Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 12 Issue No. 36 Sept. 9-15, 2011

Page 22

NEVER FORGET

As the nation faces the 10th anniversary of the Sept. 11 terror attacks, we take a look at the events of that day through the eyes of a teen who lost her father.

By Joseph Orovic…Page 9

Online at www.QueensPress.com

News Briefs Councilman Jim Gennaro and the Parks Dept. planted a tree in honor of a homeless man who died saving a woman's life.

On April 18, 2010, Hugh Alfredo Tale-Yax witnessed a woman being attacked near 144th Street and 88th Road in Jamaica. An NYPD security camera showed Tale-Yax ran to break up the attack and chase the assailant away.

Though the woman's life was no longer in danger, Councilman Jim Gennaro, l. to r. Barry Colvin and Queens Tale-Yax suffered from sev- Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski honor the life eral stab wounds. The 31- of Hugo Alfredo Tale-Yax by planting a tree Aug. 26. year-old lied on his stomach, bleeding into the street. The The petition calls on Gov. Andrew security camera shows pedestrians pass- Cuomo to adequately fund public transit ing by Tale-Yax's dying body. and sign the Transit Riders Bill of Rights, "When the very life blood was oozing a bill sponsored by Meng that lists a seout of him, people couldn't take the time ries of rights transit riders should be enand help this man who had just saved a titled to, including updated, accurate inlife," Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) said. formation about delays or service Firefighters arrived 80 minutes later, changes, fare hikes as a last resort and but by then it was too late. He was pro- prioritization of maintaining current innounced dead at the scene. At this time, frastructure. no arrests have been made in connection "We're here at one of the busiest subwith Tale-Yax's murder. way stations in the City to show how im"He paid with his own life so that some- portant public transit is to our residents," one else could live and tragically, as he Meng said. "We use it to get to work, to had lived his whole life, people stepped school, to the doctor, to our families. We over him, stepped by him, didn't pay heed deserve a transit system that works." to him," the councilman said.

When Westchester resident Barry Bill For BSA Challenge Colvin read the news about Tale-Yax's The Board of Standards and Appeals' murder, he was appalled at the lack of enforcement abilities have been repeatcompassion the man received in his last edly characterized as lax. Now Councilmoments of life. "I didn't know Hugo man Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) has more than people who read articles in the authored two bills to that would give paper about this incident," Colvin said.

Colvin said many people who would elected officials and community boards a read about the murder would probably just greater say in the process, while also takshrug their shoulders and turn the page, ing property owners to task for lapsed but he wanted to do more. He immediately variances.

The first bill gives Community Boards took an interest in the case and reached and Borough Presidents the authority to out to Gennaro to try to honor the life of appeal BSA decisions. The opposition Tale-Yax. More than a year later, the mewould be aired out before the full City morial tree was planted for Tale-Yax. To further honor the man who died Council, which would then vote on saving another, Colvin and his wife whether to grant the full variance - removMonica had a headstone made for Tale- ing the BSA's single-handed control over the matter.

Yax that will be secured with the tree.

Currently, Community Boards and Bor"We thank him for his humanity and ough Presidents serve an advisory role, compassion and it is my hope and prayer offering recommendations meant to guide today that more people are like Barry and his wife," Gennaro said. The headstone the BSA's decision. The councilman includes Tale-Yax's name and the date of claims it is a flawed system.

"Our City's charter put the Council, the murder and says "He died protecting not an unelected board, in charge of land another." use decisions," Halloran said. "These laws would give the land use authority in New Transit Riders Stand Up York City back to the City Council, and Local officials and activist groups are would increase the vital role that the Comcalling on transit riders to demand New munity Board plays in the process."

York City's buses and trains become a priHalloran's second bill would ensure ority in Albany. properties abide by appropriate variances Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D- and renew in a timely manner by institutFlushing), State Sen. Toby Ann Stavisky ing penalties for owners who operate with (D-Flushing), representatives from Asian an expired variance.

Americans for Equality and activists from The law would require the BSA notify the Riders Rebellion campaign, part of property owners of variances set to exTransportation Alternatives, a pro-public pire in six months, and gives them a full transit group, gathered to collect signa- year after notification to apply for a retures from commuters at the Main Street- newal. After six months of operating with Flushing subway station on Aug. 18 to an expired variance, Halloran's bill gives help make the change. the BSA authority to levy fines.

Photo by Brad Groznik

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Homeless Hero Honored

Presstime

Candidates Vie For 28th Dem Nod

BY VERONICA LEWIN

On Tuesday, registered Democrats in District 28 will pick the City Council member to represent them in the November election.

Three candidates – former Councilman Allan Jennings, Clifton Stanley Diaz and Michael Duvalle – are running against incumbent Councilman Ruben Wills (DSouth Jamaica) for the district seat that includes the Southeast Queens neighborhoods of Jamaica, Rochdale Village, Richmond Hill and South Ozone Park.

Wills won the seat last November after the passing of Tom White Jr. in August.

Wills said if re-elected, the 28th District will come one step closer to being home to the most desired neighborhoods in Queens. Since taking office nine months ago, Wills has raised $10.8 million in discretionary funding for his district. He has used the funding for a variety of projects, such as cleaning garbage behind the homes of his constituents and spurring economic development. The day after Hurricane Irene hit the district, Wills was out on the streets assessing the damage.

The councilman has received endorsements from several labor unions as well as Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan) and female colleagues in the council.

“In just nine months in the City Council, Ruben has been a tireless advocate for his constituents,” Quinn said. “Citywide, he introduced legislation that was signed into law protecting consumers from expired over-the-counter medications. In his district, he has secured funding for state of the art technology in public schools and kept daycare centers open.” Wills is con-

Clifton Stanley Diaz

Michael Duvalle

fident his constituents will choose him again to represent District 28.

Jennings represented the 28th District from 2001 until 2005 before being defeated by White in the Democratic primary after being fined by the City Council for “creating a hostile work environment.” Jennings did not pay the fine, claiming he was innocent. Wills is urging the campaign finance board to investigate loans Jennings has received this campaign, claiming they are in violation of campaign finance law.

“He’s the one who got arrested,” Jennings said, referring to Wills’ 14-yearold petit larceny charge. “He’s the one who broke his mother’s heart. Not me.”

If elected, Jennings said he wants to restore funding to after-school programs he funded during his council stint but have not been funded since leaving office. When Jennings was in office, he provided $7.5 million for laptop computers for elementary school children in the district. From 1992 to 2004, Jennings served as the Democratic District Leader.

In addition to improving education and bringing in jobs, Jennings plans to tackle the Southeast Queens foreclosure crisis by

Allen Jennings

Ruben Wills

hosting seminars and having staff members help constituents. The former councilman plans to reduce crime in the district and has received endorsements from several police unions.

Diaz said the most pressing issue in District 28 is predatory lending and the rate of foreclosures. If elected, Diaz said he would fight to get additional funding for after-school and youth programs, bring in more affordable housing for low- and middle-income residents and have a better working relationship with the police department. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority customer service representative also wants to improve the City’s public transportation. Prior to his current position, Diaz served in the Air Force, was a City Council President College Intern, federal police officer and worked for the NYPD. His previous public service experi-

Peninsula Is Revived

By Orthodox Agency

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Record Cop Stop Pace Worries Rights Group

BY JASON BANREY

Peninsula Hospital Center is one step away from being taken off the respirator and making a recovery.

The Far Rockaway hospital announced Friday that Revival Home Health Care will take over day-to-day operations, pending approval from the State Health Dept.

According to Peninsula, the agreement has support from the Health Dept., in addition to the employee union 1199 SEIU. As a result of the pending agreement, ambulances will return to Peninsula's emergency room. On Aug. 23 the Health Dept. ordered ambulances heading for Peninsula be rerouted to other hospitals until the hospital's financial future was certain.

A spokeswoman for the home health care company confirmed the transition was in progress, pending state approval.

Revival, which specializes in providing services to the Jewish community, opened in 1994 and provides home health care service to residents in the five boroughs, Long Island and Sullivan, Rockland, Orange and Westchester Counties. Revival's Chief Operating Officer Todd Miller will take over as Peninsula's Chief Restructuring Officer, who will help staff members with the transition.

"Revival is very proud to be able to step in and save Peninsula Hospital Center for the Rockaway community,"

Miller said in a statement.

Debt-ridden Peninsula Hospital Center has been fighting all summer to stay open. Each hospital employee received a Warn Act notice on July 29, which contained an outline of employee rights, contact information, job retraining options and benefits employees are entitled to in the event of a closure. On Aug. 1, the hospital submitted a draft closure plan to the Health Dept. for its review and approval. On Aug. 23 MediSys, which operates Flushing Hospital Medical Center and Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, ended its affiliation with the Far Rockaway hospital effective immediately. Closing the hospital would have left St. John's Episcopal Hospital the sole remaining hospital to serve residents on the peninsula.

Last week's announcement pleased Borough President Helen Marshall, who has been fighting to keep hospital beds in Queens for the past five years. Two years after the report came out, New Parkway Hospital closed its doors in November 2008, with St. John's and Mary Immaculate following just three months later. The likely saving of Peninsula Hospital will prevent the borough from losing another 173 beds.

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

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

After more than 360,000 "stop and frisks" were conducted by the NYPD throughout the City in the first half of 2011, the New York Civil Liberties Union points out that the NYPD is on pace to set a record number of stops this year.

According to new data released by the NYPD, 362,150 people were stopped by the cops between January and June, a 13.5 percent increase from the number during same period last year.

According to statistics released by the NYCLU, 88 percent - 317,376 people of those stopped in the first six months of 2011 were completely innocent.

"Incredibly, the NYPD keeps setting historic highs for the number of people being stopped and frisked and for the number of innocent people being victimized by this practice," said NYCLU Associate Legal Director Christopher Dunn.

In 2011, between April and June, the NYPD subjected nearly 180,000 people to stop and frisks around the City. Although the number is down from the first three months of the year, black and Latinos were still disproportionately stopped in contrast to their white counterparts.

Of the 178,824 recorded stops, 91,493 of those stopped were black, 58,638 stopped were Latino and 16,893 were white.

In Queens, the highest number of recorded stop and frisks occurred in 106th Precinct which covers the neighborhoods of Howard Beach, Ozone Park, South Ozone Park and South Richmond Hill.

Within the precinct, 2,924 were recorded; 1,457 stops were against blacks and Latinos - nearly 50 percent of the precinct's total - while 1,147 were against Asians.

Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

ence includes serving on Queens Community Board 12 and Queens Community School Board 28.

Duvalle has four priorities for District 28 if he takes office. Like all candidates, he wants to bring more jobs to the community. Instead of closing failing schools in the district, Duvalle wants to work to improve the schools.

He also wants to give parents the right to choose the school their child attends, especially as they approach middle school age. Duvalle hopes to create an education “superfund,” which would be used for textbooks, school supplies and after-school programs.

He is the former president of Rapid Security and said his company created more than 2,000 jobs for the borough.

His prior public service experience includes serving on the Community Education Council District 27 and serving for the state ombudsman program for seniors.

To vote in the Sept. 13 primary, one must be a registered Democrat in District 28. The winner of this month’s primary will run in the general election on Nov. 8.

The winner of that election will serve as a City Council member until the end of the term in 2013.

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

Gillibrand Pushes For Minority Jobs

BY JASON BANREY

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Queens politicians are backing federal legislation that would connect at-risk youth with job opportunities.

Standing with the support of local elected officials, U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand continued her fight to pass the Urban Jobs Act of 2011 (UJA).

The federal legislation, co-sponsored

by Gillibrand, would initially provide $20 million in grants to national nonprofit organizations for educational support and job training and an additional $10 million per year until 2016.

The legislation is aimed at increasing employment among at-risk youth who have dropped out of high school or have been previously subjected to the criminal justice process throughout the nation’s inner cities.

“Supporting education and training for our Queens youth is a smart investment that will help rebuild our local economy and pay dividends over the long term,” Gillibrand said to a room filled with black and Latino youth. “Helping our youth compete in this difficult economy will have a lasting, positive impact on our community.”

Gillibrand’s visit was part of a threeborough tour pushing for critical federal resources she believes much of the city‘s youth would benefit from.

Borough politicians thanked Gillibrand for her commitment toward dealing with a problem which State Sen. Jose Peralta (DEast Elmhurst) says has “condemned gen-

erations of minority families to a perpetual cycle of dependence and poverty.”

As a product of both Washington Heights and East Elmhurst himself, Peralta knows first hand the many difficulties young students are still facing today.

Overcrowding, the lack of resources and support systems have plagued much of the borough’s youth for decades, causing many to drop out and take menial jobs.

“The consequences of dropping out are devastating,” Peralta said. “[The UJA] takes a comprehensive approach to helping at-risk youth.”

According to Gillibrand, in July the average unemployment rate for minority youth in urban communities in the nation was approximately 39 percent for African Americans and 36 percent for Hispanic youth. In the city, the same ethnic groups were found twice as likely to drop out of school and make up more than 80 percent of the city’s detention centers.

By providing the support services to those in school, Peralta believes the UJA will help keep students on track to graduate, equipping them with both the job and life skills necessary to succeed in the workplace.

One of those local affiliates that would benefit from the federal funding is Make the Road New York, a youth advocacy group based in Jackson Heights.

Despite those who criticize that the potential funds seem to be only “a drop in the bucket” to address a widespread national issue, Anna Maria Archila, co-executive director of MRNY says the fund-

ing, if received, “would provide us with another injection of hope.”

“Our communities cannot afford to sit on the sidelines as our young people fall through the cracks of disillusion and neglect,” Archila said. “Our schools and the

economy have failed them again and again.

