Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 13 Issue No. 49 Dec. 7-13, 2012

PAGE 18

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

PIPELINE PROBLEMS

A new natural gas pipeline, approved by Pres. Obama and planned to run through Jamaica Bay and the Rockaways, is being met with skepticism from environmentalists.

By Natalia Kozikowska ‌ Page 3.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

Presstime

Natural Gas Pipeline Met With Skepticism

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

President Barack Obama approved legislation last week that would install a new natural gas pipeline through Queens and Brooklyn.

The three-mile pipeline will run beneath Jacob Riis Park in the Rockaways and under Jamaica Bay to Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, intended to bring in more natural gas to serve the City’s growing demand.

Introduced by U.S. Rep. Michael Grimm (R-Brooklyn) in conjunction with U.S. Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-Jamaica) and U.S. Rep. Bob Turner (R-Middle Village), officials claim that the New York City Natural Gas Supply Enhancement Act (H.R. 2606) will be helpful to New York’s economy by creating 300 construction jobs and $265 million in construction activity. Others, however, are concerned with issues building the pipelines, citing the project may pose safety problems.

One of the most active groups against the pipeline, the Coalition Against the Rockaway Pipeline, has collected more

than 5,000 signatures in an effort to stop the legislation. Although their lobbying proved unsuccessful, the group still feels the pipeline could be particularly dangerous, especially in the event of another storm like Sandy.

“Given the fact that the Rockaways are in the eye of any future major storm, we have concerns about the metering and regulating station that would be placed in Floyd Bennett Field.

Floyd Bennett Field is 16 feet above sea level and the storm serge at its height during Hurricane Sandy was 14 feet,” said Martha Cameron, a supervisor at CARP. “In the event of another storm, there is a high possibility that the regulating station could be flooded. If a metering station is flooded, it really increases the chance of a major explosion.”

Cameron went on to argue that even without a storm, the natural gas pipeline, which will be built by Williams Companies, presents other dangers which include pollution from leaking and even water contamination.

“From what we’ve determined, it’s only going to be a few

feet under the seabed. The concern here is that pipelines often leak and often rupture,” she said.

“Leaks are fairly common. This would be a new pipeline, so we wouldn’t expect it to leak immediately, but its going to be in the ocean and no matter what precautions they are taking, undersea pipelines get corroded.”

Additionally, Cameron and members of CARP protest the location of new pipeline, asserting the areas are sensitive.

“It is right beside the east coast’s largest community garden. It is in an area that is a camp ground. It is an area that is used by school children for sports. It is an area that is used by veterans rebuilding airplanes,” she said. “It’s an insane location,” she added. “The pipeline itself is going to run right through Jamaica Bay, right through the marine parkway.” By building a pipeline under Jamaica Bay, Cameron argues, it endangers the species in it.

The new legislation is also met with some skepticism from local politicians like Assemblyman William Scarborough (DJamaica), who said he recog-

nizes the economic potential but echoes many of the sentiments as CARP. “The opportunity for clean energy is certainly helpful and the economic development and jobs would be helpful but my main concern would be to ensure it doesn’t do any environmental damage,” Scarborough said.

“These are very ecologically fragile areas. I would want to see to all of the environmental reviews to make sure there is no damage in that regard. If those concerns can be satisfied, I think it could be beneficial.”

In the wake of the project’s skepticism, a spokesperson for Grimm, Carol Danko, attempted to assure residents that the pipeline will be built safely.

“What I can say is that we specifically have put into the bill that the plan would avoid any residential, commercial or environmentally sensitive areas,” Danko said. “The bill has overwhelming support from Mayor Bloomberg and the Parks Department.”

Meeks, who sponsored the legislation with Grimm, asserted the new pipeline does not pose

any danger to the constituents in his district or the environment. Instead, he argued the pipeline was a step in the right direction for clean environement.

“It helps clean the air as opposed to the more polluting heating oil,” he said. “There’s a pipeline in the Atlantic Ocean already so we haven’t had that problem with existing pipelines.

Before the bill was voted on, there were a number of environmental groups that we have had conversations with and they had some preliminary objections, after they did their own review, they withdrew their objections to the bill. The fact is it helps improve the environment because it keeps the air clean.”

The current pipeline system serving the Queens and Brooklyn portion of New York City was built decades ago. The new pipeline will be built off the existing Williams pipeline that currently brings natural gas from New Jersey to Long Island.

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

Clark Lobbies For Slower Speeds, Safer Streets

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

and better enforcement. Something has to happen.”

In order to address the issue of excessive speeding in her district, Clark has even proposed doubling the fine for constituents who do not obey the speed limit.

“Still, for me the already gutwrenching tragic dimensions of this accident are magnified by my having unsuccessfully attempted to pass legislation increasing the fine for exceeding the residential speed limit in New York City,” Clark said in a statement. “After years of frustration caused by the inability to have the issue of excessive speeding on residential streets effectively addressed by both increased police enforcement and the installation of new speed reducing features, I introduced this legislation several months ago.”

According to Clark, some of

the most dangerous streets in her district include 115th Avenue (the intersection of the accident), 116th Avenue, 120th Avenue and Francis Lewis Boulevard.

She also believes that these streets can become safer for drivers and pedestrians with an increased police presence.

“The police have been out there time and time writing summonses but it’s not enough,” she said. “We don’t have enough police in this police department to regulate traffic issues that need to be addressed.”

This is not the first time the assemblywoman has petitioned for safer streets. In the past, Clark has supported lobbying which allowed for the installation of a traffic light on 121st Avenue and Springfield Boulevard, following the death of a pedestrian. Clark also said she played a key role in

lobbying for safer conditions on Francis Lewis Boulevard.

“We were able to stop things like drag racing on Francis Lewis Boulevard many years ago, which is where I live. We were able to do that by narrowing the boulevard by one lane and adding bicycle lanes and walk lanes,” she said.

“Now cars can’t drive side by side for drag racing.”

To continue in her efforts, Clark hopes to meet with different civic associations and community leaders in the near future.

“I will be meeting with them to see if we can raise the volume of our complaints to try to put stop signs, speed bumps or whatever is necessary to try to get it done,” she said.

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

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

In wake of a tragedy that took the life of 24-year old Paulina Rodriguez, Assemblywoman Barbara Clark (DQueens Village) has again sparked her lobbying for slower speeds, more stop signs and safer streets in Cambria Heights.

On Nov. 18, Rodriguez, a St. Albans woman, lost her life in a car accident after failing to stop at a stop sign, reports say. The victim was taken to Franklin General Hospital in Long Island following the three-car pile up on the corner of 227th Street and 115th Avenue and was pronounced dead upon arrival.

At approximately 2:45 a.m., she failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection and smashed her 2011 white Hyndai, bringing two cars to a halt in the center of the intersection. Just moments later,

a 2007 black Mercedes Benz hit the victim’s driver side door.

“When something like this happens, it justifies in a horrible, horrible way, the need to do something,” said Clark. “The community now has a lot more cars using the streets and highways and the speed is just too high. The City speed limit in most places in 30 miles per hour and they are just being disregarded way too much.”

Having lived in the community since 1969 and representing the area for 26 years, Clark said she is all too familiar with the dangerous roads that plague her district.

“My lobbying for safer streets has been consistent over the past several years. I know the issues in terms of where there are traffic problems and speeding all over the entire district,” she said. “We are going to have to have more stop signs, more speed bumps

Clean-up Program Launches In South Queens

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

After being delayed by Superstorm Sandy, Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica) announced a campaign last week that would target illegal dumping in the Richmond Hill and Jamaica areas.

The community clean-up program includes a partnership with the FEDCAP/Wildcats, the Dept. of Sanitation and local business owners along Liberty Avenue, Guy R. Brewer Boulevard, Rockaway Boulevard and Sutphin Boulevard.

"This planned partnership will begin to address the growing sanitation needs of our commercial district," said Wills. "What we've done is secure funding, along with the cooperation of Sanitation, to pay for an additional day of basket pick-up along all of these corridors."

