Queens Press by Queens Press

Volume 11 Issue No. 32 Aug. 13 - 19, 2010

PAGE 26

PRESS Photos by Ira Cohen

UNBOWED

Colleagues and supporters rallied behind Sen. Shirley Huntely in front of her home Wednesday after a series of harassing calls and messages culminated in a perceived threat against her life – a bouquet of flowers (inset) left on her steps with a ribbon reading “Rest In Peace.” By Domenick Rafter…Page 3

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Presstime BY DOMENICK RAFTER Gathered with colleagues and supporters outside her home Wednesday morning in Locust Manor, State Sen. Shirley Huntley (D-Jamaica) fought back against recent threats made against her that culminated in a bouquet of flowers being left on her front stoop with a message that read “Rest in Peace”. Huntley, locked in a competitive primary against former City Council candidate Lynn Nunes, said she has been receiving threatening phone calls since June, and her niece discovered the bouquet of flowers shortly after 6 a.m. Tuesday. Initially thinking it to be either a friendly gesture or left there by mistake, she took the bouquet inside and found the threatening message in a ribbon tied around the bouquet. She immediately filed a police report and decided to make the threats public. “The incident that I had to endure yesterday was not only threatening, but cow-

ardly. I take this, and all threats very seriously,” Huntley said. She gathered in front of her home Wednesday morning with her colleagues from all around the city, including Senate Democratic Conference Chairman John Sampson (D-Brooklyn), Senate President Pro Tempore Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans), and Sens. Toby Ann Stavisky (DFlushing), Jeff Klein (D-Bronx) and Liz Krueger (D-Manhattan), as well as Assembly Members Audrey Pheffer (DRockaway Park), William Scarborough (D-Jamaica) and Barbara Clark (DQueens Village). “Any anonymous threat or attack has no place in a democracy,” Sampson said. “This will no longer be tolerated.” “If this had happened to me, Shirley would be the first person to be there for me,” Stavisky said. Smith had a message directly aimed at the perpetrators. “If this was meant to get attention, you have gotten the attention you seek,” he

Feast Or Famine For Seats In Boro Schools BY JESSICA ABLAMSKY

State Sen. Shirley Huntley (l.) was joined by Rev. Charles Norris and supporters to condemn a bouquet of flowers containing a threatening message left at her door.

said. “You might believe that your acts have caused the intimidation of Sen. Huntley, but I’m here to tell you, it’s not going to happen.” Huntley said she had no idea who sent her the flowers or made the threatening phone calls. Nunes, who has been strongly supported by LGBT rights groups and donors after Huntley’s “no” vote on samesex marriage in December, joined her and her colleagues in condemning the act. “I stand with Sen. Shirley Huntley and our community in expressing shock and outrage at recent events, and in agreement that there is no place in politics, government or campaigns for the malicious acts she has described,” Nunes wrote in a prepared statement. “I look forward to continuing our spirited campaign to represent our neighborhoods and neighbors in the State Senate.” Still, some suggested those angry over the vote could be responsible. Assemblyman Scarborough alluded to them when he spoke in defense of Huntley on Wednesday. “Those who say their rights have been

violated should not go ahead and violate someone else’s rights,” he said. But Krueger, who was a staunch supporter of the same-sex marriage legislation, spoke in defense of Huntley. “Shirley and I know we disagree on many issues,” she said, placing her hand on her colleague’s shoulder. “For this great country to survive, we have to be able to keep the debates civil.” Former City Councilman Archie Spigner said the perpetrators needed to be found and prosecuted. “I’m calling on the District Attorney to arrest these buzzards and prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law,” he said. “It’s better for them to get caught by the DA than face us in the community.” For Huntley, she said the act only made her more steadfast in her beliefs and will only move her forward in her campaign. “They have made me stronger,” she said. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (7180 3577400, Ext. 125.

Aqueduct Deal Done BY DOMENICK RAFTER Genting New York's bid to develop and manage the Aqueduct "racino" won its final approval this week from the "three men in the room." Gov. David Paterson, Senate Democratic Conference Chairman John Sampson and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver all signed off on the deal, allowing it to move forward. "Nothing is more important than creating jobs. The acceptance of Genting puts New York on the fast track to rebuild our local and state economy through sound economic development and immediate and long-term job creation," Sampson said Tuesday. Both leaders acted on the advice of the chairmen of each house's racing committee, Sen. Eric Adams (D-Brooklyn) and Assemblyman Gary Pretlow (D-Yon-

kers). At a hearing on Monday with Genting officials, Adams pressured both Sampson and Silver to approve the deal by the end of the week. Once the deal is complete, Genting will pay the $380 million fee to the state and work will begin on the project. Gov. Paterson expressed impatience in the state legislative leaders earlier this week for taking so long to approve the deal after the Division of the Lottery gave its approval to Genting on Aug. 3. "The quicker that we can make a decision, which always seems to be a problem when it comes to this issue, the faster we can get this money into our economy," Paterson said Tuesday. The next step in the process is the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding finalizing the deal, which is expected to be a mere formality.

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

It should come as little surprise to Queens residents that despite increased capacity, overcrowding at high schools in the borough remains a persistent problem. Unlike the rest of the City, where some of the bigger schools had more seats than kids, some 4,000 Queens students overcrowded a handful of select high schools in the 2008-09 school year, according to a new report from the City Independent Budget Office. Exacerbating the problem, however, were enrollment patterns, which left some borough schools more than half empty and others bursting at the seams. The Queens Tribune discovered that there were more than 7,300 seats available at under-enrolled schools in Queens, based on information in the report. Of those, about 60 percent were available at schools with a capacity of fewer than 1,000 students. Excess capacity at the larger schools came almost entirely from four sites: August Martin High School, Beach Channel High School, Jamaica High School and John Bowne High School. The problem is deeper than expanding capacity, said Doug Turetsky, chief of staff for the IBO. “Some would argue that the small schools issue may be increasing overcrowding in some instances,” he said. “The question is, how do you get the kids into the schools that have room?” Although students can apply to any high school in the City, many are choosing overenrolled schools, “perhaps due in part to the desire to avoid lengthy or difficult commutes. In some cases, students apply to schools with strong reputations in spite of overcrowded conditions,” ac-

cording to the report. The hands-off policy that the City Dept. of Education has towards promoting schools has left administrators to duke it out for students, said James Vasquez, the Queens High School District Representative for the United Federation of Teachers. “Absolutely it’s a problem, it’s a management problem,” he said. “You’ve got these 1,400 islands [individual schools]who compete with each other and may the best survive, I guess.” Those who suffer are students. While Richmond Hill High School has 22 trailers that serve as classrooms and help reduce overcrowding, Benjamin Cardozo High School has had three years of oversized classes. Critics of the report argue that the IBO’s definition of overcrowding is out of touch with reality. The IBO report underestimates overcrowding, said Leonie Haimson, executive director of Class Size Matters, a New York City-based nonprofit school watchdog. It assumes a maximum class size of 34, rather than the 30-student maximum that the City says it is moving towards, she said. Other critics argue that overcrowding is overestimated. With another school in the building, two special education programs for District 75 students and ongoing construction, there is no extra space at Beach Channel, said David Pecoraro, UFT chapter leader for the school. “If you bring it back to where we were, bursting at the seams six or seven years ago, you end up with a very volatile mix,” he said. Reach Reporter Jessica Ablamsky at jablamsky@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 124.

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

Huntley Won’t Flinch After Threat At Home

Residents, Huntley Decry NYCHA have been here before I became a Senator.” Ondrea Harris, a seven-year tenant, said she has fretted over an overflowing toilet and kitchen sink throughout her occupancy. She alleges that paint in her apartment is buckling under the strain of a water leak, which maintenance has told her is nonexistent.

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

The residents of the Baisley Park Houses laid their issues and concerns at State Sen. Shirley Huntley’s (D-Jamaica) feet. “I started doing town halls because of so many complaints,” Huntley said. She hosted a town hall at the South Jamaica Houses in May and at Baisley in June. Complaints ranged from peeling paint to elevators more derelict than operational. “I know it is expensive for the elevators, but I just don’t care,” Huntley said. “People need to get to their apartments.” Huntley has heard stories of elderly tenants having to wait outside past midnight hoping someone will assist them to their apartments. The New York City Housing Authority, the agency charged with the care of the facilities, said years of underfunding have delayed much needed improvements. “The staff of the New York City Housing Authority is working hard to repair and maintain current elevators and provides a stair climber when the elevator is out of service, as will be provided at the Baisley Park Houses,” said Myriam Ayala, NYCHA spokeswoman, in a statement. “The safety and well-being of our residents is our utmost concern.” Ayala added the elevators are slated for replacement in fiscal year 2014. “They really need to do better by people who live in housing,” Huntley said. “Forget about the budget cuts, these issues

PRESS photo by Sasha Austrie

BY SASHA AUSTRIE

“I have had the same issues for seven years,” Harris said. “[People] wash their clothes and it backs up.” Harris is also concerned that her front door is damaged. When she has asked for a replacement, she was told, “The new doors are no good.” Robert Hogan, Baisley Park Houses president, said there have not been any capital projects since the buildings were completed in 1961. He said $6.5 million in stimulus funds are currently being used to outfit the development with a new roof. Huntley said the construction has resulted in a “Dumpster packed to the gills with all kinds of stuff in it. They don’t even take it away and bring a new one.” Asbestos was removed from the building in and around the roof and Huntley speculated that asbestos was being discarded in the Dumpster. “Contractors are reState Sen. Shirley Huntley (center l.) joined residents of the Baisley Park Houses to voice outrage over deplorable conditions placing the roofs at Baisley and are followat the public housing complex. ing the federal, city and

state regulations for proper removal of any asbestos material,” Ayala’s statement countered. Huntley demanded that NYCHA take action within 10 days. “We have given them a lot of time to do the right thing,” Huntley said. “If we get nothing after 10 days we are going to take a bus ride.” Jahi Rose, founder of the Urban Enrichment Society, said though he does not live in the neighborhood, his organization has aided Baisley Houses when NYCHA was unable. He said in 2008, a teenager was shot and for months his dried blood was on display. According to Rose, NYCHA said it needed a power blaster to remove the stain. “In an act of symbolism, we got some scrubbrushes [and cleaning solution] to clean it up,” he said. Some residents complained that the manager and her staff were disrespectful. Harris said she wanted manager Yvonne Simpson out. Hogan defended Simpson’s tenure. He said she manages four developments and has 150 Federal Housing Authority homes. “You can’t blame the manager for piss in the elevator; you can’t blame the manager for rent,” Hogan said. “She is doing the best that she can and we need to be more supportive of her.” Reach Reporter Sasha Austrie at saustrie@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Ext. 127.

BY JESSICA ABLAMSKY

In the still-competitive race to become New York State’s next attorney general, the Queens County Democratic Organization came out in full force Aug. 5 to endorse Nassau County DA Kathleen Rice on the steps of Queens Borough Hall. “District Attorney Rice has the experience, the passion and the drive to continue Andrew Cuomo’s good work, and I have no doubt that she will be a great attorney general for Queens and for all of New York,” said U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) on behalf of the Queens Democratic Organization. “Today’s endorsement is just the beginning. We will stand by our good neighbor from Nassau every day as a powerful ally, helping to deliver her victory.” If elected, Rice, Nassau County’s first female district attorney, would become the state’s first female attorney general. “Queens still has more women in the legislature than any other county in the state,” said Queens Borough President Helen Marshall. “I do believe that your work as district attorney would be very important for the office of attorney general for New York State.” Among the who’s who of Queens Democrats to speak on Rice’s behalf was Archie Spigner, former city councilman and influential Queens Democrat. “They say you don’t have to be a weatherman to know when it’s raining,” Spigner said. “I am convinced, when elected, that District

THE HEART HOSPITAL OF QUEENS

Attorney Kathleen Rice will be the kind of attorney general that will make us all proud.” Stressing her Queens roots, Rice explained that this borough has a special place in her heart. “My life began right here in Queens,” she said. “Both my parents grew up in Forest Hills. They met in Forest Hills.” Rice rose to prominence in 2005, after beating a 31-year Republican incumbent. She garnered national attention for her work fighting drunk driving, which is the campaign promise that helped get her elected. “Queens isn’t just a microcosm of the

world, it’s a microcosm of New York State,” she said. “Every community you can find in the Empire State is represented here, and having the support of the Queens Democratic Organization and all of these leaders here today gives me the most diverse coalition of supporters of all the candidates running for attorney general. I’m excited to tell the people of Queens what I stand for, and to hear from them what issues matter most to them.” Reach Reporter Jessica Ablamsky at jablamsky@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 124.

