Press epaper 120613

PRESS Photos by Ira Cohen

Volume 14 Issue No. 49 Dec. 6 - 12, 2013

SHUT DOWN

The Sean Bell Community Center has closed its doors due to a lack of funds.

By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 3.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

News Briefs $50 Million Allocated For Resiliency Project

Millions of dollars from New York State will go towards making Queens’ coastal areas more resilient from storms such as Superstorm Sandy in the future.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced last week that federal funding has been approved for a resiliency project on 150 acres along Jamaica Bay and Spring Creek that will protect the homes and businesses in that area from flooding. Fifty million dollars will be dedicated to the project.

According to a press release from Cuomo’s office, out of that money, $3 million will be used towards engineering and design work and the rest will be used for the project.

“Like several other communities located by water, Howard Beach suffered incredible damage from storm surges during Superstorm Sandy,” Cuomo said. “To strengthen Howard Beach against future flooding and storms, we are moving forward on a major project that improves the natural infrastructure along Spring Creek and the Jamaica Bay coast in Queens, with the approval of federal funding.”

Cuomo asked the State Dept. of Environmental Conservation to develop a plan for the Jamaica Bay and Howard Beach areas to protect them from future storms. The project will include establishing barriers to reduce storm damage.

Two of the area’s elected representatives, State Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) and Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Ozone Park), released statements praising the announcement.

De Blasio Announces Bratton As NYPD Commissioner

On Dec, 5, Mayor-Elect Bill de Blasio announced his appointment of William Bratton to serve as New York City’s next Police Commissioner.

In selecting Bratton to lead the NYPD, de Blasio emphasized his commitment to proactive policing to protect New Yorkers, while simultaneously respecting their civil liberties.

De Blasio charged Bratton with using the best technology and tactics to deepen New York City’s historic gains in public safety, to continue innovating approaches that protect New Yorkers from terrorism, and to bring police and communities closer together by ending the overuse and misuse of the Stop and Frisk policy.

Bratton returns to the NYPD as one of the most effective law enforcement officials in the nation, having pioneered the CompStat system and

community policing strategies as a former NYPD Commissioner.

He is credited with the largest crime reduction in New York City’s history. Under his leadership in the mid-1990s, felony crime in New York City fell by 39 percent. He proved to be as effective in Los Angeles, where violent crime declined by 26 percent during his first three years as Chief of Police. By 2009, the crime rate was 54 percent lower than it had been during his predecessor’s final year.

“Bill Bratton is a proven crimefighter. He knows what it takes to keep a city safe, and make communities full partners in the mission. Together, we are going to preserve and deepen the historic gains we’ve made in public safety—gains Bill Bratton helped make possible,” de Blasio said in a statement. “And we will do it by rejecting the false choice between keeping New Yorkers safe and protecting their civil rights. This is an Administration that will do both.”

“Mayor-Elect de Blasio’s priorities are my priorities. This is the best police force in the nation, and we are going to ensure our men and women have the best technology, the most innovative tactics and the strong support of the communities they protect,” said Bratton in a statement. “This department will not rest on its laurels. We are going to continue making history as the safest big city in America.”

JCAL Announces Winners

In early September, Jamaica Center for Arts & Learning released an RFP for The Next Steps Dance Residency.

The opportunity served as an invite for dance groups to find a home for their creative expression. Residencies offer artists a chance to create, reflect and research within a community and away from their usual environment and obligations. They provide meaningful exchanges and cross cultural artistic opportunities.

As part of The Next Steps Dance Residency, JCAL provides free studio rehearsal space for 40 hours over a twelve-week period. The first residency will begin this month. The second will start in the March next year.

This is the first time JCAL has offered a residency specifically focused on dance.

There were over fifteen groups that applied for the residency. After a panel review of all applications there were six groups who were awarded The Next Steps Dance Residency.

The winter session dance residency winners are Afaliah Tribune, Felice Lesser and Nicole Bilbao. The spring session winners are Leeanne G-Bowley, Camille Morgan and Fatima Logan.

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

Sean Bell Community Center Closed Just months shy of its three-year anniversary, the Sean Elijah Bell Community Center in South Jamaica has closed its doors due to lack of funds.

The news does not come as a shock to the community residents.

Executive director Anthony Anderson anticipated a closure exactly one year ago, when the PRESS first reported on the center’s financial struggles.

“As of now, I would have to say we are going to close because we didn’t receive enough money to operate,” he predicted.

The nonprofit was opened in memory of Sean Bell, who was shot and killed by undercover police officers the day before his wedding on Nov. 25, 2006.

On May 18, 2011, which was also Bell’s birthday, Jamaica welcomed the new center, the primary goal of which was to help its people. The center offered a variety of free services ranging from after school programs and tutoring for children, as well as job readiness programs for residents.

In an earlier interview, Anderson claimed that the $196,000 block

Photo by Ira Cohen

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

William Bell, Sean Bell’s father, empties out the Sean Bell Center after it closed due to lack of funds.

grant it received when the center opened was not enough money to sustain the services it provides.

“We don’t charge for any services here so we were hoping we would receive donations from the community and possibly some funding from the government,” he said. “I feel that as a community we could have done more. We support the community so we look to the community to support us.”

Last year, the Greater Springfield Community Church sponsored a benefit in a final attempt to collect enough money to prevent a closure, but it was not enough to sustain the center’s programs.

“I’m disappointed it’s closed, because we don’t have centers in that area, especially in Southeast Queens,” said the Rev. Phil Craig, who is also president of the Queens National Action Network. “It is a little challenging

to understand why it has closed, especially after having a conversation with the administration, but we did everything in our power to keep it going.”

“This is a very fragile situation because people can’t just keep pouring into it. It’s a handshaking and the administration needs to be at a point where they can keep it afloat,” Craig added. “I don’t know where the [money] gap was, but there should be responsibility on both ends – the administration and the community, to try and keep something like this alive for a generation.”

The Sean Bell Community Center, located at 107-52 Sutphin Blvd., offered a number of essential after school programs for the children of Southeast Queens. Craig’s biggest concern, he said, is the future of the children who are displaced as a result of the closure.

“I’m praying it doesn’t [impact the community negatively], but my biggest question is what is going to happen to the children during the times that they occupied the center? What are going to be the alternatives for them? At this moment, it is going to be up to the parent’s to do their job,” he said.

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

Jamaica Revealed As Restaurant Hotspot In an effort to attract restaurant owners to the Downtown Jamaica area, the Sutphin Boulevard Business Improvement District and the Jamaica Center Business Improvement District hosted their second “Jamaica Revealed” program for brokers and property owners.

The program, held at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning on Dec. 3, focused on highlighting Jamaica as a bustling new hotspot with a need and demand for sit-down restaurants and other eateries.

“I’ve been here all my life and I can tell you this is a wonderful place to bring your business,” said guest speaker Assemblyman William Scarborough (D-Jamaica).“You should know that this community is made up of middle-class, hardworking people and in this community, there is a lot of disposable income and a lot of this disposable income is going every where else because they can’t find the kind of restaurants [and] the kind of eateries that they would like to have.”

Justin Rodgers of the Greater Ja-

maica Development Corporation supported Scarborough’s claims, citing the numerous developments coming to the area that the group believes will net in thousands more pedestrians, visitors and locals.

Rodgers highlighted three major projects that GJDC has been working on this year – a new department store on 168th Street, a 210-room hotel and a new mixed housing unit on 161st Street, which is expected to construct 100 affordable homes for families and individuals.

Other guest speakers included Kina Thomas of the New York City Business Acceleration Team and Paul Libreros of New York Business Solutions, both of which spoke about the free services their respective organizations provide for business owners looking to invest.

Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-Jamaica), who recently was announced as Deputy Borough President come Jan. 1, was also on hand to discuss the growing potential of Downtown Jamaica as a destination area.

“There are plenty of young people in the Jamaica area that are looking

for quality restaurants and nightlife to come into the Downtown Jamaica area,” Comrie said. “I would encourage you to come [because] the area is doing well. It is starting to build a regular audience.”

“Jamaica will definitely embrace you because there is opportunity.

People don’t want to have to go to Manhattan and take three trains and two buses to enjoy nightlife,” Comrie added. “They are doing it, but they rather do it with one bus or one stop in one location.”

As part of their strategy to revitalize Downtown Jamaica, the Jamaica BID, GJDC and the Sutphin Boulevard BID also highlighted their research. The groups, which conducted a 1,200-person survey of area shoppers earlier this year, determined there was a large demand for sit-down restaurants in the area.

“We got responses from several hundreds of people here – not just residents but people who visit here including students and transit workers, and we found out that based on their perceptions, we are only capturing about 20 percent of business,”

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Employees of the newly opened Applebees pose at the “Jamaica Revealed” program.

analyst Mark Lohbauer said. “We found that 46 percent of the people who do not shop regularly in Jamaica do not dine here because there are just not enough dining options.”

“More than a third of the people that live here do not dine here because there are not enough options,” he added. “They would love to but there aren’t enough options.”

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

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

St. Albans Civic Seeks To Block Variances

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Late last month, Community Board 12 reluctantly voted to approve four variances requested for by the St. Albans Presbyterian Church in order to build a new mixed-housing complex on Farmers Boulevard.

But while CB12 ultimately approved the variances, another community group, the St. Albans Civic Association, is doing everything in its power to block them.

Bernard Harrigen, president of the St. Albans Civic, said that the group was not notified of the proposals and feels insulted that the church did not reach out for feedback, especially considering the Civic organized a trash cleanup at the property.

“We cleaned up that place and it seems very disrespectful to the Civic when we are familiar with the property, we have done things with the property, and no one took the time out to ask us what our thoughts were,” Harrigen said. “We are the homeowners in the area and we should be given an opportunity to respond.”

Sharon Johnson, first vice president of the Civic, who also resides three doors down from the property, echoed similar sentiments, claiming

the church did not reach out to residents nearby.

“I’m up in arms. I’ve been a longtime resident and homeowner approximately three doors down from the planned site,” she said. “One of the main issues is that the church did not reach out to the residents that will be directly impacted.”

The church, which owns two properties on Farmers Boulevard, applied for variances pertaining to the floorarea ratio, height, dwelling units and parking required for the proposed fixed-income building, which will include a “Cycle of Life” facility.

According to Eric Palatnik, a spokesperson for Trinity, the partnering development group, the proposed mixed-income housing complex will contain 67 apartments – 32 one-bedroom units and 35 two-bedroom units.

Palatnik explained that in order to meet the requirements by the State, they would need to construct a fivestory building, which is not compliant with the property’s current R3A zoning. In order to be profitable enough to gain the State’s financial support, he argued, Trinity will need to construct a building that is 55 feet tall – 20 feet taller than the permitted 35 for the zoning.

“We’re not here as greedy developers trying to build a glass tower somewhere,” Palatnik said at the CB12 meeting.