It’s our job to make sure this doesn’t happen again.”

Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

Electeds Honor Seniors

BY VERONICA LEWIN

The time has come for Southeast Queens to celebrate its older residents.

Senior Appreciation Week starts Saturday, Sept. 10 and ends Friday, Sept. 16. The string of events is sponsored by the Greater Queens Chapter of the Links and all of Southeast Queens' elected officials. Each legislator is hosting their own special event to honor the district's older residents. All of the events are completely free to the community, but interested participants must RSVP ahead of time.

The week-long event has been running for eight years and is done to recognize the community that is often forgotten about as they age.

This Saturday, the Greater Queens Chapter of the Links is hosting a health fair at York College from 10-2. Guests will have the opportunity to receive blood pressure and prostate cancer screenings, diabetes tests and dental exams. For more information, call (917) 208-2068. Later that afternoon, seniors can attend the Banner Day and Gospel Fest hosted by Assemblywoman Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica) and Councilman

Ruben Wills (D-South Jamaica). To RSVP, contact (718) 206-2068.

On Sept. 12. State Sens. Shirley L. Huntley (D-Jamaica) and Malcom Smith (D-St. Albans) are each hosting their own luncheon.

To RSVP, call Huntley's office at (718) 5233069 or Smith's office at (718) 454-0162.

U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica) is hosting an afternoon at the movies on Sept.

14. To register, call (718) 725-6000. The following day, Councilman Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) is hosting a informational fair for seniors, while Assemblywoman Michele Titus (D-South Ozone Park) is offering a Zumba fitness class.

Assemblyman William Scarborough (DJamaica) is taking seniors on a bus trip to Atlantic City Sept. 15, which is the event many of the seniors look forward to most each year. Those interested can contact (718) 776-3700. Senior appreciation week concludes with a Jazz Fest hosted by Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans). To RSVP, call (718) 776-3700.

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

Ackerman Eyes New Homestead Act An estimated $1.2 trillion in idle corporate capital held by U.S. companies is sitting overseas, and U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside) is proposing legislation that would put it to use – to fix the housing market.

With Congress set to reconvene after Labor Day, Ackerman will introduce “Homestead: Act 2,” a bill that would use the tax revenue from the repatriated $1 trillion overseas to help homeowners buy the current glut of 3 million unoccupied homes clogging in the market.

The plan would most obviously affect Southeast Queens, which has had foreclosure signs pop up like lawn weeds over the last three years. Local elected officials from the community largely applauded Ackerman’s legislation, but said more needs to be done to fix the housing market.

The plan works in three parts. First, it would provide the first 2 million potential live-in homeowners with a $20,000 subsidy for a down-payment on the purchase of a vacant single-family home. The government would forgive 20 percent of the loan every year for the first five years if the owner continues to live in the home. Secondly, 1 million future landlords would enjoy 10 years free of rental income taxes on singlefamily homes bought to generate revenue.

Ackerman kept the program revenueneutral, as it would use cash gathered from the repatriated overseas funds at a reduced

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

BY JOSEPH OROVIC

Homestead Act 2 would encourage lending for the purchase of vacant homes. tax rate of 10 percent, lower than the 35 percent tax rate currently on the books.

“Clearly, ‘Homestead: Act 2’ would help to eliminate quickly the overhang glut of the housing market,” Ackerman said. “This would clear the way for new housing starts, and put millions of Americans back to work. It would incentivize corporations to bring their cash cheaply back into the United States. In addition, the newly emancipated billions would further spur the economy. Everybody wins.”

The plan was met with a mix of plaudits and skepticism by elected officials and experts. Most characterized Ackerman’s plan as innovative, and a good foundation for a blueprint to fixing the nation’s housing woes.

“I think at face value it sounds like a good idea because the funding of the

venture is based on recaptured dollars,” said Jonathan Miller, principal of Miller Samuel, a real estate appraisal firm that produces reports on the state of the housing market. “I don’t see this as a singular solution to the housing malaise. It’s certainly creative and useful proposal.”

Miller said the bill does not address two other factors keeping the housing market down: tight credit and unemployment.

Leaders in Southeast Queens echoed Miller’s concerns over several aspects of the bill.

“It’s admirable in terms of the intent to jumpstart the housing market,” said State.

Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans). But lenders simply are not lending out money, he added.

“Unless you get the banks to buy into the programs, you’re still going to be challenged,” Smith said. “If the banks are not required to participate, I don’t see how it’s going to work. The partnership that existed between the lender and the buyer does not exist anymore.”

State Sen. Shirley Huntley (D-Jamaica) said the definition of “credit-worthy” could be a major sticking point.

“Potential first time buyers don’t buy because they’re not credit worthy,” she said.

“What income level are we talking about?”

City Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) said the bill misses out on helping current homeowners struggling to pay their bills.

“I think what we need more is assistance

for folks that are under water,” he said. “I understand what he’s trying to do. We need to make sure that the existing mortgages can be lowered. If a property is vacant that means someone went through pain and suffering.”

Ackerman was largely unconcerned with the stingy credit market. “There are more than enough Americans out there looking to buy a home who would qualify for a mortgage,” he said.

The Congressman likened the proposal to “Cash For Clunkers,” a program run during the first year after President Barack Obama’s election that gave potential car buyers government cash for their old cars if put towards a new, more fuel efficient vehicle. The plan was largely credited with helping the auto industry and boosting spending at a time when the economy floundered.

But much like the auto industry did not recover solely from Cash For Clunkers, Miller believes “Homestead: Act 2” would only be part of the solution.

“My observation is that coming out of Washington there is very little understanding what needs to be done about housing,” he said. “The take away is that everything that has been done up until now has hurt housing. There is no comprehensive strategy. We have these sort of disconnected solutions all over the place. There is no sort of theme to the solution other than saying, ‘Let’s throw more money at the problem.’”

Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

Welcome Home, New York!

Join the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) for our first-time homebuyer event. Come and learn about exciting homeownership opportunities and other products.

1-800-382-HOME (4663)

Allen Christian School 171-10 Linden Boulevard Jamaica, NY 11433

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

Saturday, September 17th 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

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

Brenda Jones Executive Editor:

Brian Rafferty Deputy Editor:

Joseph Orovic Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel

Editorial 28th Council District Last year, when Thomas White Jr. died, a special election was held to find his successor, and the people selected Ruben Wills. This coming Tuesday, he and three others will square off in a Democratic primary to see who will keep the seat for the remainder of White’s term, through 2013. Former Councilman Allan Jennings and Wills are the two candidates who have shown the ability to spend the money needed to be competitive.

Jennings was elected to serve the 28th in 2001, but was defeated by White in 2005 after he was publicly censured, stripped of committee assignments and ordered to attend anger management and sensitivity training by the City Council following allegations of sexual harassment and an ethics committee finding that he illegally fired one staffer and created a hostile work environment. Such behavior is unacceptable by anyone, especially a public official. We reject Mr. Jennings’ candidacy.

Wills has legal baggage that he brought with him to the Council, and which has multiplied since taking office. He is still in arrears on child support, though he has been paying off the debt. This year he hedged on discussions about pending criminal and civil issues dating back to 1996 and 2002, citing water under the bridge and misunderstandings. We are not convinced that these issues are as trivial as Mr. Wills would choose to portray them, and we believe that his handling of them – or lack thereof in the past – speaks to his character. With the number of serious cases in the courts still unresolved, we will not recommend you voting for Mr. Wills.

Though we encourage our readers to participate in the Sept. 13 Democratic primary, the PRESS of Southeast Queens thinks an elected official must serve the community, but also serve as a role model to our youth.

Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Harley Benson Domenick Rafter Jason Banrey Veronica Lewin

Letters Looking Back To The Editor: We lost nearly 3,000 innocent New Yorkers on Sept. 11, 2001, to the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. When the

towers fell, it shook the ground at our feet.

I’ve always known that New York City first responders are the toughest and finest around, but the courage and dedication that

Letters was shown on that day, and for the weeks and months of clean up that followed, proved how brave and selfless our firefighters, police and medical personnel are.

In honor of the victims of 9/ 11, a memorial has been built where the Twin Towers once stood. There are two reflecting pools, lined with massive waterfalls and the engraved names of those who were lost on that day, with more than 400 trees set to surround the area. It will make its debut this year, on the 10th anniversary of the attacks, opening first to the victims’ families. It will be open to the public the following day, Sept. 12. It will serve as a space for families and friends who lost someone to gather and pay their respect. I encourage all New Yorkers to visit the memorial if you have the opportunity, as I plan to do with my family.

The Memorial Museum, which is still in its construction phase, will house countless artifacts and personal memories from the tragedy. The museum – set to open in September 2012 – will also stand as a tribute to the nearly 3,000 victims and the people who risked their lives to save them.

The Assembly has worked tirelessly to honor the many heroes – those who were lost as well as those who continue to aid in the recovery process to this day.

In 2007, the Assembly also passed a law providing reimburse-

ment for counseling expenses incurred by Sept. 11 relief workers and also a waiver of certain surrogate filing fees in relation to the attacks, further easing financial burdens on those affected (Ch. 21 of 2007). Workers’ compensation salary replacement and survivor benefits were also provided to certain rescue workers affected as a result of Sept. 11 (Ch. 689 of 2007). Furthermore, in 2009, the Assembly passed a law extending the time for filing a claim against public corporations for injuries sustained as a result of participation in the World Trade Center rescue and recovery operations (Ch. 440 of 2009).

There are no words that can do justice to describe what Sept.

11, 2001, looked or felt like. It’s something that those living and working in New York City understand on a different level. Our world was flipped upside down and our security was stolen from us in the blink of an eye. But we are New Yorkers and we are resilient. We will always remember.

All gave some, while some gave all – but none will be forgotten.

Assemblyman Mike Miller, Glendale

WRITE ON:

The PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd. Whitestone, NY 11357 email news@queenspress.com

Art Dept:

Sara Gold Rhonda Leefoon Candice Lolier Barbara Townsend Advertising Director James Mammarella

A Personal Perspective

BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE

Sr. Account Executive Shelly Cookson

Who would have thought 10 years ago, as we watched the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon and heard of the downed plane in rural Pennsylvania, that we would overcome as a nation and as New York City?

We did. In our defiance, we knew that we would rise metaphorically from the simmering ashes of the downed twin towers that had just collapsed on nearly 3,000 of our fellow residents, mostly from New York and New Jersey.

In our anger and our grief, we still felt like the narrator in poet William Ernest Henley's "Invictus," bloody but unbowed.

The "unconquerable soul" of New York refused to cower "under the bludgeonings" of the terrorists.

So here we are.

In 10 years, we have fought off several attempted attacks and come close to completing the rebuilding of the World Trade Center that once served as a magnet for finance, tourism, fancy dining and general commerce. In 10 years, we have gathered at

Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie

A Queens Tribune Publication. © Copyright 2011 Tribco, LLC

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Sept. 11, 2001: A Decade Later

Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher

Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher

"Ground Zero" on every anniversary to read the names of those who perished that day - to weep, to remember.

Since that dreadful day 10 years ago this Sunday, more have died from the after-effects of the attack on the Trade Center. First responders have become ill in the hundreds, if not thousands; and an alarmingly high number have died.

When it's all said and done, we may well have had far more deaths from the attacks than the nearly 3,000 who died on that day.

Earlier this year, Congress passed the James Zadroga Bill to provide medical care for those who have become ill from the toxic dust they inhaled and were covered in the day of and in the weeks and months following the attacks. Incredulously, it does not cover cancer, and now they are debating whether or not it should.

Really? We need to debate that?

You'd think that would be a given.

We don't see the irony in our remembrance for those who perished on 9/11 and the way we are treating those who risked life and limbs searching, rescuing, sifting the dust for body fragments to bring

"closure" to families; not to mention the countless other tasks they performed without thought for self.

It is right to remember those who died in the attacks. It is even more right to treat those now living with the consequences of their bravery and patriotism with dignity and kindness. The firefighters, law enforcement officers, hardhats, military volunteers and others who gave no thought for their own wellbeing as they sought to rescue and then to help us recover from the worst attack on US soil since the attack on Pearl Harbor should be taken care of.

Hats off to U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney and the rest of the New York Congressional Delegation who fought for the Zadroga Bill; but now they will have to go to bat again to ensure it covers all the illnesses brought about by the dust of the attacks. Compromised respiratory systems are covered, but clearly that is not enough.

So this Sunday, when mayors past and present and the governors of New York and New Jersey and their high-ranking guests converge on the area of the attacks to mark the 10th anniversary with

speeches and poetry, I hope they will remember the heroes who can now barely breathe or can't work, and all the others who have since perished because of selfless acts of heroism on our city's behalf.

We should also remember the more than 4,000 young men and women who have died in the subsequent wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and those who are there now facing dangers every day. This, too, is 9/11-related.

Life has certainly changed for all of us since the attacks that day. We can't even board an airplane without having the privacy of our person invaded with body searches and X-Rays. Nonetheless, we have done remarkably well in terms of the rebuilding efforts and our determination to go on about our business and living our lives.

We will never forget those who died that day, but while we do that, let us also remember the needs of those who are barely living because they came running to our rescue.

The dead have no need for our sympathy; the living deserve our empathy and our gratitude.

Weprin v. Turner: There’s A Difference In The 9th C.D.

By MICHAEL SCHENKLER Tuesday, Sept. 13, is Primary Day in New York, but there are no primaries in Queens in this one off year in every four. How-

ever, due to vacancies created by resignations, there are three special elections being held on Primary Day. Sadly, artful timing of resignations gave party leaders (critics would prefer the word “bosses”) the ability to bypass primaries and name their party’s candidates. It perpetuates the worst about politics today. It encourages cronyism, discounts abilit y and disrespects the will of the voters – the party members.