Press Photo by Ira Cohen

Queens Dems Back Rice For Atty Gen Danny Dromm (l. to r.), Marge Markey, Joe Crowley, Kathleen Rice, Archie Spigner and Helen Marshall.

JFK Terminal Swap Approved

BY DOMENICK RAFTER

One of JFK Airport’s iconic terminals will be demolished under a deal that will give one of the airport’s most prominent airlines a new home. The Port Authority Board of Commissioners approved a plan for Delta Air Lines, which handles a fourth of all flights into and out of JFK, to build new state-ofthe-art terminal space at the airport’s Terminal 4, the International Arrivals Terminal, replacing its current home in Terminal 3, which would be destroyed. Nine newly constructed passenger gates in Terminal 4 and up to seven of the building’s existing gates will serve as Delta’s new home.

WHEN YOUR HEART IS IN QUEENS, YOU ARE IN EXCELLENT HANDS...

The airline will occupy 16 of the expanded terminal’s 25 total gates. Delta will use the former site of the 50-year-old Terminal 3 for up to 16 parking spaces for planes. Gov. David Paterson said the plan would both bring jobs to New York and modernize JFK. “John F. Kennedy Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports, will continue its transformation into one of the nation’s most state-of the-art airports with the approval of this plan and the construction of a new billion dollar extension to the international terminal,” said Gov. Paterson. “The Terminal 4 expansion will not only help increase customer service for thousands of travelers and bring much-needed renovations and upgrades to handle the demands of 21st

Century air travel, but it will create hundreds of construction jobs for New York residents.” Port Authority Executive Director Bill Baroni said the project will add an additional 6,400 jobs to JFK and will add $1.8 billion in economic activity. The expansion of Terminal 4 is expected to take 36 months and the subsequent demolition of Terminal 3 would begin immediately afterward, and is expected to take 24 months. The $1.2 billion project will be financed through a combination of Special Project Bonds from the Port Authority, Passenger Facility Charges and Delta equity. Reach Reporter Domenick Rafter at drafter@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 125.

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Our physicians and surgeons are board certiﬁed specialists. And, many highly skilled doctors throughout the area treat and refer their patients here. Together with our talented nurses and technicians, they deliver a higher level of expertise you can trust. Whatever your heart needs — you will ﬁnd it right here.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION 718-670-2087 800-282-6684 (Find a Physician) 56-45 Main Street Flushing, NY 11355

nyhq.org A higher level of heart & vascular care.

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

This means that you don’t have to leave Queens to ﬁnd excellent heart care. And, with the opening of a new wing on the main campus of New York Hospital Queens, we have added more services to protect and restore heart health.

OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens Associate Publisher

In Our Opinion: Arnold Thibou Executive Editor:

Brian Rafferty Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Editorial No Place For Bullies The news this week that threats and intimidation were used by a person seeking to strike fear into the heart of Sen. Shirley Huntley is shocking and deplorable. Huntley is one of six Democratic Senators who voted against the gay marriage bill last year, citing the wishes of the community she represents as the final arbitrator. We do not all agree with every vote our legislators make. That is why we have the power of the ballot box. If enough voters choose to return or remove an elected official to office, that’s how it works. It’s called democracy. To use threats and intimidation to attempt to force a person to change a vote, or even scare someone out of a race, is tyrannical, unjust and undemocratic. The use of abusive language and scare tactics has no place in the forum of political discourse. Though this newspaper has taken a firm stand in support of all civil rights, and we were disappointed by the Senate’s failure to pass a bill that conferred the right to marry to same-sex partners, we absolutely cannot condone the action of thugs and bullies who seek to force an agenda by any means necessary. It’s just not democratic.

Shiek Mohamed

Letters

Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Harley Benson Sasha Austrie Joseph Orovic Domenick Rafter Jessica Ablamsky Editorial Intern: Rebecca Sesny Stefan Singh

Art Dept:

Tania Y. Betancourt Sara Gold Rhonda Leefoon Candice Lolier Barbara Townsend

Advertising Director Alan J. Goldsher Sr. Account Executive Shelly Cookson

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13 - 19, 2010

Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie

Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher

Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher

Non-Partisan To The Editor: The New York City Charter Revision Commission is considering whether to change our way of electing city officials to a nonpartisan approach. I believe that this is an excellent idea and will give more people an opportunity to run for public office without having to be beholden to either major political party. What I have noticed over the years is that the same group of people control the same city

elected offices, in large part due to political party power. Often times, we even see staff members of elected officials or family members running for office. Most of these people are not bad people and they try to do the right thing, however, if you are not part of the in group, your chances of being nominated and therefore elected are very low. Sometimes, the present system works well for us — when we elect people of the caliber of a Frank Padavan or a Tony Avella

Letters who not only are dedicated, but who exhibit an independent streak, taking stands on issues that do not always go along with the powers that be. But under a non-partisan approach, electing more outstanding people would be possible because people running would be more free to say what they really believe, without the fear of offending the party leadership or the special interests. Of course, many of those in power oppose non-partisan elections. They want to maintain the status quo. They claim there will be those who are very wealthy who will try to buy themselves into an elected office. That may be true, but doesn’t that already exist in our present system? Mayor Bloomberg spent approximately $100 million of his own money to win last year’s election. To control this problem, the city charter should be revised to limit the amount of his or her own money a candidate or his or her family can spend on an election. The voters of our city are very savvy. They will carefully evaluate those running for office under a non-partisan system of election. They do not need to have the crutch of a party label to choose their representatives. With a non-partisan approach, sensible run-off election procedures and controls on campaign spending, even the least wealthy of candidates could run for of-

fice. And isn’t that what democracy is all about? Henry Euler, Bayside

Open Society To The Editor: As an openly gay man and progressive elected official, I am wary of anything that smacks of fundamentalism or other form of extremism. That is why I thought carefully about the reasons I support the Islamic Center. I did not find anything in the building of the Islamic Center or the people behind it that indicated extremism or even insensitivity. New York City has a wonderful opportunity to lead the world on interfaith dialogue and understanding. From the Flushing Remonstrance to one of the first womanled Islamic prayer services in modern times, New York has been the site of many milestones in the history of religious freedom. Daniel Dromm, Chair, Immigration Committee New York City Council

WRITE ON: The PRESS of Southeast Queens,

174-15 Horace Harding Expy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 email news@queenspress.com fax: (718) 357-9417

Aviation Meltdowns Avoidable With Cooperation A Personal Perspective BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE The Jet Blue Airways brouhaha this past Monday has set off a tremendous wave of support for the flight attendant, Steven Slater, who jumped ship, make that jumped plane, after an altercation with a passenger. It is at once sad and funny. The passenger rose from her seat to retrieve a bag from the overhead compartment before the aircraft had come to a complete stop. Slater summarily told her to sit down and fasten belt until further notice. The passenger refused and her bag reportedly hit Slater in the head, producing a minor gash. Fed up, Mr. Slater, who is from nearby Belle Harbor, then yelled, “I’m outta here,” detonated an emergency chute and slid out of the aircraft, leaving his post and profession behind. It sounds like it could be another installment of the beloved Airplane franchise; and you’re kind of looking around for Leslie Neilsen’s animated old mug. But no, this is life – raw, real and spectacular. The erstwhile flight attendant

was arrested at his home and taken to Rikers Island, from which he was bailed and released,® smirking. Now the internet is all atwitter with support from well-wishers from across the globe. People are seeing this as a sort of Johnny Paycheck dream from the song, “Take This Job and Shove It.” It seems the poor guy had had it “up to here” and just had a major meltdown. The public can do that to you, right? Well, yes, but we’re not the only ones. There are two sides to every story. To be sure, some passengers are rude, crude and lewd. There is no doubt that some do abuse flight attendants and airport personnel. I was on a flight from Chicago one year and an attendant, while getting a blanket from the overhead compartment, accidentally dropped a pillow on the passenger in the seat below. Now we’re talking about not just a pillow, but an airline pillow. That thing weights a few ounces and it’s bouncy and soft like some “angelic” toilet paper. The passenger yelled at the attendant for “hitting” her in the head. The

attendant apologized politely. But the passenger kept going on about this supposed hit. The young woman attendant apologized again but the “victim” would not be placated. Finally the attendant, said, “Miss, it was an accident. I have apologized. I am through apologizing. Have a nice day!” And with that, she walked away. I silently applauded the flight attendant’s pluck and dismissed the passenger as an idiot. I thought that was the end of it. Well, when we landed at LaGuardia the woman, who never completely stopped fussing, cursed out the flight attendant and promised to report “the B.” On balance, we’ve heard of baby bottles being confiscated at airport gates because you can’t take more than an ounce or two of liquid onto a flight; and mothers being abused for protesting. That is their babies’ food, for goodness sake. We’ve heard of elderly passengers being told they can’t carry on a can of Ensure to make up for the meal they will not receive en route. And most horrifically, we’ve heard of (former Public Advocate) Betsy Gotbaum’s

daughter-in-law being hauled off in handcuffs behind her back; only to be left neglected and bewildered to die of strangulation as she tried to bring her hands forward. Living in the post-9/11 era has driven us all nuts. There are people out there who want to blow airplanes out of the sky and terminals to smithereens. Safety has to be first and foremost. But we also need to employ some common sense. Passengers, stop fussing for nothing. Workers, use some sensitivity and general common sense. If someone is travelling with an infant or toddler, then it’s inevitable that there will be a bottle of formula or juice in a hand or carry-on bag. Deductive reasoning tells you that’s probably not a mixture of deadly chemicals meant for the pilot’s face. The training on the part of the industry could be better and we, the flying public, have to invest in patience and get in touch with our sense of humor to diffuse tense situations – for our own good and everyone else’s. As for Slater, watch him get a reality show out of this as he lives out his 15 minutes of fame…or “seven years of jail time.”

What’s your EQ?

Are you an energy champ, an energy guzzler or an energy snoozer? To find out, take the Con Edison Energy Quotient Quiz at conEd.com/EQ or at facebook.com/powerofgreen

Ceiling fans can help you save energy: A. in the summer B. in the winter C. in both summer and winter

Which statement is true? A. microwaves use less than half the power of traditional ovens B. traditional ovens use less than half the power of microwaves

answer : C

answer: A

What’s the correct way to handle the following safety issues?

A good rule of thumb for air conditioner use is to:

A. report electric power problems online at conEd.com or by cell phone B. report power problems by calling 1-800-75-CONED D if you see C. call 1-800-75-CONED ty streets steam on New York City D. all of the above

A. open windows and turn off A /C when it’s 70° or cooler outside B. run your A /C for one hour then close windows to trap the cool air

answer: A

answer : D

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

C. run your A /C and leave windows closed until cold fall weather returns

Kirsten Gillibrand: A Visit With Our Junior Senator By MICHAEL SCHENKLER I already knew that her positions on grandmother discuss issues and she made a I really didn’t know her. several issues had moved to the left – to my lasting impression on me.” She was that upstate Congresswoman liking — shortly after leaving a smaller conFor a newcomer, her knowledge of the w ithout much seniorit y servative district to repre- economy was impressive as she responded who overnight became sent the entire state. Not non-stop to a series of questions and took our U.S. Senator. She was in keeping with my typi- control of the conversation with a command appointed by an accidencal approach to grill a can- one expects from New York’s Senior Senatal Governor who clearly didate, I decided to get to tor. She has travelled the state and is aware had bungled the process. know the Senator and try of, and committed to, addressing the differHer Democratic district to judge the person and ent economic demands of each region. and her apparent centrist not the political animal. What captured our imagination was the beliefs clearly were conWell this person is a reform agenda of the nation’s newest Senaservative for us downstate political animal tor. liberals. The diminutive, atSenator Gillibrand has led by example, She had a political mentor who ap- tractive, young Gillibrand is bright, glib, becoming the first Member of Congress to peared to scare any opposition from chal- knowledgeable and full of energy. She re- post all of her federal funding requests, offilenging her in t he Democrat ic Primar y. ferred to politics as “a blood sport.” cial daily schedule and personal financial disPeople who I know, like Long Island ConHer maternal grandmother, Dorothea closure on her own website. gre ssma n Steve Israel a nd Ma nhat ta n- “Pol ly” Noona n (1915–2003), was a Now, she has joined Republican SenaQueens Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney, women’s rights activist who was a leader of tors Tom Coburn (R-OK) and John McCain flirted w ith a run and felt the pre ssure. the Albany Democratic machine and the clos- (R-AZ) to author bipartisan legislation that Harold Ford and others explored a challenge e st confidant of longt ime Albany mayor creates an easily searchable database which but at the end of the day, joined the long Erastus Corning. “As a 10-year-old girl,” makes the federal earmark process ful ly list of almost-rans. Gillibrand later said, “I would listen to my transparent and easy for citizens to access. Most of us who observe the To help keep elect ions fair political game believe elected offiand honest, Gillibrand is pushcials must win their seats, that ing legislation to reverse the denew-comers and freshmen deserve cision of the U.S. Supreme Court spirited challenges and that easy that allows special interests—inrides just shouldn’t happen. cluding even foreign-controlled Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, corporations—to spend limitless who has served a year and a half amounts of money to influence as the junior senator from New elections. York, has a free ride to the DemoFrom 1991 to 2007, Concratic line and totally outguns her gress voted to raise its own pay little known Republican rival. Ba11 t ime s, for a total i ncrease sically, when the Senator’s staff Senator Kirsten Gillibrand visits the Trib last week. (Clockwise from of $63,600 in their annual salcalled for a sit down, I knew that left): editor Brian Rafferty, Associate Publisher Michael Nussbaum, ar y. Gi llibra nd is a cosponsor Gillibrand was going to be our Senator Gillibrand, Press Secretary Glen Caplin, Publisher Mike of legislation to permanently Schenkler, Gillibrand’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Brian Simon. Senator for a longtime to come. end the automatic pay raise for