Johnson and the Civic disagree and believe that constructing a complex of that magnitude will overpopulate the area, adversely impacting the St. Albans community.

“Right now there are one and two family homes on Farmers Boulevard.

A 67-unit will bring approximately 200 new residents,” Johnson said. “The church and the developers – not one of them live in close proximity to the site.

This is a project and the project benefits the church and not the community.”

Similarly, Harrigen is concerned that the additional residents will impose more students at nearby school PS 36, which is already struggling with overcrowding.

The last variance, a parking variance, aims to reduce the number of required parking spaces for the housing complex. The property’s current zoning requires Trinity to construct a minimum of 62 parking spaces but the group asked for permission to reduce parking to 23 spaces.

Many CB12 members found the parking variance to be most troubling but Palatnik tried to reassure them

that the reduced parking spots will not gravely impact street parking. He claimed that Trinity hired a traffic consultant to go study the area and determined impact would be minimal.

But the Civic does not buy it.

“Farmers Boulevard is already dealing with congestion issues. Often I can’t find parking there and my neighbors can’t find parking there,” Johnson said. “What every study they’ve done, I don’t believe it and I would like to challenge that.”

Although the Civic has claimed their calls to the church have gone unanswered, a rep for St. Albans Presbyterian claims they have not gotten any messages.

In an effort to block the variances, the St. Albans Civic Association rallied outside of Queens Borough Hall on Dec. 5, when Queens Borough President Helen Marshall is supposed to give the final approval. Both Johnson and Harrigen said they have been going around to community residents and plan on making their presence, and their stance, known.

Palatnik could not be reached for comment.

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

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Leroy Comrie Named Deputy Borough President Bond Named Chief of staff Less than a month before she takes office, incoming Borough President Melinda Katz has named Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) as her deputy.

Comrie, whose support was vigorously sought-after once he dropped out of the Borough President race earlier this year, has been rumored to be a deputy since early this summer.

After staying silent for weeks once he dropped out, Comrie finally threw his support behind Katz in September’s Democratic primary. Comrie said he

was “thrilled” to serve under Katz.

“Queens needs Melinda’s vision for a more prosperous and equitable borough,” he said. “Melinda has proven herself a tireless and honest public servant with a real plan to move our borough forward.”

The release also announced that Jay Bond will serve as Borough Hall Chief of Staff. Bond has served as policy director for the New York Chapter of the American Institute of Architects. He also served as policy advisor to Katz when Katz was in the City Council.

Bond and Comrie will also head Katz’s transition team, as they have started accepting resumes.

“For years, Melinda Katz has served our Borough with distinction and achieved tangible results on the issues working families care about,” Bond said.

“I’m excited to build on that progress by helping Melinda assemble the most qualified team possible from every walk of life and every corner of our City,” he added.

Interested individuals can send resumes and cover letters to info@melindakatz.com.

Leroy Comrie has been named Deputy Borough President.

richmond Hill Hs annex set For Closure, Per PEP

By Luis GroNDa Despite protests and disapproval from parents and community members, the Panel for Educational Policy approved the closing of the annex of Richmond Hill High School.

The PEP voted 7-4 for the measure, with Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s appointments all voting for it and the borough representatives, including Queens Representative Dmytro Fedkowskyj, voting against closing the annex.

Now that it has been approved, the annex, which is based a few blocks away from the main building at 95-27 117th St., will be turned into a separate high school. The students at the annex will be moved to the main building.

Fedkowskyj said closing the annex is a negative for the school because it will overcrowd the school and increase the class sizes. It will force the high school to use trailers to accommodate the higher number of students coming in. He added that,

in the past, the Dept. of Education has promised to stop using trailers in its future capital plans but so far that has not been the case.

“It’s too bad that something that’s working is now being broke,” Fedkowskyj said.

Vishnu Mahadeo, the PTA president of the high school, said everyone has expressed their dismay about the measure at multiple public meetings, including one held at the high school last month, and it serves as a disservice to the children at the school.

According to Mahadeo, attendance at the annex is high, around 95 percent in total, and gives the kids placed there a better learning environment.

Mahadeo said several parents are urging him to take legal action against the DOE to stop the move.

Although he has not decided either way yet, he said a decision on that is expected in about one week.

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

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

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

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja

Art Dept:

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

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

A Time To Think Of Others Last week, we celebrated Thanksgiving and the start of Hanukkah, holidays that are marked by families coming together, usually with a great deal of food.

As we continue with this holiday season, with Christmas and Kwanzaa just around the corner, the recent report that one in 10 Queens residents are not sure where they will get their next meal is a sobering reminder that there are too many in this City who live without enough food.

Demand at food pantries is on the rise while cuts to supplemental nutrition programs will guarantee that demand will continue to increase. And still, for too long those in need have been ignored.

City officials should be ashamed of themselves for allowing this inequity to continue for as long as it has.

Many are looking forward to the new administration this year to begin a process of change. Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio has spoken of the challenges of his “Tale of Two Cities,” and we hope he works to bring that division closer together. But it will take more than just civic action.

Historically, food pantries report a higher rate of donations during the holidays, as the giving nature of the season inspires many to bring supplies. But we hope that those donations can be continued and improved upon year-round, giving those in need something to be thankful about beyond the fourth Thursday in November.

For a listing of food banks near you, visit foodbanknyc.org or riverfund-ny.org/pantry.html.

WRITE ON: The PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357. email news@queenspress.com Fax: (718) 357-9417

OP-ED

Time For Licenses For Undocumented Immigrants

By STATE SENATOR JOSE PERALTA I recently introduced legislation to provide undocumented immigrant New Yorkers access to driver’s licenses. If enacted, the bill will bring the undocumented into the economic mainstream and make New York’s roads safer.

It will also generate millions of dollars in revenue for the State from license and registration fees. It also could lead to lower auto insurance premiums. In Illinois, for example, it is estimated that auto insurance rates for individual drivers will decline by $60 a year.

A driver’s license would open the door to more employment opportunities for undocumented immigrants.

They would be able to make more money to support their families. Once in the economic mainstream, they would be

less vulnerable to exploitation and fraud.

By ensuring that everyone driving on our roads is properly credentialed, educated and is operating a registered, inspected and insured vehicle, this law would improve safety on our roads.

My bill will permit the New York State Dept. of Motor Vehicles to issue licenses to undocumented immigrants able to provide non-U.S. identification, prove residence in the State and demonstrate they have not been convicted of a felony crime.

And during the recent mayoral campaign, not only did Democrat Bill de Blasio call for passage of my bill, so did the Republican candidate, Joe Lhota.

The next step is to build support for the bill, both within the legislature and out. Advocates such as Make the Road New York will be important allies.

Mayor de Blasio’s Commish Pick: Nothing New Here A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE So after all the suspense about who the next NYPD Commissioner would be, Bill de Blasio gives us Bratton.

It is not that there is anything wrong with recycling.

Bloomberg did it with Ray Kelly who had served under Mayor David Dinkins. It is just that after running on a promise “to end the stop and frisk era,” as candidate de Blasio’s son said in his TV commercial, we get someone who has been part of that practice both here and elsewhere.

That being the case, you would think he would have picked a new face such as Phillip Banks, my neighbor from down the block whom I’ve never met. Given the TV commercial and campaign speeches about Stop and Frisk, you would have thought de Blasio would move forward with someone who has new ideas.

I guess the old commish has promised to learn new

tricks. We believed candidate de Blasio when he said he’d end stop and frisk because looking at his son, you know that he too is a potential candidate. I worry about mine, too. My son is the same age and complexion as Dante de Blasio, so of course we worry about it.

Nonetheless, New York City is not a one-crime-issue place so the choice of a police commissioner cannot be based on one issue just because it’s been in the news and helped a candidate get elected. There are illegal weapons and the usual myriad other crime issues.

We are also still living in the age of terrorism and we have benefited from Ray Kelly’s breadth of experience. Bratton is no less experienced and we, as a City, will be very demanding and very critical, just as we have been with Kelly.

Police and schools chancellor are perhaps the two most important appointments de Blasio will make; if he doesn’t hit the mark with those two, his administration will struggle.

But we thought this so-called progressive would have stayed off the beaten path and pick a qualified African-American or Latino for the job. Instead he gives us a member of the old guard.

But make no mistake about it; Bratton is a seasoned crime adversary. In addition to his beat cop experience and series of administrative positions and NYPD Commissioner “cred,” he has also served as commissioner of another tough big city, Los Angeles, where he was LAPD commissioner.

Like Kelly, his experience has also been sought out by international governments and police departments. It is for these reasons that de Blasio’s pick is not that surprising. He respects Bratton so deeply that he was his advisor on matters of law enforcement throughout the mayoral campaign.

This is not necessarily a bad choice, just a predictable one.

The mayor-elect felt comfortable with selecting a commissioner who has been tested.

We live in an era where we are not just fighting home-grown

petty criminals, gangbangers and domestic abusers. We live in an era where there are unseen forces trying to destroy our city and way of life and are willing to die in the act.

He clearly felt that this is no time to promote from within and on for size. He went with someone who has had bi-coastal leadership experience. At a current age of a reported 66, Bratton shouldn’t only do his job to the best of his ability.

He should also be engaged in preparing a successor.

There are a lot of talented, intelligent and hardworking men and women in the NYPD who are ready for the kind of mentoring a Bill Bratton can provide. One such as Banks will be able to step in if there is an emergency.

When it’s all said and done it seems to this writer that de Blasio went status quo on this one. Let’s hope that he branches out a little with some of his other appointments or his campaign promises will be as fleeting as his old posters.

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

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report: Food insecurity On The rise

BY TrisHA sAkHujA Food insecurity is the reality of one in 10 Queens residents, according to a report, “Superstorm of Hunger: Lingering Shortfalls Expose a Tale of Two Food Cities,” unveiled by the New York City Coalition Against Hunger at the Center of Hope International Church on Nov. 27 in Long Island City.

The report also concludes one in eight children in Queens live in food insecure households.

As of yet, the report does not reflect the impact of the recent largescale cuts in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, but Berg said those cuts will make the situation much worse.

Joel Berg, executive director of the Coalition, said low-income people especially faced a tidal wave of pain after the economic downturn and Superstorm Sandy.

“Now that the official recession is over and the flood waters have receded, we can clearly see that New York is still suffering from a tale of two food cities,” Berg said. “While the wealthy have better gourmet food than ever, one in six of our neighbors are struggling against hunger.”

New York City’s food pantries and soup kitchens faced an increased demand of 10 percent in 2013, on top

of increases of five percent in 2012.

In Queens, 43 percent of feeding agencies reported not having enough food to meet current demand, while 86 percent of responding agencies reported an increase in the number of people they served over the past year.

