifest yle, card games, Wii bowling, painting, ESL, computer, exercise, dance, wellness workshops, etc.

Lunch at 11:30. 225-1144.

HOWARD BEACH Tuesday, August 9 10:15 nutrition lecture on Senior Nutrition and Fitness. Monday, August 15 talent show at 1:15. 156-45 84 th Street.

738-8100.

CAREGIVERS Ever y Tuesday Caregivers Support group at 3:30-4:30 at the Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center, 208-11 26 th Avenue, Bayside. 631-1886.

AARP DEFENSIVE DRIVING Tuesday, August 9 at the A u b u r n d a l e l i b r a r y. 6 4 1 3911.

STAY WELL Wednesdays at 10:15 at the East Elmhurst library for exercise and other health related programs.

WOMANSPACE Wednesdays Womanspace, a discussion group devoted to issues concerning women, meets 1-3 at the Great Neck Senior Center, 80 Grace Avenue.

AARP DEFENSIVE DRIVING Friday, August 19 at the M c G o l d r i c k l i b ra r y. 4 6 1 1616 to register.

YOUTH

TEENS CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at the Douglaston/ Little Neck library at 4.

MOVIES Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Flushing library at 2.

TRIVIA Mondays, August 8, 15 Are Yo u S m a r t e r T h a n a 6 t h Grader at the Pomonok librar y. Register.

SUMMER READING Monday, August 8 at the St. Albans library at 2.

MOVIE NIGHT Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Lefrak Cit y library at 3.

SUMMER READING Mondays, August 8, 15, 22, 29 at the Peninsula library at 4.

MOVIE NIGHT Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Arverne library at 5.

TEEN CHESS Mondays, August 8, 15, 22, 29 at the Bayside library at 6.

SUMMER READNG Tuesdays, August 9, 16, 23 at the Hillcrest library at 2.

HS EXAM Tu e s d a y, A u g u s t 9 a n d Thursday, August 11 specialized high school entrance exam prep at the McGoldrick library. Register.

DROP IN & READ Tuesdays, August 9, 16, 23, 30 and Thursdays, August 11, 18, 25 drop in and read at the Peninsula library at 2.

FAMILY FILMS Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the Pomonok library. Register.

CROCHET CLUB Tuesday, August 9 at the Douglaston library. Register.

WII & BOARD GAMES Tuesdays, August 9, 16, 23 at the Bayside library at 3.

SUMMER READING Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the Briarwood library. Register.

CHESS LESSONS Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y.

Register.

GAME DAY Every Wednesday at the Howard Beach library at 4.

GAME DAY Wednesdays, August 3, 10 at the St. Albans library at 4.

CHESS Wednesdays at 3:30 at the Queens Village library.

CREATIVE WRITING Wednesday, August 10 at the Windsor library at 4.

SUMMER CRAFTS Thursday, August 11 at the Broad Channel library. Register.

CRAFT DAY Thursday, August 11 at the Flushing library at 2.

VIDEO GAME Thursday, August 11 u l t i mate video game tournament at the LIC library at 2.

TEEN THURSDAYS Every Thursday at the Bay Terrace library at 3.

ROSEDALE TEENS Thursday, August 11 Rosedale Teens Read Too at the library at 3.

GRAPHIC ARTS Thursday, August 11 teen comic and graphic arts work-

shop at the Bayside library.

Register.

COOKBOOK Thursday, August 11 The One World, Many Stories Cookbook at the Langston Hughes library at 4:30.

CHESS TOURNY Thursday, August 11 East Flushing Library Chess Tournament at the library at 5.

TEEN TIME Friday, August 12 at the Douglaston library. Register.

TEEN HAPPY HOUR Friday, August 12 at the Flushing library at 2.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays, August 12, 19 at the LIC library at 2.

GAME DAY Friday, August 12 at 3 at the Arverne librar y.

READING FUN Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Peninsula library at 3.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Auburndale library at 3:30.

BOOK BUDDIES Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Bayside library at 4.

CHESS LESSONS Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Windsor Park library at 4.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, August 12, 19, 16 at the Woodside library at 4.

TEEN GAME DAY Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Rosedale library at 4:30.

TALKS THREE KINGS Saturday, August 6 Three Kings But Not Three of a Kind: The Wisdom and Madness of Rufus, William and Cyrus King lecture at King Manor Museum. $5 donation. 206-0545, ext.3 reservations.