But politics is politics and especially in Queens, the Special Election is frequently the path to elected office. And in Queens spe-

cials, the Democratic Party, leader’s designation is tantamount to election. Huge registration advantages allow Democratic Party leaders to not only name their party’s choice, but know they are also naming the winner.

Not so quickly this time guys.

When party leaders take their registration advantage into account, they believe they can pick just about anyone.

And in two out of three Specials, the Dem will waltz to the finish line: Assembly candidates Phil Goldfeder in the 23rd and Mike Simanowitz in the 27th, both solid ca ndidates, both Dem loyalists, both selected by party leaders and not party members, but will be victorious next Tuesday.

Now, in the most important Special Election, the 9th Congressional District to replace Anthony Weiner, a 3-to-1 registration advantage and a 20-point victory for Weiner last time out has turned into a horse race. This has happened in part because party leaders believed they could elect Mickey Mouse with such a large registration advantage.

But when you’re out-campaigned, out-maneuvered and not as informed as your opponent, you wind up on the defensive. David

Weprin has discovered this the hard way. He has seen the huge registration advantage and the 20point spread erode to a six-point lead according to the polls (with a margin of error of + or – four points).

When party leaders value loyalty above all else, faux pas like the selection of Weprin can happen. He not only has been on the defensive but has been ducking debates and has shown a basic lack of mastery of what has happened on the Federal level. His campaign, although armed w ith t w ice the funds as his opponent Republican Bob Turner, has been a sorry string of excuses to date.

Why should anything else be expected? Weprin (this is David and not brother Mark – or for that matter, late-father Saul) has only been really tested once in his political career. After two terms as a Councilmember where he was Finance Chair (a gift from the Queens Democratic leadership which he downplayed in his recent interview with us, disclaiming any responsibility for the slush fund scandal imbedded in a budget examined and approved by his commit tee), Weprin ran citiw ide for Comptroller. In a field of four, he finished a pathetic fourth with 10.7

Mike Schenkler sees the difference between Bob Turner and David Weprin. percent of the vote.

The fact is, any of the other half dozen-plus candidates mentioned for the Democratic designation would have done better – much bet ter, t ha n a six poi nt spread. While we expect Weprin to win by more than 6, middle class Queens and the rest of this nation needs candidates who espouse the values of the average American.

And yes, while Bob Turner is impre ssive a nd clearly more knowledgeable than Weprin, who had no idea of the National debt when asked by the Daily News and no understanding of Cap and Trade when asked by us. But Turner is as close to the Tea Party insanit y as any candidate we’ve interviewed - perhaps e ver. We like Turner personally but abolish-

ing the Dept. of Education and not cutting the Dept. of Defense are his positions which are complemented by his belief that we must not increase the tax upon millionaires.

Yes my friends, there is a difference. David Weprin is a Democrat for the people and Bob Turner is a Republican Tea Party sympathizer for the rich.

And this paper clearly prefers the candidate who will look out for the little guy and that is why we endorsed David Weprin.

We would also like an end to backroom deals and boss-selected candidates without Primar y elect ions. T he Par t y would be healthier; government would be healthier and we all would be winners.

MSchenkler@QueensPress.com

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Irene Drenches City, Winds Bluster, Nature Lends Hand

By HENRY STERN United States since the In the wake of Irene, Johnstown, PA, flood in this column tends to view May 1889, where an essignificant events, including timated 2,200 people natural disasters, in terms of died, mostly by drowntheir political effect, if any, ing. The worst natural and the competence of pubdisaster in United States lic agencies and officials in h istor y was t he dealing with crisis.

Galveston flood of SepIn that regard the tember 1900, which Henry Stern Bloomberg and Cuomo adkilled an estimated ministrations did very well. It is pos- 8,000 people. Outside of the counsible that the Mayor’s good work tr y, the Hait ian ear t hquake of was, in part, based on his determi- January 2010 resulted in 316,000 nation to avoid another fiasco like deaths. the late-December blizzard in 2010, As of this writing, just one which was not anticipated and re- death in New York City has been sponded to promptly by city offi- attributed to the storm, which is cials, some of whom were out of the result of good luck, sound plantown. There is nothing wrong with ning and fine work by first respondthe mayor’s learning from that ex- ers. The men and women who perience, and in fact it is a credit worked to achieve this result deto him that he did. serve praise for their efforts. We The city had the advantage of hope they suffer no after effects five days’ notice that Hurricane from their work.

Irene was headed our way, and used Mayor Bloomberg had perithe time wisely to make arrange- odic press conferences to report ments to deal with the approach- on developments, which is what ing storm. The mass evacuation of Mayor Giuliani did after the 9-11 nursing home residents turned out ter ror at tack. Governor Cuomo not to have been nece ssar y, but called out 2,000 National Guard anyone who remembers senior citi- troops, deployed them in flooded zens drowning in their beds in New areas, visited upstate count ie s, Orleans during Katrina did not praised local officials and showed want to see a repeat of that tragic himself to be deeply involved, with scenario. the State Operations coordinating the state’s response, where flash HISTORICAL CATASTROPHES floods upstate endangered lives, The death toll from Katrina with people trapped in motels by was 1,836, making it one of the rising waters. deadliest natural disasters in the Even President Obama got into

the act, speaking live about federal assistance in the disaster area, and how all levels of government were working together. He also mentioned ways people could prepare for impending hurricanes. It was somewhat reassuring to know that he cared about us New Yorkers.

In another first for natural disasters, we received e-mails all day from miscellaneous elected officials, district leaders, city council members and even one aspirant to a Queens Assembly seat, advising their constituents on how to deal with the winds and the flood.

These messages were harmless, and might even be helpful if one had no other source of information as to what to do in the event of a hurricane, or were watching TV for the first time.

We defend the city from accusations of over-reacting, which were implicit in some questions from skeptics in the press. For the next hurricane, we can do fewer evacuations, but it is impor tant perio dical ly to te st emergenc y management situations, and Irene was an excellent occasion to find out what works and what doesn’t.

We should use the natural disasters that God sends us to learn all we can as to how to deal with them and minimize the loss of life and proper ty. It is not wrong for a disaster to be a test of public officials, they are elected in part to protect us. A crisis gives them the chance to show what they

can or cannot do.

President Bush looking out the window of Air Force One flying over New Orleans after Katrina six years ago was not a helpful image and his words on the ground to his FEMA chief, “You’re doing a heck of a job, Brownie,” reverberated to his discomfort. It is remarkable what the elected class has learned since then.

We w ish t hat hur r icane s, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and forest fires do not threaten our State. If they do come, we depend on our public officials to lead our response. There is also a great deal that individuals can do, and they

should be more prepared for disasters than they are today.

We have lived for over a half century under the threat of weapons of mass de str uct ion. With nuclear proliferation under way, w it h unstable regime s i n some countrie s, a nd others led by psychotics, the world is a dangerous place, whether or not it is warming (and it probably is). The more people can do to provide practical protection for themselves and their families, the better their outcome may turn out to be, as my mother used to say, “if anything happens.”

StarQuest@NYCivic.org

Not 4 Publication.com by Dom Nunziato

Remembering 9/11:

Daughter’s Story Untold For 10 Years her room and prayed. And prayed, “Daddy, come home.” She prayed that Jillian Suarez doesn’t want to cry. the dad who, two days earlier celebrated She has spent the better part of a decade his daughter’s ninth birthday, would walk holding back tears – and her story, the in the door as calmly as he walked out. why’s and how’s that led Ramon stayed alive in her Glendale home to fall the hopeful heart of his short one family member. wife. He was alive, she had The truth is, she didn’t seen him guiding traffic, know. How could she, at 9 saving lives over and over again in the file footage years old? When her father, Ramon Suarez, walked out television stations played the door that crisp Septemon a loop. He had to come ber morning 10 years ago back. Jillian didn’t need to to work as a cop on think otherwise.

Delancey Street, he was Three months later, Jillian was reunited with supposed to come home.

Jillian didn’t know why her father one last time; her mother Carmen picked too young to understand her up early on Sept. 11, what the funeral was about, 2001. She found no reason the enormity of her loss to panic, playing outside still completely foreign. with friends that afternoon The Suarez family in 2001 – That would all hit her later. as mom awaited nervously Carmen, Ramon and Jillian.

“I finally understood inside their home. that dad wasn’t going to “I was a regular 9-yearcome back,” she now said, old kid,” Jillian said. “I cared about playing a brisk, sharp and emotionally astute 19with my dog.” year-old.

Graduations passed. Celebrations, Jillian caught a glimpse of Carmen breaking down in tears, trying to shield her events, and the more meaningful parts of daughter from what was going on. Then a becoming an adult were short in attenfriend explained what happened in Lower dance by one. And every year, 9/11’s Manhattan – and as much as her young anniversary came and went. mind could process, she ran inside, up to “I couldn’t stand the day because my

BY JOSEPH OROVIC

birthday was two days before,” Jillian said.

“I would cope with it only on that day.

Sometimes I wouldn’t even cry.”

She spent a decade not broaching the subject with her mother. They didn’t talk about it for the same reason they stopped visiting Ground Zero on 9/11. It hurt too much.

Finally, Carmen signed Jillian up for the WNYC Radio Rookies program. The initiative gives teens a mic and the leeway to tell their own stories. This year’s theme was obvious, handing an hour of airtime to the youngest generation to live through 9/ 11. Carmen thought Jillian would have something to contribute. She was daring her daughter to finally talk about Dad – before a much bigger audience.

“I wasn’t even told about it,” Jillian said. “My mom had planned me into it.”

She was initially hesitant, having spent the better part of a decade telling a different story.

She previously shied away from talking about it when she could. Tough and unwilling to show weakness, Jillian would not make 9/11 her story. So she told friends her dad died of a heart attack.

“I will always be the little girl who was oblivious to everything and always happy no matter what,” she said.

After meeting several times with Radio Rookies Associate Producer Sanda Htyte, Jillian was on board – but with one

condition: she would tell her story without crying.

“I knew how much emotion and feelings that she has not tapped into,” Htyte said. “It’s also a matter of stripping herself. There’s never a sense of push. It’s always a sense of how you feel.”

The two grew into a mutual trust and together they created a five-and-a-halfminute segment. Emotionally wrenching but empowering, it has been airing on WNYC through to the 10th anniversary of 9/11.

Jillian talked with her mother about that day, and their loss, for the first time ever. And taped it. Broadcast it. Shared it.

“Before I wouldn’t want to say anything,” Jillian said. “But now I say, ‘My father did that.’ I couldn’t be more proud.

He may not be here, but I can honestly say my dad is a hero. I miss him every day.”

The segment is available in its entirety on radiorookies.org and will be broadcast on WNYC at various points with other Radio Rookies’ segments.

Take a listen. Hear the defiant strength in Jillian’s voice. It’s a sensibility and tenacity that has mirrored this City’s for the last 10 years. The willingness to accept and move on, but never forget.

Reach Deputy Editor Joseph Orovic at jorovic@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 127.

Just a few minutes down the Southern State Parkway, in Rockville Centre, patients choose Mercy Medical Center more than 100,000 times a year—for top-quality, state-of-the-art health care, in a healing, faith-based environment.

*As ranked by HealthGrades®, the leading healthcare ratings organization

Physician Referrals:

516-62MERCY 1000 N. Village Ave., Rockville Centre • www.MercyMedicalCenter.info • A Safe Haven For Newborns—Legal Option To Abandonment

Convenient Free Parking

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

• Outstanding Achievement Award – From the Commission on Cancer • Highest Ranked Weight-Loss Surgery for 2011 in Nassau County and the Five Boroughs of New York City* • Comprehensive Spine Surgery Program — Unique “Spine Endeavor” Interdisciplinary Approach to Resolving Intractable Back, Neck and Leg Pain • Inpatient Rehabilitation Program – Largest on Nassau County’s South Shore • 24-Hour Emergency and Trauma Care – For Both Adults and Children • New York State-designated Stroke Center • Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – Specialists in High-Risk Pregnancy • Newly Renovated Women’s Imaging Center – Latest Technology, Spa-Like Atmosphere, Next-Day Appointments

Flights Of Fancy:

A Look At Iconic JFK Terminal As Port Authority Ponders Hotel

BY DOMENICK RAFTER For nearly half a century, the hundreds of millions of people who have flown into and out of John F. Kennedy International Airport have caught at the very least a glimpse of what has been called the airport’s, and perhaps the borough’s, architectural jewel – Terminal 5.

Commonly known as the TWA Terminal, the unique, eye-catching structure with its two wings rising in a shell shape conjures up the idea of a bird in flight. During the late 20th Century, it quickly overshadowed the other iconic terminals of the jet age at JFK including Pan Am’s Worldport (Terminal 3) and National Airlines’ Sundrome (Terminal 6), both of which will be, or are in the process of being, demolished.

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Grand Central of the Jet Age The futuristic building that served as the main terminal for the now-defunct Trans World Airlines was designed by Finnish architect Eero Saarinen, who also designed the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.

It opened in 1962 when the airport was still called Idlewild Airport (its current namesake was still sitting in the Oval Office), and when flights to exotic parts of the world like Hong Kong and Tel Aviv required multiple stops along the way.

Since it opened, the terminal has grown to become the symbol of one of the world’s busiest and most well-known airports. It’s sleek, modern design and the curvy nature of everything right up to the flight information board fit the culture of the age it was built and utilized in.