Abigael Burke, food pantry coordinator at Hour Children said, as of Nov. 1, deep cuts in SNAP benefits will affect nearly two million New Yorkers, more than half of them being working families with children.

“When it comes to combating hunger, SNAP is our first line of defense,” Burke said. “Emergency food programs like my own should be the last life of defense, however, our lines continue to get longer each week.”

Burke said last week, Hour Children served more than 450 families.

Increased numbers means there is a lack of staple food items and fresh produce on the pantry shelves.

“Charity cannot do it alone, we need Congress to step up it up and makes sure no American goes hungry,” Burke added.

Due to the federal sequestration and other cuts, the main source of federal operating funds for such agencies has been cut by nearly half since 2009. Consequently, according to reports, nearly 45 percent of the food pantries say they lack suf-

The New York City Coalition Against Hunger reports that one in 10 Queens residents are food insecure. ficient resources to meet the growing demand and 46 percent said they were forced to turn people away, reduce the amount of food distributed per person, or limit their hours of operation because they lacked sufficient resources in 2013.

Berg said this data should provide federal, State and City officials with a clarion call to significantly ramp up government efforts to combat poverty and hunger, such as universal pre-K. “If the City were to enact Mayorelect de Blasio’s plan to slightly raise taxes on the wealthiest to pay for universal pre-K, not only would that decrease poverty in the long-term, it would also immediately reduce child

hunger because pre-K programs provide nutritious meals funded by the federal government,” Berg said.

Elected officials stand with the Coalition, voicing their concerns over the shortage of food supplies at local pantries.

“Taking food off the plates of the needy to fatten up the rich is not the American way,” State Sen. Jose Peralta (D-East Elmhurst) said. “We can’t allow House Republicans to cut deeper into a program that provides most beneficiaries with little more than $4 a day for food.”

“The release of this new data further underscores the critical need for nutrition programs like SNAP,” U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) said. “Millions of New Yorkers rely on it to put food on their tables, and any cuts to the program would be devastating. As it is, countless families turn to local organizations like community food banks to meet their needs, but even they are operating with limited resources.”

COHI’s Bread of Life Food Pantry serves the residents of Queensbridge, Ravenswood and Astoria Houses.

The full report is available at nyccah.org/hungersurvey.

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

Boston Pops Comes To Queens College BY jOE MArViLLi This weekend, a holiday tradition will come to Queens for the first time.

Kupferberg Presents will bring the Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra to Queens College for its “Holiday Pops” concert. Taking place on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m., the College hopes the performance will bring merriment and yuletide cheer to Colden Auditorium.

While “America’s Orchestra” has played at other colleges, such as Long Island University Post in Long Island, they took advantage of an opportunity to perform in the City when Queens College asked, bringing a family tradition to the Borough.

“It’s great to perform in a New York City venue during the holidays,” conductor Keith Lockhart said. “We have some of the greatest arrangements ever made for the orchestra. In Boston, these concerts have become such a tradition that there are thousands who would not spend Christmas without us.”

This performance by the orchestra will feature their signature tune, “Sleigh Ride,” along with other holi-

dience-wide sing-along and a visit from Santa himself.

“There’s nothing better than getting a couple thousand of your closest friends singing along,” Lockhart said. “I like to make sure that these programs have the audience thinking, ‘they must have programmed that for me, that’s my favorite Christmas song.’”

For the conductor, a trip to New York brings him back to familiar territory, as he was born and raised upstate in Poughkeepsie.

“New York City was ‘The City’ when I was growing up.

I would go to see shows and concerts in New York,” he said. “It’s always fun to go to Conductor keith Lockhart (right) and the Bos- places you have a connection ton Pops Esplanade Orchestra will bring their with.”

Lockhart is the 20th conannual “Holiday Pops” concert to Queens for the first time, performing at Queens College ductor of the Boston Pops and only the third one since on Dec. 8. the 1930s. He took over day favorites, new arrangements of in 1995 from legendary film comclassic songs of the season and a poser John Williams, who is known chorus. The concert will build up to for his work on “Superman,” “Star a fantastical conclusion with an au- Wars” and “Indiana Jones.” Lock-

hart said that he sees himself as an instinctive performer and uses this skill to connect the audience and the orchestra.

“For me, I’m a performer at heart.

That’s particularly important during the holiday season,” he said. “The conductor really connects the people to the music. You get to be the Master of Ceremonies.”

Tickets for the Boston Pops concert range from $50 to $120. To purchase tickets or for more information, call (718) 793-8080 or visit www.kupferbergcenter.org.

“There isn’t a more exciting way to celebrate the season than by sharing wonderful music with families and friends, and no better way to do that than by experiencing the joyous sounds of a Holiday Pops concert,” Leon Denmark, artistic director of Kupferberg Presents, said.

If you cannot make it to the Queens College show and still want to see the Boston Pops, they will make an appearance that Sunday afternoon at the Eisenhower Hall Auditorium in West Point.

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

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

still no Word on Cosmos stadium Proposal

By Luis Gronda Months after submitting a proposal for a new stadium, the New York Cosmos are still waiting to hear if their plan will be approved.

The team submitted its stadium proposal in response to a Request for Proposal from the Empire State Development Corporation earlier this year. The Cosmos currently plays its games at Hofstra University and won the league championship in its return season.

The Cosmos defeated the Atlanta Silverbacks 1-0 to win the NASL Soccer Bowl. The team finished with the best record in the league, winning nine of the 14 games it played.

According to the Cosmos website dedicated to the proposal, cosmosstadium.com, the project would turn sections of Belmont Park into an entertainment complex, including a 25,000-seat soccer stadium and a restaurant row.

The row would consist of nine restaurants and nearly 250,000-squarefeet of retail space. The plan also includes a 175-room hotel and a brand new 4.3-acre public park for the community near the proposed stadium.

The proposal was submitted by the Cosmos and the Mattone Group, a real estate and construction company based in Queens that helped design the potential stadium, before its deadline in January of this year. No

not require taxpayer dollars,” the spokesperson said in a statement.

A source familiar with the stadium plans expressed frustration with the lack of an announcement, saying it is delaying the potential jobs it would create.

“They deserve a yes or a no at this point,” the source said.

According to a rendering of the proposed Cosmos stadium in Elmont. the source, the stadium would decision on a proposal for the area has been publicly announced yet by bring more than 2,000 jobs to the the ESDC, almost a year after the community including many construction jobs while the stadium is being deadline passed for the RFP. The ESDC did not respond to a built and jobs from the restaurants request for comment asking about and other retail stores as well.

“That kind of opportunity does the RFP’s status before press time.

A Cosmos spokesperson said they not come around every day,” the have not heard anything new regard- source said.

The stadium would be similar in ing the proposal but they remain capacity to Red Bull Arena in Harriconfident in their idea for the area.

“The Request for Proposal issued son, NJ, and would be used for other by the Empire State Development events like college soccer, lacrosse Corporation did not include a timeline and other community activities.

Its parking capacity would fit about for a decision. It is a privately funded 7,500 cars, which is about the same mixed-used development, which inas Citi Field, according to the source. cludes a stadium, that will help create thousands of full time jobs and will That would encompass the existing

parking used for the Belmont Stakes and new lots that would be created.

Others have expressed concern for the project and have urged for an alternative plan.

Nassau County legislator Carrie Solages said the project would damage the quality of life in the Elmont community and urged Gov. Andrew Cuomo to reject any proposal for a stadium.

“In an era when Big Sports is about big profits and lucrative franchise deals, Elmont seeks something other than being the gateway to a mega soccer stadium. The public relations blitz currently assaulting our neighborhoods touting the alleged benefits of a stadium fail to acknowledge the reality that Elmont would receive minimal benefits from this kind of sports arena,” he said.

Other elected officials like U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) and Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages (D-Elmont), Carrie’s sister, are also against the proposal.

“This project does not have our support. I strongly recommend continued dialogue aimed at reaching a consensus on the kind of development that will reinvigorate Belmont Park, create jobs, improve infrastructure, and meet community needs,” Meeks said in a release earlier this year.

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

kaufman studios Expands With a Backlot

By Trisha sakhuja Astoria residents will see many more famous faces from Hollywood now that the newly-built outdoor backlot at Kaufman Astoria Studios is complete.

To celebrate the occasion, many local and State officials, community leaders and Grover from Sesame Street gathered on Dec. 3 to cut the ribbon on the block-long backlot with a Hollywood-style entry gate.

The backlot marks the latest expansion by Kaufman Studios in order to increase its film productions.

George Kaufman, chairman of the studios, began the transformation of the neighborhood when he first leased the property in 1980.

Since then, Kaufman has created a full-service production center that helped bring the film and television production industry back to the City, while also reinvigorating the entire neighborhood.

“The backlot at Kaufman Astoria

Studios is going to add to the cated on 35th Avenue, features life of the campus and will a dramatically lit steel truss that help us attract more producrises 40 feet above the street, tions to New York,” Kaufman which also serves as a working said. catwalk for productions. It towHal Rosenbluth, president ers with blue letters, bearing the of Kaufman Studios, said the Kaufman name. studios, in combination with The backlot, designed by the State’s film tax credit prothe Rockwell Group, will algram championed by Gov. low productions to shoot exAndrew Cuomo, “are the best terior and special effects shots marketing tools to generate outside in a controlled envijobs and bring production to ronment. sesame street’s Grover joins elected officials and the area.”

In recent years, Kaufman Councilman Jimmy Van kaufman studios representatives at the backlot’s rib- Studios, which has grown into Bramer (D-Sunnyside), Chair bon cutting on Tuesday. a vibrant arts and cultural disof the City Council’s Cultural trict, has more than doubled in U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-New Affairs Committee, said the size and now includes 12 acres film industry is huge and the heart of York) said the landmarked studio, with seven stages, local and national once the home of Paramount Pictures, retailers and cultural organizations, it is in Astoria.

“Everybody here knows what is a “game changer for New York.” such as The Frank Sinatra School of “I predict that a few decades from the Arts, Museum of the Moving ImGeorge Kaufman started 30 years ago has produced literally billions now, Hollywood will be known as age, TDF Costume Collection and and billions of dollars in revenue New York West when it comes to Queens Council on the Arts. for the City of New York,” he said. film production,” he said.

Reach Reporter Trisha Sakhuja at The 34,800-square-foot backlot with (718) 357-7400, Ext. 128, tsakhuja@ “We like to think of it as Hollywood the Hollwoodesque main entry gate, lo- queenstribune.com, or @Tsakhuja13.

East.”

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

Photos by Walter Karling

pix

Check Presentation

Photo by Ira Cohen

Environmental Discussion State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman speaks at a forum at LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City Monday night. The AG hosted the forum to lead a conversation on environmental protection, labor rights, civil rights, healthcare and consumer fraud and protection.