IMAGES OF AMERICA Sunday, August 7 at 3 book signing of Images of America: Jamaica with a brief talk with the author.

King Manor Museum. 2060545, ext. 3 reservations.

HILLCREST Tuesday, August 9 “Little Princes” will be discussed at 3 at the Hillcrest library.

ARCHITECTURE Wednesday, August 10 Art Answers the Questions of Our Lives. Wednesday, August 17 Do Depth and Surface Have to Fight in Ourselves. Flushing library at 6.

GLENDALE Thursday, August 11 “Jane Eyre” will be discussed at 6:30 at the Glendale library.

DOGS Saturday, August 13 Dog Days of Summer: Rufus King and his family owned several dogs. Learn about the King family dogs 12-3 at King Manor in Jamaica.

KingManor.org LITERARY SOUP Thursday, August 18 Literary Soup at the Queens Village library at 6:30.

SEASIDE BOOK Monday, August 22 “Their Eyes Were Watching God” will be discussed at 6:30 at the Seaside library.

QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and pre-school programs. Contact your local branch for dates.

WET & WILD Saturdays, August 6 or 13 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000.

ANIMAL CARE Saturday, August 6 at Alley Pond Environmental Center.

229-4000.

SCULPTURE PARK Saturdays through September 24 the Socrates Sculpture Park will hold drop-in workshops for families.

MATH HELP Saturdays at the Flushing library at 10.

CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2.

S TORY TIMES Saturdays at 11 and Tuesdays at 10:30 weekly story times at Barnes & Noble, 1766 0 Un i o n Tu r n p i ke , F re s h Meadows.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at 4 at the Douglaston/Little Neck lib ra r y. B r i n g n e e d l e s a n d yarn.

SUMMER READING Mondays through August 8 at the Laurelton library at 2.

DRAMA CLUB Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Arverne library at 2.

READING KIDS 4-7 Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Briarwood library. Register.

READ TO ME Mondays, August 8, 15, 22 at the Hillcrest library at 2.

BOOK REPORT Mondays, August 8, 15 at the Lefrak City library. Register.

WORLD TRAVELERS Mondays, August 8, 19 at the Peninsula library at 2.

READING & CRAFTS Mondays, August 8, 15 at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y.

Register.

CROCHET Monday, August 8 at the Rosedale library at 3.

GREEK HEROES Mondays, August 8, 15, 22 recycled art project at the Broadway library. Register.

MOVIE NIGHT Mondays, August 8, 5 at the Arverne library at 5.

SPOTTED PLANET Monday, August 8 Spotted Planet Defenders at t h e Wo o d s i d e l i b r a r y .

Register.

PAJAMA STORY TIME Monday, August 8 at the Glendale library. Register.

S TORY T I M E Tuesdays, August 9, 16 bilingual storytime at the Astoria library at 10:30.

MATH WIZARDS Tuesday, August 9 at the Arverne library at 4.

READING GRADES 1-3 Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the Lefrak City library. Register.

SUMMER READING Tuesday, August 9 at the Maspeth library at 2.

DROP IN & READ Tuesdays, August 9, 16, 23, 30 at the Peninsula library at 2.

FAMILY FILM Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the Pomonok library. Register.

CROCHET CLUB Tuesday, August 9 at the D o u g l a sto n l i b ra r y. Re g i s ter.

WII & BOARD GAMES Tuesdays, August 9, 16, 23 at the Bayside library at 3.

READING CRAFT Tuesday, August 9 at the Broad Channel library. Register.

SUMMER READING Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the North Forest Park library at 3.

CHESS CLUB Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at the Steinway library at 3:30.

CHESS LESSONS Tuesdays, August 9, 16 at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y.

Register.

LEARN CHESS Tuesday, August 9 at the Rosedale library at 4:30.

THEATRICKS Tuesday, August 9 at 2 at the Fresh Meadows library.

Also on Wednesday, August 10 at 2 at the South Ozone Park library. Also on Friday, August 12 at 4 at the Hollis library.

PALEONTOLOGY Tuesday, August 9 Paleontology of Dinosaurs: Moveable Museum from the Moveable Bus at the Langston H u g h e s l i b r a r y. Re g i s te r.

Wednesday, August 10 at the Flushing library and the Fresh Meadows library. Register.

CHESS Wednesdays at the Queens Village library at 3:30.