“We wanted passengers passing through the building to experience a fullydesigned environment, in which each part arises from another and everything belongs to the same formal world,” Saarinen once said of his masterpiece terminal.

The U.S. Postal Service even put the terminal building on a stamp as a “marvel of modern art.” It has been featured in movies such as “Death Wish” and “Catch Me If You Can,” and television shows, often as the generic setting for JFK. The terminal was coined “the Grand Central of the jet age” by one of Saarinen’s colleagues after it opened. It was the first terminal to use closed circuit television, baggage carousels and enclosed passenger jetways, the walkways passengers use to get from the gate to the plane. New concourses were constructed in 1969 to serve the 747 jumbo jets and through the 1980s and 1990s, the 747 was the most common plane seen at the terminal’s gates when it served international flights.

TWA Flight 800 departed from Terminal 5 on July 17, 1996, less than an hour before the plane exploded off Long Island killing all 230 aboard.

It’s well-known, one-of-a-kind design led to it becoming a landmark in 1994. It was added to the list of National Register of Historic Places in 2005.

The JetBlue terminal connects to the old Terminal 5.

An Obsolete Terminal When TWA went out of business in 2001, it liquidated its assets to American Airlines, which already has a state-of-theart terminal at JFK. The last flight left Terminal 5 in October 2001; thereafter it was decommissioned and has been vacant ever since.

“We tried to get airlines to operate in there,” said Port Authority spokesman Pasquale DiFulco, “but the terminal had some severe aeronautical limitations. We were forced to decommission the building.”

Among those limitations: the ticket line configuration caused crowds and backups that went out of the terminal building; there wasn’t enough room between the ticket counters and the doorway to adequately handle the number of passengers; and the terminal building was inadequate to handle the security needs in the post-Sept. 11 world. Terminal 5 was built at a time when one can walk from the street to their airplane seat with little or no security. There was no place to put baggage screening equipment. The terminal was also too small to handle the demands of modern-day airlines.

But demolishing the terminal was certainly not an option for the Port Authority.

“While it no longer meets the needs

of today’s air traveler, we certainly think it has a new life,” DiFulco said. “It’s the iconic JFK terminal. We’ve been committed from the get-go to repurpose this building in a way that is of service to the airport and the customers.”

An Icon In Limbo The Port Authority looked at history as its guide. At Newark Liberty Airport, runway construction forced the agency to either demolish or move its original 1930s-era terminal; Building 51. The building was too important to history for the Port Authority to tear it down – Amelia Earhart was at its opening – so they decided to move the entire building to another part of the airport and repurpose it as a conference center for the Port Authority. The success of that move, which occurred shortly before Terminal 5 was closed in 2001, showed that there was a future for obsolete terminal buildings and there certainly was one for the old TWA terminal.

First, however, renovating the structure

Inside the majestic Eero Saarinen Terminal 5 at JFK. (Inset) The view from the outside.

needed to take top priority. The agency did asbestos abatement work on the building and invested $20 million in extensive renovations, including replacing tiles, renovating soundproofing materials, and restoring portions of the exterior wall. The renovations were “meticulous,” DiFulco said, because they did not want to alter any of the structure’s design.

“You have to be true to the building’s original design,” he said.

In the meantime, JetBlue, which occupied the Sundrome terminal next door, decided to move its main hub to Terminal 5.

The airline built a brand new terminal behind the structure, and passengers heading to and from the terminal are able to drive completely around the Saarinen building.

JetBlue even used the building in its logo advertising its move into Terminal 5. But passengers heading for JetBlue flights will not be walking through the almost 50-yearold building – at least not yet.

Terminal 5’s Next Life-A Hotel?

The Port Authority is currently mulling the idea of a hotel at the site, to be built on vacant land around the old terminal building, encompassing it as part of a larger center. Currently, there are no hotels directly in the Central Terminal Zone of the airport; instead many are just outside airport grounds along the Belt Parkway and not easily accessible from the terminals. A hotel within the terminal area, which exists in other major American airports like Newark, Orlando and Boston, would be a major asset for air travelers, especially those who have overnight layovers at JFK, DiFulco said.

The agency plans to release a Request for Proposals soon to attract a qualified developer to construct a hotel. The terminal building itself would remain untouched and not altered in anyway. The Port Authority mandates that whatever is built does not obstruct the views of the Saarinen building from JetBlue’s new terminal behind it and does not block the control tower’s line of sight to Runway 13L/31R behind the terminal. The new center may also include meeting space in the Saarinen building, as well access to JetBlue’s terminal through jet tubes over the access road that separates the building from the newer terminal. The Port Authority thinks the extensive renovations on the terminal will be an enormous help in attracting a developer for a hotel.

“The results [of the renovation] are pretty spectacular. We’re encouraged by them,” DiFulco said. “That was an investment that will repay itself.”

In the interim, the Port Authority is planning to reopen the center to the public before the hotel project is completed, but no date for reopening has been set.

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

Police Blotter Compiled By DOMENICK RAFTER

102nd Precinct Stabbed To Death On Tuesday, Sept. 6, at approximately 6:45 a.m., police responded to a 911 call of a man stabbed at 134-17 101st Ave. Upon arrival, police discovered Nana Davindra, 28, with a stab wound to the upper torso region. EMS also responded to the location and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Carol Singh, 27, who lived next door at 134-19 101st Ave., was arrested and charged with murder and criminal possession of a weapon.

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

112th Precinct Robbers Sought

The NYPD is seeking the public's help in identifying two men wanted in connection with a robbery pattern.

On Friday, Aug. 26, at midnight, a man was approached by the suspects at 65-50 Wetherole St. Upon encountering the victim, one suspect displayed a firearm and stole the man's cell Missing Teen phone, jewelry and money.

The NYPD is seeking the On Sunday, Aug. 28, at 3:10 public's assistance in locating p.m., a man was approached Crystal Otero who was last from behind by the suspects at seen in the vicinity of 73-00 Police are looking 110-11 Jewel Ave. A firearm was Queens Blvd. on June 1, 2011 for Crystal Otero produced again, while one susFake Health Aide at approximately 10:43 a.m. who is missing. pect forcibly removed the The NYPD is seeking the public's as- She is described as a 14-yearvictim's necklace. The suspects sistance with the whereabouts and iden- old Hispanic girl, 5-foot-3, 130 were observed fleeing in a white, tity of the following lbs., with black hair and late model four-door Cadillac with New woman wanted in conbrown eyes.

York license plates. nection with a burglary.

Anyone with informaBoth men are Hispanic, ages 20-25.

On Monday, Aug. 20, tion in regards to her One is 5-foot-7, 140 lbs., and was wearsometime between 8:30 whereabouts is asked to ing a red baseball cap, white T-shirt, blue a.m. and 4:05 p.m. a black call Crime Stoppers at jeans shorts; the other is 5-foot-11, 200 woman dressed like a (800) 577-TIPS. The pub- lbs, wearing a blue baseball cap, blue Thome health care attenlic can also submit their shirt, blue pants and was armed with a dant entered 123-25 tips by logging onto the black handgun.

82nd Ave. and removed Crime Stoppers Web site Anyone with information in regards to property from an apartat nypdcrimestoppers.com this incident is asked to call Crime Stopment from within that loor by texting their tips to pers at (800) 577-TIPS. The public can cation.

Police are seeking the follow274637 (CRIMES) then also submit their tips by logging onto the She is described as 40ing woman in connection with 50 years old, 5-foot-6. entering TIP577. All calls Crime Stoppers Web site at a burglary.

Anyone with informanypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their are strictly confidential.

108th Precinct

Police are looking for two men wanted in connection with a string of robberies. tips to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577. All calls are strictly confidential.

113th Precinct Two Killed On Friday Sept. 2, at 3:56 a.m. in front of 121-47 Grayson St., police responded to a call of a man shot. Upon arrival, police discovered observed a 23-year-old Asian man with a gunshot wound to the left shoulder. EMS responded and transported the victim to Jamaica Hospital where he was listed in stable condition.

Upon further investigation, police discovered Sugrim Jaggarnauth, 64, and Rosie Jaggarnauth , 56, inside the location with gunshot wounds to the head.

EMS pronounced both victims dead at the scene. There have been no arrests, and the investigation was ongoing.

Do you have a limited income and are you feeling the pinch?

Get free energy efficiency services through EmPower New York and take control of your energy use.

High energy costs can strain any household budget, but they are a real challenge to families living on a limited income. Poor insulation, air leaks, and inefficient lighting and appliances can all add up to high energy costs.

Help is available for you. EmPower New York offers free energy efficiency services and education to HEAP eligible low-income New Yorkers, including renters.

For more information about EmPower,

Free Energy Efficiency Services through EmPower New YorkSM

visit GetEnergySmart.org/empower or call 1-800-263-0960.

RESMISC-ad-EmPower 4/11

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

A participating contractor, accredited by the Building Performance Institute (BPI), will provide energy efficiency measures, such as insulation, high efficiency lighting, and upgrades to appliances, all at no cost to you.

pix

Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

Greater On Saturday, Sept. 3, the Greater Jamaica Development Corp.'s Farmers Market, located at 90-40 160th St., held its annual Corn Roast.

Wills' First Law Councilman Ruben Wills was joined by his daughter, Jolisa, and Councilman Ydanis Rodriguez as Mayor Mike Bloomberg signed Wills' first piece of legislation into law.

Passed by the City Council 46-0 Aug. 17, the law extends the ban prohibiting retailers from selling expired over-the-counter medication to include individuals who sell pastdate medication.

Photos by Walter Karling

If eyes could talk.

How convenient. Corn cobs come with affixed handles.

Pinkies up! Malini Rampersad applying an Emily Post rule.

The Farmers' Market Corn Roast staff taking a bow: Malini Rampersad, Lani Wong, Pono Wong, Mirian Haas, Jackson Wong, Dagmar Kostkova, Steven Waldman, Angela Mohan, Steve Johnson And Karen Alston.

E V E RY T H I N G YOUR SMALL BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW IS HERE.

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

THE GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000 SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IS IN NEW YORK. APPLY TODAY. Goldman Sachs is pleased to announce open enrollment for the next 10,000 Small Businesses program in New York. The program, led by LaGuardia Community College, is designed to give local small businesses the resources to grow by providing them with greater access to business education, financial capital and business support services.

Learn more and apply today at www.lagcc.cuny.edu/ACE/10000smallbusinesses.aspx or (718) 730-7400.

L

A

G

U

A

R

D

I

A

Continuing Education PEOPLE, CHANGING

A&E

Restaurant Review

Hanging On To Valli At Queensboro CC

Land At The Nest

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

The cast of "Let's Hang On," the nation's premier Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons Tribute Show, will perform the songs made famous by Frankie Valli, along with memorable songs of the 60's at the Queensborough Performing Arts Center, Let’s Hang On, a Frankie Valli Sunday, Sept. 25, at 3 p.m. and the Four Seasons tribute Thanks to the extraorband, will come to QCCPAC dinary success of the TonySept. 25. winning musical "Jersey Boys," Frankie Valli songs such as "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry" and "Walk Like a Man" are all the rage again.

"There is something about this music that makes people of every generation want to sing out loud and dance," said Susan Agin, Executive Director of the Queensborough Performing Arts Center. "Clearly, there's only one Frankie Valli, but this company of talented singers, dancers and musicians pay homage to Frankie with the same intensity as the 'Jersey Boys' do on Broadway. We're excited to kick-off the season with this feel-good concert."

Tickets are $35 per seat. For more information about this event and other upcoming shows, contact the QPAC Box Office at (718) 631-6311. Tickets are also available online at visitQPAC.org. QPAC is located on the Queensborough Community College campus in the heart of Bayside, with ample free parking and 24-hour security.

THE NEST 125-17 101st Ave., Richmond Hill (718) 847-4035 CUISINE: Caribbean-Chinese Fusion HOURS: 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Mon-Thurs; 11 a.m.-1 a.m.

Fri-Sun PARKING: Street CREDIT CARDS: All Major This is not the place for the pretentious, High Tea crowd. This is for those not ashamed to lick their fingers in public, unafraid of a food adventure.

The ticker on the awning shone brightly on the street and purple lights were strung up on a huge tree out front.

Welcome to The Nest.

The eatery is divided into a bar and restaurant. It boasts a well-stocked bar with clever lighting that sets the atmosphere and tempo. The dĂŠcor is simple. A few booths dot the right side of the restaurant and tables flow on the left.

Dave Kadarnauth, the owner, guided my date and I through a meal that made my palette do figurative back flips.

The first order of business: drinks. Our waitress brought a small trio of samplers, which included sorrel, mauby and a mango drink. Kadarnauth said all the drinks are made at the restaurant. As a girl with deep Caribbean roots and a love for sorrel juice, I was poised to call them out if a hint of flavor was out of place. I held my tongue. The sorrel rivaled my mother's.

Never having had Mauby, I was open to the flavors. It had a slight taste of sweet cinnamon and at the very end a slight bitter taste. My date gave it the thumbs up. If it's an acquired taste, I have acquired it.

The mango drink rounded out the trio. Its delicate flavors flood the taste buds.

After drinks, a parade of dishes vied for space at the table. First was the shrimp sambala, seasoned in an array of spices and lightly fried. The shrimps, which gained color from the seasoning, popped out from a bed of red onions and pepper. I resist making this bold of a statement, but it was the best thing I have eaten all year. When I thought the sambala could not be further enhanced, Kadarnauth suggested I try the pepper sauces made in-house.

Currently, The Nest makes three pepper sauces classic, mango and mustard - which boosted the flavor of every dish on the table, but my favorite is the mustard pepper. Kadarnauth has hopes of bottling the flavors.