The program, advocated by the Richmond Hill Development Corporation and other civic leaders, will incorporate the Dept. of

partnering with SanitaSanitation's "Adopt a tion and Councilman Basket" program, an adWills for three years," ditional day of basket Saturn said. "We're pick-up, and the regular happy to partner with weekly FEDCAP/WildSanitation, the chief, cat Service Corporation Councilman Wills and clean up services. Busihis office and we are nesses along commercial looking forward to a strips like Liberty Avenue long, continued relawill be given the opportutionship in helping." nity to maintain a litter Sanitation Commisbasket close to their business to prevent illegal Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica) announced a sioner John Doherty dumping and the over- new community cleanup program on Friday, Nov. 30, also echoed similar senflow of garbage. Employ- which will target illegal dumping in South Queens. timents, noting that ees of the Wildcats and From left to right: Commissioner of Sanitation John such programs are cruthe Dept. of Sanitation Doherty, Councilman Ruben Wills and president of cial for the economical will conduct garbage pick- Richmond Hill Development Corporation Vishu development in the community. ups from the litter bas- Mahadeo.

"Unfortunately, the kets.

"We are walking our strips and cats Service Corporation, an- Dept. of Sanitation can't clean asking our merchants to partner nounced that he was pleased to up every block and every litter with us," Wills said. "We will be work alongside the councilman, basket every day and as often as giving them certain color bags, the Dept. of Sanitation and local we would like to," Doherty said. liners; once they get the liners business owners to improve the "It goes a long way for the envithey will be able to empty the cleanliness of the South Queens ronment and community and I think what the Councilman is bags and the cans out themselves, area.

"We've been helping the com- doing today - helping the comso they don't overflow. After that, Wildcats will come down." munity since 1973 as a nonprofit munity, is improving the quality David Saturn, director of Wild- organization and we've been of life in the community."

The commissioner also gave special thanks to chair of Sanitation and Councilwoman Letitia James (D- Brooklyn) for her heavy involvement in the development of the program. James responded by noting that the partnership between the different groups should set a precedent for other communities throughout New York.

"At a time when we are recovering from Sandy and at a time there will be cutbacks in the budget and the amount of services that we will be able to provide in the City of New York will be limited, it is really critically important that we engage in more public/private partnerships," she said. "This is a prime example of a public/private partnership where you have civic engagement and corporate models who are coming together to recognize a need in the neighborhood and that is to keep the streets clean."

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

BY JOE MARVILLI Mayor Michael Bloomberg devoted part of the last day of November visiting Queens to thank Parks Dept. workers for their recovery efforts after Superstorm Sandy.

The mayor was on hand at Alley Pond Environmental Center to show appreciation to dozens of workers who had spent the last month cutting down trees and cleaning debris in the City’s parklands.

After joking around with the workers about climbing one of the trees and talking to the foresters about the age of certain trees in the park, Bloomberg turned the conversation to the City’s continuing revival operations after the superstorm.

According to the mayor, City parks suffered little overall damage to their infrastructure. Trees were the biggest casualty, with a couple hundred suffering damage or collapsing in Alley Pond Park. Much of the parks equip-

ment and roads weathered the storm relatively unscathed.

While the parks did make it through the storm with little ill effect, Bloomberg re-emphasized the need for caution in these situations.

“If it’s not safe, we close the park,” Bloomberg said. “Can you imagine if you didn’t close it and someone got killed? It’d be a needless tragedy.”

The mayor also talked about the debate between dedicating mass transit funds to flood prevention or to expansion. While he did say that flood prevention improvements would be welcome, it may not be financially prudent, especially considering that such a large-scale flooding is very rare.

Instead, he felt that expanding the system to match the City’s growing population would be a much better investment.

“It’s not obvious that it would be a better use of money as opposed to taking that money and serving parts of the City that don’t

PRESS Photo by Ira Cohen

Mayor Thanks Parks Dept. For Sandy Effort

Mayor Mike Bloomberg greets Parks Dept. workers at Alley Pond Environmental Center last week, to thank them for their clean-up efforts in the wake of Superstorm Sandy. have mass transit,” the mayor said. “If you take that precaution, that’s good, but at what expense?”

Bloomberg also thought that getting trailers from the Federal Emergency Management Agency for those citizens with damaged homes was money that could be better spent repairing

the houses. He highlighted that the City’s Rapid Repairs program will be much quicker at getting people back into their dwellings and would rather spend funding on that.

“Every day the number of people getting back into their homes slowly goes up,” he said.

Seven hundred homes in damaged areas of the City have been red-tagged, meaning the house is unsafe. Bloomberg believed about half of those would have to come down. In the meantime, there are still places for those citizens to house up without resorting to FEMA trailers.

“We’re not going to let anybody sleep on the streets,” he said.

Despite the immense devastation caused by Sandy, the mayor believed that New York City is more equipped for such a storm than many other similar locations. It was only the unusual path of the storm combined with the high tide caused by a full moon that created such extensive flooding.

“New York City is much better prepared than any place else,” Bloomberg said. “It’s because the citizens of the City are willing to spend the money.”

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

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

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 Managing Editor:

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Editorial Goal Line Struggle While Major League Soccer’s proposal for a new stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park certainly has its supporters – the throngs of people who came out earlier this week is proof of that – it seems as if those opposed to the plan have had their words fall on deaf ears.

We do not argue the fact that a professional soccer team could draw well in Queens. Soccer is, after all, the most popular sport in the world and Queens carries the banner of being a diverse borough, home to many that follow the sport religiously. But we do question the need to put the stadium in a spot that is meant to be free and open to the public.

Are there no other areas in Queens that could benefit from a new stadium?

Flushing Meadows Corona Park is an area that should be cherished and maintained as a place where families can go – for free – and spend the day enjoying the scenery. The parkland, which is at a premium in the City, should not be forsaken for some corporate profit.

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Letters

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen Reporters: Harley Benson Natalia Kozikowska Megan Montalvo Joe Marvilli Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Candice Lolier Barbara Townsend Advertising Director Gerry Laytin Sr. Account Executive Shelly Cookson

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Shari Strongin

A Queens Tribune Publication. © Copyright 2012 Tribco, LLC

Michael Schenkler, President & Publisher Michael Nussbaum, Vice President, Associate Publisher

Soccer Chutzpah To The Editor: The Major League Soccer organization (MLS) with much hoopla announced that a poll of people in Queens County indicated 71 percent support a soccer stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park; 21 percent are against and eight percent are undecided. An examination of the facts makes it clear the MLS has

engaged in Madison Avenue shenanigans with unfounded claims.

The poll had 650 respondents, 500 from around the borough and 150 selected from Corona and Flushing. Sixty percent of the people said they had seen or read nothing of substance about the plan and suffice it to say a survey based on that is as worthless as the plan itself. The 2010 census determined the population of Queens County was

Letters 2,230,722 and in that context a purported poll of 650 people would not professionally qualify as a legitimate poll. Further, the poll was commissioned and paid for by MLS, raising questions about its impartiality. The MLS described the poll results as “overwhelmingly” in support of the soccer plan and as outlined above, its paucity makes the claim so absurd so as to qualify the MLS for admission to the Chutzpah Hall of Shame.

When John Nance Garner, who was then the powerful Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, gave up that seat to run successfully as Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Vice President in 1932 and thereafter realized the job as vice president was essentially powerless, he described it as “not worth a bucket of warm spit.” John Nance Garner’s appellation would accurately describe the value of the MLS poll.

Benjamin M. Haber, Flushing

No Distinctions To The Editor: The fundamental transformation of America President Obama promised is in progress.

Not so very long ago, we were

nurtured to strive for excellence and success by examining the lives of men like Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and other entrepreneurs. Today, successful wealthy men are labeled greedy “one percenters” who have deprived the remaining 99 percent of the prosperity to which they are entitled. “Rich” is equated with evil though the looters are ambivalent about the exact amount. The term “individualist” has become synonymous with “sociopath” or selfish. An overzealous compassion has created burgeoning unsustainable entitlements that make no distinction between “needs” and “wants”.

I am confounded by the number of people who welcome this transformation and voted for it. I am dismayed at their lack of intellectual honesty when they assert the top 10 percent of earners are not paying a “fair share” when in reality they account for 70 percent of the revenue collected. How much more should they pay to accommodate the new paradigm of “fairness”? As much as the government needs is the answer.

Ed Konecnik, Flushing

Tale Of Four New Yorkers This Holiday Season A Personal Perspective

BY MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE This time every year always brings out the best in some people and the worst in some others as well.

Case in point: just two weeks ago the entire country was celebrating a New York City police officer’s kindness toward a homeless stranger.

Police Officer Larry DePrimo encountered Jeffrey Hillman on the street homeless and shoeless in the cold, the laughing stock of many hurrying by. The 25 yearold officer’s heart melted at the man’s plight when he asked him where his shoes were and he said he had not owned a pair since he was 10 years old. Officer DePrimo hastened to buy Hillman insulated boots similar to his own and socks to go along with them.