READ TO ME Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24 at the Bay Terrace library at 10:30.

READ TO ME CLUB Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24 at the Bellerose library.

Register.

READ & PLAY Wednesdays, August 10, 17 at the Broadway library at 10:30.

STORY TIME Wednesday, August 10 at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30.

TAKE ME TO THE WORLD Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24 at the Peninsula library at 10:30.

READ TO ME Wednesday, August 10 at the Rosedale library at 10:30.

FAMILY PLAY TIME Wednesdays, August 10, 17 at the Queensboro Hill library. Register.

READER ROUNDUP Wednesdays, August 10 at the Glendale library at 2.

PRE-SCHOOLERS Wednesdays, August 10, 17 at t he Lefrak Cit y libra r y.

Register.

WORLD EXPLORERS Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24 at the Peninsula library at 2.

FUN READING CLUB Wednesdays, August 10, 17 at the Bay Terrace library at 3:30.

BABYMOUSE CLUB Wednesdays, August 10, 17 at the Arverne library at 4.

KNITTING Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24, 31 at the Bayside library at 4.

TOPS TRUMP CARD Wednesdays, August 10, 17, 24, 31 tournament at the LIC library at 4.

SING & CELEBRATE Thursday, August 11 songs from around the world at the Forest Hills library at 2.

MAGIC WORKSHOP Thursday, August 11 at the Kew Gardens Hills librar y.

Register.

SUMMER CRAFTS Thursday, August 11 at the Pomonok library. Register.

ARTS & CRAFTS Thursdays, August 11, 18 at the Steinway library. Register.

CRAFT TIME Every Thursday at 3:30 at the Ozone Park library.

T WILIGHT TALES Thursday, August 11 at the Douglaston library. Register.

BOY SCOUTS Thursdays Boy Scout Troop 138 meets at 7:30 in the basement at 192-15C 64 th Circle, Fresh Meadows. For those 11 and older. 4542391.

TODDLER CRAFTS Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Briarwood library. Register.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays at 2 at the Queens Village library.

GAME DAY Friday, August 12 at the Bay Terrace library at 2:30.

GAME DAY Friday, August 12 at the Arverne library at 3.

FLASH FRIDAY Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Ozone Park library at 3.

KIDS GAME DAY Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Rosedale library at 3.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Auburndale library at 3:30.

BOOK BUDDIES Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Bayside library at 4.

YU-GI-OH Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Queensboro Hill library at 4.

CHESS LESSONS Fridays, August 12, 19 at t h e W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y.

Register.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, August 12, 19, 26 at the Woodside library at 4.

CUB SCOUTS 351 Fridays at St. Nicholas of Tolentine school cafeteria, Parsons Blvd. and Union Turnpike. Boys in grades 15. 820-0015.

FAMILY STORY TIME Fridays, August 12, 19 at the Queensboro Hill library at 11.

FAMILY CRAFT Saturday, August 13 at the Bayside library. Register.

YOUNG CHEFS Saturday, August 13 at Alley Pond Environmental Center, 229-4000.

CRAFT PROGRAMS Sunday, August 14 introduction to quilting 1-4. Queens Historical Societ y. 939-0647, ext. 17.

Lost Borough Apparently Queens’ diverse streetscape is too tough to navigate - so no one should attempt traveling in our borough.

According to an article published on the Wall St. Journal’s Web site last week, the borough is lost and there is nothing we can do about it.

Sumathi Reddy, the article’s author, says you should do “yourself a favor: Avoid driving in Queens.”

Never, Reddy; compared to Brooklyn and the Bronx (we won’t even comment on Staten Island) Queens is a dream to navigate.

The journalist even goes on to interview some of the borough’s own who do not even know how to get their way around the many streets that criss-cross our great landscape.

In a day in the age of smart phones, GPS systems and just plain ol’ Google, you would think finding your way around the best borough in the city would be easy for those who are quick to judge.

Reddy, if you have a problem with our criticism you know where to find us – that is if you can.

Angelina

Models Of Queens

Ask Angelina what’s on her mind, and if she’s in the mood to talk, you’d better give yourself a while. She has a lot on her plate.

She reached out to us recently to know how she could be featured as a Model of Queens (which is much easier than you might think ladies – hint, hint).

Angelina describes herself as a “talented young lady” who not only models and acts, but also teaches Martial Arts. Certainly, the rigorous routines help keep her in tiptop shape.