State Sen. Malcolm Smith and the Grand Council of Guardians – members of the NYPD, housing police and correction officers – joined forces to provide holiday meals to more than 100 people at the Edgemere Community Center in Far Rockaway on Thanksgiving Day.

Kaufman Astoria Gathering Photo by Ira Cohen

Helping Hands

On Dec. 2, the Greater Jamaica Development Corporation presented checks to the “Hillside Hurricanes” firefighters from Engine Co. 298 and Ladder Co. 127. Each check was for $1,000. James Vaccaro, director of security and quality control for GJDC, and Angela Mohan, manager of the Harvest Room, presented the checks to the firefighters.

At the grand opening of Kaufamn Astoria Studios’ backlot on Tuesday, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer was on hand and met with past, present and future officials from the Queens Borough President’s office: current BP Helen Marshall, former BP Claire Shulman and Borough President-elect Melinda Katz.

Photo by Ira Cohen

In the Christmas Spirit

With thousands of lights and a huge outdoor display, this house, owned

by Dorothy Frankel on 122nd Street in South Ozone Park, is certainly ready for Christmas. Frankel said she hoped people would drive by and see the display.

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Borough Beat

MinKwon Center Pres. Fasts For Immigration Reform

BY JOE MARVILLI As gridlock continues in Washington D.C. and the immigration reform bill passed by the U.S. Senate collects dust in the House of Representatives, some community leaders have taken to fasting in the hopes of progress on immigration. S.J. Jung is one such community leader.

Jung, the president of the Flushing-based MinKwon Center for Community Action, spent the middle of November fasting at the National Mall in support of immigration reform. Jung, along with many other immigrant rights leaders, abstained from all food, except water, in an attempt to “touch the hearts and minds of the members of Congress” and get them to pass an immigration bill.

While an immigration reform bill passed the Senate in June, it has languished in the House of Representatives since then, with little time left

in this year’s session for a vote.

The Senate bill offers undocumented immigrants a pathway to citizenship. Young undocumented immigrants who came to the U.S. as children would be able to earn green cards in five years.

Jung started his participation on Nov. 17 as part of the “Fast for Families” campaign. Organized by the Service Employees International Union, participants from various immigrant, labor and faith organizations joined together in tents in front of the Capitol building in Washington D.C. The 47-year-old emigrated from Korea 27 years ago and said he underwent his fast as both an immigrant and as an American.

“I was there to protest the political gridlock, but not by raising my voice, but in the more humble way of fasting. That was one small way for me to share the pain of the immigrants in our nation’s broken immigrant sys-

tem. We’re talking about the tragedy of family separation,” Jung said. “I was also there as an American. I believe immigration reform is not only a moral imperative but an economic imperative.”

Jung was forced to break his fast after eight days due to severe stomach pain.

Many high-ranking elected officials visited the tent where the fasters stayed, including President Barack Obama, Vice President Joe Biden, U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-New York) and U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (DFlushing).

Jung said that many of the elected officials who met with the fasters recommitted to passing immigration reform. The fasters also visited House Speaker John Boehner’s (ROhio) office with a letter asking for a vote on reform. While the Speaker said the immigration bill is not dead and the House is working on it, Jung

said more is needed than just words.

“They voted to repeal Obamacare 42 times. When it comes to immigration reform, they can’t bring it to vote even once? It doesn’t make sense to me,” he said. “We have the votes. If the bill is brought to the floor, it will pass.”

The MinKwon Center is encouraging those in support of immigration reform to call Boehner’s office at (202) 225-0600, House Majority Leader Eric Cantor’s (R-Virginia) office at (202) 225-2815 and House Majority Whip Kevin McCarthy’s (R-California) office at (202) 2252915.

“Each and every poll clearly shows an absolutely majority is very supportive of immigration reform,” Jung said. “We will continue our campaign. We should end the 21st century Trail of Tears.”

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

Police Blotter 103rd Precinct

Investigation

At approximately 10:40 a.m. on Dec. 3, police responded to Jamaica Hospital, where they were informed that a 38-year-old female had sustained a gunshot wound to her head and was taken to the hospital via private means. The female victim was pronounced dead at the hospital.

There are no arrests at the time and the investigation is ongoing.

105th Precinct

Pedestrian Struck

At 6:19 a.m. on Nov. 26, police responded to a report of a pedestrian struck at the intersection of Rockaway Boulevard and Farmers Boulevard. Upon arrival, police discovered a male of unknown age with severe head and body trauma.

EMS arrived and transported the male to Jamaica Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A preliminary investigation revealed a 2006 Subaru Impreza traveling eastbound on Rockaway Boulevard struck the pedestrian when he was attempting to cross from north to south at the intersection of Farmers Boulevard. The operator remained on the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

106th Precinct

Robbery

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying and locating the following individuals wanted in connection with a robbery that occurred on Nov. 30 at 9:19 p.m.

According to a police report, two individuals entered the La Quinta Hotel, located at 111-26 Van Wyck Expressway, South Ozone Park. The first suspect went to the front desk, pointed a silver shotgun at the manager and demanded money.

The second suspect held open a bag as the manager placed $560 in the bag. The suspects fled the location, heading north on the Van Wyck Expressway. There were no reported injuries during this incident.

The first suspect is described as a Black male, 6-foot tall, last seen wearing a black ski cap, blue jeans and a blue waist-length jacket. The second suspect is described as a Black male, 6-foot tall, wearing a white waistlength jacket.

FAtAL COLLISIOn – At 1 a.m. on Nov. 30, police responded to a 911 call of a motor vehicle accident at the intersection of 159th Avenue and 98th Street. Upon arrival, police discovered a 38-year-old male,

identified as Jimmy Sinisi of Ridgewood, having sustained severe body trauma after a traffic accident with another motorist. EMS took both drivers to Jamaica Hospital, where Sinisi was pronounced dead on arrival.

The operator of the second vehicle, identified as James Celauro, 23, of Ozone Park, was later arrested and charged with vehicular manslaughter and driving while abilities impaired.

108th Precinct

Burglary

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying the following individual wanted for a burglary that took place on Oct. 7 inside of 41-32 44th St., Sunnyside. The suspect entered through a balcony door and removed jewelry and electronics.

HOMICIdE – On Nov. 27, police arrested Rolando Perez, 33, of Elmhurst, and charged him with second-degree murder and criminal use of a firearm. The arrest stemmed from an incident the previous day.

At 1:50 a.m. on Nov. 26, police responded to a 911 call of a female shot inside of 87-36 52nd Ave., Elmhurst. Upon arrival, officers observed Carolina Cobena, 29, of the

This individual is wanted in connection with a burglary within the confines of the 108th Precinct.

above address, unconscious and unresponsive inside an apartment, with a gunshot wound to the head. EMS also responded and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

CALL CRIME STOPPERS 1-800-577-TIPS

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

A&E

Queens Family Featured In New ABC Show

BY JOE MARVILLI When it comes to the holidays, a Queens family is aiming to prove that their decorations are among the best in the country.

The Lynch family, from Whitestone, is one of 20 families appearing in “The Great Christmas Light Fight,” a decoration competition show premiering on ABC on Dec. 9.

In this new program, the first Christmas light show of its kind on television, the families each had 21 days to put together the most spectacular, over-the-top designs in an

attempt to impress judges Michael Moloney and Sabrina Soto, both from “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.” There will be a grand total of $250,000 in prizes, with $50,000 being won in each episode.

Kevin Lynch, a retired New York firefighter, has been putting up his Christmas display for 16 years. It normally takes him about seven weeks and more than 300 hours to put it all together. His efforts drew the attention of ABC, who thought the house would be a good fit for the competition. The Lynch family agreed to appear and Kevin put in a marathon ef-

Restaurant Review

A New Latin Delight CASk15 15-11 College Point Blvd., College Point (718) 661-2275 HOuRS: Tues-Wed: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m., Thurs: 4 p.m. to 2 a.m., FriSat: 4 p.m. to 4 a.m., Sun: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Credit Card: Yes, all major PARkINg: Street parking DELIVERY: No, only takeout Cask15 has not even been open for two months and it has already generated a lot of buzz for its unique Latinfusion dishes. Being a big fan of Latinstyle dishes, my date and I decided to see what the hype was about.

When we walked in, the first thing we noticed was the cool and relaxed vibe. The dimly-lit cozy environment was perfect for an intimate date and set the mood for an enjoyable meal.

Before we had a chance to order our food, we were treated to a variety of specialty mojitos. Although I am not a fan of rum, the passion fruit and mango mojitos I tried were absolutely delicious. The alcohol did not overwhelm the fruity taste and much to my surprise, the drinks were served with real sugarcanes – a rare find nowadays.

Already excited by our drinks, we decided to try a few of Cask15’s tapas, or appetizers. Our pleasant server, Marti, made a few recommendations that did not disappoint.

First on our list was the croquetas de mariscos, a unique twist on the popular shrimp croquet. The croquetas de mariscos, made with shrimp, bacalao, crab and Idaho potato was served with a garlic sauce and spicy sauce – both of which complemented the fish in different ways.

Our server also suggested the chimi sliders, a popular dish made

with ground meat, onions, shaved cabbage and “Cask special sauce.”

I’ve had many sliders in my day, but I’ve never had sliders like these. The meat tasted fresh and the shaved cabbage really brought the sliders together. Although great on its own, Cask’s special sauce gave them an extra zingy taste, coming together beautifully.

My date, a big fan of seafood, thought he would try Cask’s fresh mussels, made with chorizo, saffron la mancha and tomatoes. Watching him take his first bite, I knew he fell in love. He praised Cask’s unique spin on the dish, which included sprinkling grounded up Spanish sausage, chorizo, on top. He described the tapa as a “flavorful combination of sausage and mussel.”

Our server brought over one more appetizer – the cubanitos Cuban-style sliders made with citrus marinated pork, dry-cured Spanish ham, Swiss cheese, homemade pickles and spicy brown mustard. This was hands down my favorite appetizer. The Cuban take on the original dish was absolutely delicious and made to perfection.

Though it seemed as though we would not have any room in our stomachs for more food, we knew we could not leave before sampling some entrees. My date went with the ropa vieja, a Cuban-style slow cooked flank steak served with onions and peppers and I went with the grilled churrasco, a marinated Angus beef skirt steak served with chimichurri sauce. The fairly-priced entrees were cooked to perfection and with both dishes under $25, the entrees were a steal. The meats tasted fresher and juicier than dinners I’ve had at fivestar restaurants.

-Natalia kozikowska

fort to get his house fully decorated in less than a month, working until 1 or 2 a.m. every night.

“The night of the judging, we had 100 kids outside. The guys from the firehouse came outside and cheered me on,” Kevin said. “If I win, you’ll hear me screaming, no matter where you live in New York City.”

Having put up elaborate decorations for nearly two decades, Kevin said it started as a hobby and grew from there, as his children and neighbors kept encouraging him.