You would think that the officer, having already gone above

and beyond the call of duty, would have returned with the purchase from his own modest salary and hand them to the homeless man. Instead, he would stoop to the ground and with his own hands put the socks and the shoes on the man’s blistered feet.

That was a “finest hour” by one of New York’s Finest and it was caught on camera by a tourist. The image of the officer kneeling to help a stranger who was not the victim of a crime, accident or natural disaster, was absolutely biblical.

I have taken some members of the NYPD to task in this space when they have done wrong. I feel the same obligation to commend them when they behave heroically and honorably. They deserve that too. Their job is dangerous and difficult and they work hard.

And then you have the flipside of the coin with the tragic story

of another pair of New Yorkers during a chance encounter on the subway earlier this week.

As the story goes, Ki Suk Han, a Queens man, was on his way to the Korean Consulate to renew his passport when he and a 30 yearold man of no known address got into an argument at the 49th Street Subway Station and the next thing straphangers saw was Mr. Han being “’launched’” onto the path of an oncoming train.

A freelance photographer’s image shows a desperate Han trying to hoist himself back to safety as he stared in horror at the approaching train. That haunting photo does not show anyone trying to help the poor man and the photographer thought it wiser to try to use his flash to alert the motor man that there was someone on the track rather than trying to help him to safety. And equally shocking, he kept shooting the scene even

after Han was struck and killed as the cruel guy who tossed him onto the track supposedly watched.

I cannot imagine the hate and the rage that would make one human being do that despicable act to another. Mr. Han might have been able to survive been thrown to the tracks since he did not hit the third rail. I imagine he could have thrown himself into the well of the track and lay flat or squeeze flat under the platform.

The alleged perp. on the other hand, had a growing rap sheet and didn’t seem to care. He now stands accused of pushing this man who at 58 was old enough to have been his father, to his doom.

This time there are no heroes to celebrate and no godly act to emulate.

Four New Yorkers, two encounters, one act of pure kindness one of sheer evil…more of the former, please!

Police Blotter Compiled by STEVEN J. FERRARI

City-Wide Vandalism On Nov. 30, police arrested Enno Tianen, 32, of Ridgewood on charges of second-degree criminal mischief, making graffiti, thirddegree criminal trespassing and possession of a graffiti instrument.

The charges are in regards to an incident on June 25, when Tianen allegedly vandalized the midspan exterior portion of the Brooklyn Bridge by spraying the word “LEWY” on it, resulting in approximately $8,000 in repair and cleaning costs. Sgt. Kevin Cooper and Detective Nino Navarra, assigned to the Transit Bureau’s Special Projects, investigated the crime.

During the course of the investigation, it was determined that Tianen had been arrested on numerous occasions for writing the same tag throughout New York City. Additionally, photos were obtained by Detective Navarra to

further corroborate Tianen’s involvement before the arrest.

101st Precinct Homicide On Nov. 28 at approximately 5 p.m., police responded to a report of a dispute with a firearm inside 146 Beach 59 St., Far Rockaway. Upon arrival, police located Davis Devon, 28, lying on the sixth floor hallway floor, unconscious and unresponsive, shot multiple times. EMS also responded and pronounced the male dead at the scene.

On Nov. 29, police arrested Barshem Sanford, 17, of Far Rockaway, on charges of murder and criminal possession of a weapon.

104th Precinct Attempted Robbery The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the following indi-

viduals wanted in connection with an attempted robbery and criminal impersonation.

On Sept. 26 at approximately 1 p.m. in the vicinity of Cypress Avenue, the victim, a 49-year-old male, allowed the suspects, posing as police officers, to enter his home. The suspects were armed with guns and displaying shields.

The suspects fled the location without property. No injuries were reported at this incident.

The first suspect is described as an Hispanic male. He was last seen wearing a gray zipper sweater, gray sweatshirt, dark jeans, black and gray baseball cap, black boots and black gloves.

The second suspect is also described as an Hispanic male.

He was last seen wearing a light gray jacket, white shirt, blue jeans, black boots, black gloves and a gray and black baseball cap.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477).

The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers’ website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIPS577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

20s with dark hair in a ponytail, light blue jacket, dark pants and dark shoes.

The second suspect is an Hispanic male, late teens or early 20s with short dark hair, dark jacket, grey colored hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and light colored sneakers.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). The public can also submit their tips by logging onto Crime Stoppers’ website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting their tips to CRIMES (274637), then enter TIPS577.

All calls are strictly confidential.

110th Precinct Assault The NYPD is seeking the public’s assistance identifying the following individuals wanted for an assault.

On Nov. 24 at approximately 5:20 a.m. in front of 109-25 46th Ave., Corona, the suspects approached the victim, a 70-yearold male, and asked if he was Muslim or Hindu and then assaulted him. The victim was taken to Elmhurst Hospital where he is in stable condition with facial lacerations.

The first suspect is an Hispanic male, late teens or early

Save 911 For The Real Thing!

Borough Beat

Civic Virtue Statue Going On The Move?

BY STEVEN J. FERRARI

The Triumph of Civic Virtue, which stands outside Queens Borough Hall, could wind up in Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. removed. The fountain at the base of the statue, designed by Thomas Hastings, would remain in Queens according to the proposal, as the centerpiece of a green space along Queens Boulevard.

While the Borough President’s office denied that

any official decision about the statue has been made, Rosa said that there had been discussions about what would replace the statue if it is removed.

“If it goes, and we’re not sure that it will yet, the Borough President would like it replaced with something the benefits the community and honor the contributions of women in Queens,” Rosa said.

Vallone said he was looking at legal options to keep the statue in Queens and was planning to hold a rally. City officials, he noted, had not returned his calls in regards to the statue, so he has not been told any official timeline for its removal.

“I just assume they’re going to put a bag over its head and remove it in the middle of the night,” Vallone said.

Reach Managing Editor Steven J. Ferrari at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 122 or sferrari@ queenstribune.com.

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

The Nov. 13 Design Commission meeting was announced via email one week after Superstorm Sandy hit, Vallone said, when many City Council members did not have access to their accounts. He accused the City of holding the meeting in secret to stifle opposition to the plan.

“No one knew about this meeting,” he said.

Sculpted by Frederick MacMonnies in 1922, the statue originally sat in front of City Hall in Manhattan before being moved to Queens by Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. Several members of MacMonnies’ family are buried at the Brooklyn cemetery, which houses one of the largest outdoor collections of 19th and 20th Century statuary and mausoleums.

Green-Wood Cemetery’s presentation to the Design Commission included a conceptual proposal for landscaping at Borough Hall once the statue was

Photo by Ira Cohen

“The Triumph of Civic Virtue,” the controversial statue that sits outside Queens Borough Hall, will reportedly be removed to Brooklyn before the end of the year.

The plan for the statue, which was relocated to Queens in 1941, was approved by the City Design Commission on Nov. 13. According to a representative of Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn, the statue’s new home, the move will occur before the end of 2012.

The Queens Borough President’s office, however, said there were still some outstanding questions before the move becomes official.

“There are still some discussions about that,” Alex Rosa, Borough President Helen Marshall’s chief of staff, said.

“Some folks are still concerned about the damage the statue

maintained during the storm.”

Rosa also said there was no official timeline to move the statue.

City officials stated that moving “Civic Virtue” was the best option for restoring the statue, which has deteriorated significantly over the years. In exchange for paying to restore the statue, the City would place the statue on a long-term loan to Green-Wood Cemetery.

Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria), an outspoken advocate of keeping the statue in Queens, said he believed the City has been very secretive about its plans for the statue.

When Vallone publicly criticized the City earlier this year for attempting to move the statue, officials denied reports of it happening.

“They were lying and I was telling the truth,” Vallone said.

“It’s clear they don’t want the people of Queens to be heard.”

Stadium Proposal

Protesters Give MLS Yellow Card At Meeting

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

After making two comprehensive presentations, Major League Soccer officials have made their intent of “bringing the world’s sport to the world’s park” explicitly clear.

In an auditorium filled to the brim with supporters, many of whom were local soccer leagues and student athletes, MLS Commissioner Don Garber took to the stage at Queens Theater on Dec. 4 to present plans to build a 25,000 seat stadium at Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

Among promises of improving the existing soccer fields that local teams currently use at the park, Garber also displayed a slide show detailing the creation of 2,100 construction-related jobs, which are expected to go to unions, in addition to a combination of 150 full-time and 700 part-time jobs slated for community members once the stadium opens.