Kirsten Gilibrand and Mike Schenkler Members of Congress. Together w ith 67 of her colleagues, Senator Gillibrand has writ ten to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) and Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), calling on the leaders to once and for all end the practice of Senators putting anonymous holds on legislation. Finally, Gillibrand expressed her desire to greatly cur tail the effectiveness of the filibuster by allowing a decreasing percent of members to end debate on successive votes. In a May 2008 New York Times article, Gillibrand was mentioned as a “young Democratic dragon slayer who won in [a] Republican district” in the context of possibly becoming the first woman to be elected President. While we were impressed with our compelling chat, we’re not ready to sign onto that. However, we look forward to watching one of the nation’s youngest Senators blossom and come into her own over the next six years. Come back and visit soon, Senator. MSchenkler@QueensPress.com

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13 - 19, 2010

Budget Passed 125 Days Late; Oil Spill Fix Took 105 Days

By HENRY STERN The ice broke at about 8:30 p.m. on the night of Aug. 3, the 125th day that the New York State budget was overdue. The state’s fiscal year begins on April 1, and FY 2010-2011 was more than one-third over Henry when the State Senate passed a revenue bill that purportedly closed the budget gap. The re solution of the fourmonth crisis was reported on the front page of the next day’s Times in an article by Danny Hakim. The most newsworthy feature of the revenue bill was the reimposition of a 4 percent state sales tax on clothing and shoes selling for less than $110. The city and state had previously taxed those transactions, but the city repealed its tax in September 2005 and the state followed suit, effective April 2006. Cit y elections are held in odd-numbered years and state elections in even-numbered years. Connect the dots. Of course, the $330 million predicted to be collected by the low-end sales tax will not close the state’s $9.8 billion budget gap. It was passed to show legislative concern over the state’s fiscal plight, a condition directly

attributable to consistent overspending proposed by the governor and proudly approved by successive legislatures. The fiscal crisis will come home to roost when the banks stop lending to an increasingly insolvent state govStern ernment, as they did in New York City in 1974. The state can continue, however, to loot the pension funds for money that they can have no reasonable expectation of being able to repay. Perhaps the state hopes the federal government will bail it out, the way they protected the banks and auto manufacturers in 2008 and 2009. Perhaps they hope the Feds will do what they did to/for General Motors: wipe out the stockholders, scalp the bondholders and turn control of the company over to the unions. That may turn out to be a good strategy if the company, much smaller now, prospers again. We would not, however, be inclined to go in on the IPO, however it may be priced. Two substantive bills that were before the legislature failed to pass. They included allowing the sale of wine in supermarkets, and imposing a penny an ounce tax on sugar in soft drinks.

Both bills were defeated because the lobbyists in opposition were stronger than those in favor. In our legal system, a party in a lawsuit may prevail because he has a better lawyer than his adversary. That rule applies, a fortiori, when dealing with legislative matters. It is a shame when matters are not decided on the merits, but on the basis of political influence, which may be purchased from people who are practicing their professions in a free society. New York State lived up to its reputation, first reported six years ago by the Brennan Center for Justice, as having “the most dysfunctional legislature in the United States.” There was no mid-session seizure of power by the opposing party, as there was in the Senate in 2009, which created a situation evocative of the Avignon papacy, which Petrarch compared to the Babylonian captivity. The fact that the Democratic Senate majority was razor-thin, 32 being the Constitutional requirement for the adoption of legislation or a budget, meant that the vote of every Democrat was needed on ever y occasion, and any one disaffected on any issue could prevent the adoption of any other proposal. To sum up: the State fisc is going to hell in a handbasket, Al-

bany did nothing to impede its descent, relief will have to come from the application of external forces, and much of what happens is due to the fact that too many people in power have limited abilities but unlimited appetites. QUESTIONS FOR STARQUEST For the first time in New York Civ ic’s eight-year h istor y, StarQuest will devote an upcoming column to answering questions

submitted by our readers. We invite you to pose engaging inquiries that pertain to public issues in New York. Send them via e-mail to starquest@nycivic.org. Please let us know whether you would like us to include your name or initials along with your question or if you would prefer to remain anonymous. Some que stions may be answered privately. StarQuest@NYCivic.org

Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

OP-ED

In Defense Of Our Morals And Values We are living in different times; with the should not be eroded simply because it has advent of new technologies that allow people become easier to ignore them than to obey to communicate much more freely, much them. It has become a little easier to wave away transgressions more loosely and to so that were once upon many others from all a time frowned upon walks of life. Facebook, quietly and reviled at Twitter, MySpace and the pulpit than to adcell phones allow dress them. people to say and disThe moral and play more now than ethical culture of corever before in history. ruption that has perWe are communicatvaded certain sectors ing more, what though, of our society has proare we saying? What duced a disdainful messages are being and dangerous subconveyed with all these culture. This ethical new and powerful meapathy has spawned diums? Are we deliverCEO’s with no coning a positive message science, politicians to our peers, friends, on the take, broken and families? The family structures, and modes of communicaRev. Charles Norris sadly, a generation of tion have certainly misguided youth. It changed; does that has become acceptable to turn a blind eye mean the messages should as well? As is the case in life, things do, and must to the goings on of people who not only do change. However, not everything should wrong in the eyes of God, but also, disrechange. As we evolve as a people and as a gard the laws of the land. This must stop, society, there are some things that must we all can do better. While we preach tolerance of all our remain static. The principles that are established in our churches, synagogues, brothers and sisters, and we hold it sacred mosques, temples and other houses of that every woman and man should be treated worship that carry over into our homes justly, fairly and equally, the Bible teaches and into our everyday lives are tenets that us that in the Lord’s sight there are clear

rules to abide by. As ministers, preachers, rabbi’s, imams, priests and all forms of clergy and women and men of the cloth, we must strictly adhere to these rules even while ministering on faith and forgiveness. If it is fair and equitable to allow others to speak and act freely within the boundaries of the laws of the land and the constitution of this great country, should not

the church and its parishioners, have that same right to defend and honor those things we hold most sacred? I think we do. We must stand in solidarity and support those who uphold our beliefs, morals and values. Reverend Charles Norris, Sr. Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church Clergy Coalition in formation

All That Jazz:

York College’s Tom Zlabinger conducts the York College Big Band at the Supreme Court Plaza on July 22 as part of the Court Plaza Jazz Series.

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

Police Blotter 101st Precinct Wanted Man

Compiled By DOMENICK RAFTER Upon further investigation, police de- Shot To Death termined that the vehicle was traveling On Thursday, Aug. 5, at 5:29 a.m. in southbound on Queens Boulevard when it front of 147-67 109th Ave. in South Jastruck the pedestrian as he was attempt- maica, police responded to a call of a man ing to cross the street. The vehicle re- shot. Upon arrival, police obmained on the scene. No crimi- served Damian Champbell, 37, nality was suspected at this time. of 215 Wortman Ave., Apt. 4F The investigation was ongoing. in Brooklyn, with gunshot

onto the Crime Stoppers Web site at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

The NYPD is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a man wanted in connection with an assault on a police officer. On Monday, Aug. 2, at apRobber Sought proximately 5:23 p.m. at Beach wounds to the arm, head and Channel Drive and Dix Avenue The NYPD is seeking the stomach. He was transported in Bayswater, Terrell Montgompublic’s assistance with the by EMS to Jamaica Hospital Sex Assault ery, 18, allegedly assaulted a whereabouts and identity of a where he was pronounced police officer who was attemptThe NYPD is asking the dead on arrival. There were no man wanted in connection ing to arrest another person. public’s assistance in identify- arrests and the investigation with a robbery. Police are seeking Montgomery is described as 5- Police are on the ing the suspect wanted for a was ongoing. On Wednesday, July 21, at this suspect in a approximately 8:30 p.m., a 42foot-6 and 150 lbs. hunt for Terrell sexual assault in Jamaica. sexual assault. Anyone with information is Montgomery. On Tuesday, Aug. 3, at apyear-old Hispanic man was apasked to call NYPD Crime Stopproximately 6:50 a.m., the vicproached from behind by a pers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public tim, a 27-year-old Hispanic woman, was en- Missing Man black man in his 40s. The suspect placed can also submit their tips by logging onto tering her residence when she was grabbed The NYPD is asking the public’s assis- a knife to the victim’s neck and demanded the Crime Stoppers Web site at from behind by the suspect and sexually tance in ascertaining the whereabouts of money, which he promptly handed over. nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their assaulted. The suspect then fled the scene. The robbery took place inside the a man reported missing in Bellerose. tips to CRIMES (274637), then entering The victim was transported to a local hosWayne Ferrand, 57, of 80-45 Winches- men’s room at the Union Turnpike StaTIP577. All calls are strictly confidential. pital where she was treated and released. ter Blvd. Bellerose, was last seen on Thurs- tion located at Union Turnpike and The suspect is described as a Hisday, Aug. 5 at approximately Queens Boulevard. The suspect then fled panic male, 25-28 years old, 610:30 p.m. at his residence wear- out of the station. The robber is defoot-1, and 170 lbs. ing a blue and white t-shirt and scribed as a black man, approximately 5Blvd Of Death Anyone with information is blue jeans. He is 6-feet and 200 foot-8, 180 lbs, wearing a white t-shirt On Friday, Aug. 6, at 5:33 p.m. at the asked to call NYPD Crime Stoplbs with brown eyes and brown and black pants. corner of Queens Boulevard and 80th pers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). Anyone with information is asked to and grey hair. He is in good Road, in Kew Gardens, police responded The public can also submit their physical condition, but poor call NYPD Crime Stoppers at (800) 577to a call of a pedestrian struck. Upon ar- tips by logging onto the Crime TIPS (8477). The public can also submit mental condition. rival, police observed the victim, Richard Stoppers Web site at Anyone with information is their tips by logging onto the Crime StopBorches, 76, of 87-23 118th St., Richmond nypdcrimestoppers.com or by asked to call NYPD Crime pers Web site at nypdcrimestoppers.com Hill, with trauma to the body. He was trans- texting their tips to CRIMES Police are trying Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS or by texting their tips to CRIMES ported by E.M.S. to Jamaica Hospital (274637), then entering TIP577. to locate Wayne (8477). The public can also (274637), then entering TIP577. All calls where he was pronounced dead on arrival. All calls are strictly confidential. Ferrand. submit their tips by logging are strictly confidential.