With more than 300,000 lights and 350 figures surrounding his house, Kevin said the display has been visited by people from all over the City.

One year, he was approached by two individuals who said they were looking for his house. While he thought it was because of the display appearing in a newspaper or online, the two said they actually saw it from their plane, as they were pilots flying out of LaGuardia Airport and saw it on the Whitestone climb.

“People in the neighborhood look

The Lynch family and their home will appear on “The great Christmas Light Fight,” a holiday decoration competition series starting Dec. 9 on ABC. forward to it,” Kevin said.

“The Great Christmas Light Fight” will air on Dec. 9, Dec. 16 and Dec. 23. The Lynch family will be featured in the Dec. 9 episode, going up against the Blount family from Laguna Hills, Ca., the Holt family from Chesapeake, Va. and the Goff family from Canon, Ga. Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, jmarvilli@queenstribune.com, or @Joey788.

Baseball Convention Coming To Queens Bar Next Year

BY LuIS gRONDA Queens Baseball fanatics will soon get a chance to attend a Comic Conlike convention centered on America’s pastime.

The first annual Queens Baseball Convention will be held on Jan. 18 at McFadden’s Citi Field, the bar and restaurant adjacent to the Mets home field.

The convention will feature a variety of events, including several panels discussing different topics like the Mets in Popular Culture and a presentation on the most unusual victories in Mets’ history, hosted by ESPN’s Mark Simon.

Earlier this week, Mets legends Ron Darling and Ed Kranepool were added to the convention’s itinerary.

Darling and Kranepool will each host a one-hour question and answer session with fans, then spend another hour signing autographs.

The event’s organizer, Shannon Shark, said they wanted to make it a great event for the strong baseball community in the Borough and organized it like a fan fest or New York City Comic Con. “The spirit of it is ‘let’s all get together in room and have fun,’” said Shark, who also runs a Mets fan blog, metspolice.com.

He said the idea for the convention came after he saw that hundreds of Mets fans would attend similar events in states hosted by other teams in Major League Baseball and that many of those same people would go to a convention if it was held locally.

Having it at McFadden’s made a lot of sense, Shark said, because of its proximity to Citi Field and the convenience of public transportation.

Shark said adding Darling and Kranepool to the event adds more legitimacy because fans will get to see two Mets legends in person.

“Just to have them there makes it more than a bunch of folks having a party,” he said.

Shark added that he hopes people who attend walk away feeling like they got good value for their money and had a terrific time at the convention. He hopes to make this an annual event but it will depend on how it does this year.

Tickets for the convention are $35 for adults and $10 for children. It is scheduled to run from noon until 7 p.m.

For more information on the event and to purchase tickets, log onto queensbaseballconvention.com.

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

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

Queens today

FRIDAY 12/6 AyodElE MAAkHERu

If you are a fan of Ragtime, Stride and Boogie Woogie, Flushing Town Hall’s upcoming performance is the show for you.

Starting at 8 p.m., multiinstrumentalist Ayodele Maakheru and The Windsong String Ensemble will perform a tribute to these classic styles. General admission tickets are $15 and tickets for students or members are $10. Call (718) 463-7700 for more information.

BusInEss WoRksHop

Verizon Wireless and the Queens Chamber of Commerce Interactive Panel Workshop are hosting a workshop to amplify your business through mobile technology. Take stock of the newest developments in mobile technology and learn how to move your business forward with tips and best practices from experts in the industry.

The event will take place from 8 a.m. until 10 a.m. at the Queens Chamber of Commerce, located at Bulova Center at 75-20 Astoria Blvd., Jackson Heights. For more information, visit www.queenschamber.org or call (718) 898-8500.

HolIdAy MEMoRIEs

Theatre Time Productions will present “Holiday Memories,” a Christmastime musical spectacular at the Colonial Church Of Bayside.

Directed by Kevin Vincent and with musical direction

by Brett Roelofs, the show will feature seasonal favorites such as “Jingle Bells,” “Silent Night” and “Little Drummer Boy.” Take a free photo with Santa during the intermission. The show takes place at 8 p.m., repeats at the same time on Dec. 7 and takes place at 3 p.m. on Dec. 8. Tickets are $17 for general admission, $15 for seniors age 65 and over and $10 for children who are 12

SPOTLIGHT OF THE WEEK

years old or younger. The Colonial Church Of Bayside is located at 54-02 217th St. Call (347) 358-8102 or visit www.theatretime.org for tickets.

CABAREt nIGHt

3Rd spACE

The Bay Terrace Jewish Center is partnering with Theatre By The Bay to present “Cabaret Night,” an evening of music, comedy and dancing.

Starting at 8 p.m. in the Bay Terrace Jewish Center, the show will star community theater and indie film veteran actress and singer Jean Ann Kump and her partner, singer, impressionist and actor Barry Feterman. There will be a special guest appearance by Theatre By The Bay actress Isabel Robin.

Tickets are $22 in advance and $25 at the door. Call (718) 428-6363 for reservations. The center is located at 13-00 209th St.

Judith Sloan and Warren Lehrer will perform excerpts from their work as part of 3rd Space from 7-9 p.m. at Queens Council on the Arts, 37-11 35th Ave., Astoria. The performance fuses the art of theater, radio and poetry. A Q&A will follow.

Admission is $5.

SATURDAY 12/7

CItyvIEW opEn HousE

Join the CityView Racquet Club for an Open House, from noon until 2 p.m. The directors of Tennis and Squash will be available to answer questions about their various programming, including adult and junior programs. The courts will be available for play, so feel free to bring your racquet.

They will also raffle tennis and squash membership that day for those who attend! If you have any questions, contact Christina Lenahan at christina@ cityviewracquet.com or call (718) 389-6252. The CityView Racquet Club Open House is located at 43-34 32nd Place, Penthouse, Long Island City.

WE lovE HolIdAy pop up MARkEt

Join the amazing Astoria designers, artists and vendors for a holiday pop up market. Get the perfect holiday gift or buy yourself those perfect holiday accessories. The market starts at 1 p.m. and runs till 5 p.m. The shopping will take place at Winegasm Bar & Eatery, located at 31-86 37th St. in Astoria.

For more information, visit weheartastoria.com/astoriaevents-calendar/#sthash. wb7D0hwq.dpuf.

SATURDAY 12/7

CElEBRAtIon

The Church of the Resurrection in Kew Gardens will hold its annual “St. Nicholas Day Celebration.” It is a free event, full of fun and enjoyment. It will begin at 6:30 p.m. with a St. Nick Prayer Service and a social with food and music at 7 p.m. St. Nick will also make an appearance with gifts. It will take place at 85-09 118th St. in Kew Gardens. For more information, please call (718) 847-2649.

SUNDAY 12/8 WIntER solstICE CElEBRAtIon

Queens Botanical Garden is hosting a Winter Solstice celebration and tree lighting ceremony from 12:30 to 5 p.m. The day will feature family fun, such as a live musical performance by a cappella group The Rough Dozen, a winter Garden tour and botanical crafts. The lighting ceremony will start at 4:30 p.m.

lEAf RECyClInG

Come to the Glendale Community Garden to dispose of your recycled leaves. The leaves will be taken and composed locally.

The event runs from 9 a.m. until noon. The garden is located at 88th Street and 74th Avenue in Glendale.

Please do not bring twigs, branches or trash. Bring the leaves in a clear plastic bag.

You may also use a brown paper bag. For any questions on the event, please contact the Glendale Community Garden on their Facebook page.

fAMIly ConCERt

The Gingerbread Players of Saint Luke’s Church, 85 Greenway South in Forest Hills, will perform a family-friendly concert in pageant form, featuring original music and traditional carol arrangements by local composer William Ryden.

Suggested donation is $12, $10 for students, seniors and groups. For information and reservations, call (718) 268-7772 or visit www. gingerbreadplayers.com.

fACE tHE MusIC

Face The Music, Kaufman Music Center’s youth new music ensemble, will perform at the Queens Museum at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The teen collective is the only one in the U.S. dedicated to the performance of music by living classical composers.

Some of the pieces they are scheduled to play include the jazzy “Modern Hieroglyphics,” the orchestral “Continuing Resolution” and covers of songs by the avantpunk jazz group Gutbucket. For more information, call (718) 592-9700.

CRAft sAlE

Our Lady of Snows RC Church will hold a holiday craft sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the school’s Green Room, 25815 80th Ave., Floral Park.

Crafted holiday decorations,

ornaments, wreaths, table runners and more will be available. For information, call (718) 347-6070 or visit www.olsnows.org.

TUESDAY 12/10

CookIEs & CHEMIstRy

The science department at Martin Luther High School in Maspeth invites people to a night of cookies, cocoa and chemistry with teachers and students in grades 4-8, starting at 7 p.m. Three of the department’s teachers, Mr. Fredericksen, Mr. Schuman & Ms. Aguirre, will demonstrate the excitement of science. Tickets are $5 for the event. The school is located at 60-02 Maspeth Ave. To purchase tickets, please call (718) 894-4000 x133 or send an email to info@ MartinLutherNYC.org.

THURSDAY 12/12

nEtWoRkInG pARty

The Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce will host a holiday networking party, from 6-8:30 p.m. Come network with local businesses and residents in the area. There will be wine and hot appetizers served. The event will take place at Dee’s Restaurant at 107-23 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills. A $15 dollar contribution is requested per person at the door. For more information, call Mirielle at (718) 268-6565 or email fhchamber@aol.com.

Got EvEnts?

Send all information to editor@queenstribune.com or mail to: 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

Queens Today HEALTH

Section editor: reGinA VoGeL

Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least tWo weeks in advance to “Queens today” editor, Queens tribune, 150-50 14 road, Whitestone nY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!

SHAPE UP NYC Fridays, December 6, 13 Briarwood library at 11:30.

BREAST CANCER Friday, December 6 McGoldrick library at 6.

SHAPE UP NYC Fridays, December 6, 13, 20, 27 richmond Hill library at 5:30.

ZUMBA Fridays, December 6, 13, 20, 27 rosedale library at 6.

ZUMBA AFFORDABLE HEALTH December 6 through 30 in cambria Heights. call 866-539-0999 for times and dates.

Saturday, December 7 For-

EDUCATION BARRIER TO EMPLOY. Fridays, december 6, 13 central library. register.

IDENTIFY SKILLS Friday, december 6 Lic library. register.

KNIT & CROCHET Fridays Fresh Meadows library at 11.

CHESS CLUB Fridays at 3:30 at the Auburndale library and 4 at the Woodside library.

BARRIER TO EMPLOY. Fridays, december 6, 13 central library. register.

IDENTIFY SKILLS Friday, december 6 Lic library. register.

MATH FOR ADULTS Saturday, December 7 Lic library at 10.

PRE-GED CLASS Saturdays, december 7, 14 cambria Heights library. register.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING Monday, december 9 Hollis library. register.