“We will be a great community service partner here in Queens,” said Garber, who is a self-described ‘Queens boy.’ “If we are able to finalize the stadium, this will be our home as well. We want to make the park prettier. We want to invest money to be able to do that.”

As outlined by his presentation, Garber stated that MLS’ enhancements for beautifying the landscape consist of working on storm prevention, “spending millions and millions of dollars” to upgrade all the existing public fields to all-weather terrain, and “repairing those fountains that have been closed since 1964.”

Though the projected start of construction will not take place until 2016, MLS officials said they have been actively seeking a number of sites to replace parkland acre-for-acre.

“By contract, every acre that is used to build the stadium will be replaced,” Garber said, noting that less than two acres of the stadium’s footprint is grass today.

The stadium’s footprint will be an estimated 10 to 13 acres, a majority of which will replace the existing Fountain of Planets and its surrounding concrete.

“It’s very important to point out here that this Fountain of

Photos by Ira Cohen

BY MEGAN MONTALVO

Both supporters and opponents of the proposed soccer stadium at Flushing Meadows Corona Park came out for a town hall meeting at Queens Theatre Tuesday night.

Planets is not accessible to the public today,” Garber said. “We hope to be able to fill that in and do it in a way where we are managing storm water management.

Obviously we’ve got to find the right way to do that working with the proper environmental people.

All of the land around the stadium will be accessible to the public.”

In addition to the planned 25,000 seats, the commissioner also said that sometime in the next 30 years, MLS will seek to add another 10,000 seats to the stadium.

“We will not take any more land. We will not have to raise any roots. We will not build it any higher,” Garber said. “What we will do is build a 25,000 seat stadium and inside that, be able to expand.”

Chunks vs. Patches The day before the town hall, MLS President Mark Abbott presented an extensive slide show to community leaders and local elected officials at Borough Hall.

Among similar details mentioned by Garber, the presenta-

tion included statistical information, parking logistics, game scheduling and traffic.

While many of the elected officials focused on the validity of a MLS survey, wherein the findings claim that “71 percent of Queens voters support the plan to build a new MLS stadium, while only 21 percent oppose it,” one of the attendees raised an entirely different concern.

Donovan Finn, a Queens resident and SUNY Stony Brook professor of urban policy and environmental design, expressed firm opposition to the stadium’s construction, saying that from an ecological standpoint, the plan is flawed.

“Everybody keeps talking about how the Fountain of Planets is a dirty, old pond,” Finn said.

“The reality is that it’s a stop-over place for migrating birds. You can look even today, the Flushing Creek runs right into that reservoir, and from there it runs right into the lake. It’s a naturally-occurring body of water.”

According to Finn, who attended both MLS presentations, if a stadium were to be built over the fountain, there could be “potential for massive storm water f looding and an enormous ecological impact.”

“The obvious answer to fixing the fountain is not to build a stadium over it. The answer is to hook the pipes back up, clean and dredge it out and get it running again,” Finn said. “MLS has said they have everything all worked out, but it’s another story to actually see their plans. I’d like to see specifically how they plan on addressing the potential flooding.”

In addition to a concern for misplaced wildlife, Finn also said that there are many problems with the idea of replacing parkland.

“From a scientific perspective, patch dynamics basically states that patches of anything are less healthy than big chunks of something,” Finn said. “If you carve out a big chunk of the park for a private enterprise and then look for replacement parkland elsewhere, it will never be the same as having the original land as a whole. Once it is gone, it’s gone.”

While Finn remains adamantly against the stadium’s construction, MLS Spokeswoman Risa Heller assured that the ecological impact is being taken into account.

“MLS has a team of experts that have been involved since day one in understanding the existing environment to inform the design process,” Heller said. “Based on their work to date, we don’t anticipate any significant impacts to wildlife.”

Split Reactions As horns, cheers and applause sounded throughout Garber’s presentation on Monday night, a small group of protesters held signs of opposition in the theater’s basement, where a live video feed showed attendees what was going on upstairs.

Messages reading “Protect Our Park,” “No Land Grab For Corporate Profit” and “Our Park is Not For Sale” were written in both English and Spanish by the protestors, which was primarily comprised of members from the

Fairness Coalition of Queens – a coalition of community-based organizations and concerned residents formed to “ensure that all new uses or proposed redesigns in the area of Flushing Meadows Corona Park are undertaken in a fair and responsible manner.”

“We want our park saved,” said coalition member Leandra Requena, who has lived in Jackson Heights for 30 years. “We are offended because MLS uses the magic word of ‘jobs’ to sell their proposal. They are liars. We are here to stop them from cheating the people.”

After conducting a series of smaller town hall meetings earlier this year, coalition members expressed frustration with not being able to ask questions directly to MLS officials in the main auditorium.

“It feels like they orchestrated this whole thing so that all the supporters are in the auditorium, and all us with serious concerns were in the basement,” Geoffrey Croft, president of NYC Park Advocates, said. “It’s been a joke from day one. It’s sad that this community has to go through this. Clearly, the opposition has come out in numbers.”

While the protestors asserted that they were separated from the auditorium as a public relations ploy, MLS Spokeswoman Risa Heller denied the claim, citing that there were “many, many supporters in the overflow room - as once the room got full that’s where people were directed.”

“Any suggestion that our town hall wasn’t open to the public is sour grapes. This was a come one, come all event,” Heller said in an email. “We handed out fliers in the park for the past two weekends, sent invitations to small business around the park, advertised on social media since Friday, passed our fliers at subway stations and had stories in the newspaper. We are thrilled with the huge numbers of people who turned out to learn about and support the plan and look forward to hearing more from the community as we continue to engage in this process.”

Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com.

News Briefs Elmhurst Man Charged With Murder

ary 27, 2013. Moreira faces up to 26 years and four months to life in prison.

A 21-year-old Elmhurst resident has been convicted of fatally stabbing a 27year-old Woodhaven resident at an elevated subway station in July of 2010, according to a statement released by District Attorney Richard Brown. The victim was stabbed after going to the station to help his younger brother, who was allegedly punched by a member of a group of young people, which included the defendant.

According to the charges, Dario Paiva, 27, was at home at approximately 11:30 p.m. on July 30, 2010, when his mother told him that his younger brother, Khristian Paiva, 20, might need help after overhearing a commotion during a telephone call with him. After he left his home, Dario met up with his brother minutes later on 85th Street and was told that the alleged attackers had f led up the stairs of the 85th Street-Forest Parkway subway station to the J train platform.

Dario then went up to the platform to look for them and after a brief verbal argument he was stabbed once in the chest by Benjamin Moreira, 21, of 4045 Elbertson St. in Elmhurst. Dario was transported to a local Queens hospital where he was pronounced dead shortly after.

“This senseless stabbing has robbed a young man of his life and his family of his companionship. Such a vicious act of violence demonstrates that this defendant is a threat to society and deserving of a lengthy prison sentence,” said Brown in a statement.

The defendant was convicted of second-degree murder, first-degree manslaughter, tampering with physical evidence and fourth-degree criminal possession of a weapon on Friday, Nov. 30, 2012, following a two-week jury trial before Queens Supreme Court Justice Gregory L. Lasak who set sentencing for Janu-

Weprin Charged With Campaign Violations Assemblyman David Weprin (D-Little Neck) has been charged with campaign violations by the Campaign Finance Board.

During their meeting on Nov. 29, the board decided to penalize Weprin for various violations committed during his run for City Comptroller in 2009. The eleven charges totaled to a penalty of $28,184.

The largest violation filed against the assemblyman was for accepting contributions from unregistered political committees, a penalty of $11,750. The next highest charge was for accepting over-the-limit contributions, which equaled an $8,850 fine.

A spokesperson for Weprin said the assemblyman accepted accountability for the charges.

“David acknowledges he’s responsible for the $28,000,” the spokesperson said.

“This is a process that we have to go through.”

She also praised the Campaign Finance Board for their fairness and equability, calling the program a model for campaign finance.

“I think it’s a program that really deserves to be commended, especially in light of the Citizens United decision,” she said. “We all really applaud the Campaign Finance Board and the model it applies.

The board also made note that Weprin’s campaign team owed $325,561 in public funds repayment. However, that campaign was liquidated when his comptroller bid ended in 2009.