112th Precinct

103rd Precinct

105th Precinct

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

102nd Precinct

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS Index No.: 8417/10 Date of Filing: July 12, 2010 SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK C O U N T Y O F QUEENS M E T L I F E H O M E L O A N S, Plaintiff, -against- UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE LATE GROVER C WALLACE, IF THEY BE LIVING OR DEAD, THEIR SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES AND SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, ALL OF WHOM AND

WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF if living, or if either or all be dead, their wives, husbands, heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, assignees, lienors and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said UNKNOWN HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES OR SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST OF THE LATE GROVER C WALLACE, IF THEY BE LIVING OR DEAD, THEIR SPOUSES, HEIRS, DEVISEES, DISTRIBUTEES AND

SUCCESSORS IN INTEREST, ALL OF WHOM AND WHOSE NAMES AND PLACES OF RESIDENCE ARE UNKNOWN TO PLAINTIFF by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise, of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and the respective husbands, wives, widow or widowers of them, if any, all of whose names are unknown to plaintiff; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK CITY PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU; NEW

YORK CITY TRANSIT ADJUDICATION BUREAU; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; “JOHN DOES” and “JANE DOES”, said names being fictitious, parties intended being possible tenants or occupants of premises, and corporations, other entities or persons who claim, or may claim, a lien against the premises, Defendants. TO THE ABOVENAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the complaint is not served with this summons, to serve a Notice of Appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorney(s) within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, where service is made by delivery upon you personally within the State, or within thirty (30) days after completion of service where service is made in any other manner, and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed

this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. YOU ARE HEREBY PUT ON NOTICE THAT WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT, AND ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE. TO THE ABOVE-NAMED DEFENDANTS: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Honorable Allan B. Weiss of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, signed on June 24, 2010, and filed with supporting papers in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Queens, State of New York. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, executed by GROVER C WALLACE to FIRST REVERSE FINANCIAL SERVICES in the principal amount of $387,999.81, which mortgage was recorded in Queens County, State of New

York, on August 11, 2009, as CRFN. 2009000250899. Thereafter said mortgage was assigned to METLIFE HOME LOANS by assignment of mortgage recorded August 11, 2009 as CRFN: 2009000250901. Said premises being known as and by 114-11 196TH ST, Saint Albans, NY 11412. Date: June 15, 2010 Batavia, New York Laura Strauss, Esq. ROSICKI, ROSICKI & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Attorneys for Plaintiff Batavia Office 26 Harvester Avenue Batavia, NY 14020 585.815.0288 Help For Homeowners In Foreclosure New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully. Mortgage foreclosure is a complex process. Some people may approach you about “saving” your home. You should be extremely careful about any such promises. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. There are government agencies, legal aid entities and other non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about foreclosure while you are working with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877BANKNYS (1-877-226-5697) or visit the Department’s website at www.banking.state.ny.us. The State does not guarantee the advice of these agencies.

Borough Beat

Council Steps Into Cable Cost Feud

BY BRIAN M. RAFFERTY

In the beginning, there was free television, and it was good. For New Yorkers, the option were simple â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11 and 13. And then came cable television, a plan originally devised to bring these local broadcast channels to the masses, who for reasons of distance and reduced signal quality, could not watch â&#x20AC;&#x153;B.J. and the Bearâ&#x20AC;? or â&#x20AC;&#x153;Guiding Light.â&#x20AC;? And it was better. And then came cable-only channels, premiums channels, public access, 24hour news, MTV, adult channels, 24-hour weather and anything and everything that could be imagined. The bills went up, the choices exploded and providers began to work out intricate contracts between owners of great swaths of channels and the companies that actually operated the tabletop boxes now prevalent in more than 80 million U.S. homes. And it was not so good. Fighting between monolithic cable companies and the content providers caused threats of â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and actual â&#x20AC;&#x201C; service outages. The big boys on the block fought their battles in the media, on the air and in the board room. The end result has always been a heavier cost to the television viewer. Councilman Lew Fidler (D-Brooklyn)

and Dan Garodnick (D-Manhattan) are saying â&#x20AC;&#x153;enough is enough.â&#x20AC;? Across the country, a war is being waged between corporate entities, and the only casualties seem to be the pocketbooks of cable TV customers, Fidler said. The Councilman, who speaks frequently in baseball analogy, compared the ongoing battle to that of Major League Baseball. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Years ago baseball entered the free agency era,â&#x20AC;? Fidler said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Players play the role of the broadcast companies, owners play the role of the cable providers. The playersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; salaries increased and increased.â&#x20AC;? The owners cried â&#x20AC;&#x153;foul,â&#x20AC;? saying they couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t afford to adequately keep teams together with limited revenue and balked at the idea of paying, even to the point where, lacking a contract that satisfied them, they locked the players out and stopped the game. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And the players figured out a way, through collective bargaining, to make it good for them and the owners â&#x20AC;&#x201C; so now you and I are paying $2,000 for the box seat.â&#x20AC;? That, Fidler said, is exactly the precipitous road that the cable company wars are headed down. Time Warner Cable is locked in a heated war of words with Disney and its affiliates, which include ABC and ESPN. The cable giant has rolled out its â&#x20AC;&#x153;Roll Over or Get

Toughâ&#x20AC;? campaign, asking its customers which of the two evils they would prefer â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a higher bill or the loss of channels. The Federal Cable Act of 1992 gave cable providers the ability to negotiate â&#x20AC;&#x153;retransmission consentâ&#x20AC;? contracts with providers, allowing a private negotiation between broadcasters and cable companies that carry their signal. This was different from the prior regulation that required cable companies to broadcast channels and to only receive a fee for actual cost of retransmission. Fidler has introduced a City Council bill that asks Congress to rescind the part of the 1992 act that allows for retransmission consent contracts. That bill, which carries no actual legislative weight, is currently pending review in both the Technology and Zoning and Franchises committees. A bill spearheaded by Garodnick and supported by Fidler asks Congress to reframe the Cable Act to require that during negotiations between content providers and carriers there would be no disruption of service. At a recent hearing on Gardonickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bill, high-paid lobbyists from the National Association of Broadcasters, Time Warner, Fox and other players in the battle were on hand. When service was interrupted for 18 hours in March, Council members found their office flooded with phone calls.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;They cared more about their TV than they did about closing firehouses and closing libraries,â&#x20AC;? Fidler said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People who understand what our society has become understand how big a story this is.â&#x20AC;? TV viewers are in a difficult spot, Fidler said. When cable rolled out it was protested by theater owners who said it would kill movie theaters. People scoffed at the idea, Fidler said, and now the independent theater is a thing of the past and giant megaplexes have taken over, all showing the same films. In the early days of cable in New York City, if you werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looking for extra channels, you always had your rabbit ears to capture a clean signal broadcast from Manhattan skyscrapers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Try to imagine going home now and throwing your antenna on top of your roof and trying to live with 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, and 11,â&#x20AC;? Fidler said â&#x20AC;&#x153;Maybe we should have listened to the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Stop Pay TVâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; people in 1970. The National Association of Broadcasters tried to compare the negotiations to walking out of a car dealership, but thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not right. The right comparison is the heroin dealer who gives you your first five hits for free and then tells you how much it costs once youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re hooked.â&#x20AC;? Reach Editor Brian M. Rafferty at brafferty@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 122.

The path to your first home. The State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) offers first-time homebuyers:

For more information, call

1-800-382-HOME (4663) or visit www.nyhomes.org

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

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Going Too Far?

Family Fights Back Over Cop Incident

PRESS Photos by Sasha Austrie

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

“Why are you trying to throw me to the ground?” Carmona said he asked. “Why are you trying to arrest me?” “I didn’t curse at him,” he said. “He was in my business. I wasn’t talking to him. He is dead-ass wrong.” After Carmona was brought down, a few other officers come in to assist, and according to Carmona one officer forcefully pushed his knee into his right cheek. “Mr. Carmona was arrested for disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after he started shouting obscenities at the officer,” said a police source.

her uncle was arrested. Rodriguez went to find her older sister Jovanna Garcia, 21, and both proA subtle bruise still shows around ceeded to the scene. She said her uncle Michael Carmona’s wrist. A scar stretches was yelling out of the back window of a at the edge of his sideburn to mid cheek. police car, “Get their badge number.” Bruises to the right shoulder and knee Rodriguez asked officers why her uncle have yet to heal. A once-white t-shirt is was being arrested. She said she was not marred with shoe prints and dirt. being belligerent or rude. These are remnants of a scuff le beThough Hogan was not at the scene, tween NYPD officers and Carmona last he disputes Rodriguez’s statement that Wednesday. she was not belligerent. “The little girl needs to tell the truth,” The Prelude he said. Carmona, 42, said that he and a friend, The police source said after Michael Terry, were going about their familiar Carmona’s arrest, Rodriguez and other The Back Story morning routine of going to Baisley Shop Carmona said last Wednesday was not family members came on the scene and Smart “getting our coffee and playinf our numbers.” Carmona said Officer Yuan, the first time the officer has harassed him “added fuel to the fire.” He said stationed inside the Royal Fried Chicken, and Terry. Officers have been looking for an Rodriguez was charged with disorderly came out of the establishment and fol- individual for about a month – neither he conduct. Rodriguez said her inquiries led to one nor Terry look anything like the wanted man. lowed the two into the Shop Smart. Robert Hogan, Baisley Houses presi- officer grabbing her right hand and twistA security tape from the Shop Smart dent, said the person in question ing it behind her back. When she resisted, is about 18 years old and light another officer further twisted her right arm. She said another officer grabbed her skinned. “They look as much alike as left hand and the three men put her in Al Sharpton and President Bush,” handcuffs and threw her in the back of a Hogan said. He identified the squad car. “When they arrested me, I said I was police suspect as “Joe.” “Joe is a good kid,” Hogan only 14 years old, why are you doing this said. “He don’t do nothing, but to me?” she said. “Three male cops are not supposed to be on a little girl.” play basketball.” Garcia said there were at least two The police are looking for “Joe” in connection to an alleged alterca- female cops on the scene and none of tion he had with a female cop, which them interceded. “She didn’t go to grab the door; we much of the community disputes. weren’t close enough to touch the car,” An hour before Carmona The scar on Michael Carmona’s right cheek, which Garcia said. “She was saying he didn’t do found himself face down in his he said is the result of a police officer’s knee. neighborhood deli, detectives nothing.” Hogan added that though Rodriguez had searched his home looking shows Carmona and his friend entering for “Joe.” He said the detective who may have yelled or cursed, officers have the establishment with the officer follow- pinned his cheek to the ground with his choices on what action to take against a knee went from room to room looking child. ing close on their heels. “They have discretion to put her in Carmona said that Yuan followed for an individual police officers deem the car to calm her them and repeated a mantra to Terry, “armed and dangerdown,” he said. “I which the officer ha said on at least three ous.” have never seen His sister, Michelle different occasions, “You look kinda fathem arrest a Carmona, said detecmiliar.” child.” Just as in previous times, Terry failed tives pounded on her Garcia was to answer, but Carmona injected, “I think door at 11 a.m. She said “saddened” by the this officer likes you or something. He they showed her a picofficers’ reaction. ture of a young man and must be gay.” “They just look The officer positioned himself behind asked if she had seen down on people Terry as he and Carmona continued their him. She said she had who live in the conversation, ignoring the officer’s pres- not. The detective projects,” she said. ence. Yuan allegedly asked Carmona, “Do asked to search the Rodriguez said you have ID?” Carmona said he re- back of the door. She let The shirt Carmona wore the day of the she was not immehim in. sponded, “For what?” incident, which he said shows the footdiately taken to “I have nothing to He did not show the officer ID, and prints of arresting officers. the precinct after moved to the other side of the store. A hide,” she said. her arrest, but to Michelle Carmona police source contends that Carmona said the detective proceeded to search nearby Baisley Pond Park. slapped Officer Yuan’s hand away. “They showed me a picture of the guy Again, Carmona remarked laughingly, the rest of the apartment uninvited. “Before, I was a law-abiding citizen, they were looking for,” she said. She con“This officer must really like you.” Though the recording had no sound it but no more,” she said. “The next time tends that officers asked her if she knew shows Carmona with his back slightly they want to come in, they will need to where the suspect was. She said “no.” Rodriguez said she was taken to the turned to the off icer. According to get a warrant.” 113th Precinct after the brief questionCarmona, he heard “That’s it,” which he ing. While there, Yuan made fun of her The Incident Expands believes was said by the officer. Minutes after Michael Carmona’s ar- uncle. Michael Carmona, a diabetic, had rest, his niece, Magen Rodriguez, 14, saw his toes on both feet amputated. The Scuffle The recording illustrates Yuan advanc- the crowd and cops, and inquisitively Rodriguez said Yuan remarked. “He has no toes. You think he can dance in our ing towards Carmona. Yuan grabs made her way to the scene. “I thought they arrested the person talent show tonight?” Carmona’s right hand, which is immediThe police source refuted Rodriguez’s ately jerked away. Carmona said the of- that they wanted,” she said. “I wanted to claim of not being taken directly to the ficer then tried to force him to the floor see what was going on.” Her mother’s friend informed her that station. He also said Yuan had no knowland he resisted. By SASHA AUSTRIE

Carmona’s niece, 14-year-old Magen Rodriguez, whose involvement in the aftermath of Carmona’s incident led to her arrest. edge of Carmona’s diabetic status and that he was missing appendages.