After the sambala, we tried the Banga Mary, which is a delicately fried fish. I tried it with and without the mustard sauce; either way, it was finger-licking good.

A small platter of boneless jerk chicken followed.

It is not the traditional idea of jerk chicken. It was not overwhelmed with pepper to the point where you can't taste its flavors. There is a subtle hint of sweetness that is chased by a delicate peppery taste.

There was bhunjal goat, lamb curry fried rice, dhal puri, oxtail, rice and beans, lobster with ginger and scallions. There is something for everyone here.

A&E

Theater, Opera And Jackson Heights

BY JASON BANREY For the last eight years, Jackson Heights resident Sam Helfrich has been directing operas across the country. With his creative touch, many popular plays have garnered positive praise from the likes of The New York Times and the Boston Globe.

From Pennsylvania to Oregon and Kentucky to Nebraska, Helfrich has worked tirelessly on his craft, making what he does seem effortless.

"It really comes natural to me," Helfrich said of bouncing seamlessly between the art forms of both opera and theater.

Not only has he found success stateside, the California native's career has carried him around world, giving him the opportunity to build an extensive resume that most can only dream of.

While studying at Columbia University for a degree in Russian language and literature, Helfrich spent six months in Leningrad. After earning his degree, he moved to Spain where he spent three years living between the Iberian peninsula's world famous artistic realms of Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia.

Upon his return to New York, Helfrich began writing and directing his own plays while with the 42nd Street

DY N A M I C

The cast of "Tape," directed by Jackson Heights' Sam Helfrich.

Collective. He completed his MFA in theatre art back at Columbia University's School of the Arts.

Immediately, Helfrich was catapulted toward opera. With proficiency in both French and Spanish, he was pulled between Barcelona and Geneva, assisting in the production of multiple operas while always keeping room on his

C A P T I VAT I N G

schedule to direct his own pieces back in New York, the metropolis he now calls home.

On Sept. 9, Helfrich will return to New York's theater scene, directing an off-Broadway revival of Stephen Belber's acclaimed play, "Tape." Although the onstage production has already made its film debut, starring the stalwart performances

E X H I L A R AT I N G

of Uma Thurman, Ethan Hawke and Robert Sean Leonard, Helfrich's rendition promises not to disappoint.

The two-act play is a bullet shot of emotions, exploring the obsessive love between three high school friends who come together for an evening of revelations that will set viewers on the edge of their seats with suspense.

Although Helfrich is comfortable bouncing between straight theater and opera, there is a difference that leads to a preference for the director: the flexibility of improvisational skill sets of on-stage actors which Helfrich enjoys working with.

"In opera, you are dealing with music which gives you a lot of material to work with, but music has its own time," he said. "The meter of music sometimes sets a limit."

After making his bread and butter in opera, Helfrich is embracing his return to theater.

Performances of "Tape" will run through Sept. 24 at the June Havoc Theatre in the Abingdon Theatre Art Complex, located at 312 West 36th St. For more information about the show go to abingdontheatre.org.

Reach Reporter Jason Banrey at jbanrey@queenstribune.com or (718) 3577400, Ext. 128.

E N T E R TA I N I N G

VIBRANT

DANCE FESTIVAL

Jamaica Performing Arts Center

MAIN STAGE 7 - 9 pm The Vissi Dance Theater Yoo & Dancers Neville Dance Theatre Balance Dance Theatre

FREE Outdoor Preview 4 - 5 pm

$15 Adult / $12 Seniors & Children ( 0 -1 2 ) $18/$15 at the door

Order Tickets Today! #!& !' % ! % ) !# ((( " # !# #%$ % # !# !) ! ,

'

& # + " * (718) 618-6170

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Faith

Bethesda Gets Role In Student Flick

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Word "When it's a question of money, everybody is of the same religion."

— Voltaire

Notebook Adventuires In Reading

Finding Excitement In Books For Kids As many children embark on a new school year, one organization in Jamaica is making sure reading is not limited to the classroom.

Adventures in Reading is a year-round program that promotes the importance of reading. During the summer months, the program reads to children at Rufus King Park Monday through Friday. Participants also play literacy games to encourage reading comprehension. When cooler weather approaches, the program moves inside to WIC centers and daycare centers throughout Southeast Queens.

“Our mission is to encourage early literacy and in order to do so, we go wherever the kids are available,” Program Coordinator Sylvia Walker said.

The Jamaica Neighborhood Center was founded in 1998 and strives to provide educational activities to the community to address common obstacles faced by residents. Walker said the Adventures in Reading program had been running for more than 10 years, before she was employed with the Jamaica Neighborhood Center.

There is no age requirement for the

program, and participants are as young as infants. During the summer, volunteers will read to summer camp participants as old as 12.

“We promote reading as a fun and fam-

ily-filled activity,” Program Director Jule Grant said.

When at WIC centers, one volunteer will read to the children, while another speaks with parents about the importance Photo by Desmay Holness

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

BY VERONICA LEWIN

One volunteer reads to a group of children at Rufus King Park for the Jamaica Neighborhood Center’s Adventures in Reading program.

of early literacy. “We address them and let them know about the importance of reading to their kids and encouraging their kids to read,” Walker said.

Volunteers read to two classrooms of about 15 kids at four daycare centers in Southeast Queens, Walker said. How often Adventures in Reading can read to classrooms depends on the number of volunteers they receive, but they go into classrooms at least one hour a week. Grant said the program will take any willing volunteer, barring any criminal background.

Adventures in Reading is made possible through volunteers. “We depend on volunteers to really help us out,” Walker said. Each school year, the Jamaica Neighborhood Center takes student volunteers from York College and St. John’s University. For more information about volunteering, contact Walker at (718) 7392060, Ext. 14.

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

Is Your School Doing Something Good?

Write The PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

Photo courtesy of Ellen Dickson

Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church will be making its silver screen debut next year.

A group of Emerson College film students from Boston traveled to Jamaica Sept. 1 to film the final scene in their thesis project. The group needed a church for a funeral scene and began looking in Queens, due to its saturation of churches.

When they came across Jamaica’s Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church, they knew they found the right one.

“We were looking at churches in Queens and it seemed like a gem,” Producer Ellen Dickson said. The group did

not see the inside of the church prior to arriving last week, but were impressed by the church’s stained glass and old architecture.

“Talk To Me,” which will run in festivals next spring, tells the story of a man named Larry who is a hostage negotiator. One day, a recently released convict tries to see his daughter, but her mother refuses. Out of frustration, the man takes his daughter and others hostage. Larry tries to calm the man down, but is unsuccessful. The hostage situation ends with the captor taking his own life. Larry must now Pastor Charles Norris Jr. making his cameo appearance in “Talk To Me,” which filmed a funeral scene cope with the first loss he in Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church. experienced while on the job.

The group filmed the funeral scene at Norris and others to be extras in the film. man,” Dickson said.

Bethesda Missionary Baptist Church.

“It was really a phenomenal experiNorris is thankful for the opportunity Dickson said Larry attends the funeral in ence,” Norris said. to showcase his church and said it was a an attempt to deal with the loss.

This is not the first time the church blessing. “They didn’t have to come all Pastor Charles Norris Jr. said it was an has been used for filming. Norris said a the way from Boston to Queens, to Jaexciting day, as he had never had the op- commercial was filmed inside the church maica, but they did. So that’s God in the portunity to act in a movie. Norris said years ago before he became pastor. Both mix, exposing us again,” Norris said. there were only about 10 people at last parties enjoyed working with each other, Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at Thursday’s filming. Instead of using only and it was a memorable experience for all vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Emerson students, the film group asked involved. “Bishop Norris was such a kind Ext. 123.

Borough Beat

Turner, Weprin Go Head-To-Head

BY DOMENICK RAFTER With less than a week to go before voters in the 9th Congressional district decide who will replace former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner in Washington, both Democrat David Weprin and Republican Bob Turner are making their final pitches to the voters.

The Queens Tribune met individually with each candidate to discuss the issues relevant to the district.

"I'm running because this is an exciting time in our country's history," Weprin said. "There's a lot of gridlock in Washington and we need to break through it."

"There's a really important job to be done and I'm volunteering to do it," Turner said. "Things are way off in this country."

Though the district has a historicallystrong Democratic lean, it has moved in the GOP's direction in the last decade.

While Al Gore won 68 percent of the district in 2000, John Kerry and Barack Obama each only received 55 percent.

Mayor Mike Bloomberg won more than 70 percent in both his 2005 and 2009 races.

The race has turned on a number of issues, the most prominent one being the Obama administration's policy toward Israel. Former Mayor Ed Koch endorsed Turner in July, saying that his election

would send a message to President Obama that he could not "take Jewish voters for granted." Some more pro-Israel factions of the Jewish community objected to Obama's statement that Israel should begin negotiations for a two-state solution at the pre1967 war borders, even though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu agreed to it.

Many, including both candidates (and Weiner), feel Obama has not been as friendly to Israel as past presidents. Turner and Weprin quibbled about who would be able to deliver that message effectively.

"Israel has been in my DNA since birth," Weprin said. "President Obama is more likely to a listen to a member of his own party."

"David would be an inside guy," Turner said, noting the administration is more likely to change direction on Israel if they feel they can lose some Jewish voters, typically a staunchly Democratic voting bloc.

At a debate this week, Weprin acknowledged that despite opposition to Obama's Israel policy, he would support the president for re-election.

Israel is not the only issue the two seem to see eye-to-eye on. Both Weprin and Turner expressed the need to protect Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid.

Turner disavowed the plan proposed by

U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wis.) that would change Medicare to a voucher program, but Weprin highlighted Turner's past praise for Ryan in his 2010 race against Weiner.

On the issue of jobs, Turner promoted fewer regulations on businesses, including repealing the Dodd-Frank financial reform bill. He said placing regulations on the financial sector, one of New York's biggest industries, could cause jobs in the sector to be moved elsewhere, such as London.

Weprin promoted the idea of investing in infrastructure spending as a way to create jobs and improve the infrastructure of the district. He added that creating infrastructure jobs would be a priority, even before the deficit. Turner opposes the idea.

"Those jobs are not necessarily sustainable," Turner said. Instead, he wants to focus on private sector job growth, where jobs don't have an "end date."

As far as the future of the district, which may be one of the two eliminated in redistricting next year, both say it should have a future.

"I don't think anyone really knows what's going to happen," Weprin said about redistricting. He stressed that the district should remain because it gained population in the last Census, while a few Upstate districts lost. He supports an independent

commission to draw new districts.

"I suspect we're going to have pretty much the same process," Turner said.

Though he noted the district could probably be redrawn to increase its Republican lean should he win, he said districts should be drawn fairly, even if it means he gets thrown into a district more favorable to Democrats.

"I can tell [those drawing the districts] to do what's right for the people," he said.

With an election that may have national implications, both made their final pitches that a victory would affect national policy. For Turner, a win would change the conversation in Washington "A victory here would alter the mindset in Washington," he said.

For Weprin, he touted his experience in trying times on the city and state level as what is needed in Washington.

"We did not repeat the financial crises of the 1970s on the Council when I was on the Financial Committee [in the City Council]," he said. "We've had a productive session in Albany in the last few months and I want to continue this in Washington protecting Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid."

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

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send typed announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357.

Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina.

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

SNAP BELL PARK Monday, September 12 CVS Diabetes Clinic. Monday, Oc tober 3 flu shots 92 . M o n d a y, O c to b e r 1 0 blood pressure screening.

SNAP Bell Park. 740-3906.

SOCIAL WORKER Mondays, September 12, 19 social worker answers questions for older adults and caregivers about long term care and more at the Sunnyside library at 11.

LIFE INSURANCE

TALKS

DINNER BAYSIDE SISTERS Sunday, September 18 the Sisterhood of the Bayside Jewish Center will hold their annual breakfast. $10.

CENTENNIAL 2011 September 24 Queens Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the Centennial at Terrace on the Park.

ALUMNI MARTIN LUTHER HS Saturday, September 24 Martin Luther HS in Maspeth will host an Alumni Day for all grades. 894-4000.

THOMAS JEFFERSON Sunday, January 15 class of 1961 will meet in Florida.

Tjhs1961@aol.com

ENVIRONMENT GREEN FAIR Saturday, September 10 Western Queens Green Resources Fair at the Broadway library at 2. Eco-crafts, giveaways, exhibitors, more.

COMPOSTING Tuesdays, September, 13, 20, 27 waste food drop off at the Steinway library at 4.

RECYLCING EVENT Sunday, September 18 at Forest Park Bandshell Parking Lot from 10-3.

WASTE RECYCLING Sunday, September 25 Electronic Waste Recycling from 10-4 at the Hall of Science.

212-477-4022 information.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

DANCE COUNTRY WESTERN Saturday, September 10 Patience and the Cowboy Angels. $12. Saturday, October 15 San Antones and Halloween Costume contest. $12. Glendale Memorial Building, 72-02 Myrtle Avenue at 7:30. 763-4328.

LINE DANCING Saturdays 2-4 at Holy Family RC Parish Church, Msgr.

Mahoney Hall, 175-20 74 th Avenue, Fresh Meadows.

Light refreshments. Bring friends!

ISRAELI FOLK Mondays 7:15-9:45 at Hillcrest Jewish Center, 18202 Union Turnpike. $10 session. 380-4145.

YOUTH

SENIORS

AUTHOR TALK Saturday, September 10 book signing with Sister Betty Dopson at the Langston Hughes library at 3.

FINANCIAL EMPOWER. Monday, September 12 at the LIC library at 2.

BOOK CLUB Monday, September 12 “There Is Where I Leave You” will be discussed at 2 at the Windsor Park library.