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Brief Us! Mail your news brief items to: PRESS of Southeast Queens, 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357

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Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

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Southeast Queens Events Edited By Harley Benson

Pantry Donation

Anti-Corruption Award The Independence Party of New York City held its 13th Annual Anti-Corruption Awards at the Tribeca Grill with more than 100 members celebrating its year of growth. This year’s honorees included University of North Carolina at Greensboro student Stephanie Orosco, State Sen. Malcolm Smith (DSt. Albans) was presented with a special “Voice of the Voiceless Community Service Award” for his work in the aftermath of superstorm Sandy Pictured (from left) are Fulani, Orosco, Smith and Queens Independence Chair Nancy Hanks.

Photo by Michael DiBartolomeo

Anniversary Celebration

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

Vallo Transportation donated 25 boxes of Thanksgiving food items and household supplies to The River Fund New York in Queens. Linda DeSabato, President of Vallo Transportation (fifth from left) and Shirley Rice, Chief Operating Office for The River Fund New York (fifth from right) with Vallo Transportation and River Fund NY employees.

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S H O P » Visit the NEC Christian Book and Health Food Store® YOUR » 115-50 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica, NY 11434 W A Y » Call 1-718-291-8006, ext. 2205

Queens-based “Mobius, The Poetry Magazine” recently celebrated the 30th anniversary of its publication. Pictured (from left) are poets Thaddeus Rutkowski, Laura Boss, George H. Northrup, Jimmy Roberts, Patricia Carragon, Dominick Arbolay, Juanita Torrence-Thompson, E.J. Antonio, Daniela Gioseffi, Evie Ivy, Helen Peterson, Maria Lisella and Gil Fagiani. Not pictured is Barbara Hantman.

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Profile

Forest Hills Man Crafts Line Of Wines

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Photo provided by Gary Grunner

While studying abroad in Italy, Gary Grunner's passion for wines was sparked. Some 25 years later, the Forest Hills resident, nicknamed the Forest Hills Vintner, has taken his interest and transformed it into a business, developing his own line of carefully crafted wines.

Grunner landed his first job in the wine industry while studying in Italy in the early 1980s, representing the Gallo Winery.

This opportunity gave him the foundation he needed in wine and sales education. It covered all of the bases, providing him with a breadth of knowledge about growing grapes in the vineyard, the wine making process and the essentials of marketing.

"The job trained me in selling wines, marketing and being creative. I really came to understand what consumers are looking for," Grunner said. "I watched small brands start small

and increase. That's when also published three I started to really love the books with a colleague wine business," he added.

Bob Lipinski - "Italian When Grunner came Wine and Cheese Made back to the United States, Simple," "Italian Wine he continued to develop Notes Journal" and his love for wine by work"Wine Notes Journal." ing for Palm Bay Imports in Grunner also announced California. During his time he is in the works of pubat Palm Bay Imports, lishing a fourth book.

Grunner was surrounded by In early 2011, some of the industry's best Grunner traveled to Calisales and marketing fornia again with two people. things - his passion for the "Over my career in the art and a dream. After last 25 years, from being Gary Grunner, nicknamed the Forest Hills months of searching for around distributors and im- Vintner, has fulfilled his dream of develop- the right partnership and porters, I represented some ing his own label of wines, The Rocketship many wine tastings later, of the major wineries all Wine Company. the Forest Hills native over the world," he said. joined forces with Jeff It was then Grunner had be- efforts in promoting, educating, Hansen of the AH Winery in gun to map out what he needed and building Italian wines in the Lodi, California, and opened The to design his own label of wines. United States.

Rocket Ship Wine Company.

In 2009, Grunner's expertise "This truly is a work of pas"In my career I have always enin Californian and Italian wines joyed sharing my passion and love sion and love," he said. "The became more widespread. He of wine with my sales people and hardest thing to do today is was a silver award recipient of consumers through seminars, wine launch a brand, especially wine the Italian Trade Commision - an classes and events," he said. brands, but I feel we are making award given in recognition of his During this time, Grunner great hand crafted wines, with

cutting edge labels and packages at price points all consumers will love. The Rocket Ship Wine Company was a goal of mine for over 20 years, lots of hard work and never stop working towards my dream has made it happen and only lots of hard work , word to mouth will keep it going."

Today, The Rocketship Wine Company can be found in wine shops and restaurants throughout New York City - an accomplishment the Forest Hills Vintner is particularly proud of.

"We're not just coming out with labels, but we are really guarantee that every cork you pull is exciting and every label will get you talking and thinking. We are proud to have created a wine you can share with your family and friends. Great conversations, good food and wine have always been an important part of all our gatherings."

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

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

People The New York Army National Guard has announced the recent reenlistment of members in recognition of their continuing commitment to serve community, state and nation as part of the Army National Guard.

Sergeant Kevin Molligan of Hollis has reenlisted to continue service with Company A, 1-69th Infantry.

Sergeant Melvin Sealey of Jamaica has reenlisted to continue service with the Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 27th Brigade Special Troops Battalion.

Specialist Stanley Clervil of Hollis has reenlisted to continue service with the 442nd Military Police Company.

Specialist Corina Encarnacion of Richmond Hill has reenlisted to continue service with the Intelligence and Sustainment Company, 42nd Infantry Division.

Specialist Joel Reyes of South Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the Com-

pany C, 642nd Support Battalion.

Sergeant Alberto Espinar of Ozone Park has reenlisted to continue service with the 442nd Military Police Company.

Queens Botanical Garden will host its second Winter Solstice Celebration from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 16. The free event will include craft vendors, seasonal refreshment, storytelling and live music from singers and brass players.

For information, call (718) 886-3800, Ext. 330, email dhector@queensbotanical.org or visit.

The New York Lottery announced the names of area Lottery players who claimed a winning ticket from one of the Lottery’s live drawings and each received a cash prize valued at $10,000 or more.

Tashi Gurung of Woodside won $10,000 on the Nov. 16 Mega Millions drawing. Gurung’s

winning ticket was purchased at Akota Grocery and Halal Meat, 40-04 73rd St., Woodside.

Lucille Chasen of Woodside won $32,308 on the Nov. 8 Take Five drawing. Chasen’s winning ticket was purchased at the New Rockline News, 60-19 Roosevelt Ave., Woodside.

Manuel Gutierrez of Fresh Meadows won $10,000 on the Nov. 17 Win 4 drawing.

Gutierrez’s winning ticket was purchased at the Union Food market, 75-09 164th St., Flushing.

Sylvia Pitt of Queens Village won $18,883 on the Nov. 4 Take Five drawing. Pitt’s winning ticket was purchased at the 11 One Stop Liquor, 111-34 Springfield Blvd., Queens Village.

Hugh Harris of Far Rockaway won $10,000 on the Oct. 23 Mega Millions drawing.

Harris’s winning ticket was purchased at the Baas Rookhum, 126-01 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica.

Lester Vancott of Glendale won $36,160 on the Nov. 21 Take Five drawing. Vancott’s

winning ticket was purchased at the Aryan Grocery Store, 79-39 Myrtle Ave., Glendale.

Barry Storch of Flushing won $10,000 on the Nov. 21 Powerball drawing. Storch’s winning ticket was purchased at the Twiggs Cards & Gif ts, 639 Middle Neck Road, Great Neck.

Vivian Reyes of Jackson Heights won $10,000 on the Oct. 23 Mega Millions drawing.

Reyes’ winning ticket was purchased at the Rs 2001, 37-67 90th St., Jackson Heights.

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall will hold a Holiday toy drive for the victims of

Superstorm Sandy. Marshall asks people to bring an unwrapped toy to Queens Borough Hall, 120-55 Queens Blvd., second floor reception area. Donations will be accepted through Dec. 19.

Army Sgt. Riyani L. Gillespie has arrived for duty to the 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade at Camp Humphreys, South Korea.

The 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade belongs to the 2nd Infantry Division which is the only permanently forward deployed unit in the Army. Gillespie has served in the military for three years. She is the daughter of Setyadt Ciputra of Fresh Meadows.

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.

A&E

MoMI Celebrates 50 Years Of ‘Spacewar!’

BY MEGAN MONTALVO Fifty years ago, the makers of "Spacewar!" gave the world its first ever digital video game, forever changing the popular culture of the time.

Since then, the gaming industry has considerably evolved to what we now know, with a plethora of apps and games available on our tablets, smart phones and gaming consoles.