Mom Steps In Michelle Carmona, Rodriguez’s mother, said she was not notified that her daughter was in custody until almost an hour after the arrest. She arrived at the station and was not allowed to see her daughter. “My mom poked her head in to see how I was and an officer slammed the door in her face,” Rodriguez said. Officers would not give her a police report, explain the charges against her daughter or give her a Civilian Complaint Review Board form. “They made me feel like a criminal,” Michelle Carmona said. The officers would not release Rodriguez to her, and Hogan was called to intercede. Almost three hours after Michelle Carmona arrived at the precinct, Rodriguez was released into her custody.

The Aftermath Hogan said Yuan was supposed to be positioned on the corner of Foch and Baisley boulevards. Hours after the incident, he spoke to Yuan, who told him Michael Carmona called him “gay.” Hogan said other officers were in disbelief that Carmona was arrested. He said after viewing the security footage his first thoughts were, “Wow! [Yuan] is in a lot of trouble.” Michael Carmona was charged with disorderly conduct and resisting arrest. He was given a warning and told to stay out of trouble for six months and the case against him will be dismissed. “He violated my constitutional rights,” he said. “I didn’t do nothing for him to jump on me and throw me to the floor.” Rodriguez was given a choice of probation or trial. Michelle Carmona has decided to go to trial. She said her daughter has a court date on Sept. 1. The family has also lodged a complaint with CCRB and has a scheduled meeting for Aug. 18. Michelle Carmona also has set up a meeting with an attorney. “I’m going to sue the NYPD and I want their badges,” she said. Reach Reporter Sasha Austrie at saustrie@queenspress.com, or (718) 3577400 Ext. 123.

Photo by Juliet Kaye

pix

International Festival

Southeast Queens Photos Edited By Harley Benson

Save The Kids Grace United Methodist Church held its first International Festival on 201st Street and Murdock Avenue. Congregants set up tables with food from all the Caribbean countries. Pictured: Assemblyman William Scarborough, (6th r.), Pastor Harold Andrews (7th r.), Cynthia Reid, Chair of Board of Trustees (9th r.), Victoria Bigby, Festival Committee Chair (10th r.) with the church Board Members in front of the church.

Photo by Juliet Kaye

Farmer's Market Hosts School

Save The Kids Day brought families and children out to enjoy a fun filled day at Brookville Park. Free BBQ food, music, entertainment, face painting, blow up rides and games was sponsored by the NYC Corrections Guardians and cosponsored by Assemblyman William Scarborough and Queens Parks and Recreation. Chief of Dept. Larry W. Davis, Sr. (3rd r.), Scarborough (5th r), Archie Spigner (6th r.), and Monique Carpenter, Event Organizer (7th r.) with Corrections Guardian members who made the event possible.

On Aug. 5, Lisa Rossdale led her class of 3- to 5-year old children from the Queens Center for Progress APPLE Pre-School Program on a field trip to the Queens Hospital Center Farmer's Market. Dr. Marcy Stein-Albert, director of pediatrics at QHC, talked to the children about healthy eating and farmer John Pahucki talked about the fruits and vegetables that grow on his farm. The Farmer's Market is located on the south side of the new Pavilion every Thursday, rain or shine, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Nov. 18.

Jump & Ball Sen. Malcolm Smith and renowned Hip-Hop Artist LL Cool J joined forces for the sixth year in a row to host the Annual Jump N Ball Basketball and Double Dutch Tournament. The games are being held at Roy Wilkins Park in St. Albans. The five-week athletic program is dedicated to bringing wholesome fun to young people in Southeast Queens.

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

Sen. Malcolm Smith (l.0 and Sen. Shirley Huntley (r.) welcome entertainer LL Cool J to the annual Jump & Ball Tournament.

LL addresses the crowd and talks about the idea of giving back to your neighborhood.

Smith thanks LL for his continued participation in helping make the tournament a success.

Post-Acute Care/Sub-Acute Care • Short Term Rehabilitation Long Term Care/Skilled Nursing • Medical Model Adult Day Health Care Social Model Alzheimer’s Day Care • Long Term Home Health Care Community/Inpatient Hospice Residents and patients at Parker may also benefit from renal dialysis and transportation services provided by Queens-Long Island Renal Institute, Inc. and Lakeville Ambulette Transportation, LLC.

HEALTH CARE AND REHABILITATION

271-11 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park New York 11040-1433 (516) 322-6223 • www.parkerinstitute.org

Adding Quality Time to Life

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Parker Jewish Institute for

A&E

Trio Of Rockaway Summer Exhibits

The Rockaway Artists Alliance presents three new summer solo shows running for the next three weekends at their home at the Rockaway Center for the Arts.

Hosted in the T-7 Gallery at Fort Tilden in the Rockaways, the unique talents of artists Matt Petagna, Yuri Yurov and Arthur Skowron will be showcased on three consecutive weekends through August. The Saturday/ Sunday exhibition dates will be Aug. 14-15, 21-22 and 28-29. Petagna’s show will feature the works of the painter and musician who also regularly opens the RAA’s weekly Thursday Open Mic Music Nights. His open, playful painting style has received attention in numerous RAA shows. His show will be on view Aug. 14 and 15. Internationally noted photographer, high quality printer and painter Yuri Yurov, who now makes Rockaway his home and studio, presents a unique view in Portraits of RAA. Here Yuri has invited poets, painters, writers, actors, photographers, dancers, sculptors and many more people in the arts individually to his studios. There, through the art of his camera and his vision, he has captured their essence in black and white portrait. The results, Portraits of Matt Petagna’s drawing of Nibbler from the “Futurama” RAA, which will also yield a television series will be part of the display. planned book, will be on view

Restaurant Review

Fresh From Geo’s Grill

GEO GRILL MIX 138-11 Queens Blvd. Jamaica (718) 291-0300 CUISINE: Afghan HOURS: Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-10 p.m. PARKING: Street RESERVATIONS: Not Required CREDIT CARDS: All Major

Rockaway Artists Alliance is rolling in new hues and views in Matt’s Show, Portraits of RAA and Arthur Skowron all in the light filled, and air conditioned, space of its T-7 Gallery. Catch the wave of August artwork and come on in. The RAA Writers Group’s next meeting will be on Sunday Aug. 22 from 4-6 p.m. in T-7. All are welcome. Gallery hours are Saturday and Sunday 12-4 p.m. and by appointment. For more information and directions call (718) 474-0861, e-mail info@raa116.org or visit rockawayartistsalliance.org.

Environmental Theater Not Just For The Birds 9Thirty Theatre Company presents “The Birds,” which is running through Aug. 21 at 8 p.m. at the Greek Cultural Center in Astoria. “The Birds” will be the final installment of 9Thirty Theatre Company’s 2009-2010 season, “Earth in Translation.” “We aim to raise awareness about endangered birds and the entire production is made from recycled materials found on the streets of New York,” said artistic director Jeff Burroughs. The company is committed to raising awareness about ecological issues through the arts. Set in a landfill/crow’s nest, and inhabited by half-puppet half-man trash art creations, the protagonist seeks fortune with a plan that hinges on Man’s “out of sight out of mind,” mentality. The old adage, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure,” rings true and he prevails by defeating his enemies with their own greed. The cast for “The Birds” stars Eric Sutton and Nicole Hodges and features Freddie Bennett, Patrick Bonck, Matthew Jellison and Kim Ramirez. The Greek Cultural Center is located at 26-80 30th St, Astoria. General Admission is $18. Tickets are currently available online at 9TTC.org or by calling

Patrick Bonck and Eric Sutton in “The Birds.” (866) 811-4111. 9Thirty Theatre Company is New York City’s first arts organization dedicated to encouraging artists, designers and writers to explore today’s pressing ecological issues. For more information about 9Thirty Theatre Company, please visit 9TTC.org.

Wheelchair Softball At Former Shea Bases Next weekend the New York Mets will host the 34th annual National Wheelchair Softball Tournament at Citi Field. The three-day event features 14 teams from around the country comprised of men, women and veterans with disabilities who compete in sports wheelchairs. The games will be played in the Citi Field parking lot on the location of the bases and base path of the original Shea Stadium. Games will be played from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Aug. 19 and 20, with semifinals Saturday, Aug. 21, at 9 a.m. and the championship game at 11 a.m. This is the 10th Wheelchair Softball Tournament the Mets have hosted and the first time the National Championships

have come to New York City. The Mets, the Wheelchair Sports Federation, New York City Parks & Recreation and Major League Baseball are sponsors of the event. Teams participating in the championship series are: Columbus Pioneers, Columbus, Ohio; Confluence Center Coast Tar Wheels, Indian Trail, NC; Courage Rolling Twins, Brooklyn Park, Minn.; Nebraska Barons, Omaha, Neb.; Midwest Flyers, Dolton, Ill.; MPVA Flamethrowers, Duluth, Minn.; Nassau Aviators, Nassau County, NY; New York Mets, Flushing; New York Yankees, Bronx; RIC Cubs, Chicago; Rollin Red Sox, Boston; Shepherd Sluggers, Atlanta; Tampa Bay Rays, Tampa, Fla.; and WPVA Warhawks, Waukesha, Wis.

Aug. 13 - 19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

Have you ever been to 53rd and 6th in Midtown for halal food? You know, the place with the ridiculously long line that serves chicken and rice? Well now you can skip the line, pull up a chair and enjoy a similar taste right here in Queens. Geo Grill’s Afghan cuisine will be a delight to any kabab lover. Many residents of Briarwood have found the cozy gem on Queens Boulevard and have developed a friendship with the folks at Geo Grill. The instant you walk into the restaurant the Afghani culture will overwhelm your senses. The tiled walls are decorated with scenes from Afghanistan. A hint of red, green and black décor give off a true Afghan feel. The small seating area creates an intimate setting where the welcoming wait staff will serve you like royalty. For appetizers the Sambosa is a must. This crispy pastry turnover stuffed with beef will have your taste buds exploding. If you want to spice it up a bit, top it with

some of the home made spicy sauce or the delicious “white sauce” that goes well with everything on the menu. Kabab lovers are going to need a bib if they order the Combo Kabab. The four different choices of meat will have you watering at the mouth. If you are into lamb, the Lamb Tikka is for you. The large chunks of lamb served on top of a bed of rice will make any lamb lover excited. Like bone in your lamb? The Lamb Chops are a wonderful alternative, served with basmati rice. If lamb is not your thing, try the Chicken Sultani. This house special provides diners with a sample of the Chicken Tikka and the Kofta Kabab, which is for those with a specific taste, with a large portion of basmati rice. Throw some “white sauce” on top and you’re in for a feast. If you’ve never had Kofta Kabab and you’re not into trying new things, try the Chicken Tikka by itself. For desert, the Baaklava is a great choice. Its crunchy crust makes biting into the chocolate-like, nut filling only half of the experience. Chef Kareem Mohammed Rahman works hard to keep his customers bellies’ satisfied. With their wide variety and tasty sauces, every night at Geo Grill Mix is a multifaceted experience. Don’t forget the white sauce! —-Stefan Singh

Aug. 21 and 22. An evening opening reception is planned for Saturday, Aug. 21. Many of the subjects will be seeing themselves in portrait for the first time. The multitalented Arthur Skowron will present his works in the T-7 Gallery on Aug. 28 and 29. Musician, poet, photographer, painter and storyteller, Arthur will spotlight a sampling of his many talents in his self-named solo show. Arthur is also member of the Rockaway Artists Alliance Writers Group. Just when the tides of Summer are washing over the Rockaways, the

Profile

History To Match 100 Years Of Life

Erna Allen is a lasting relic of the 20th century. Imbedded in the soft creases and folds of her face are eyes that peered through history. At 99 and weeks shy of her 100th birthday, Allen’s wit and sensibilities are still very much intact. Allen’s granddaughter, Verna Muhammad, said her grandmother is sharp and still does housework, though she gets around in a motorized wheelchair. “She does everything for herself,” Muhammad said. Allen’s tales date back before The Great Depression and World War II. She dubs her life as such: “It’s been good, it’s been bad, it’s been indifferent.” Allen was born on Sept. 5, 1910, in Virginia, on her grandfather’s farm in a place called Blackwater. She tells her story of emergence into the world like it was told to her years ago. Her stories are vibrant and colorful. With her grandmother acting as midwife, her mother’s nine-month journey was coming to an end. Allen’s mother was experiencing difficulty with the birth, so her father traveled 20 miles to the nearest town to get a doctor, who was called to deliver another baby moments earlier. Exasperated and afraid for his wife and child, her father openly lamented his situation. A dentist