AFTER 9/11 Monday, September 12 In the Aftermath of 9/11: A N ew Yo r k C i t y Auto g raph Colle3ctor’s Journey at the Flushing library at 6.

CENTRAL QUEENS Y Tu e s d a y, S e p te m b e r 1 3 “What are the limits of Free Speech?” A Conversation of NY Council for the Humanities with James Coll at 1:30.Free. Tuesday, September 20 investigative reporter Snigdha Prakash will discuss sensational trial vs.

Merck. $6 donation requested. 1:30. Central Queens YM-YWHA, 67-09 108 th Street, Forest Hills.

HILLCREST Tuesday, September 13 “Elegance of the Hedgehog” will be discussed at the Hillcrest library at 2.

ORGANIZED PEOPLE Tu e s d a y, S e p te m b e r 1 3 “The 7 Habits of Very Organized People” at the Flushing library at 6.

QUESTIONS OF LIFE Wednesday, September 14 What Are You Looking For in Love? Wednesday, September 21 Welcoming the Unknown. Flushing library at 7.

RETIREMENT Thursday, September 15 free retirement seminar at the McGoldrick library. Register.

ESTATE PLANNING Thursday, September 15 at the Pomonok library at 6:30.

BAY TERRACE Friday, September 16 book discussion at the Bay Terrace library at 10:30.

GET ORGANIZED NOW! Saturday, September 17 at 3 at the Rochdale Village library.

BOOK SIGNING Sunday, September 18 at 12:30 book signing of “Crossings: Seven Short Stories” by Dr. Anne Paolucci at the International Conference Center, 68-02 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village (on campus of Christ the King High School).

Monday, September 12 life insurance and planning for seniors at 6:30 at the Broadway library.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING Tuesday, September 13 at the Auburndale library. Register.

AARP 4158 Tu e s d a y s , S e p t e m b e r 1 3 , Oc tober 11, North Flushing chapter 4158 meets at noon at the Church on the Hill, 167-07 35 th Avenue, Flushing.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING Wednesday, September 14 at t he Fore st Hills librar y.

Register.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING Friday, September 16 at the McGoldrick library. Register.

STARS Fridays, September 16. 23, 30 Senior Theater Acting Repertory at the Queens Village library at 10:30. 7760529.

FREE LUNCH Saturdays, September 17, O c to b e r 1 5 a t A l l S a i n t s Church in Richmond Hill.

849-2352 reservations.

MEETINGS SISTERHOOD Sunday, September 11 the Sisterhood of the Jewish Center of Oak Hills meets at 50-35 Cloverdale Blvd. 6310100 at 11.

VFW 4787 Mondays, September 12, 26, October 10, 24, November 14, 21, December 12, 26 Whitestone VFW Comm u n i t y Po s t m e e t s . 7 4 6 0540.

AMERICAN LEGION Mondays, September 12, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 American Legion Post 510 meets at St. Robert Bellamine in Bayside Hills. 428-2895.

CATHOLIC VETS Mondays, September 12, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 American Mart yrs Catholic War Veterans Post ‘771 meets in Bayside. 468-9351.

LIONS CLUB Tu e s d a y s , S e p t e m b e r 1 3 , Oc tober 11, November 8, December 13 Ravenswood Lion Club meets at 6:30 at Ricardo’s by the Bridge, 2101 21 st Avenue, Astoria.

COMM. BD. 9 Tuesday, September 13 at Villa Russo, 101-12 Lefferts Blvd., Richmond Hill.

TELEPHONE PION. Tu e s d a y s , S e p t e m b e r 1 3 , Oc tober 10, November 8, D e c e m b e r 1 3 Te l e p h o n e Pioneers of America meet in College Point. 463-4535.

MEN’S GROUP Thursdays, September 15, Oc tober 6, 20, November 3, 17, December 1 Queens Pride House Men’s Group from 7-9 for gay, bi, trans men.

BELLA ITALIA MIA Sundays, September 18, Oc tober 16, November 13 Bella Italia Mia meets at Christ the King High School, 68-02 Metropolitan Avenue, Middle Village. 426-1240.

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

TUTORING CLASSES Weekdays after school and on Saturdays Bridgesmart Tutors in LIC. 450-6493.

SCIENCE PLAYGROUND Weekends through December 31 10-6 and 2-5 Fridays at the Hall of Science. $4 plus general NYSCI admission.

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

STORY BOOK LADY Saturdays 12:30-1:30 reading enrichment program for 6-9 year olds at Maria Rose International Doll Museum, 187-11 Linden Blvd., St. Albans. $7.50. 276-3454.

MATH HELP Saturdays at the Flushing library at 10.

HOMEWORK HELP Saturdays 10-noon teen tutors available at the Bayside library.

CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2.

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

CRAWLING CRITTERS Saturdays, September 10, 17 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000.

FLUSHING FLYERS Saturday, September 10 at 8, Monday, September 12 at 5 and Tuesday, September 13 at 5. The Flushing YMCA Flyers will hold tryouts for its swim teams for those 5-18 at the YMCA, 138-46 Northern Blvd. 961-6880 information.

SCIENCE LAB Saturday, September 10 at the Central library at 11.

NATURE PHOTO. Sundays, September 11, 18 at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000.

RAINFORST BUTTERFLIES Monday, September 12 at the Astoria library. Register.

LITTLE TOT TIME Monday, September 12 at the Hillcrest library at 4.

SIGN LANGUAGE Monday, September 12 at the Steinway library. Register.

BOOST LITERACY Monday, September 12 at the Central library at 4:30.

HOMEWORK HELP Mondays 3:30-5:00 teen tutors available at the Bayside library.

KNUFFLE BUNNY Tu e s d a y, S e p te m b e r 1 3 Knuffle Bunny Storytime at 10:30 at Barnes & Noble, 1 7 6 - 6 0 Un i o n Tu r n p i k e , Fresh Meadows.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS Tuesday, September 13 at the Glen Oaks library at 11.

LIC CHESS CLUB Tuesday, September 13 at 4 at the LIC library.

BOOST & MONEY Tu e s d a y, S e p te m b e r 1 3

how to manage money at the Central library at 4:30.

BOOST MATH Tuesday, September 13 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

MOTHER GOOSE Wednesday, September 14 at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30.

STORY TIME Wednesday, September 14 at the Hollis library at 10:30.

HAPPY STORY TIME Wednesday, September 14 at the LIC library at 10:30.

FAMILY STORY TIME Wednesday, September 14 at the Seaside library at 11.

PRE-SCHOOL STORY TIME Wednesday, September 14 at the Maspeth library at 1:30.

PLAY DOH PART Y Wednesday, September 14 at the Fresh Meadows library at 3.

BOOST SCIENCE Wednesday, September 14 at the Central library at 4:30.

READING BUDDIES Wednesday, September 14 McGoldrick library at 5.

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

KNITTING Every Wednesdays at the Bayside library at 4.

TOPS TRUMP CARD Every Wednesday tournament at the LIC library at 4.

JUSTIN BIEBER Thursday, September 15 trivia contest at the LIC library at 4.

KIDS CLUB Thursday, September 15 at the Hillcrest library at 4:30.

BOOST HEALTH SCIENCE Thursday, September 15 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

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

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

STORY TIME Friday, September 16 at the Hollis library at 10:30.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, September 16, 23, 30 at the Auburndale library at 3:30.

GAME DAY Friday, September 16 at the Bay Terrace library at 2:30.

CUDDLE UP TIME Friday, September 16 Japanese Cuddle-Up Story Time at the Forest Hills library at 2:30.

HEALTHY EATING Friday, September 16 at the Queensboro Hill library. Register.

BOOK BUDDIES Friday, September 16 at the Bayside library at 4.

BOOST GAME DAY Friday, September 16 at the Central library at 4.

CLAY ANIMALS Friday, September 16 at the McGoldrick library. Register.

GAME DAY Friday, September 16 at the Windsor Park library at 4.

BOOST GAME DAY Friday, September 16 at the McGoldrick library at 5.

ARTS & CRAFTS

Fridays at 2 at the Queens Village library.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays at the LIC library at 2.

GAME DAY Fridays at the Queens Village library at 2.

FLASH FRIDAYS Every Friday at 3 at the Ozone Park library.

GAME PLAYERS Every Friday at the Hillcrest library at 4.

TEENS FLUSHING FLYERS See Youth.

SAT STRATEGIES Saturday, September 10 at the Ridgewood library. Reservations 800-273-8439.

CHESS CLUB Every Saturday at the Flushing library at 2.

SHSAT PRACTICE Monday, September 12 practice test at the Kew Gardens Hills library at 4.

SEASONAL WORK Monday, September 12 workshop on looking for seasonal employments. Bring a copy of your resume. LIC library. Register.

LIC CHESS Tuesday, September 13 at the LIC library at 4.

DRIVER ED Wednesday, September 14 driver ed registration from 2-4:30 at Martin Luther School in Maspeth. 8944000.

TEEN TIME Wednesday, September 14 at the Bay Terrace library at 3:30.

COVER LETTERS Wednesday, September 14 learn how to write cover letters at the Arverne library at 4.

TEEN REC ROOM Wednesday, September 14 at the Steinway library at 4.

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

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

JUSTIN BIEBER Thursday, September 15 trivia contest at the LIC library at 4.

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

CHESS CLUB Every Thursday 4-5:30 at the Douglaston/Little Neck library.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, September 16, 23, 30 Auburndale library at 3:30.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Every Friday at 4 at the Hillcrest library.

YOUNG REFORMERS Friday, September 16, 23, 30 America’s Young Reformers meet at the Laurelton library. Register.

BOOK BUDDIES Friday, September 16 at the Bayside library at 4.

GAME DAY Friday, September 16 at the Elmhurst library at 4.

HOMEWORK HELP Saturday, September 17 tutors Bayside library at 10.

Queens Today ENTERTAINMENT Noble, 176-60 Union Turnpike.

OLDIES Monday, September 12 Pauline Jean sings oldies from classic jazz to Motown hits at 6:30 at the Rosedale library.

OPEN MIC Mondays, September 12, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 evening of poetry at 7:30 at Barnes & Noble, 176-60 Union Turnpike.

SCRABBLE Tuesday, September 13 at the Fresh Meadows library at 1.

HOLLYWOOD MUSICALS Wednesday, September 14 Hollywood musicals will be featured at the Bellerose library at 3.

POP ART Thursday, September 15 Pop Art, Minimalism and Beyond with MoMA at the Kew Gardens Hills library at 1:30.

LOVE SONGS Thursday, September 15 international love songs at

the Woodhaven library at 2.

HORACIO LAGUNA Thursday, September 15 tango, bolero, rhythm and blues at the Corona library at 6.

EDDIE LEE ISAACS Thursday, September 15 rock and roll and the blues at 6 at the Lefferts library.

LIVE JAZZ Fridays through December 13 at 180-25 Linden Blvd.., St. Albans. 347-262-1169 ticket information.

DARIN, DIAMOND… Friday, September 16 tribute to the music of Bobby Darin, Neil Diamond and Paul Anka at the Auburndale library at 2.

MUSIC AFTERNOON Friday, September 16 afternoon of music with local young rising artists at 4 at the Rosedale library.

BANANAGRAM/SCRABBLE Fridays at the Windsor Park library at 2.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Every Friday at 2 at the Hillcrest library.

HEALTH BLOOD DRIVE Saturday, September 10 104 at the Atlas Park Mall, 8000 Cooper Avenue, Glendale.

334-2023.

ZUMBA Saturdays, September 10, 17, 24 at the Fresh Meadows library. Register.

CHAIR YOGA Saturday, September 10 at the Elmhurst library. Register.

YOGA IN THE PARK Saturdays through September 24 at Socrates Sculpture Park. 956-1819.

CAPOEIRA IN THE PARK Saturdays through September at Socrates Sculpture Park. 956-1819.

PILATES IN THE PARK Sundays through September 25 at Socrates Sculpture Park. 956-1819.

TAI CHI IN THE PARK Sundays through September 25 at Socrates Sculpture Park.956-1819.

ZUMBA Monday, September 12 Latin dance fitness program at the Langston Hughes librar y. Register.

MEDITATION Monday, September 12 the Art of Thinking Positive: You Are What You Think! With meditation teacher at the Steinway library at 6.

CHAIR YOGA Tuesday, September 13 at the Queensboro Hill library and 2:30 at the Rego Park library. Register.

ALZHEIMERS Tu e s d a y s , S e p t e m b e r 1 3 , 27, October 11, 25, November 8, 22, December 13, 27 Caregiver Support Group in Forest Hills. 592-5757, ext.

237.

WELL SPOUSES Wednesdays, September 14, Oc tober 12, November 9, December 14 Well Spouses or Partners of the Chronically Ill and Disabled

meet at St. Charles Rehab Center, 201 IU Willets Road, Albertson at 7. Free. Donation. 516-829-8740.

ZUMBA Wednesday, September 14 at the Richmond Hill library.

Register.

OA Thursdays at the Howard Beach library at 10:30.

SELF-HEALING & RELAX Thursday, September 15 introduction to relaxation and self-healing at the Baisley Park library at 6.

ORGANIC FOOD Thursday, September 15 organic food facts made simple at the Steinway library at 6.

TAI CHI Thursdays, September 15, 22, 29 at the Forest Hills librar y. Register.

CHAIR YOGA Thursday, September 15 at the Windsor Park library and the South Ozone Park librar y. Register.

ZUMBA Thursday, September 15 at the Queens Village library.

Register.

YOGA Thursday, September 15 free yoga class/beginners hatha yoga class at the Queensboro Hill library at 6:30.