Although the future continues to unveil new additions of technology's latest and greatest, the Museum of the Moving Image is allowing locals to take a look back at the game

that started it all.

Beginning Dec. 15, the Museum will present Spacewar!

Video Games Blast Off, a highly interactive new exhibition, along with a series of accompanying programs.

"Since the Museum's opening in 1988, video games have been central to our mission," Executive Director Carl Goodman said. "In 1989, we presented 'Hot Circuits,' the very first museum retrospective of the video arcade game, and since then, the Museum has regularly exhibited video games. The games in this show reflect the vast diversity of the medium, from classic ar-

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lationship to technology, creating a model for how communities of players interacted and modified games, establishing shooting as a common aspect of game play and inspiring space and science fiction themes for future games.

"The Museum exhibition traces the extraordinary impact of 'Spacewar!' on the subsequent history of video games," Organizing Guest Curator John Sharp said. "'Spacewar!' set off a seismic rumble in the early computer science community, the ripples of which are still felt today in the game industry, academia and player cultures. It even inspired the first coin-operated arcade game, as well as industry pioneers like Nolan Bushnell, a co-

founder of 'Atari'."

From "Missile Command" to "Halo 4" and beyond, the exhibition looks at the first 50 years of video games through the lens of "Spacewar!," its development and the culture from which it sprang.

The centerpiece is a model of the original PDP-1 computer running a playable simulation of "Spacewar!," presented alongside 20 playable video games ranging in platform, genre and developer.

The Museum of Moving Image is located at 36-01 35 Ave. in Astoria.

Reach Reporter Megan Montalvo at (718) 357-7400 Ext. 128 or mmontalvo@ queenstribune.com.

Marriage Memoir Debuts In Queens

BY TAMMY SCILEPPI Co-creators and writers Annabelle Gurwitch ("Dinner and a Movie," "Fired!") and Jeff Kahn (The Ben Stiller Show, "The 40 Year Old Virgin") are real-life 15-year marriage survivors. They have adapted their comical, endearing memoir for the stage, in "You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up" - a must-see for anyone who has ever experienced a long-term love/hate relationship.

Ahh…love is in the air at the Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Park through Dec. 9 with a smidgeon of hate thrown in for good measure, a hefty dose of drama and romance and a dollop of sheer craziness.

Channeling their inner Lucy and Desi, actors Gabrielle Mirabella (Annabelle Gurwitch) and Jonathan Van Dyke (Jeff Kahn) set the plot in motion with witty banter, as they make an attempt at communication over a fine pinot noir, at a cozy restaurant in California. They're celebrating ten years of wedded bliss.

Jeff loves his new iPad (we find out what he gets Annabelle at the very end) and the conversation centers around Facebook: How come Jeff's relationship status say "it's complicated," and why won't he friend Annabelle?

Can't a guy have a little privacy? Not if he wants a divorce.

So he gives in and friends his wife; his private world shattered.

The real fun begins as the actors show off their improvisational skills during funny courtship flashbacks: Annabelle flipping pancakes at a potluck dinner as Jeff fondly recalls "the potluck pancake spell she put me under," as he keeps misreading her confusing signals - like the time she left her cat Stinky with him for a month and took off with her boyfriend; and that unusual but touching proposal scene between Big Sur and Carmel.

Gradually, the couple's personality differences are revealed. But ironically, it's that schism that makes them love each other even more. Let's face it, opposites do attract, and what right have we to ques-

tion Cupid's motives?

Gabrielle Mirabella is superb in her role as the cerebral, nononsense, exhausted wife and mom, who juggles work and Ezra, and views marriage as a well-oiled machine. Van Dyke, though single, plays the doting, frustrated hubbie to a T. Her outsize gestures add that comical drama; Van Dyke's antics and shenanigans - like falling over imaginary exploding pre-sex land mines - inject a spark of raw wacky comedy. The audience loved it.

The zingy banter never gets monotonous. Look for that gotcha punchline at every turn, as the two lovers annoy each other to death. This laugh-outloud, slice of life comedy drudges up all the dirt and dirty laundry swept under marital rugs, while the dregs of a burnt out relationship still hiding a spark of excitement just waiting to be ignited, unfolds. The actors are wonderfully effective at drawing the audience into their lovingly dysfunctional world.

For information, visit www.queenstheatre.org.

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

When it comes to a good Italian eating experience, the décor and atmosphere are almost as important as the food's quality.

Nonno's offers the best of the both worlds, providing delicious and filling Italian favorites along with a relaxing, cozy setting.

Nonno's isn't just an excellent restaurant, but its owner is part of baseball history. Sal Durante, who opened Nonno's in 2001, caught Roger Maris' 61st home run, which broke Babe Ruth's record for the most homers in a single season.

While imagery makes for a great addition, restaurants all come down to the food.

Nonno's exceeds all expectations there as well. I went with a dish of veal francese, a choice I knew was the right one as soon as my plate arrived. Com-

ing with not one, but two giant pieces of veal, the dish was absolutely delectable. The side of penne was drenched in the francese sauce, a new favorite combination of mine.

My dining companion, reporter Megan Montalvo, ordered the chicken ala Nonno, one of the restaurant's signature dishes. Drenched with mushroom sauce and coming with a side of broccolini, she enjoyed every bite of the meal, making this special not just a favorite for the eatery, but a personal favorite for her as well.

Even though we were nearly full, we couldn't help but accept an offer to try Nonno's desserts. We received a giant cannoli, freshly made at the restaurant, and a slice of cheesecake with chocolate drizzle. Both treats were full of flavor, making for a satisfying finish to our meal.

When it comes to classical Italian cuisine, Nonno's is the way to go. With a friendly atmosphere, Rat Pack era music and delightful dishes all over the menu, the restaurant should be at the top of your list any time you are looking for food in Oakland Gardens.

-Joe Marvilli

cades to the latest console extravaganzas and collectively pay tribute to the incredible legacy of 'Spacewar!'"

Created by a group of students and researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Te ch n o l o g y in 1961, "Spacewar!" was conceived as a demonstration for the new Digital Equipment Corporation Programmed Data Processor-1 computer.

In 1962, the game premiered at the MIT Science Open House and was later made available for order to computer labs with PDP1 machines.

Among other things, "Spacewar!" is credited with setting the template for the game development industry and its re-

Faith

Amity Baptist Church Hosts Messiah Sing-In

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA The B-Sharp Long Island Branch of the Association of Negro Musicians will be hosting a Messiah Sing-In at the Amity Baptist Church in Jamaica next week. The event will feature a string quartet and will allow for participants to sing along.

Anne-Marie Hudley Simmons,

president of the B- Sharp L.I Branch of the National Association of Negro Musicians, announced that the nonprofit organization has pulled together 16 choirs through various communities and churches across New York to take part in the sing-in.

“We hire musicians to get a string quartet and present it. This

Word

‘Sing unto the LORD a new song, and his praise from the end of the earth, ye that go down to the sea, and all that is therein; the isles, and the inhabitants thereof.’

-Isaiah 42:10

year, we’re doing something very similar. We bring our scores with us and sing,” Hudley Simmons said.

The quartet will be playing the popular Part 1 of Handel’s, “Messiah.” Guest conductors will include Hudley Simmons, Hale Thompson, Zora Clement and Sherill Spruill. Elmer Hammond will be the featured organist and Jason Thomas will be the featured pianist.

What sets this event apart from other venues, Hudley Simmons said, is that the audience will have a chance to participate.

“There will be some guest soloists but we will also call for an aria – when you call someone from the audience to sing on the spot,” she said. “It is always kind of neat. We want to make it fun for our people.”

Hudley Simmons believes that events like these are impor-

tant for the community because they provide an alternative to expensive shows in the City which may be difficult to get to for some people.

“Some of the people who love this music are older and not as mobile as they used to be,” she said. “The young people that we invite would not normally go to Manhattan. We want to service the underserved. We want to provide a place that is comfortable and close for those who can not travel very far and we also want to bring our young people in so they may enjoy this music. We don’t want it to die ever.”

In light of Superstorm Sandy, which devastated much of the New York area, Hudley Simmons said the sing-in could not come at a better time to cheer people up.

“This is going to quite inspirational, quite uplifting and ex-

citing,” she said. “It’s going to be a hoot because it’s going to be interesting to hear people from the audience sing. This will generate a lot of interest.”