PRESS Photo by Sasha Austrie

BY SASHA AUSTRIE

Erna Allen, 99, with her granddaughter Verna Muhammad. heard his sorrow and volunteered. By the time the two men made it back to the farm, Allen was already born. “I was already out,” Allen said. “When my mother stood up, I hit the floor.” Her grandmother then had trouble extracting what she thought was the placenta. Closer examination revealed it was another baby girl, Verna. “She was never well,” Allen said of her twin sister. “She was always blue, so we called her blue baby.” Verna died from whooping cough as a toddler; including her twin sister, Allen lost three siblings to whooping cough. The dentist was given the honor of naming the babies out of gratitude for his efforts. He christened them Erna and Verna, “good Jewish names.” “My daddy was so proud that he had two babies,” she said. Allen spent her impressionable years in Virginia. At 17, she married Frank

Casey. Laughingly, she states that almost nine months to the day of her wedding her only child Frank Casey Jr. was born. The Great Depression was beginning to wreak havoc. Allen said she personally did not feel its full force, but the struggle within the era weighed heavy on everyone. “It was a little bit horrifying,” she said. Casey worked as a waiter at the Hotel Roanoke. “When you hook up with the white people who got money, you go around smoothly as they do,” she said. “Even though you could eat and drink, you knew people who couldn’t feed their children. So it was rough.” When her marriage soured, Allen decided to join her youngest sister in New York. She found work as a housekeeper in 1940 for $35 a month. She retired at 81. Her light skin steered her through a segregated America much unscathed. “They always thought I was a foreigner,” she said. “They always thought I was Jewish.” On her way home for Christmas at the height of segregation, she sat at the back of the Greyhound bus traveling to Virginia with two black soldiers. Being hungry and with a bit of travel ahead, she had a sandwich and a soda at a local eatery. The soldiers asked to be served and the response from the woman behind the

counter appalled Allen. “We don’t serve coloreds in here,” the waitress remarked. “What did you say? You don’t serve soldiers in here. Pigs, pigs, pigs. Oh pigs do not serve soldiers,” Allen said. She knocked over the soda and stomped her feet right out of the restaurant. “I had to do something,” she said. After being in New York for 19 years, she married James Allen, who would be “the best husband I ever had.” Though he has been dead for 40 years, Allen still wears her wedding rings. She moved to Jamaica after their marriage. Muhammad said she was able to create a family tree encompassing seven generations with her grandmother’s help. Her family tree includes African American, Caucasian, French Creole, Native America and Pigmy. In their house on Pinegrove Street, four generations of her family are sharing space with Allen. Muhammad said the family is gearing up for her Sweet 100 Party. A century of living produces no feverish emotion for Allen. “You live to be a 100 or you don’t,” she said. “It’s just one of ‘em things. My twin sister died at 2 years old. It shows you what will be will be.” Reach Reporter Sasha Austrie at saustrie@queenspress.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

People "At SUNY Canton, we are committed Air Force Airman Tiffany E. Matthews graduated from basic military training at to student success," Kennedy said. "Each Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, of these students has demonstrated that they are equally committed to getting the Texas. The airman completed an intensive, most out of their career-driven education." To receive President's List honors, fulleight-week program that included traintime students must earn a seing in military discipline and mester grade point average studies, Air Force core val(GPA) of 3.75 or higher on ues, physical fitness, and baa 4.0 scale. For Dean's List, sic warfare principles and full-time students must reskills. ceive a GPA of 3.25. PartAirmen who complete Time Honors are awarded to basic training earn four credstudents earning at least a its toward an associate in ap3.25 GPA on six to 11 credit plied science degree through hours. the Community College of Among the students the Air Force. who earned honors for acaShe is the daughter of demics were: Alie Massicot-Gray and Air Force Airman Randolph C. White of Dwight Gray of Far Tiffany E. Matthews Laurelton, who is majoring Rockaway. Matthews is a in individual studies and is a 2008 graduate of August 2007 graduate of Martin Luther High Martin High School, Jamaica. School, made Dean's List; and Jabari The following area students recently Richards of South Ozone Park, who is achieved high honors or honors for the majoring in accounting and is a 2009 Spring Term at The Loomis Chaffee graduate of Thomas A. Edison Vocational and Technical High School, made Dean's School: Senior Tristina Bryant of Laurelton List. Brigadier General Patrick A. Murphy, achieved Honor Roll; and Freshman Sakirat Akadri of Jamaica achieved High The Adjutant General, announced the recent reenlistment of members of the New Honor Roll. York Army National Guard in recognition SUNY Canton President Joseph L. of their continuing commitment to serve Kennedy and the College's deans recently community, state and nation as part of recognized almost 800 students who ex- the Army National Guard. Sergeant 1st Class Carl Robinson from celled academically during the Spring Ridgewood has reenlisted to continue 2010 semester.

service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade; Specialist Jaime Aragon from Floral Park has reenlisted to continue service with the Company F, (Forward Support Company, Infantry) 427th Brigade Support Battalion; Sergeant 1st Class Junior Alexander from Rosedale has reenlisted to continue service with the Early Entry Eement, 369 Sustainment Brigade; Sergeant Lashima Turner from Rockaway Beach has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade; S e r g e a n t S t e v e Henriquez from Middle Village has reenlisted to continue service with the 206th Military Police Company; Sergeant Ryan Jalim from Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the 206th Military Police Company; Staff Sergeant Celeste Brevard from Bellerose has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters, 27th Finance Mgmt Co.; Sergeant 1st Class Jose Medina from Arverne has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 369th Sustainment Brigade; Sergeant Martha Greene from Laurelton has reenlisted to continue service with the Early Entry Eement, 369 Sustainment Brigade; Specialist Alberto Wilen from East Elmhurst has reenlisted to continue service with the Detachment 1, Company B, 1-69th Infantry; Specialist Jose Bautista from Bayside has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 3-142d

Aviation; and Staff Sergeant Kang Sin from Flushing has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters, 106th Regiment (Regional Training Institute). The New York Lottery recently announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings between July 25, 2010 and July 31, 2010. The following winners each received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more. Kangnok Lee of Fresh Meadows who won $44,133 on the Take Five drawing of July 22. Lee’s winning ticket was purchased at the Meadow Cards & Gifts at 61-46 188th Street in Fresh Meadows; Averyl Smart of Rosedale who won $77,765 on the Take Five drawing of July 27. Smart’s winning ticket was purchased at the 7Eleven at 910 West Merrick Road in Valley Stream; and Ji Yoon of Whitestone who won $10,000 on the Powerball drawing of July 28. Yoon’s winning ticket was purchased at the Linden Place Food at 32-21 Linden Place in Flushing.

Tell The PRESS Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements and honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy. Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 All announcements will be considered for publication without fee.

PR WIN IZ ES

B EST QUEENS WHAT'S

2010?

The PRESS will publish a special commemorative edition showcasing the places, people and things the readers love about the borough. 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 wait, we need your help. Fill out the coupon below and name your “personal bests” and we’ll check out the ones with the most votes. Be as creative and original as you can and don’t limit your self to just food. Readers who help us report the best of the borough can win a fabulous prize just for sending in their votes. We will select 10 winners at random from all coupons submitted. Send in your entries by Aug. 20th and look for the special section Aug. 25th.

Mail To: THE BEST OF QUEENS 2010 C/O The PRESS, 174-15 Horace Harding Expwy., Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 A Queens “Best”:

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Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

YOUR NAME:

Faith

Praise Tabernacle School For Faith CHURCH: Praise Tabernacle ADDRESS: 108-11 Sutphin Blvd. Jamaica PHONE: (718) 526-9286 WEB SITE: praisetabernacleinc.org FOUNDED: June 1979 PASTOR: Dr. Caesar R. Cabiness LENGTH OF SERVICE: 18 years Pastor’s Bio: Dr. Caesar R. Cabiness is a resident of Bellerose, is married to Lillie Cabiness and is the father of six children. He responded to a divine call into ministry in 1986. Already instilled with a love for the Lord and the work and having completed a basic course of studies at Bethel Bible Institute in Jamaica, and O.M. Kelly Religious Training Institute in Brooklyn, he was granted Evangelism Certification and a Bachelors of Theology Degree. Pursuing his thirst and reverence for God’s Word, he engaged in further studies at United Christian College of Queens, Northgate Bible College of Texas and Logos Bible College Graduate School of California. As a result of these studies, he was granted a Masters of Theology and Doctorate of Sacred Theology Degree as well as other certificates and awards. Dr. Cabiness was ordained in April of

Praise Tabernacle has been around since June 1979.

1988 as an Associate Mincome students who may for ister and Vice Chairman of the very first time be embarkthe Ministers Board at Evering on a study of their faith green COGIC in Brooklyn. or those who may be more He has served in various seasoned and are seeking to capacities in his labor unto the better equip themselves in Lord throughout his ministry, ministry. Course curriculum which are too numerous to ranges from beginners to name. Among them are: more advanced instructions. Adjutant to the Bishop of Te’Hillah School of Urban First Ecclesiastical JurisdicMinistry is a small school in tion of Eastern New York the quantity of students but is State Planning Committee noted for her ability to train Dr. Caesar Cabiness C.O.G.I.C. – First Ecclesiastiand prepare individuals in cal Jurisdiction the truth of God’s Word which has enabled Communications Department Council them to gain a sense of direction for their of Churches City of New York path in life. Many who have entered through Liaison for Churches of God in Christ the doors have gone on to become Deacons, and WWRL Radio 1600 AM Deaconess, Evangelists, Teachers, MinisDistrict President of the Youth Depart- ters, and even Pastors of churches. ment The President and Founder, Dr. Caesar Member Southeast Queens Clergy for Cabiness who has a love for teaching can Community Empowerment be heard on the airwaves of the Queens As Senior Pastor at Praise Tabernacle, Public Access Television network. He also he has been successful in founding the spends time teaching his former co-workers Te’Hillah Bible School of Urban Ministry in the New York City Transit Authority. Dr. and the Nu Image Transformation Center, a Cabiness stated, community based outreach program. “As believers, it is vital that we not live Pastor Cabiness, an accomplished teach- our lives appearing to be what we are not. er and promoter of Christian Education can There should be a true and evident working be heard propagating the gospel message knowledge of the faith,” Pastor Cabiness over the airwaves of Queens Public Access said. Television. Praise Tabernacle is currently The Dean, Dr. Margie Reed, a teacher under renovation as they continue to move par excellence in her own right said, “I forward in the ministerial vision under his believe that along with faith in Christ also God-given leadership. comes the necessity of obedience through proper understanding of the scriptures. I Te’Hillah School of Urban Ministry believe that people must be equipped to September 2010 marks the 14th anniver- meet the challenges of daily living through sary of the Te’Hillah School of Urban Min- application of the Word. She is determined istry. In May of this year, the bible school to see spiritual growth within the student held its 13th Commencement Ceremony. body.” Te’Hillah will open its doors on Tuesday, “I am extremely excited about this Sept. 14, at 7 p.m. for orientation to wel- upcoming year,” remarked Elder Florence

Jenkins, School Secretary and a member of the teaching staff. “This year, more incentives are offered than ever before to assist students in meeting the nominal tuition costs and motivate enrollment into courses of studies that will prove to enrich their lives.” Individuals who desire to register or would like to obtain a brochure for further information may contact the church office at (718) 526-9286.

Word

“This is my simple religion. There is no need for temples; no need for complicated philosophy. Our own brain, our own heart is our temple; the philosophy is kindness.” – The Dalai Lama

Be a part of the PRESS! Get your church listed in our weekly faith column. Send an e-mail to editor@queenspress.com

Notebook

Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

Eye On The Future

Active Senior Wants To Be A Teacher BY BOB HARRIS Melanie Feliciano, a 17-year-old senior at Martin Van Buren HS, Queens Village, whose family comes from Puerto Rico, want to become an English teacher because her teachers made the career so appealing. Feliciano has been the Varsity Volleyball team Captain since her junior year where she is a setter. She received Honorable Mention as one of the top 12 players in the city. This year, she is the Captain of the Varsity Softball team for which she plays center field and catcher and second base. She played a leading role in the school play “Annie,” and is one of the leaders for the youth group at Immaculate Concep-

tion, Queens Village, where she helps the community in general and the elderly in particular. She can often be found in the Student Government Office in Martin Van Buren High School helping out in any way possible. She hopes to attend Hunter College and study to become an English teacher for grades 7-12. She could probably coach a Volleyball or Softball team when she becomes a high school teacher. It goes to show what one can learn in our Queens high schools. Melanie Feliciano has a big future ahead of her, as a teacher and volleyball coach.