But she’s not looking to get into the seedier side of modeling – far from it. Angelina is a praise dancer at local churches, and is moved by the Spirit.

“I’m interested in working on my career and taking it to the next level,” she said. “I am a very openminded, business-oriented and focused person.”

And she’s got great legs, too.

We’re not sure what the future may hold for this beautiful young lady, but we know this – if she keeps up the martial arts she’ll certainly continue to knock us over.

Angelina Stokes Home: Jamaica Age: 20 Height: 5’ 8" Weight: 120 lbs Stats: 32-26-36

Keep Fighting

Facebook to Bank Robber Queens native Jesse Eisenberg was nominated for an Oscar for his role as Mark Zuckerberg in “The Social Network” last year, but, on Aug. 12, he will be making you laugh in a comedy where he portrays a pizza delivery boy who gets kidnapped by actors Danny McBride and Nick Swardson and forced into strapping a bomb to himself and robbing a bank in “30 Minutes Or Less.”

Along with Aziz Ansari of NBC’s “Parks and Recreation,” the two of them attempt to rob a bank with fake guns and hopefully don’t get killed in the process. This may not be an Oscar worthy film, but it will surely make moviegoers laugh and show that Christopher Walken isn’t the only Queens actor who can switch from drama to comedy and still make us smile.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 5-11, 2011

A Comfortable Read

It Gets By Buckner How many times have you heard Citi Field’s loudspeakers urging you to relive the magic of past Mets championships? Well flip to HBO this season and you’ll catch a chance at reliving one of the most famous errors in baseball history, as Bill Buckner and Mookie Wilson will appear on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.”

The critically acclaimed – and frankly hilarious – show features Seinfeld creator Larry David going through awkward moments in life. His run in with Buckner, though still kept secret, promises to be no different.

Of course, nothing beats watching the actual easy out that never was.

Jesse Eisenberg as Mark Zuckerberg

NYC Council Member Daniel Dromm (left) and Jackson Heights Beautification Group President Edwin Westley (right) read the Queens Tribune while sitting on the recently reinstalled benches in front of the Jackson Heights Post Office on 37th Avenue. The two men worked together with Congressman Joseph Crowley and Postmaster Bill Rogers to bring the benches back in an effort to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of their community. The sidewalk furniture encourages people to spend more time in public spaces and to take pleasure in the street life which makes Jackson Heights such a vibrant neighborhood.

Michael Costantino was born without a right hand – but he apparently had a great left hook.

The disabled boxer from Ridgewood doesn’t have a stellar record, but has been able to hold his own against some of the harshest opponents in his weight class.

The Transportation Security Agency, it seems, is trying to deal The proud pugilist on Fox News. him a TKO. Costantino had applied for a job to be a security officer at one of our local airports, and made it through all the prerequisites – until they told him that he did not pass the physical.

The letter he received from the TSA said that he wasn’t capable of opening or zippers luggage, or performing pat-downs, though this handi-capable man was never tested for his physical abilities.

The southpaw has never backed down from a fight before, and he plans to take this as high as he can to get some respect – and a job.

Keep Fighting, Mike

Confidentially, New York . . .

What’s Up SATURDAY, AUG. 6 Youth & Tennis The Youth and Tennis group meets every Saturday morning at Roy Wilkins Park Saturday. To learn more, call Bill Briggs at (718) 658-6728.

Walkers for Wellness Club Looking for a fun way to improve your health? Join the Walkers for Wellness Club at New Hope Lutheran Church of Jamaica. Under the guidance of a Walking Leader, you will walk two to three times each week at a comfortable pace with others along routes throughout Southeast Queens. The club is open to walkers of all ages and abilities. The walking schedule is Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7 p.m., and Saturdays at 8 a.m. Walkers meet at New Hope Lutheran Church, located at 167-24 118th Ave. T-shirts and pedometers will be provided. Contact Thurkessa Brown at (917) 553-1089 for more information.

Jamaica Arts & Music Summer (JAMS).

Come on out for a day of festival splendor.

For additional information, contact (646) 524-3554 or jams@go2ccj.org.

This free event will take place at Jamaica Avenue. Call for a time.

Spend one day at the library and learn all the best strategies for finding a job. By the end of the day, you and your resume will be fit to find your best job.

This free event will take place at the Queensborough Public Library's Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 10:30 a.m.