The Messiah Sing-In will take place on Sunday, Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. at the Amity Baptist Church, located at 164-12 108th Ave., Jamaica.

Tickets to the show will be $10 and all proceeds will go toward The B-Sharp Long Island Branch of the Association of Negro Musicians, an organization which provides students with scholarships. You may purchase tickets in advance or at the door.

For more information about the event, you may contact Hudley Simmons at (516) 3335010.

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

Notebook Immaculate Conception School

Second PTA Fundraiser Held At Barnes & Noble

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

The Immaculate Conception School will host its second PTA fundraiser at Barnes and Noble in Fresh Meadows this Saturday.

The event will feature a book fair, story time and plenty of arts and crafts for all children and parents who wish to attend.

Tricia Santos, a member of the school’s PTA and chairman of the Barnes and Noble Book Fair Committee, organized the book fair to raise money for the school.

“The Barnes and Noble book fair is great because we don’t have to put money into it,” Santos said. “When parents buy or a family makes a purchase, a percentage goes back to our school. The money goes toward books and computers, desks – whatever school needs toward the end of the year.”

On Dec. 8, Barnes and Noble will give a percentage of any purchases made at their Fresh Meadows location to the Immaculate Conception School with the special identification number – 10893998. The identification number can be used on anything in the store from books to DVDs and electronics.

This code is also valid for online purchases from Dec. 8 – Dec. 12 for family members or friends who wish to support the school and can not make the book fair.

During the event, which will be held from 1-5 p.m., children and parents can participate in a themed story time in which older student volunteers will read Christmas classics to the younger children.

“The kids in our school look up to the older kids. What’s great about it is that they are very into

it. Whoever wants to volunteer will be reading Christmas themed books to the kids,” she said.

“Last year, it worked out well because a lot of the kids wanted to keep on reading.”

Additionally, all children will be able to participate in arts and crafts activities during the book fair hours of 1-5 p.m.

“Anybody who comes in with their kids can join. They will be doing arts and crafts like decorating book marks, doing tattoos – the simple things,” she said.

In preparation for the event, the children of Immaculate Conception School have made several decorations for Barnes and Noble, which will be on display downstairs.

“This year, I have the children in the school doing artwork.

I had each class, through the council, make ornaments. Each class decorated the ornaments

with different themes – [the Virgin] Mary, faith, happy – just to represent the Holiday,” Santos said. “It’s amazing what they did in the week with artwork and what they thought of doing. We have one kid sketching three toy soldiers. It’s amazing. They like to get involved, especially with the arts and crafts and reading.”

Immaculate Conception School will also be presenting a winner of their Nook raffle on Saturday. The raffle proved to be successful last year, so Santos decided to do it again this year.

“It’s a dollar for each try and we raffle out the new Nook. This year we are giving out the HD Nook. Everything we generate from the raffle will go towards the school. We also give out two gift certificates to add to the excitement,” she said.

The event will be open to the general public, Santos said.

“Anybody can come that day and help out our school. And if they have children that want to come that want to join us for the Christmas story reading or arts and crafts – anyone is welcome.”

Barnes and Noble is located at 176-60 Union Tpke. in Fresh Meadows.

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

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

What’s Up DEC. 8 Family Fun Day The Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning will celebrate 40 years by hosting a Holiday Family Fun Day. The day will be filled with arts and crafts, music, performances for parents and children (ages 4-10). For more information on this and future Family Fun Day events, visit www.jcal.org or call (718) 6587400. The event is free. JCAL is located at 161-04 Jamaica Ave.

Dinners for Sale The Queens Chapter of the National Action Network will sell delicious dinners to one and all.

Fried chicken, baked chicken, or fried fish dinners with two sides are $8, sandwiches are $5, desserts are $2 and soda/water is $1. For additional information, contact the NAN office at (718) 949-9500, Beverly Campbell at (516) 546-1561, Barbara Staples at (347) 551-6249, Mozelle Williams at (347) 645-6830, or Lois Menyweather at (646) 3841689.The event will be held from noon to 5 p.m. at Springfield Community Church located at 177-06 129th Ave.

Community Town Hall

The Hedge Arts in Christian Theatre and York College Performing Arts Center will present a performance of “The Hedge.” Don’t miss this dramatic, contemporary adaptation of the tumultuous life of Job. Experience a production where demons and angels battle for the life of a man who would not curse God. For

La Puce a l’Orielle The York College Perfoming Arts Center will present “La Puce a l’Orielle” (A Flea in Her Ear) – an eccentric and hilarious Georges Feydeau masterpiece.

When the beautiful wife of Victor Chandebise suspects him of having an affair, she enlists the help of her dearest friend to entrap him, but their elaborate scheme spectacularly misfires and chaos ensues. Set in Les Années Folles (The Crazy Years) of post-WWI Paris, and enlivened by the rhythms of ragtime jazz, Feydeau’s quintessential farce promises to be an exhilarating evening of mistaken identities and comic disaster. Tickets are $10 and $7 for students. The event will begin at 2 p.m. For additional information, call Tom Marion at (718) 2623705. The York College Performing Arts Center is located at 9445 Guy R. Brewer Blvd.

DEC. 9 Open Mic for Poets Queens Central Library will host a free open mic night for poets. Featured reader Lee Ann Brown is Assistant Professor of English at St. John’s University will be in attendance. She is a poet and filmmaker whose first book, “Polyverse” (1999), won the New American Poetry Series Award.

She is also the founder and editor of the small press Tender Buttons.

The event begins at 2 p.m.

DEC. 11 Financial Assistance Councilman Leroy Comrie (DJamaica) invites you to receive free financial and billing assistance sponsored and administered by National Grid. Each session will provide help with: past dues bills; enrollment in HEAP and the Neighborhood Heating Fund; the on the On-Track Program that provides up $400 of forgiven bills; and the Energy Assistance Program. For more information or to make an appointment, contact the office at (718) 776-3700. The event is free and will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the district office located at 113-43 Farmers Blvd.

“A Mother’s Love”

Black Spectrum Theatre is Bahamian Film Screening: pleased to be the Queens host of Rain 20th annual African Diaspora InThe Queens Central Library will hold a free film screening of the movie, “Rain.” Rain has lived her entire life with her grandmother on a tiny rural island in the Bahamas. When her grandmother dies, Rain finds her mother, Glory, whom she has never met. Rain must look within for strength and discovers she has a gift for running. The showing will begin at 3 p.m.

The Ivory Wilderness True Zion Gospel Temple with Compassion Outreach Ministries International will present a play, “The Ivory Wilderness.” Witness the epic struggle to reclaim a life shattered by the unthinkable. For ticket information, visit www.truezion.org or call (718) 657-9646 or (516) 903-8790.

Tickets are $6 and group rates are available. The show will be held at P.S. 50’s auditorium at 6 p.m. P.S. 50 is located at 143-26 101st Ave.

ternational Film Festival. The festival includes the world premiers of a new historic Film on Toussaint Louverture and films from Haiti, Jamaica and the U.S.A. This evening’s feature film is “A Mother’s Love.” It is a film about three generations of broken women and how family love helps to heal the pain. Tickets are $12. The event will begin at 6 p.m. The Black Theatre is located at 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard, near Roy Wilkins Park.

ONGOING Mobile CPR Program FDNY EMS instructors will come out to your site to conduct the CPR training using your facilities. The Be 911 Compressions Only CPR Program is brought to you free of charge by FDNY and NYC Service. The goal of the program is to train as many people as possible in basic CPR skills. In addition, participants will be

briefly educated on the automated external defibrillator (AED) used to try and revive a person suffering from cardiac arrest. Though this program does not certify any participants, the FDNY and NYC Service believe increasing the knowledge of how to save a life is far more beneficial.

The program welcomes all ages, as long as the individual can demonstrate competency in retaining the required skills.

Appointments can be made Monday through Friday during the hours of 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Classes may be approximately 20 minutes depending on the size of the group.

For group registration of 10 or more participants or further information, contact the FDNY’s CPR Training Unit at (718) 281-3888.

Empowerment provides intervention and curriculum-based prevention education sessions on HIV/ AIDS, to reduce risk behaviors that lead to HIV transmission.

Services are located at 89-31 161st St., Jamaica. Call (718) 2970720 ask about our presentation to adolescents and men/women of color. Services are available Tue.-Thurs., 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Merrick Flea Market A flea market has opened at 221-02 Merrick Blvd. On sale are a wide range of items, including household items, jewelry and clothing. The market is open every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sundays.