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Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 21

BUSINESS ELITE SERVICE TO LAX AND SFO

Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13-19, 2010

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, 174-15 Horace Harding Expressway, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina. IF YOUR ORGANIZATION MEETS ON A REGULAR BASIS, SEND ALL DATES FOR THE ENTIRE YEAR.

TALKS HOMEOWNERSHIP Saturday, August 14 What You Need to Know to Get Started at 11 at the Briarwood library. GLENDALE Saturday, August 14 “The Glass Castle” will be discussed at 11 at the Glendale library. VIRTUAL TOUR Saturday, August 14 discover new ideas through engaging lectures online and discuss them with your neighbors from Queens at 11 at the Maspeth library. IMMIGRATION LAW Saturday, August 14 How to Get A Green Card at 2 at the Jackson Heights library. HANDWRITING ANALYSIS Saturday, August 14 at the Middle Village library at 2. HISTORY OF FORT TOTTEN Saturday, August 14 at 1 at the Fort Totten Visitor’s Center. 352-1769. LITERARY SOUP Thursday, August 19 join the Queens Village library in a discussion at 6:30. Contact library for August title.

FLEA MARKETS

PARENTS SPIRITUAL SUPPORT Fridays, August 20, September 17 support group for parents seeking spiritual support with a biblical look at parenting in St. Albans. 4544044.

SINGLES SINGLES 45+ Wednesday, August 18 Wednesday Night Rap at the Samuel Field Y, 58-20 Little Neck Parkway. 7:30. $8. 2256750, ext. 243.

BRAZILIAN ROMANCE Saturday, August 14 Sonny and Perley perform at 1 at the Forest Hills library and at 3:30 at the Jackson Heights library. ADELPHI GUITAR Saturday, August 14 Spanish music at 2 at the Flushing librar y. TANGO, BOLERO… Saturday, August 14 Horacio Laguna performs at 2 at the Whitestone library. BLOCK PARTIES Saturday, August 14 235th Street Block Par t y at 9 at 235 th Street between 121 st Avenue and 128 th Avenue. 311. Beach 25 th Street Block Par t y at 10 at Beach 25 t h Street between Boardwalk and Seagirt Avenue. 311. FOLKLORE DANCE Saturday, August 14 at 11 at 85 th Street between 87 th Road and 88 th Avenue. 311. ASTRONOMY PROGRAM Saturday, August 14 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. $12 adult non-member, $10 member, $7 children. 229-4000 to register. STREET FESTIVAL S u n d a y , A u g u s t 1 5 3 1 st Street Festival at 11 at 31 st Street between 21 st Avenue and Ditmars Blvd. 311. DRUM CIRCLE Sunday, August 15 Alley Pond Drum Circle from 47:30 at 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston. ROSEMARY CLOONEY Monday, August 16 tribute to Rosemary Clooney at 6:30 at t he Lefrak Cit y library. CHINA Monday, August 16 Impressions of China at 6 at the Hollis library. SINATRA SALUTE Monday, August 16 tribute to Sinatra, Manilow, Sedaka and more at 6 at the East Flushing library. RODGERS… Monday, August 16 tribute to Rodgers, Hammerstein and Hart at 2:30 at the Rego Park library. CABARET Monday, August 16 Cabaret with Castorina and Rose at 6 at the Richmond Hill library. BINGO Tuesdays at 7:15 at American Mart yrs Church, church basement, 216-01 Union Tu r n p i k e , B a y s i d e . 4 6 4 4 5 8 2 . Tu e s d a y s a t 7 : 1 5 (doors open 6) at the Rego Park Jewish Center, 97-30 Queens Blvd. 459-1000.$3 admission includes 12 games. FATHER OF BRIDE Tuesday, August 17 watch the movie based on the book at 2 at Central library. MOVIES Tuesday, August 17 fre e family movies overlooking the LI Sound at Little Bay Park. Bring a chair or blanket. 8. 352-4793. MACBETH Wednesday, August 18 Hip to Hop Theatre Company presents Macbeth at 7:30 at the George Seuffert Bandshell. JEWISH MUSIC Wednesday, August 18

Bukharian International Festival. Wednesday, August 25 Family Entertainment. Cunningham Park at 7. Bring lounge chair or blanket. BAZAAR OF TALENT Thursday, August 19 at 2 at the South Ozone Park library. HIP PICKLES Thursday, August 19 come see the award winning drumming group Hip Pickles at 6:30 at Elton street and Jamaica Avenue. BACH TO KLEZMER Thursday, August 19 at 6 at the Far Rockaway library. SHAKESPEARE Thursday, August 19 Shakespeare in the Park at 6:30 at Fort Totten Park. TORCH SONGS Thursday, August 19 Flo Michaels performs the greatest torch songs at 3 at the Mitchell-Linden library. MOVIE DAY Friday, August 20 at 2 at the Baisley Park library. MOVIE SERIES Fridays in the summer enjoy a BBQ cookout and feature film in the schoolyard of St. Joseph in Astoria. 278-1611 more information. STREET FAIR Saturday, August 21 HCP Communit y Day Street Fair starting at 10 at 196 th Street between 100 th and 104 th Avenues. Call 311. CABARET Saturday, August 21 an afternoon of Cabaret with Castorina and Rose at 3 at the Howard Beach library. ROSEMARY CLOONEY Saturday, August 21 tribute to Rosemary Clooney at 2:30 at the Jackson Heights library. BLOCK PARTY Saturday, August 21 L i n den/121 st Street Block Part y starting at 9 at 121 st Street between Linden Blvd. and 115 th Avenue. Call 311. LINCOLN CENTER Saturday, August 21 L i n coln Center Meet the Artist Series: Enchanting Dances of North Africa and the Middle East at 2 at the Flushing library. ROLE OF ART Saturday, August 21 T h e Changing Role of Art in Societ y by Maureen Fleming, Artistic Director/Choreographer Performance at 7 at the Flushing library. OCEAN VILLAGE DAY Saturday, August 21 starting at 9 at Beach 54 th Street between Beach Channel Drive and Rockaway Beach Blvd. CAR SHOW & SWAP MEET Saturday and Sunday, August 21, 22 Long Island Cars’ “Summer Belmont” Car Show and Swap Meet at Belmont Racetrack from 8-5. $7 Saturday, $9 Sunday. TAMING OF THE SHREW Sunday, August 22 Hip to Hop Theatre Company presents “Taming of the Shrew” at 7:30 at the George Seuffert Bandshell. 2354151. SUMMER BLOCK PARTY Sunday, August 22 starting at 10 at 80 th Street between Roosevelt Avenue and 41 st Avenue. Call 311.

EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS IMMIGRATION LAW Saturday, August 14 How to Get a Green Card at 2 at the Jackson Heights library. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Saturday, August 14 at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament in Bayside. 631-3609720. $45. ONE STROKE PAINTING Saturday, August 14 at the Fresh Meadows library. Register. SUMMER IN THE CITY Saturday, August 14 at the L a n g s to n H u g h e s l i b r a r y. Register. GARDENING Saturday, August 14 at the Bayside library. Register. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Saturday, August 14 at the Knights of Columbus in Valley Stream. $40. 341-0452. CHRISTMAS GIFTS Saturdays, August 14, 28 knit Christmas gifts at the South Ozone Park librar y. Bring knitting needles at 2:30. EBRU Saturdays, August 14, 21, 28 come and explore the beautiful Turkish tradition of Ebru (paper marbling) at the Sunnyside library. Register. CAPOEIRA Saturdays through September 4 Brazilian martial arts from 12-1:30 at Socrates Sculpture Park. 956-1819. YOGA Saturdays through September 4 Yoga at Socrates Sculpture Park from 9:30-10:30 or 11-12. 956-1819. PILATES Saturdays through September 4 Pilates at Socrates Sculpture Park from 10-11. 956-1819. SCRABBLE CLUB Saturdays at 10 at Count Basie Jr. HS, 132 nd Street and Guy R. Brewer Blvd. 8865236. KNIT AND CROCHET Saturdays at the Seaside library at 2:30. PET OWNERS Sundays (not on holidays) from 1-4 free workshops on pet behavior at Crocheron Park in Bayside (weather permitting). 454-5800. KNIT & CROCHET Mondays at 4 at the Douglaston/Little Neck library, 249-01 Northern Blvd. INSTRUCTION & DANCE Mondays and Fridays 7:158:00 dance lessons, dance from 8-11. Italian Charities of America, 83-20 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst. $10. ADULT CHESS Mondays at 6 at the Queens Village library. INTRO CROCHETING Monday, August 16 introduction to crocheting for adults at 6 at the Baisley Park library. ZUMBA Monday, August 16 Latin Dance fitness program at the Broadway library. Register. DISCOVER CAREER Monday, august 16 discover your career potential at 7 at the Central library. BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, August 16, 23, 30 at the Forest Hills library at 6:30. COMPUTER CLASS

Mondays, August 16, 23, 30 at the Lefferts library at 10:30. POETRY WORKSHOP Mondays, August 16, September 20, Oc tober 18 poetry writing workshop at Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows at 7:30. GET YOUR YARNS OUT! Tuesdays after evening Minyan at 8, knitters, crocheters, needlepointers, and others meet at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 263-7000, ext. 200. FABRIC JEWELRY Tuesday, August 17 fabric beaded jewelry at 1 at the LIC library. ADULT SCRABBLE Tuesdays, August 17, 24, 31 at the Fresh Meadows library at 1. OPEN BRIDGE Tuesdays at 8 at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. Call 2637000 for fees. COMPUTER BASICS Tuesdays, August 17, 24 at the Glen Oaks library. Register. SUMMER SCRABBLE Tuesdays, August 17, 24, 31 at the East Flushing library at 3:30. DUPLICATE BRIDGE Wednesdays 10:30-3:00 at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills. $12 session, includes light lunch. 261-2900. WATERCOLOR CL ASS Wednesdays at 9:30 at NAL. Traditional and contemporary, all levels. 969-1128. INDOOR SOCCER – DADS Wednesday evenings at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. 263-7000. ZUMBA Wednesday evenings and Thursday mornings at the Bay Terrace Jewish Center. 281-0912. CANASTA Wednesdays, August 18, 25 at 10 at the Whitestone library. SCRABBLE/CHESS Thursdays at 4 at the Windsor Park library, 79-50 Bell Blvd., Bayside. QUILTING CLASSES Thursdays 10-2 at the Maria Rose Doll Museum in St. Albans. 917-817-8653 to register. KNIT/CROCHET Thursdays at 6 and Fridays at 10:30 at the Fresh Meadows library. QUILTERS Thursdays at 1:30 at the East Elmhurst library. ONE STROKE PAINTING Thursday, August 19 at the L a n g s to n H u g h e s l i b r a r y. Register. OPEN BRIDGE Thursdays from 8-10pm at the Forest Hills Jewish Center. $12 per player. 2756615 to register. PC FOR BEGINNERS Thursday, August 19 at 10:30 and 11:15 and Tuesday, August 24 at 10:30 and 11:15 at the Bellerose library. GO GREEN! Thursday, August 19 elegant environmental jewelry workshop for adults at the North Hills library. Register. BASIC COMPUTERS

Thursdays, August 19, 26 at the East Elmhurst library at 10. CROCHETING Thursday, August 19 at the Rosedale library at 6:30. INTERGEN. CHESS Friday, August 20 at the Douglaston/Little Neck library. Register. GAME & CRAFT DAY Friday, August 20 at 2 at the East Elmhurst library. COMPUTER COURSE Fridays, August 20, 27 at the Ozone Park library. Register. PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, August 21, September 4, 18 learn to communicate effectively at Elmhurst Hospital. 457-8390. DEFENSIVE DRIVING Saturday, August 21 at 8:45 at St. James in Franklyn Square. $40. 516-872-8062. BOATING SAFETY Sunday, August 22 “About Boating Safet y” class at Fort Totten. 917-952-7014.

EXHIBIT COMMUNITY ART Through August 21 Communit y Art Gallery at Jamaica Market, sponsored by Simply Marvelous Art, presents the work of Klytus Smith, renowned photographer. 291-9862.