MONDAY, AUG. 8 Adult Chess Club Practice your chess skills weekly, on Monday and Thursday evenings.

The event is held at 6 p.m. every Monday at Queens Village Library, 94-11 217 St., (718) 776-6800.

Strategies For Your Job Search

Stay fit and have fun with a series of free fitness activities at Idlewild Cricket Field in Idlewild Park Preserve. Learn the basics of this exciting Martial Arts form from ancient Brazil with Eric Fungo. He will focus on some of the basic movements including "escapes" and "attacks."

Capoeira helps you develop core strength, tone muscles, improve reflexes, flexibility and agility. No prior experience necessary. All are welcome! Wear comfortable clothes and shoes.

This free event will take place at Idlewild Park - Brookville Boulevard at 149th Avenue - from 9:15-10:30 a.m.

Beginning a job search can be overwhelming. Prepare yourself to start a successful job search. Participants will learn: What you need to start a job search; about general and career-specific websites; how to safely find and apply for jobs online; how to post your resume online; how to email a resume; appropriate ways to follow up after applying online.

This free event will take place at the Queensborough Public Library's Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 6 p.m.

The National Council of Ghanaian Associations Inc. is please to present its Annual Picnic, Durbar and Concert 2011.

Come on out for a day of live music featuring top artists from Ghana and the U.S. The special host will be Boogie Down Nima Productions. Bring your picnic tables, chairs, blankets, and your dancing shoes. There will be lots of fun for the entire family.

When: Saturday, August 6th - 12:30 pm to 8:00 pm This event will take place at Roy Wilkins Park - Merrick Boulevard at Baisley Boulevard - from 12:30-8 p.m. Admission is $10.

Three Kings

JAMS Festival 2011 Cultural Collaborative Jamaica is proud to present the 15th anniversary of the

The Incredibles See Wednesday's listing. At 8 p.m. at Saint Albans Park - Merrick Boulevard at Sayres Avenue.

Polish Your Resume Bring a copy of your resume on a flash drive; volunteers will guide you through editing and producing a professional quality resume using Cyber Center computers.

Participants must have keyboard and mouse experience. Pre-registration is required at the Job Information Center.

This free event will take place at the Queensborough Public Library's Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 6:30 p.m.

Toy Story A Better Jamaica's Family Movies in the Park is pleased to present "Toy Story."

This free event will take place at Cambria/Cabbell Park - Francis Lewis Boulevard at 120th Avenue - at 8 p.m.

TUESDAY, AUG. 9 Job Club Every Tuesday, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Jamaica Neighborhood Center offers a free service to assist people from Southeast Queens with job-readiness skill sets in writing a professional resume and cover letter; interviewing practices and techniques; applying on-line procedures; elevator pitch and Microsoft Suite 2007.

For additional information, contact Lenin Gross, Job Coach, at (718) 739-2060, Ext. 18 or lgrossjnc@yahoo.com.

This free event will be held at the Jamaica Neighborhood Center - 161-06 89th Ave.

Camera Club The Southeast Queens Camera Club meets at Roy Wilkins Park, Administration Bldg., 2nd Floor, 177-01 Baisley Blvd. Summer photography classes occur

See Monday's listing. At Brookville Park - Brookville Boulevard at 143rd Avenue at 8 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 10 York Observatory Open Night The York College Observatory is open to the public every second or third Wednesday of the month - rain or shine - at 8:30 p.m. Gather in room 2E01 and then proceed to the fourth floor terrace off G corridor if it's clear. For additional information, contact Tim Paglione at paglione@york.cuny.edu or (718) 2622082.

This free event will be held at the York College Academic Core Building (AC 2E01), 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. from 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Strategies For Your Job Search See Monday's listing. At 10:30 a.m.

The Incredibles A Better Jamaica's Family Movies in the Park is pleased to present "The Incredibles." Come on out, bring the whole family.

When: Wednesday, August 10th - 8:00 pm This free event will take place at Baisley Pond Park - Foch Boulevard at Long Street - at 8 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 11 Walkers for Wellness Club See Saturday's listing. At 7 p.m.

Basic Writing for Job Seekers In a tough job market, spelling, punctuation and grammar errors in a resume or cover letter can mean that a potential employer will toss your resume in the trash.

Brush up on essential writing skills: sentence and paragraph construction; proper grammar; proper use of punctuation; basic structure of a cover letter.