CHAIR YOGA Fridays, September 16, 23, 30 i n t r o d u c t i o n t o c h a i r yoga at the Ozone Park librar y. Register.

MISCELLANEOUS SACRED MUSIC Saturday, September 17 Sacred Music Chorale of Richmond Hill begins rehearsals at 10 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 86-20 1 1 4 th Street. www.richmondhillny.com/ ArtsSMC

KAYAKING Week e n d s t h r o u g h O c to ber 9 (weather permitting) kayaking from Socrates Sculpture Park Beach at Hallets Cove. 228-9214.

LANDSCAPE/FLORAL Charcoal and pen and ink classes. 969-1128.

JH ART CLUB Classes in all art forms days and evenings for children and adults. 454-0813.

WOODBLOCK PRINTING Easy method in full color at the National Art League.

969-1128.

POETS Saturday, September 10 the Fresh Meadows Poets meet to discuss their work at the Forest Hills library at 10.

MICROSOFT EXCEL Saturday, September 10 at the LIC library at 2.

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, September 10 Open House at Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning from 12-5. Live DJ, arts & crafts, raffle free classes, face painting, refreshments and more.

658-7400. 161-04 Jamaica Avenue.

SEWING CLASSES Saturdays 11-3 at Maria Rose International Doll Museum in St. Albans. 2763454.

SCRABBLE CLUB Saturdays at 10 at Count Basie Jr. HS, 132 nd Street and Guy R. Brewer Blvd. 8865236.

SCULPTURE WORKSHOP Saturdays through September 24 children and families at the Socrates Sculpture Museum. 956-1819.

PET OWNERS Saturdays (not on holiday weekends) from 1-4 free Doggie Boot Camp at Crocheron Park in Bayside (weather permitting). 4545800. Reservations required. Donations accepted.

SKYPE CHAT Mondays, September 12, 19, 26 at the Queens Village library at 2.

BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, September 12, 19, 26 at the Forest Hills library at 6:30.

COMPUTER BOOT CAMP Mondays, September 12, 19 at the Far Rockaway library.

Register.

INTRO COMPUTERS Mondays, September 12, 19 at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30.

POETRY WORKSHOP Monday, September 12 learn the craft of poetry and share your poems at the Seaside library at 2.

JOB SEARCH Monday, September 12 help with resumes, cover letters and interview skills at the Arverne library at 4.

SEASONAL WORK Monday, September 12 looking for seasonal employment at the LIC library. Register.

BALLROOM DANCING Monday, September 12 at the Forest Hills library at 6:30.

BRIDGE CLUB Mondays except holidays 12-4 at Pride of Judea in

Douglaston. Lesson & play $10. Partners arranged. 4236200.

KNITTING CIRCLE Mondays at Alley Pond Environmental Center. Register 229-4000.

ADULT CHESS Mondays and Thursdays at the Queens Village library at 5:30.

BASIC COMPUTER Tuesday, September 13 at the Arverne library at 10:30.

INTRO INTERNET Tuesday, September 13 at 10:30 at the Queens Village library.

INTRO EMAIL Tuesday, September 13 at the Steinway library. Register.

INTRO INTERNET Tuesday, September 13 a t the Steinway library. Register.

KNIT & CROCHET Tuesday, September 13 at the Windsor Park library at 2.

COMPUTER PRACTICE Tu e s d a y, S e p te m b e r 1 3 computer practice lab at 4 at the Far Rockaway library.

LIC CHESS CLUB Tuesday, September 13 d at 4 at the LIC library.

INTRO COMPUTERS Tuesday, September 13 at the Central library. Register.

SCRABBLE CLUB Tuesdays at the East Flushing library at 3:30.

INTRO INTERNET Wednesday, September 14 at the Central library. Register.

JOB SEARCH Wednesday, September 14 job search skills at the Far Rockaway library at 10:30.

COMPUTER BASICS Wednesday, September 14 at the Windsor Park library.

Register.

START A BUSINESS Wednesday, September 14 at the Central library at 11.

LANGUAGE CLASS Wednesdays Conversational Hebrew 2:30-3:30 and Torah Stories in Yiddish 3:30-4:30 at the Bayside Jewish Center. 352-7900.

TANGO CLASS Wednesdays, September 14, 21, 28 at Buenos Aires Tango in Forest Hills. 347642-4705.

DUPLICATE BRIDGE Wednesdays 10:30-3:00 at the Reform Temple of Forest Hills. $12 session, includes light lunch. 261-2900 INDOOR SOCCER – DADS Wednesday evenings at the Forest Hills Jewish Center.

263-7000.

OIL PAINTING CLASS Wednesdays 6-8 adult classes, all levels. Grace Lutheran Church in Forest Hills. 472-4055.

WATERCOLOR CL ASS Wednesdays at 9:30 at NAL. Traditional and contemporary, all levels. 969-1128.

COMPUTER BOOT CAMP Thursday, September 15 at the Arverne library at 10:30.

ENTREPRENEUR CLASS Thursday, September 15 small business training orientation at Queens Borough Hall, 120-55 Queens Blvd.,

room G-110 from 6-8. 2630546.

INTRO IMOVIE Thursday, September 15 introduction to iMovie at the Steinway library. Register.

DRAWING WORKSHOP Thursdays, September 15, 22, Oc tober 6 at the Seaside library. Register.

PLASTIC SCRAPS Thursday, September 15 Upcycle your own plastic scrap at the Broadway library.

Register.

CHESS CLUB Thursdays at the East Flushing library. Register.

COMPUTER CLASS Every Thursday at the Queensboro Hill library. Register.

KNIT & CROCHET Thursdays at the Fresh Meadows library at 6.

COMPUTER LAB Friday, September 16 computer practice lab at the Arverne library at noon.

POWERPOINT Friday, September 16 at the Rego Park library. Register.

CHESS CLUB Fridays, September 16, 23, 30 at the Auburndale library at 3.

KNITTING CLUB Fridays at the Maspeth library at 10.

KNIT & CROCHET Fridays at the Fresh Meadows library at 10:30.

COMPUTER COURSE Every Friday at the Ozone Park library. Register.

FLEA MARKETS FLEA MARKET Saturdays and Sundays through Oc tober 1 at Faith Mission, 114-40 Van Wyck Expressway.

YARD SALE Saturday, September 10 10-3 at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 246-55 87 th Avenue, Bellerose.

TRASH & TREASURE Saturday, September 17 93 at All Saints Church, 21435 40th Avenue.

FLEA MARKET Sunday, September 18 104 a t t h e Yo u n g I s ra e l o f Queens Valley, 141-55 77 t h avenue, Flushing.

RELIGIOUS MESSIAH LECTURES Through September 14 series of lectures about the Messiah with Rabbi Gerald Solomon from 10:30-noon at the Flushing-Fresh Meadows Jewish Center, 193-10 Peck Avenue, Flushing. 357-5100.

JESSE TERRY Saturday, September 10 Jesse Terr y will perform at 7:30 at Temple Tikvah in New Hyde Park. $20 advance, $25 at the door. 516-746-1120.

LUTHERAN REDEEMER Sunday, September 11 memorial service at 9:30. Regular service begins September 18 at 8:30. Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 157-16 65 th Avenue, Flushing. 358-2744.

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

MOVING IMAGE Through September 30 Gus Van Sant. Through January 16 Jim Henson Screenings and Programs. Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35 th Avenue, Astoria. 7776800. $15.

ARTIST TALK Saturday, September 10 46 artist talk for “Going Green” exhibit at Crossing A r t , 1 3 6 - 1 7 3 9 th A v e n u e , ground floor, Flushing.

JESSE TERRY Saturday, September 10 Jesse Terr y will perform at 7:30 at Temple Tikvah in New Hyde Park. $20 advance, $25 at the door. 516-746-1120.

CELEBRATE EID Saturday, September 10 celebration with the music and crafts of Pakistan at noon at the Langston Hughes library. 12, 1 and 2pm.

REGGAE CONCERT Saturday, September 10 Timmy Love and the Reflex Band perform at 2 at the Flushing library.

DOCUMENTARY Saturday, September 10 “ Tr i b a l W i ve s ” a t t h e Steinway library at 2.

EDDIE LEE ISAAC Saturday, September 10 music of Elvis, Cash, Lewis and Perkins at the Peninsula library at 2:30.

SUNDAY CONCERT Sunday, September 11 Bangladesh Institute of Performing Arts at 3 at the Central library.

MOTORCYCLE SHOW Sunday, September 11 31 st Annual Antique Motorcycle Show at the Queens Count y Farm Museum 11-4. $5. 7350 Little Neck Parkway, Floral Park.

SUMMER FUN Sunday, September 11 September 11 th tribute. Sunday, September 25 Jackson Heights Green Alliance Ending Celebration. 5pm at the 78 th Street Play Street, 78 th Street between Northern Blvd. And 34 th Avenue, Jackson Heights.

STAMP SHOW Sundays, September 11, Oc tober 23, November 20, December 18 Bayside Stamp Show at the Ramada Inn, 220-33 Northern Blvd., Bayside 10-4:30. Free admission.

MUSIC IN GARDENS Sunday, September 11 Music in the Garden, resented with Bang on a Can at Socrates Sculpture Park at 3.

SHAKESPEARE Sunday, September 11 Shakespeare in Kew Gardens Cinemas Park 3-4:30.

Rain location Bliss Café, 8260 Austin Street. Park is located on Austin Street, off Lefferts Blvd., near the Kew Gardens post office.

LIVE JAZZ Sundays through December 18 at 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans from 5-9. $5 donation. 347-262-1169.

OPEN MIC Mondays, September 12, Oc tober 10, November 14, December 12 evening of poetry at 7:30 at Barnes &

EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS

Profile

Still Going Strong; 102 Years Young day," Marshall's proclamation read.

Jerry was alive for the invention of the radio, telephone, television and In 1909, the first subway car the first moon landing. She also lived with side doors went into service in through the Great Depression, Civil New York City. That spring, the Rights Movement and the election of Queensboro Bridge opened, linking the nation's first black President. the borough to Manhattan. The Na"I don't feel like 102," Jerry said tional Negro Committee, now on her birthday. She said the only known as the NAACP, held its first time she starts to feel her age is when conference in May 1909 in New her body reminds her that she canYork. That summer, South Jamaica's not move as quickly as she once Anna Jerry was born on Aug. 31. could. Still, Jerry feels blessed to live The South Jamaica Senior Centhis long and still be healthy. ter celebrated Jerry's 102nd birthJerry has been a resident of South day last week. Residents at the cenJamaica her entire life and is a deter took time to honor Jerry at her vout member of Morningstar Misbirthday celebration with her famsionary Baptist Church on Merrick ily and friends. One resident read a Boulevard. Gardening is one of her poem he wrote for Jerry's birthday, hobbies and it has earned her recogand another guest sang a song to nition from the City Housing Authorcelebrate the occasion. ity. Jerry enjoys crocheting and bakSoutheast Queens' elected offiing, especially cakes and pies. Jerry cials took a moment to honor the never learned how to drive, but the centenarian in their district. State 102-year-old still manages to move Sen. Shirley L. Huntley (D-Jamaica) sent Jerry a card and a check for Anna Jerry (c.) celebrates her 102nd birthday with family, friends and elected officials at the South about the city without a car. She works with a tennis association and $102 in honor of her special day. Jamaica Senior Center. helps her daughter with her children.

Councilman Ruben Wills (D-South "I keep myself busy," Jerry said Ozone Park) delivered a cake to the party. U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica), maica) and Councilmen Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica) and Borough President with a smile.

Reach Reporter Veronica Lewin at State Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans), (D-St. Albans), and James Sanders (D- Helen Marshall sent Jerry a proclamation vlewin@queenspress.com or (718) 357-7400, Assemblywomen Barbara Clark (D- Laurelton) sent greetings and donations in honor of her birthday.

"You are blessed to enjoy another birth- Ext. 123.

Queens Village) and Vivian Cook (D-Ja- to Jerry. Assemblyman Bill Scarborough Photo by Veronica Lewin

BY VERONICA LEWIN

Page 20 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

People Homeowners and college students from UnitedNY delivered a mock eviction notice to a local Chase Bank branch on Linden Boulevard for failing to pay a fair share of taxes, failing to do enough to create jobs, and failing to aid underwater homeowners.

“When my family lost our income, we thought our bank was going to be there for us,” said Southeast Queens resident Mimi Pierre Johnson, who fears the prospect of foreclosure. “What we encountered were games played by Chase, which involved us following the necessary steps for a loan modification including giving them our money. Each time it came time to complete our loan modification, we were told there were additional steps to the process. Chase, let us stay in our homes the way we let you keep your job!”

Areas of Southeast Queens have a foreclosure rate of 1.97 percent, which is up to five times higher than the state average. The number of people who owe more on their mortgage than their home is actually worth is as much as six times the state average.

“Foreclosure means destruction and devastation, and it does not discriminate.

It is ruining the lives of people who never imagined they would be homeless,” said Mireille Leroy, a resident of Southeast Queens. “When you move away from a neighborhood you have called home for years, you are leaving your life behind.

Chase was bailed out, why can’t the people be bailed out and given the chance to keep their homes?”

tention full time towards the Far Rockaway community she so loved.

Through her church, the Full Gospel Tabernacle, Brown served as an activist and an organizer for her community.

Protesters hold up their own eviction sign outside the Chase Bank branch on Linden Boulevard.

In July, Councilman James Sanders, Jr. announced that a formal ceremony renaming the intersection of Beach 43rd Street and Beach Channel Drive in Far Rockaway in honor of the late Lizzie Ruth Brown, a time community activist and organizer in the Rockaways, will take place on Saturday, Sept. 10, at 10a.m.