BARRIER TO EMPLOY. Fridays, december 6, 13 central library. register.

IDENTIFY SKILLS Friday, december 6 Lic library. register.

ARTIST WORKSHOP Monday, december 9 rego Park library at 2.

POTTERY WORKSHOP M o n d a y, d e c e m b e r 9 rosedale library. register.

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

423-6200.

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

BEGIN GENEALOGY Tuesdays, December 10, 17 Woodside library at 3:30.

CHESS tuesdays rosedale library at 4.

SMALL BUSINESS

tuesdays Small Business Workshop at the central library. register.

BELLY DANCING Wednesdays, december 11, 18 Woodside library. register.

WATERCOLOR Wednesdays all techniques and subjects at the national Art League.969-1128.

LEARN TO DRAW Thursday, December 12 Hillcrest library. register.

LEARN CHINESE Thursdays north Forest Park library at 6.

MEETINGS CATHOLIC VETS M o n d a y, d e c e m b e r 9 American Martyrs catholic War Veterans Post 1772 in Bayside. 468-9351, VFW 4787 Monday, december 9 Whitestone VFW communit y Post meets. 746-0540.

QUILTING CLUB Mondays Alley Pond environmental center 2:30. $5.

229-4000.

TELEPHONE PION. tuesday, december 10 te l e p h o n e P i o n e e r s o f America meet in college Point. 463-4535.

QHC TOASTMASTERS tuesdays, december 10, 24 QHc toastmasters club meets at 82-68 164th Street, Jamaica at 5:15. 5 th floor, room A540 883-3498.

SE QUEENS CAMERA tuesdays, december 10, 17, 24 at roy Wilkins Family rec. center. 347528-7178.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays, december 11, 18 South ozone Park library at 1.

JAMAICA KIWANIS thursdays, december 12, 26 Kiwanis club of Jamaica meets. 527-3678.

est Hills library at 11.

INTRO YOGA Saturdays, December 7, 14 Steinway library. register.

FALL FITNESS Saturdays, December 7, 14, 21, 28 cambria Heights. 646-476-1294.

SARCOIDOSIS SUPPORT Saturday, December 7 3-4 in cambria Heights. 646476-1294.

WELLNESS FAIR Sunday, December 8 10-4 Free Synagogue of Flushing, 41-60 Kissena Blvd.

MEN/BREAST CANCER M o n d a y, D e c e m b e r 9 7-8:30 at Adelphia University school of Social Work in Garden cit y. 516-8774314.

SITTING EXERCISE Mondays, December 9, 16, 23, 30 in cambria Heights.

646-476-1294.

HEALTH INSURANCE Monday, December 9 Jackson Heights library at 5.

ZUMBA Mondays, December 9, 16, 23 Broadway library. register.

ZUMBA Mondays, December 9, 16 rochdale and east elmhurst library. register.

ZUMBA Monday, December 9 Bayside library. register.

MetAStAtic BreASt Mondays 1:30-3:00 at Adelphi School of Social Work. 516-877-4314.

HEALTH BENEFITS Tuesday, December 10 11-6 health benefits explained in cambria Heights.

646-476-1294.

LIC WALK Tuesday, December 10 Lic library at 9.

CPR TRAINING Tuesday, December 10 Lefrak city library. register.

CHAIR YOGA Tuesday, December 10 Mitchell Linden librar y. register.

ZUMBA Tuesdays, December 10, 17 Briar wood librar y at 5:30.

ALZHEIMERS Tuesdays, December 10, 24 caregiver Support Group in Forest Hills. 592-5757, ext. 237.

PILATES Tuesday, December 10 Queens Village librar y. register.

ZUMBA Wednesdays, December 11, 18 McGoldrick library. register YOGA STRETCH Wednesdays, December 11, 18 richmond Hill library at 5:30.

GENTLE YOGA Wednesdays, December 11, 18 Woodside library at 5:45.

ENTERTAINMENT DANCE FUSION Through December 8 Goldstein theatre at Queens college. 793-8080.

TREE & POINSETTIA SALE Through December 24 Queens county Farm Museum, 73-50 Little neck Parkway, Floral Park. 347FArM. HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR Through December 31 tours at the Louis Armstrong House Museum.

478-8274.

SLOAN/LEHRER Friday, December 6 performances at the Queens council on the Arts, 37-11 35th Avenue, Astoria from 7-9. $5.

VIVA LAS VEGAS! Friday, December 6 Whitestone library at 3.

SAM COOK TRIBUTE Friday, December 6 Hollis library at 3:30.

CHAMBER MUSIC Fridays. December 6, 13 at LeFrak concert Hall.

793-8080.

GAME FRIDAYS Fridays, December 6, 13, 20, 27 rosedale library at 4.

COLUMBINUS December 6-13 at Queensborough community college. 631-6311.

NU URBAN CAFÉ Fridays live jazz and r&b 9-midnight. Free. 188-36 Linden Blvd., St. Albans.

917-817-8653.

GAME DAY Fridays 4:30 Woodhaven library.

GAME PLAYERS CLUB Fridays 2 Hillcrest library.

MUSICA REGINAE Sataurday, December 7 church in the Gardens in Forest Hills at 7:30. $20.

894-2178.

HOLIDAY CONCERT S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 Flushing library at 1:30.

SAM COOKE TRIBUTE Satuarday, December 7 Bayside library at 2.

PIANO GREATS Saturday, December 7 Forest Hills library at 2:30.

HiP HoP And JAZZ S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 Langston Hughes library at 2:30.4 MODERN JAZZ S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 Broadway library at 3.

SWINGING BLUES S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 cambria Heights library at 3.

CHURCH IN GARDENS S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 Musica reginae presents “Making Music with the Marimba” at 7:30. Sunday, December 22 Queens oratorio Society presents i t s H o l i d ay c o n c e r t a t Queensborough commu-

nity college. 894-2178.

WREATH MAKING Saturday and Sunday, December 7, 8 10, 12 and 2pm. $20. Queens county Farm Museum, 73-50 Little neck Parkway, Floral Park.

347-FArM. HOUSE TOUR S u n d a y, D e c e m b e r 8 Annual Holiday Historic House tour (Kingsland Homestead, Voelker orth, Lew i s L a t i m e r, B ow n e , Louis Armstrong, Friends Meeting and Bird Sanctuary and Victorian Gardens) 1-5. $10. trolly and holiday treats. 939-0647, ext. 17.

HOLIDAY CONCERT Sunday, December 8 Sacred Music choral of richmond Hill’s Holiday concert at St. John’s Lutheran church.

HOLIDAY POPS Sunday, December 8 colden Auditorium at 7:30.

793-8080.

OPEN MIC M o n d a y, D e c e m b e r 9 Barnes & noble, 176-60 U n i o n tu r n p i ke , F r e s h Meadows at 7:30.

MOVIE Tuesday, December 10 “identit y thief.” Queens Village library at 3.

BROADWAY TUNES Tiuesday, December 10 douglaston library at 3.

BINGO Tuesdays 7:15 American Martyrs church in Bayside.

464-4582. Tuesdays 7:15 (doors open 6) rego Park Jewish center. 459-1000. $3 admission includes 12 games.

SCRABBLE Tuesdays Fresh Meadows library at 2 and east Flushing library at 3:30.

CHESS Tuesdays 4 rosedale library.

QC ORCHESTRA Wednesday and Friday, December 11, 13 LeFrak concert Hall. 793-8080.

LIVE JAZZ Wednesdays (except 3 rd We d n e s d ay o f m o n t h ) creative Jazz organization presents live jazz at the American Legion Post, 204-03 Linden Blvd., cambria Heights 6:30-10:00. $7 members, $10 others, $2 musicians.

BiG BAndS Thursday, December 12 north Hills library at 1:30.

SENSATIONAL 60s/70s Thursday, December 12 Maspeth library at 2:30.

BROADWAY TUNES Thursday, December 12 Poppenhusen librry at 5.

BRITISH BLUES Thursday, December 12 richmond Hill library at 5:30.

MODERN JAZZ

Thursday, December 12 Astoria library at 6.

FLAMENCO Thursday, December 12 Flushing library at 6.

COMPUTERS JOB SEARCH HELP Mondays, December 9, 16, 23, 30 ridgewood and Astoria library. register.

OPEN LAB Mondays 1-5 at the central library.

BEGINNERS EXCEL Tuesdays December 10 Lic library. register.

BEGINNERS Tuesdays Laurelton and rosedale library. register INTRO INTERNET Tuesday, December 10 Lic library. register.

ONE-ON-ONE Tuesdays, December 10, 17 Woodside library at 5:45.

BEGIN INTERNET Wednesday, December 11 Windsor Park library at 11:30.

TYPING LAB Wednesdays, December 11, 18 central library at 4:15.

TWITTER Thursday, December 12 central library. register.

LINKEDIN Thursday, December 12 central library. register.

OFFICE SUITE Thursdays, December 12, 19 Poppenhusen library at noon.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Thursdays, December 12, 19, 26 ozone Park library. register.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Thursdays, December 12, 19 rosedale librar y at 5:45.

JOB SEARCH Fridays, December 6, 13, 20, 27 ridgewood and South Hollis library. register.

COMPUTERS Wednesday, December 18 Windsor Park library at 11:30.

FLEA MARKETS HOLIDAY FAIR/FLEA S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 our Lady of Hope, eliot Avenue and 71 st Street, Middle Village 9-5.

XMAS BAZAAR Saturday, December 7 9-4 at All Saints church, 114-35 40th Avenue, Bayside.

XMAS SALE S a t u r d ay, D e c e m b e r 7 10-4 and Sunday, December 8 9-3 at St. Josaphat’s, 35 th Avenue and 210th Street, Bayside.

HOLIDAY FAIR/FLEA S u n d a y, D e c e m b e r 8 American Martyrs church, 79-43 Bell Blvd., 9-4.

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Profile

Jamaica Artist Inspired By His Cultural Roots

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Vicente Gomez, who also goes by the name Roberto, is a new resident to the Jamaica area and has been studying art seriously since he was 15-years-old. His artwork, he said, is heavily influenced by his cultural roots in Ecuador, as well as his recent experiences in Southeast Queens.

Raised in Ecuador, Gomez said that his ancestral roots are easy to spot in his art, particularly the use of colors and deities in his paintings.

“They [my roots] are very strong [in my art],” he said. “I use my deep investigation of my indigenous roots and the origins of ancient art in Ecuador – its spelling, drawing, original design and symbolism represents celestial and terrestrial deities, as well as scientific astronomical knowledge.

My colors come from that source.”

Heavily influenced by his roots, it does not come as a surprise to Gomez that when he moved to Ja-

Vicente (Roberto) Gomez maica, his paintings would reflect the drastic change.