This free event will take place at the Queensborough Public Library's Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 3:30 p.m.

Bill Jacobs Trio The Sutphin Boulevard BID invites you to join them for their free Summer Concert Series. Up this week is Bill Jacobs Trio. For more information about the Summer Concert Series, please contact the Sutphin Boulevard Business Improvement District office at (718) 291-2110.

This free event will take place at Supreme Court Plaza - 88-11 Sutphin Blvd. at 1 p.m.

Workplace Etiquette & Behavior You've been lucky enough to get a job...how do you make sure you keep it?

Participants will learn: appropriate dress for men and women; punctuality and scheduling; standards for face-to-face, phone and email communication.

This free event will take place at the Queensborough Public Library's Central

FRIDAY, AUG. 12 Senior Theatre Acting Repertory Calling all older adults: Join our galaxy of STARs to perform theatrical works at the library with a great group of people while brightening your life.

Rehearsals are held at 10:30 a.m. Fridays at Queens Village Library, 94-11 217 St., (718) 776-6800.

Raging Bull A Better Jamaica is pleased to present Classic "Boxing" Film Fridays. Fourth in the series of five Classic "Boxing" Film Fridays is "Raging Bull." Nothing matters to middleweight boxing champ Jake La Motta (Robert De Niro) except winning. The "Bronx Bull's" intense pursuit of the championship damages his life outside the ring, eventually causing his teenage wife (Cathy Moriarty) to leave him, and his devoted younger brother (Joe Pesci) to hate him. Please note that this film is rated R. This free event will take place at Rufus King Park - Jamaica Avenue at 153rd Street - 8 p.m.

ONGOING CPR Training The FDNY Mobile CPR Training Unit will hold regularly scheduled free CPR classes in all five boroughs. The first Tuesday through the fourth Tuesday and the fourth Thursday of every month there will be Borough CPR training sessions in Manhattan, Brooklyn, the Bronx, Staten Island and Queens.

Training is free to anyone over the age of 14. The goal of this program is increase the number of people in New York City trained in bystander CPR Each class lasts 1 hour and participants in the class learn basic CPR skills from a member of the FDNY Emergency Medical Service.

Volunteers for the class follow along using the CPR Anytime Personal Learning Kit, which features an instructional DVD and an inflatable mannequin. All participants are able take home the kit at the end of class and asked to pledge to use the kit to show five of their family members and friends how to perform CPR. This class teaches basic CPR technique and is not a certification course.

In Queens, the classes will be held the fourth Thursday of every month at EMS Station 54, 222-15 Merrick Blvd. In addition, please visit www.nyc.gov/cprtogo for New York Sports Club locations offering free CPR classes starting in January.

Please visit www.fdnyfoundation.org or call (718) 999-2413 for more information.

HIV Awareness Clergy United for Community Empowerment provides intervention and curriculum-based prevention education sessions on HIV/AIDS, to reduce risk behaviors that lead to HIV transmission. Services are located at 89-31 161st St., Jamaica. Call (718) 297-0720 ask about our presentation to adolescents and men/women of color. Services are available Tue.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Aug. 5-11, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

The three King brothers, Rufus, William & Cyrus, were important figures in the early republic despite their fairly obscure origins on the Maine frontier. Each King was very different; they were hardly "three of a kind." Together, they represent a remarkable range of political and social views that influenced the young United States, from racial issues to freedom of religion, to westward expansion and state's rights. Their influence will explored in a lecture by Joshua Smith, Ph.D. For additional information, visit kingmanor.org, call (718) 206-0545, or send an email to contact@kingmanor.org.

This free event will take place at the King Manor Museum - Rufus King Park, 153 Street at Jamaica Avenue - at 5 p.m.

Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd., at 3:30 p.m.

Toy Story Job Search Boot Camp

Capoeira

Picnic, Durbar and Concert

on the second, third and fourth Tuesdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. Classes are free - bring camera manual.

For full details, visit seqcc.org or (718) 723-6849 or (516) 328-3776.

NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL SPEAKER

CHRISTINE C. QUINN COUNCIL MEMBER LEROY COMRIE COUNCIL MEMBER RUBEN WILLS

INVITE YOU TO CELEBRATE

Jamaican Independence Day TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2011 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM York College Performing Arts Center 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Boulevard Jamaica, NY 11451 FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT: Office: (718) 776-3700

Email: KThompson@council.nyc.gov