“Few people are more deserving of street renaming than Lizzie Brown, who gave her entire life to the community she loved,” said Sanders. “It is only fitting that we honor the memory of Lizzie by per-

manently imprinting her name in the soil which she worked so hard to preserve.

Everyone in this community had their lives touched, directly or indirectly, by Lizzie’s tireless work; I was proud to call her a friend, and I’m proud to rename Beach 43rd Street in her honor.”

A native of South Carolina, Lizzie Brown made New York City her home for decades, serving as a supervisor for the central complaints division of the New York City Department of Health for twenty-five years before turning her at-

Army Pfc. Inshan Allie has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission and received instruction and training exercises in drill and ceremonies, Army history, core values and traditions, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, rifle marksmanship, weapons use, map reading and land navigation, foot marches, armed and unarmed combat, and field maneuvers and tactics.

He is the son of Debbie Allie of Hollis.

Allie graduated in 2000 from Jamaica High School.

Army Pvt. Matthew I. Hart has graduated from Basic Combat Training at Fort Sill, Lawton, Okla.

During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission and received instruction and training exercises in drill and ceremonies, Army history, core values and traditions, military courtesy, military justice, physical fitness, first aid, rifle marksmanship, weapons use, map reading and land navigation, foot marches, armed and unarmed combat, and field maneuvers and tactics.

He is the son of Maria O’Sullivan of South Ozone Park.

Models Of Queens

Looking At Lisa

“Jersey Shore” star Pauly D and South Jamaica’s 50 Cent team up.

Opposites Attract As if America’s not sick enough of the self-proclaimed guidos and guidettes known as the “Jersey Shore” cast, one of our own is helping them stay relevant.

South Jamaica native 50 Cent agreed to make an album with fistpumping Pauly D. TMZ recently reported that Pauly D had signed a three-album deal with 50 Cent’s G-Unit, as well as a contract for a merchandise line. Looks like these tan partiers won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.

Thanks Fiddy.

A year and a half can make a huge difference in a person’s life – especially for a model.

When we last caught up with Lisa Ramos Lisa in February 2010, she had Home: Jamaica been modeling for about three Age: 22 years and had just recently gotten Height: 5’ 7" the boot from “America’s Next Top Weight: 109 Model.”

Stats: 34-25-35 But it would seem, there’s no such thing as bad publicity, and Lisa bounced back quite successfully with music videos, most recently in pieces with Timbaland, David Guetta and Pitbull.

Now represented by Elite Model Management’s Miami office, this sultry gal who has a thing for Alba’s Pizza in Briarwood still gets home as much as she can in between shoots, but can go for months at a time down south.

Lisa a prolific in her Twitter feed, constantly updating her many followers on her whereabouts. For example, she’s not sure if she felt the recent earthquake here in Queens, but it would have been a great distraction for her as she was clearly frustrated a few days earlier trying to shop at the Queens Center Mall on a Saturday – too crowded for her tastes.

He’s Somebody Assemblyman Mike DenDekker has never been a stranger to the silver screen or even a TV set.

What began as a minor career in Queens’ seemingly unknown and sometimes underappreciated community theater scene has blossomed into an opportunity, where he has shared the screen with Denzel Washington, Jodie Foster and Mark Wahlberg in bit roles in movies and television.

According to IMDb.com, the hazeleyed Jackson Heights native will show his Mike DenDekker’s headshot chops as a reporter in an action packed gritty tale titled, “You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Kills You.” The movie was actually filmed in 2007 before Mike took office, but is set to come out Nov. 4; we await its release with great anticipation.

We hope his portrayal of our profession doesn’t disappoint viewers.

And if he’s good enough, maybe when he’s done with this whole politic thing, we might be able to find a job for him here.

Jay-Z Rocks

Abra Cadabra

The Straphangers Campaign has has named the J/Z line New York’s best subway ride.

We’d might agree with them if a urine-saturated smell and perpetual dirt were the criteria for “best.”

It’s the line’s first time winning the top prize, after the well-earned dominance of the 7 train.

So before any of you Jamaica Center subway riders complain, remember you’re riding with the best. Imagine how bad things are for the rest of us.

Bob Turner has another endorsement in his race against David Weprin to replace Anthony Weiner in Congress: Queens’ own Wendy Wizard.

As if the race couldn’t get weirder, the magician was sent to a Turner Fundraiser by the Weprin campaign to give her “endorsement” to Turner.

According to the Weprin campaign, “Tea Party Turner’s smoke and mirror budget tricks require a level of magical ability that only the greatest illusionists have mastered,” Wendy said, “I’m proud to support my fellow magician’s candidacy because I know that Tea Party Turner will pull the money we need to save Medicare right out of thin air.”

Politiker NY reports that the Turner campaign said: “The Weprin campaign has become increasingly bizarre. I suggest they head back to Hogwarts and regroup.”

Page 22 PRESS of Southeast Queens Sept. 9-15, 2011

Smashing B-Baller Lawsuit One-time NBA player Rafer Alston, a.k.a. “Skip to My Lou,” wasn’t fast enough to get out of his current dilemma. The Jamaica native, who was known for his lightning speed on the court, is being sued for a fight at a strip club where he allegedly smashed a beer bottle on a patron’s head.

According to papers recently filed in court, he allegedly smashed a beer bottle on Perfection Gentleman’s Club guest Erick Franceschini, 32, of Milford, during a drunken melee in July 2010. Franceschini, who received 12 stitches and a concussion, filed a police report and a lawsuit against Alston.

After being busted for slashing a man in the neck during a fight at a Manhattan nightclub in 2007, Alston can’t seem to stay out of trouble after leaving the NBA (he spent last season in China). It May be time to throw it in, Rafer – and by “it” we don’t mean a bottle.

Wendy Wizard

Confidentially, New York . . .

Rafer Alston

We’d Say Yeah, Too

Usher gets his groove on in Queens.

Hey Lay-days, guess who was spotted in town?

Usher, the 32-year-old singer responsible for hits like “Yeah” and more recently “OMG.” The soulful modern ladies man was on the set of the new video for Romeo Santos’ “Promise,” which was being shot in our borough. Those who got a peek saw Usher getting sexy with some Latina seductress on the hood of a car.

Good thing his protégé Justin Bieber was out of town, we’re not sure he is mature enough to cross the PG-13 threshold.

What’s Up SATURDAY, SEPT. 10 Youth & Tennis The Youth and Tennis group meets every Saturday morning at Roy Wilkins Park Saturday. To learn more, call Bill Briggs at (718) 658-6728.

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

JCAL Open House Come see our new studios, gallery, and spaces. There will be a live DJ, arts and crafts, free classes, raffle, fact painting, and refreshments. Visit jcal.org for class demo schedule.

This free event will take place at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., from noon to 5 p.m.

YorkFest 2011 The York College of the City University of New York cordially invites you to YorkFest 2011, featuring: RandB Singer Ayanna Clarke; Carlos Jimenez and His Mambo Orchestra; The York College Big Band; children's attractions; college information; campus tours; refreshments, and local elected officials.

This free event will take place at York College's Grand Plaza, 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., from noon to 5 p.m.

Jazz 'N Jam The Margert Community Corporation and Councilman James Sanders Jr. are pleased to present another great concert in their Garvey-Tubman Music Series. The afternoon's musical offering include Walter Kelly and The All Stars, Lin Rountree and "best new artist in New York" Matt Marshak.

Call or stop by the Councilman's Laurelton Office (718) 527-4356, 234-26 Merrick Boulevard for additional information.

This free event will take place at Brookville Park, Brookville Boulevard at 143rd Avenue, from 3-7 p.m.

The International Afrikan Ministries Ubuntu (a pan Afrikan ministry) is pleased to present a book signing event for "An Unlikely Warrior… Herman Ferguson… Evolution of a Black Nationalist Revolutionary."

Join authors Iyaluua Ferguson and Herman Ferguson for this special afternoon.

This free event will take place at Afrikan Poetry Theatre, 176-03 Jamaica Ave., at 1:30 p.m.

BIBAHA Witness the blend of tradition and custom in a Bengali wedding as performed in traditional dress by the Bangladesh Insti-

MONDAY, SEPT. 12 Adult Chess Club Practice your chess skills weekly, on Monday and Thursday evenings.

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

York Provost Lecture Series Be there for the first of the year York College Provost Lecture Series. Today's series will feature Daniel Phelps - Adjunct, Television Studio Manager, Performing and Fine Arts, School of Arts and Sciences - and his film: "The Domino Effect: How Development in New York City Is Often Bittersweet."

The Domino Effect is a feature length documentary film that explores the process of real estate development in New York City. The redevelopment of the 129 year-old Domino Sugar Factory in Williamsburg serves as the film's case study for examining the complex politics of urban development in the 21st century. Told through the voices of longtime residents, the film conveys the personal impact of gentrification while also shedding light on issues encountered by residents of cities all across the country. For additional information, contact Holger Henke at hhenke@york.cuny.edu.

This free event will take place at the York College Academic Core Building, 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., from 3-5 p.m.

TUESDAY, SEPT. 13 Camera Club The Southeast Queens Camera Club meets at Roy Wilkins Park, Administration Bldg., 2nd Floor, 177-01 Baisley Blvd.

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

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

Intro to Computers In this single-session workshop, customers will learn the basics of using the computer; how to log on and off; use the keyboard and mouse; open and close "windows;" use toolbars and scroll bars. Preregistration is required in person at the Cyber Center Desk. For details, please call (718) 990-0769.

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

WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 14 York Observatory Open Night The York College Observatory is open to the public every second or third Wednesday of the month - rain or shine - at 8:30 p.m.

Gather in room 2E01 and then proceed to the fourth floor terrace off G corridor if it's clear. For additional information, contact Tim Paglione at paglione@york.cuny.edu or (718) 262-2082.

This free event will be held at the York College Academic Core Building (AC

2E01), 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. from 8:30-9:30 p.m.

Intro to the Internet In this workshop, customers will learn how to search the Web for reliable resources and how to navigate a website.

Participants must possess basic mouse and keyboarding skills. Pre-registration is required in person at the Cyber Center Desk.

For details, please call (718) 990-0769.

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

StartUP! Competition 2011 The Queens Economic Development Corporation will begin the 6th Annual Queens StartUP! Business Plan Competition in September 2011. The competition gives entrepreneurs the opportunity to strengthen their business knowledge, learn about business trends, gain insights about starting and growing a business, as well as an introduction to the vast resources at the Queens Library.

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

An Afternoon at the Movies Congressman Gregory W. Meeks will join several elected officials from Southeast Queens for the "9th Annual Senior Appreciation Week." The week's activities will feature numerous events to celebrate the wisdom, history and contributions of senior citizens.

Meeks will host an afternoon at the movies for seniors. All seniors are to be in their seats by 12:30 p.m. to participate in activities scheduled prior to show time at 1:00 p.m. For more information and to RSVP, contact Meeks' office at (718) 7256000.

This free event will take place at the Jamaica Multiplex Theatre, 159-02 Jamaica Ave., at 12:30 p.m.

Public Transit Town Hall Stranded by transit? Get relief! Come to a community forum and make your voice heard for improved buses and subways in Jamaica. Join Councilman Leroy Comrie, community leaders and transit advocates to find solutions to improving our quality of life through reliable, affordable and efficient transit. To RSVP, send a text to "Transit," call (646) 873-6003, or visit riderrebellion.org/Jamaica.

When: Wednesday, September 14th 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm This free event will take place at The Harvest Room at the Jamaica Market, 9040 160th St., 6-8 p.m.

Children of the Grid Reception Focusing on the recent use of the Grid by today's artists in the twenty-first century, this exhibition examines works by Joel Carreiro, Franklin Evans, and Changha Hwang, three masters of the Grid technique.

Unlike our common belief that the Grid is rigid, hard-edged, and void of any material information from the external world, these artists use it as flexible, fluid, and relating to fragmentary information of art mediums, art history, or our spatial relationship to the world. For additional information, contact (718) 658-7400.

This free event will take place at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning William P. Miller Gallery, 161-04 Jamaica Ave., 6-8 p.m.

THURSDAY, SEPT. 15 Walkers for Wellness Club See Saturday's listing. At 7 p.m.

Union Hall Street Thursdays Come one and all, to the greatest block party of them all. Applebee's, the Jamaica Center Business Improvement District, Councilman Leroy Comrie, Jamaica First Parking, and the Downtown Jamaica Open Space Coalition are pleased to present Union Hall Street Thursdays. Come on out for an evening of food, drink, music and dance. Tonight's special guest will be Charles Bartlett and Quartet - a living jazz legend in Queens.

This free event will take place at Union Hall Street, between Jamaica and Archer Avenues, at 5 p.m.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 16 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.

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.

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.

Sept. 9-15, 2011 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 23

SUNDAY, SEPT. 11 Herman Ferguson Book Signing

tute of Performing Arts featuring wedding dance and songs of Bangladesh.

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

&)* +* ( + +* ( 0 &(* ($ !#!* *!&% +()!% &$ 0 ! # & # +#* . #* ( & ! # & # #/ !$ ( %* ( 0 &% ($ &$ #* ( &$$+%!*. %' *! %* &)'!

Parker Jewish Institute for HEALTH CARE AND REHABILITATION 271-11 76th Avenue, New Hyde Park, New York 11040-1433 --- ' (" (!%)*!*+* &(

! # *( %)'&(* *!&% '(&,! .

(516) 322-6223

% )!* ! #.)!) '(&,! .