“I am new to the neighborhood but the change of country from Ecuador to the United States was strong and obviously the influence of a strange and distant environment affected my artistic production,” he

said. “Still, my current work and last work has rooting from my cultural roots as well as roots from the average New Yorker. I find it very difficult to avoid.”

“I have painted faces of people who represent the diversity of cultures that make up Queens and New York,” he added. “It incorporates the symbolic elements of conflict that I encounter being a migrant, but the landscape remains the same for all – you’ll see the same small details.”

Gomez has mastered many different art forms but is best known for his work in classical, modern, impressionist, surreal, abstract, pre-Columbian, sacred icon, Buddhist, Persian, Tibetan mandalas and Celtic art – all of which are used to help him on his “spiritual search.”

When asked what he loves most about being an artist, Gomez admitted that he finds painting to be incredibly therapeutic, especially while

facing the many real challenges of life.

“It is the only way to free myself from the jail and the pressure to make money,” he said. “Painting relaxes you. Art is the best therapeutic tool, to the extent that it is able to express and release the shadows, which are hidden in the unconscious, hidden emotion.”

Gomez’s art will be on display at an exhibition at the 96th Street Public Library in Manhattan, from Dec. 11 through Dec. 15. Fifteen of his paintings representing ancient and indigenous symbols will be on display.

The 96th Street Library is located at 112 East 96th St., and is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Friday and Saturday. The library is closed on Sundays.

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

People Jagai is the son of Juliet Jagai of Queens and is a 2008 graduate of Thomas Edison High School in Jamaica.

Air Force Airman Nigel D. Williams Air Force Airman Nigel D. Williams graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, San Antonio, Texas.

The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Williams is the son of Shirell Weston of Jamaica.

Air National Guard Airman Ryan A. Jagai graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

Army Reserve Pvt. Khemnauth Jagroop has graduated from basic combat training at Fort Jackson, Columbia, S.C. During the nine weeks of training, the soldier studied the Army mission, history, tradition and core values, physical fitness, and received instruction and practice in basic combat skills.

Jagroop is a 2009 graduate of Martin Van Buren High School, Queens Village.

Air Force Airman Clarence E. Bell graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San AntonioLackland, San Antonio, Texas.

Bell is the son of Deidre Basile of Springfield Gardens and is a 2012 graduate of Cardozo High School in Bayside.

Air Force Airman Aaron S. Jaime graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas.

Jaime is the son of Jacqueline Piccardo of South Richmond Hill and

book suitable for children ages 12 and younger to Weprin’s office, 18506 Union Turnpike, Fresh Meadows.

Donations must be received by Dec. 18. For information, call (718) 454-3027.

Air Force Airman Aaron S. Jaime Efrain Jaime Jr. of Jamaica. He is a 2012 graduate of Aviation High School in Long Island City.

Lindsey Jeanniton of Laurelton was named treasurer of the Health Professions Organization at the University of Scranton for the 2013-14 academic year.

Assemblyman David Weprin will host a holiday toy drive to benefit the autistic children of the Lifeline Center for Child Development, 8009 Winchester Blvd., Queens Village. Participants can bring a new unwrapped educational toy, game or

Girl Scout Daisy Troop 4360, Brownie Troop 4336 and Junior Troop 4281 hope to collect 200 homemade holiday cards to give to Boots on the Ground NY to send to soldiers stationed overseas. The troops will collect holiday cards from 3-5 p.m. Dec. 13 at PS 56, 8610 114th St., Richmond Hill and 5-6 pm. Dec. 13 at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 86-20 114th St., Richmond Hill.

Tell The PRESS Send notices of graduation, awards, anniversaries, engagements and honors to: PRESS of Southeast Queens 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 All announcements will be considered for publication without fee.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

Faith

Calvary Baptist Kicks Off Xmas Season

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA Maintaining a tradition more than 50 years old, the Calvary Baptist Church will kick off the Advent season with a special presentation of George F. Handel’s “Messiah, Part One.” The free performance, presented by the B-Sharp Long Island Branch of the National Association of Negro Musicians, is scheduled for Dec.7 at the church.

Anne-Marie Hudley Simmons, president of the B-Sharp L.I. Branch of the NANM and assistant to the music director at the church, said the purpose of the show is to bring music and culture to the young people in the community.

“There is not a lot of music at the public schools,” Hudley Simmons said. “You don’t get young people

growing up with the music and we are losing a lot as a result. Our organization tries to preserve and promote this music. It also wants to maintain a high level of classical music every year.”

The performance, she said, is the perfect way for the church to kick off the Christmas season and has been a tradition of the church for many years.

“We do this every year to usher in the Advent season,” she said. “Christmas is always so commercialized – about buying things and scrambling around the stores to get good things for Christmas. But this show is about joy, peace and love.”

According to Hudley Simmons, “Messiah, Part One” has always been a big success at Calvary Baptist Church. In the past, the show has attracted upwards of 800 attendees

and she anticipates they may see as many as 1,000 this year.

“Everyone always thinks we should do our concerts more than one time a year,” she said. “We practice forever to do these concerts. The feedback has always been great [and] we have large audiences, which is wonderful.

The choir alone is 40-55 people.”

The singers participating in the show are part of various churches in the Metropolitan area. The majority of them, Hudley Simmons said, are under 30 in hopes that a younger crowd will be intrigued to check it out.

“We really want to motivate young people to think seriously about the arts and the genre of music,” she said.

“Our focus is really to educate these young people. We even try to supply students with scholarships each year so they can study privately.”

As a Christian herself, Hudley Simmons said she believes it is important to embrace God through music and even though the B-Sharp L.I. Branch of the NANM is not a religious organization, a majority of its members come from churches scattered across the State.

“Many of people do sing in churches,” she said. “To me, it’s a God-given gift. Our expression is a way of glorifying Him and returning to Him what He has given to us.”

“Messiah, Part One”, will be held at the church at 5 p.m., with doors opening at 4:30 p.m. The concert is free but there will be a free will offering.

Calvary Baptist Church is located at 111-10 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica.

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

Notebook Hillcrest H.S.

Hillcrest High School students enrolled in the high school’s BizTek Institute Virtual Enterprise program are getting creative by operating their new and innovative class like a regular business.

The “business,” run by four creative students who work as the leading officers, is called the “Build Your Future Institute” and offers virtual or pretend business courses that are sold online.

Much like any other business, the Virtual Enterprise classroom is furnished like a real office, complete with cubicles, computers, a fax machine, phones, a conference room, filing cabinets, a rug, time clocks with time cards and even paintings on the wall. Simulating a real business model, the students each have certain responsibilities at Build Your Future Institute and their teacher, Michelle Gensler, acts as an advisor.

The class takes part in a number of activities meant to simulate a real business. The students take part in an advertising competition, a business plan competition and attend trade fairs where they virtually “sell” their product.

The class also attends workshops in Manhattan, along with other Vir-

tual Enterprise classes in the area, including John Adams and the Business, Computer Applications and Entrepreneurship High School.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer is Malinda Madhoo. As the CEO of Build Your Future Institute, she directs employees, supervises the accounting department and works to prepare the financial statements, along with other financial activities.

Madhoo, also a member of Hillcrest’s Leadership Class, has attended many workshops and hopes to someday work as a CPA. President of the class, Kadeijah Francis, works to make sure that all the departments in the company function properly and complete all their tasks. She works hand-in-hand with the CEO, Madhoo. Francis, an honor student at the high school, is also a member of the Youth Justice Board at the Center for Court Innovation and would like to pursue a career in criminal justice and politics.

The Chief Operating Officer is student Forid Alauddin. As the COO, it is his responsibility to make sure people are doing their jobs correctly. He is enrolled in the accounting department and prepares the budget for the firm. Alauddin has participated in

Photo by Bob Harris

Hillcrest High School Students Get Creative

Four creative students at Hillcrest High School operate an innovative virtual class like a real business. Shown are the leaders Forid Alauddin, Malinda Madhoo, Kadeijah Francis and Nicholas Naipaul. the Business Plan Competition and attended the New York City Trade Fair and Marketing Workshop. He aspires to one day go into accounting and marketing.

The Chief Financial Officer of Build Your Future Institute is Nicholas Naipaul. His responsibilities as CFO include paying virtual payroll and government taxes based on the W3 corporate tax forms. Each of the

“employees” gets a virtual W2 form.

Naipaul, who has been on Hillcrest’s honor roll for the last two years, also helps other departments when necessary. Much like his colleague Alauddin, Naipaul hopes to study accounting at become a financial advisor.

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

Dec. 6-12, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

What’s Up Dec. 6 Salary Negotiations If you recently got a new job but do not know the best way to conduct salary negotiations, then you must attend this class. Before you start negotiating with a prospective employer about salaries, you need to find out how much you and the job are worth. Learn how to negotiate in this workshop! The class is from 10 to 11 a.m. at the Queens Central Library.

Pre-register online at www.jobmap. queenslibrary.org or call (718)9908625 for additional information.

Class code JR300.

Bach & Brew: Dongsok Shin and Leah Nelson Pianist Dongsok Shin performs on King Manor’s fortepiano and will be joined by violinist Leah Nelson at the King Manor Museum, located at Rufus King Park, 153rd Street and Jamaica Avenue. The program will run from 6 p.m. till 8 p.m. It will include works by Johann Christian Bach and Muzio Clementi. You can enjoy sample craft beer similar to what would have been enjoyed during Rufus King’s lifetime. Tickets are $30 at the door and $25 in advance.

Reservations can be made online at www.kingmanor.org or by calling (718) 206-0545 x13.

First Fridays in Downtown Jamaica First Fridays in Downtown Jamaica invite young urban professionals, ages 25 and up, who work, shop, live and dine in the downtown Jamaica area to help liven up the nightlife in downtown Jamaica. Come on out for an evening of free drinks, free food, great music, and beautiful art for sale!

Join the fun at the Jamaica Centers for Arts and Learning, located at 16104 Jamaica Ave.; from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m. Admission is $10 and $5 with a business card. Dress attire is business casual. Please do not wear hats or athletic wear. To RSVP, call (718) 6587400. Also, for the holiday season, unwrapped toys are being accepted and collected for Toys for Tots.

Dec. 7 Leaf Recycling Come to the Glendale Community Garden to dispose of your recycled leaves. The leaves will be taken and composed locally. The event runs from 9 a.m. until noon. The garden is located at 88th Street and 74th Avenue in Glendale. Please do not bring twigs, branches or trash. Bring the leaves in a clear plastic bag. You may also use a brown paper bag. For any questions on the event, contact

the Glendale Community Garden on their Facebook page.

“Messiah, Part One” The B-Sharp L.I. Branch of the National Association of Negro Musicians presents George F. Handel, featuring Cimarron Frazier, Juanita Faulkner, Patrice Eaton, Charles Jenkins and Alfred Barcliff. The two conductors are Anne-Marie Hudley Simmons and Hale Thompson. The door of Calvary Baptist Church, located at 111-10 Guy R. Brewer Blvd., Jamaica, will open at 4:30 p.m. and the show begins at 5:00 p.m.