MISCELLANEOUS SOUP KITCHEN Saturday, August 14 free soup kitchen/hot lunch 12-2 at the Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Queens, 147-54 Ash Avenue. 3533860. FARMERS’ MARKET Sundays 10-4 at the NY Hall of Science, 111 th Street and 48 th A v e n u e . F r i d a y s a n d Saturdays 8:30-4:00 at 160 th Street, off Jamaica Avenue. Fridays 8:30-4:00 at the Queens Botanical Garden, Dahlia Avenue off Main Street. RESOURCE DAY Friday, August 20 Rockaway Communit y Resource Day starting at noon. 318-4000.

RELIGIOUS BAY TERRACE Friday, August 13 Candle Lighting at 7:06. Saturday, August 14 Evening Service at 7:15. Monday, August 16 Ritual Committee Meeting at 7:30. Tuesday August 17 Finance Committee Meeting at 7:30. Friday, August 20 Candle Lighting at 6:58. Saturday, August 21 Evening Service at 7:10. Bay Terrace Jewish Center, 1300 209 th Street. FLUSHING-FRESH MEAD.S Sunday, August 15 Breakfast Club presents Bunie Veeder discussing relationship between Jacob and Leah. Breakfast at 9:45, lecture at 10:30. Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center, 193-10 Peck Avenue. 3575100.

Aug. 13-19, 2010 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 23

OUTDOOR FLEA Saturdays and Sundays until November 28 St. Nicholas of Tolentine 9-5 Parsons Blvd. and Union Tpke, Jamaica. FLEA MARKETS Saturdays, August 14, 28 from 9-4 in the school yard at PS69, 77-02 37 th Avenue, Jackson Heights. WEEKLY FLEA Sundays 9-4 at Our Lady of the Angelus Church, 98-05 63 rd Drive, Rego Park.

ENTERTAINMENT

What’s Up SATURDAY, AUG. 14 Youth & Tennis

erty Avenue between 172nd Street and 173rd Street – from noon to 4 p.m.

The Youth and Tennis group meets every Saturday morning at Roy Wilkins Park Saturday. To learn more, call Bill Briggs at (718) 658-6728.

MONDAY, AUG. 15 Adult Chess Club

Kids Football The LP Fam’s Youth Organization will host youth football games at the Lincoln Park Baseball Field, 111th and 135th Streets in South Ozone Park. The games will be played every Saturday until August 28. The registration fee is $150, and includes the cost of a uniform, insurance, practice and trophies. For more information, call (718) 5297911.

Jump & Ball Tournament See Saturday’s listing. For additional information, contact Tai White at (718) 528-4290 or twhite@senate.state.ny.us. This free event will be held at Roy Wilkins Park - Merrick Boulevard at Baisley Boulevard – from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

GMAT Practice Test

The Coasters

Get yourself into business school with a GMAT Computer Based Practice Test. Kaplan GMAT experts will give a computer based practice test on the GMAT exam. Come in and see how you score on the test and begin your journey into business school. This free event will be held at the Queensborough Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 10 a.m.

The Coasters, the well known rhythm and blues rock and roll vocal group from the late 1950s, will be appearing for the first time in Southeast Queens at Black Spectrum Theatre. The group had a string of hits, which included “Yakety Yak,” “Charlie Brown,” “Poison Ivy,” “Love Potion No. 9,” “Along Came Jones,” “Sweet Georgia Brown” and “Searchin’,” which was the groups first US Top 10 hit and topped the R&B charts for 13 weeks to become the biggest R&B single of 1957. The original group was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. All the original members of the group have died, except for Carl Gardner and Leon Huges. Some of the former Coaster members have suffered violent deaths. Shirley Huntley for State Senate is presenting the legendary singing group at Black Spectrum Theatre (founded by Executive Director Carl Clay) which is located in Roy Wilkins Park, 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard. Tickets are $40 for advance purchase, $45 at the door and $100 to attend a special VIP reception with the Coasters. Call (718) 809-3515 for information or to purchase tickets.

Jump & Ball Tournament Senate President Malcolm A. Smith and renowned hip-hop artist LL Cool J are pleased to present the Sixth Annual Jump & Ball Tournament. Please join State Senator Smith and LL for a basketball and a double-dutch tournament scheduled to run from Saturday, July 31 through Sunday, Aug. 29. The event features basketball games, dancing and jump rope competitions, as well as spelling bees. The competitions are open to youth ages 18 and under. Refreshments and giveaways will be available throughout the tournaments. For additional information, contact Tai White at (718) 528-4290 or twhite@senate.state.ny.us. This free event will be held at Roy Wilkins Park - Merrick Boulevard at Baisley Boulevard – from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Family & Friends Day

Page 24 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13 - 19, 2010

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.

Join Senator Shirley Huntley for a free day of learning, exercise, games, rides, food, music and other fun-filled activities. For additional information, visit huntley.nysenate.gov, send an e-mail to menyweat@senate.state.ny.us or contact Huntley’s district office at (718) 5233069. This free event will be held at Roy Wilkins Park - Merrick Boulevard at Baisley Boulevard – from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Liberty Park Family Day The New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, New York City Councilman Leroy Comrie, and Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica present the 9th Annual Liberty Park Family Day. Bring a blanket or a chair and enjoy a day of free games, rides, health screenings, BBQ, live jazz, face painting, arts and crafts, plus access to community services and much, much more. For more information, call (718) 776-3700. This free event will be held at Liberty (Detective Keith L. Williams) Park - Lib-

TUESDAY, AUG. 16 Discover Your Career Potential Take the Career Exploration Inventory, a self-scored, easy-to-use guide to choosing a career based on your interests and experiences. A Job Information Center Librarian will be present to assist and answer questions. This free event will be held at the Queensborough Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, AUG. 17 Father of the Bride Come on out for a short introduction to the book, followed by a screening of the movie “The Father of the Bride” based on the book by Edward Streeter. This free event will be held at the Queensborough Public Library’s Central Branch, 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 2 p.m.

THURSDAY, AUG. 18 Adult Chess Club Practice your chess skills weekly, on Monday and Thursday evenings. The event is held at 6 p.m. every Thurs-

State Sen. Malcolm A. Smith will host the Sixth Annual Jump & Ball Tournament this weekend. day at Queens Village Library, 94-11 217 St., (718) 776-6800.

FRIDAY, AUG. 19 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.

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.

mestic Violence, Mental Health, Substance Abuse intervention, Decision Making, Condom Use, High Risk Behaviors leading to HIV, and self – esteem awareness. All group sessions offer light snacks and beverages. Group sessions are open to the public. Round-Trip Metro Card reimbursement is available at the end of each completed session. For further information call (718) 297-0720. All services are free. Please call for next group date.

Infant Mortality Clergy United for Community Empowerment’s Infant Mortality Reduction Initiative program provides the following services free of charge: case management services, parent skills building, crib care, breast feeding education, health education, nutritional information/education, referral for HIV testing, confidential one-on-one counseling, workshops, and women support groups. IMRI provides referrals for Food stamps, GED, GYN, Emergency Baby Formula (qualifications required) and more. Call (718) 297-0720. Located at 89-31 161 St., 10th floor, Jamaica. Services are available Tue.-Thurs. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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.

Laurelton Flea Market A flea market has opened at 221-02 Merrick Blvd. On sale are a wide range of items, including household items, jewelry and clothing. The market is open every Thursday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Group Sessions

CPR Class

Clergy United for Community Empowerment, Inc. Group Sessions are located at 8931 161st St., 10th Floor, Jamaica, for the community on various topics such as Do-

Learn to protect yourself and others at Heron Care Inc. For more information, please call (718) 291-8788. Heron is located at 168-30 89th Ave., Jamaica.

embarrass the people around you? If you answered yes, congratulations, you might have a teenager who is probably red-faced with shame right now simply because you breathe. Don’t worry, moms and dads. You’re in good company. Even Madonna, our one-time Corona resident, can’t ever do anything right. The material girl recently took her 13-year-old daughter Lourdes to a Jay-Z concert, and had the nerve to display her enjoyment by (gasp) dancing – the enThe Material Girl and her tire time. frustrated daughter. “In the moment I was just like, “mom…no…please no,” wrote Lourdes, in her blog. Good thing she didn’t kiss Britney Spears. Again.

Caught On Film

Mickey Rivers at Shea Photo by Ira Cohen

“Mick The Quick” dashed into Citi Field last Sunday as the Amazins celebrated the induction of four new members to the Mets Hall of Fame. Mickey Rivers played ball for 15 years for the Angels, Yankees and Rangers before retiring in 1984. He was an All-Star, led the league in stolen bases in 1975 and won two championships with the Yankees in 1977 and 1978. Judging by the 14-1 drubbing the Mets got, perhaps we could coax him out of retirement. He probably runs better than Luis Castillo.

For Jayme, her start on the road to modeling was bumpy, with several twists along the way. She’s hoping that now she has a chance to break through. As a child, Jayme watched her aunt run a modeling agency that focused on runway models, and “ever since then I wanted to do it,” she said. But her aunt never took her seriously. “I was a teenager who wanted to hang out,” Jayme said. “I didn’t have focus.” While working in a strip club in 1998, she was spotted by a scout. She was skeptical at first, but it turned out that the scout was on the level, and she soon found herself getting some work on and off. For a few years, off was more the word. Jayme has found it hard to get some jobs because she has a few tattoos, and photographers don’t want to spend the time to airbrush them out. “I had lost confidence, but now I’m getting into it again,” she said. Her tattoos, mostly small stars and flowers, as well as some small words and phrases, are part of who Jayme is. When not in front of the camera, Jayme works as a home health aide – hoping some day to work in a group home, helping either seniors or kids lead better lives. “It makes you feel good at the end of the day,” Jayme said. “You know that you did something.” In her downtime, Jayme enjoys writing poetry, and having grown up in Bayside loved playing hand-

Models Of Queens

The Shame Have Of you It ever Allfelt like you

Family Jewelz Jayme Jewelz Home: Jamaica Age: 31 Height: 5’ 7" Weight: 130 lbs Stats: 36-28-34

ball at Maple Park and hanging out in Flushing. She doesn’t have as much free time these days. Her 14-year-old daughter is starting high school in September, and she’s considering taking in a foster child.

As a person, a mother and role model, Jayme says she has no problem standing up for what she believes in and speaking her mind. “I’m the type of person that if you see me on the street, I’m going to speak,” she said.

Highest Honors Nike's Special Queens Edition

The Official Queens Colors

Queens Colors?

Page 26 PRESS of Southeast Queens Aug. 13 - 19, 2010

How much would you pay for a pair of Nike sneakers? Is $135 too unreasonable? What if they were a special Queens edition? The gold and green Queens edition of Nike’s famous Air Force 1’s was released last Thursday in limited supply in conjunction with the sneaker maker’s World Basketball Festival. We’re not sure where the color scheme came from. The Bronx has sky blue kicks… Wait a minute… that’s our color!

Oy!

Jorge Munoz, who has been handing out food from the back of his truck to the hungry in Jackson Heights for the last six years was honored by the White House with the Presidential Citizens Medal for his work. A school bus driver who pays for the food from his own pocket (and does get some donations) was a finalist as a CNN Hero in 2009 in honor of his work. The Presidential Citizens Medal recognizes Americans who have “performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or their fellow citizens.” The award is among the highest a President can bestow. Keep up the good work, Jorge!

Heeb Magazine has brought us a special New York City subway map… for Jews. The map takes the common map we see everywhere and cuts out all but the lines most often used by Jewish New Yorkers that connect the popular Jewish neighborhoods to Manhattan. Well… most of them. Heeb left out some parts of the city we find very important to our fellow New Yorkers of the Jewish faith… namely, Queens. The map includes lines through Brooklyn (where a text box tells us Jews live along the entire F line), Greenwich Village (where your dad’s cousin Bernie, the “decorator” lived) and The Bronx (where your grandparents lived before the Puerto Ricans came) – but the entire borough of Queens is omitted, save a description of LaGuradia Airport as “A Schlep.” Is Heeb really telling us that no Jews take the E to Forest Hills or Kew Gardens? Don’t Jews still frequent Rockaway Beach – they certainly did when aunt Sadie had a bungalow there, and often fly El Al from JFK, only one ride on the A from Jay Street/Borough Hall, where Heeb tells us there are unpaid internships for Photoshopsavvy Jews who don’t mind getting people coffee. Not Cool, Heeb.

Jorge Munoz feeds the hungry from his trunk

Confidentially, New York . . .