Author Talk with David Kirby: “Death at SeaWorld” Do killer whales, among the world’s most intelligent, social and self-aware creatures, belong in captivity to entertain humans? Award-winning author and Brooklyn resident David Kirby will discuss this question during a special talk about his book “Death at SeaWorld: Shamu and the Dark Side of Killer Whales in Captivity.” The talk will take place at the Queen Library – Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. It will run from 2 p.m. till 3 p.m. and it is free admission. Books will be available for sale and signing.

Dec. 8 Open Mic for Poets Come listen to poet David Mills about his first and latest collection at the Queen Library – Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. It will run from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. “The Dream Detective,” the first collection of poetry by David Mills, was a small press bestseller and his latest collection, “The Sudden Country,” was a 2012 finalist for the Main Street Rag Prize. Mills was a 2010 finalist for Queens poet laureate, and his work has appeared in “Brooklyn Rail,” “Fence,” “Callaloo” and “Jubilat.”

Face The Music Face The Music, Kaufman Music Center’s youth new music ensemble, will perform at the Queens Museum at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The teen collective is the only one in the U.S. dedicated to the creation and performance of music by living classical composers. Some of the pieces they are scheduled to play include the jazzy “Modern Hieroglyphics,” the orchestral “Continuing Resolution” and covers of songs by the avantpunk jazz group Gutbucket.

For more information, call (718) 592-9700.

Winter Solstice celebration Queens Botanical Garden is hosting a Winter Solstice celebration and tree lighting ceremony from 12:30 to 5 p.m. The day will feature family fun, such as a live musical performance by a cappella group The Rough Dozen, a winter Garden tour and botanical crafts. The lighting ceremony will start at 4:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 cookies and chemistry The science department at Martin Luther High School in Maspeth invites people to a night of cookies, cocoa and chemistry with teachers and students in grades 4-8, starting at 7 p.m. Three of the department’s teachers, Mr. Fredericksen, Mr. Schuman and Ms. Aguirre, will demonstrate the excitement of science. Tickets are $5 for the event. The school is located at 60-02 Maspeth Avenue. To purchase tickets, please call (718) 894-4000 x133 or send an email to info@MartinLutherNYC.org.

Dec. 11 christmas Tree Lighting Join the Federated Blocks of Laurelton with the Dept. of Parks and Recreation to light a Christmas tree at Francis Lewis Boulevard between Merrick Boulevard and 133rd Avenue. Refreshments will be served.

For additional information contact the FBL at (718) 525-1152.

Dec. 12 Nourish Your Brain: The Goldilocks effect

Queens Authors, Queens Subjects Two writers from Queens discuss their recently published books at the Queen Library – Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. Bushra Rehman’s Corona describes the comic misadventures of a rebellious Pakistani-American woman from a Muslim community in Corona, and Tejas Desai’s Good Americans depicts conflicts among a wide range of characters within and without Queens. The writers will read from their work, discuss their craft and sell their books. The talk will be from 6:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. It is free to attend.

Dec. 13 Jamaica Branch NAAcP’s 59th Annual Freedom Fund Dinner Dance The Jamaica Branch of the NAACP invites you to its 59th annual Freedom Fund Dinner Dance.

The list of honorees include Isa-Abdur-Rahman, Esq; Adrienne Adams; H. Scottie Coads; Rev Larry Davidson; Anthony Harmon; Dr. Virginia Noville; and the Springfield Gardens Taxpayers & Citizens Association.

The brunch will take place at Antun’s, located at 96-43 Springfield Blvd., Queens Village, from 8 a.m. until 11 p.m. Tickets are $90. For more information, contact (718) 7233653 or naacpjamaica@gmail.com.

Dec. 19 Your brain is about two percent of Winter Showcase: The Gift of your body’s weight, but it uses about the Giving 20 percent of your oxygen supply and gets 20 percent of your blood flow.

Learn what you can do to keep your brain working at peak capacity. The speaker will be Rosemarie Cartagine, DC, MSACN, CNS, founder of Cartagine Chiropractic and Wellness in Rockville Centre, NY. The talk will take place at the Queen Library – Central Branch, located at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., from 11:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. It is free to attend.

Networking Party The Forest Hills Chamber of Commerce will host a holiday networking party, from 6-8:30 p.m. Come network with local businesses and residents in the area. There will be wine and hot appetizers served. The event will take place at Dee’s Restaurant at 107-23 Metropolitan Ave. in Forest Hills. A $15 dollar contribution is requested per person at the door. For more information, call Mirielle at (718) 268-6565 or email fhchamber@aol.com.

The Humanities and the Arts High School Presents a Winter Showcase. The school is located at 207-01 116th Ave., Cambria Heights. Doors open at 6 p.m. and close at 7:30 p.m. It starts promptly at 6:45 p.m. General Admission is $5 and with a student I.D. it is $3.

ON GOiNG A christmas carol The Presbyterian Church of St. Albans’ Theatre of the Living Word presents Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Join the TLW Players as they present this classic theater piece which introduces Benjamin Campbell as Tiny Tim. Tickets are $20. The show will take place at the Church, located at 190-02 119th Ave., St. Albans. It will run from 3 p.m. until 5 p.m. For additional information, or to purchase tickets, call (718) 528-2495 or Email tlwshow@ gmail.com. For a list of other show times, visit www.jamaica311.com/ event/a-christmas-carol-3/all/.

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 6-12, 2013

Q

CONFIDENTIAL

Gone Quiet

Artists OF QUEENs

Adrianna Mateo

Got Talent?

Email editor@ queenstribune.com for inclusion in a future edition.

After spending election season promoting himself to anyone who would listen, Anthony Weiner has started to slip back into a normal life. Last week, while elected officials passed out food in front of the cameras to help out the River Fund before Thanksgiving, the former Mayoral candidate stayed in the background and helped, as he does most weekends. While he may have been the butt of a lot of jokes this past year, we certainly commend his dedication to helping those in need.

All We Want For Xmas...

While some Mets players showcased their singing talents, we do not think they should be quitting their day jobs.

Last week, the Mets released a holiday video featuring some players singing - or butchering, depending on your point of view - the Christmas classic "Sleigh Bells."

Several players, including David Wright, Matt Harvey and Dillon Gee, sang the tune in a 55-second video released to the team’s fans.

The video starts off with Wright wishing fans season’s greetings with a snowy image of Citi Field in the background.

From there, the players each sing a line from the classic tune, surely making everyone cringe as they watch.

Infielder Justin Turner was especially cheery in the video,

leaning on Lucas Duda’s shoulder, snapping his fingers and singing "outside the snow is falling and friends are calling 'yoo hoo.'"

While we’re sure some fans appreciate, and maybe even laughed at the video, we at QConf believe they care more about what moves the team makes this winter. Chris Young isn’t exactly anything to write home about.

In fact, as Mets representatives meet with prospects like free agent former Yankees Robinson Cano and Curtis Granderson, the lack of major moves tends to hurt even more.

And a funny holiday video will likely not do enough to mend that damage...

You can see the video at Major League Baseball’s website, MLB. com: http://wapc.mlb.com/ play?content_id=31233289

Where's He Been?

It's been a while since former Tribune publisher Mike Schenkler has been by the office. After seeing this advertisement last week, we know why: he's been practicing for his musical debut at BB King's, under a none-too-obvious alias. Now, we're wondering when his next album will drop.

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

A Bridge Too Far

Here we go again.

With his final term in the City Council coming to an end in less than a month, Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. has only a little time left to work on passing some of his bills that will impact the City for years to come and put a bow on his Council career.

Or, he can introduce legislation to revert the name of the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge to just the Queensboro Bridge.

Yes, Vallone is taking one more crack at his pet peeve on the bridge’s name, which was changed in honor of the late Mayor in 2011.

The bill would change back the name and instead honor Koch by naming the Manhattan Municipal Building the Ed Koch Manhattan Municipal Building.

“I wanted to start the process so that Queens elected officials who come after me can restore the Queensboro Bridge to its rightful owners while simultaneously providing an appropriate honor for the late Mayor Koch,” he said.

Maybe Vallone’s right.

Perhaps another councilman will take up the fight for the Queensboro Bridge and get the City Council to restore its name.

If you believe that though, we’ve got a bridge to sell you!

Maspeth native Adrianna Mateo is the jack of all trades when it comes to music – she can play the piano, the violin, the flute and she can sing.

Mateo said that her fate as a musician was sealed at a very young age.

“It’s kind of just a bunch of forces coming together,” she said “My parents were very good about bringing culture into the home, particularly music.”

When she was just fouryears-old, Mateo said she even recalls tip-toeing in an effort to play the piano with her tiny fingers and becoming frustrated when she was too short to reach.

With such a strong connection to music so early on in her life, it came as no surprise to her or her family that she wanted to dedicate her life to the arts.

Although Mateo is primarily a violinist, she enjoys playing each of her instruments.

“When I was growing up and learning all these instruments and was going through these phases when one year or every two years, I would be completely obsessed with the piano and making incredible progress with that, and the other instruments were just floating along,” she said.

“And I would cycle through each instrument. First it was flute, then it was violin and then it was piano and I came back to violin and that’s kind of what I stayed with.”

The reason she stuck with the violin, she said, was because it was an instrument where she was not limited by her physical attributes.

“When I was growing up [and playing piano], my hands weren’t very large and when you’re learning a classical repertoire, when you’re playing very large intervals, it's

really difficult, unreasonably difficult when you have small hands,” she said.

She encountered a similar problem with the flute.

“You have to take long phrases, you have to take a deep breath and when you’re 12, you can't really play at the level of a 20-year-old because you don’t have the breath capacity, so I kept hitting a wall musically just because of that,” she said.

“That’s why I gravitated towards the violin – partly because of that and also because I always felt like I was more passionate about the sound of the violin. Plus, there’s something cool about being able to carry your instrument with you. It’s like a teddy bear.”

While Mateo does sometimes get asked to play classically, at roughly 90 percent of her shows, she plays newer classical, 21st century music.

At just 23-years-old, she has played at venues like Carnegie Hall, the Times Center and has toured multiple European countries.

“It’s amazing and humbling and once in a while it can be scary but it’s an amazing thing when you walk out on stage and the lights are on you,” she said.

Still, Mateo said, she'd much rather perform in an intimate setting.

“I love spaces where you can feel that personal connection,” she said. “Whether it’s an art gallery in Beacon or an open mic night, I love feeling close to my audience.”

For more information on Adrianna Mateo, visit her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Adrianna.mateo. violin. To listen to Mateo’s music, you may also visit her SoundCloud page at soundcloud.com/adriannamateo.

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