Group Sessions

PAL Volunteers

Clergy United for Community Empowerment, Inc. Group Sessions are located at 89-31 161st St., 10th Floor, Jamaica, for the community on various topics such as domestic violence, mental health, substance abuse intervention, decision making, condom use, high risk behaviors leading to HIV, and self – esteem awareness. All group sessions offer light snacks and beverages. Group sessions are open to the public.

Round-Trip Metro Card reimbursement is available at the end of each completed session. For further information call (718) 297-0720. All services are free.

Please call for next group date.

The Police Athletic League (PAL) is looking for volunteers to continue its mission of serving New York City’s young people by donating their time and talents to help serve Queens youngsters at PAL’s Redfern Cornerstone and Far Rockaway Beacon in Arverne-Far Rockaway, PAL’s Edward Byrne Center in South Jamaica and PS 214 in Flushing.

PAL Centers in Queens offer a wide range of opportunities for volunteers of all talents. PAL’s Redfern Cornerstone and Far Rockaway Beacon are looking for people to participate in a center clean-up day. Volunteers are needed to tutor and mentor young people during the After School Program’s daily homework help sessions. In addition, individuals can also donate their time assisting the many special events held at PAL’s Centers throughout the year. PAL is also seeking professionals to give career advice and talk about their own careers to young people, as well as guest speakers who can share information on a specific hobby of interest to the youngsters.

To become a volunteer with the Police Athletic League or to learn more about volunteer opportunities, go through an application process that includes an interview, screening and an orientation. For more information, please contact PAL’s Volunteer Coordinator, Alexandria Sumpter-Delves, at (212) 477-9450, Ext. 390 or volunteer@palnyc.org.

Infant Mortality Clergy United for Community Empowerment’s Infant Mortality Reduction Initiative program provides the following services free of charge: case management services, parent skills building, crib care, breast feeding education, health education, nutritional information/education, referrals for HIV testing, confidential one-on-one counseling, workshops, and women support groups. IMRI provides referrals for Food stamps, GED, GYN, Emergency Baby Formula (qualifications required) and more.

Call (718) 297-0720. Located at 89-31 161st St., 10th floor, Jamaica. Services are available Tue.-Thurs. 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HIV Awareness Clergy United for Community

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Lawyers, educators, doctors, elected officials, police, small and large business owners, principles, social workers, judges, nurses, janitors, artists, management, healthcare workers, unions carpenters, plumbers, bricklayers, martial artists, children, parents, teachers, administrators, colleges students, homeowners, community boards, people of all faiths and beliefs are invited to a community town hall to discuss where we go from here.

For additional information, call (718) 527-0100. The event is free and will be held at Springfield Community Church at 3 p.m. located at 177-06 129th Ave.

additional information, call (718) 262-8240. Not recommended for children under six years old. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. The York College Performing Arts Center is located at 94-45 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. The show starts at 3 p.m.

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

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

Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!

ENVIRONMENT GARDENING CLUB Saturdays help with our vegetable and shade garden at the Steinway library at 4.

FLEA MARKETS HOLIDAY FESTIVAL Saturday, December 8 at Bayside HS, 32-24 Corporal Kennedy Street 10-4. New merchandise, jewelry, handcrafted items, more.

GIFT SHOP SALE Sunday, December 9 at F l u s h i n g Tow n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700, ext. 222. 137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing.

FLEA MARKET Sundays, December 9, 16 94 at St. Nicholas of Tolentine, Parsons Blvd. and Union Turnpike.

FLEA MARKET Saturday, December 15 94 at Flushing House, 38-20 Bowne Street, Flushing.

Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

RELIGIOUS TEMPLE BETH Friday, December 7 Shabbat Services at 8. Frid ay, D e c e m b e r 1 4 To t Shabbat at 6, Family Shabbat Services at 7:30. Saturday, December 15 Shabbat Services and Torah Study at 10, Chanukah Celebration 69:30. $10 adults, $5 children. Reservations required.

Te m p l e Beth Sholom, 171-39 Northern Blvd., Flushing. 463-4143.

ST. NICHOLAS DAY Saturday, December 8 at Church of the Resurrection, 8 5 - 0 9 1 1 8th S t r e e t , R i c h mond Hill. 6:30 St. 8472649 reservations.

CHANUKAH FUNDRAISER Sunday, December 9 at the Whitestone Hebrew Center.

Sing-a-long, music, children’s arts and crafts, more.

ENTERTAINMENT ST. NICHOLAS DAY Saturday, December 8 at Church of the Resurrection, 8 5 - 0 9 1 1 8 th S t r e e t , R i c h mond Hill. 6:30 St. Nick Prayer Service. 7 parish Center food and fun, music, tree decorating and a visit from St. Nick with gifts. 8472649 reservations.

JOE BATAAN Saturday, December 8 King of Latin Soul at Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.

KLEZMER DANCE PART Y Sunday, December 9 at F l u s h i n g Tow n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700, ext. 222.

HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR Sunday, December 9 Flushing Historic Houses with F l u s h i n g Tow n H a l l . 4 6 3 7700, ext. 222.

MESSIAH Sunday, December 9 Sacred Music Societ y of Our Lady Queen of Mart yrs performs “Messiah” and Christmas favorites at 4 at the church, Ascan Avenue and Queens Blvd. $25, children 12 and under free. 2686251.

SACRED MUSIC CHORALE Sunday, December 9 Sacred Music Chorale of Richmond Hill presents their Winter Concert at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 8 6 - 2 0 1 1 4 th S t r e e t , R i c h mond Hill at 3. $15, $12 seniors and students, children free Reception with wine, coffee, tea, cookies and pretzels.

WINTER CONCERT Sunday, December 9 Children’s Orchestra Societ y at Queensborough Communit y College. $15.

516-869-9696.

LIVE JAZZ & R&B Sundays, December 9, 16, 23, 30 live jazz and r&b 610 at Déjà vu, 180-25 Linden Blvd., St. Albans.

OPEN MIC POETRY Monday, December 10 at Barnes & Noble, 176-60 U n i o n Tu r n p i k e , Fr e s h Meadows at 7:30.

SHOW BIZ! Monday, December 10 Broadway songs at 2 at the Auburndale librar y.

FILM Monday, December 10 “Seven Minutes in Heaven” screening and discussion at 2 Fresh Meadows library.

POLISH/ROMANIAN Monday, December 10 at 5 and 6 at the Ridgewood lib r a r y. E a s t e r n E u r o p e a n Christmas with Polish and Romanian Carols.

CHRISTMAS FAVORITES Tuesday, December 11 at 2:30 at the Maspeth library.

Wednesday, December 12

at 4 at the Richmond Hill library. Thursday, December 13 at 2 at the Whitestone librar y. Concert of Christmas Favorites.

PIANO CONCERT Tuesday, December 11 at 6 at the Flushing library.

NOEL Friday, December 14 Noel: Night of Everlasting Love with Friends of Maple grove.

Call 523-1876.

ASTRONOMY NIGHT Saturday, December 15 an evening with the stars at Alley Pond Environmental Center. 229-4000 to register. $12 adults, $7 children.

SPAM V.3.0A Saturday, December 15 experimental performance at Flushing Town Hall. 4637700, ext. 222.

CHRISTMAS IN VIENNA Saturday, December 15 at Queens College. 793-8080. $20-30.

GREEN FILM Saturday, December 15 “Queen of the Sun” at 3 at the Broadway library.

HAITIAN FILM Saturday, December 15 “The Loves of a Zombie” at the Central library at 3.

FLAMENCO Saturday, December 15 The Art of Flamenco: A Dance and History Workshop for the family. Register Fresh Meadows library.

LATIN AMERICAN Saturday, December 15 Journey Through the Sounds of Latin America at 3 at the Jackson Heights library.

ASTORIA SYMPHONY Sunday, December 16 at 5 at St. Josephs Church, 43-19 30 th Avenue, Astoria. 917460-4289.

ORATORIO SOCIETY Sunday, December 16 at 4 at Queensborough CC. $30. 279-3006.

KWNZA A STORY TELLING Sunday, December 16 for all ages at Flushing Tow n Hall. 463-7700, ext. 222.

AFRICAN ENSEMBLE Sunday, December 16 Universal African Dance & Drum Ensemble at Flushing Town Hall. 463-7700, ext.

222.

ARMWRESTLING Sunday, December 16 24 th Annual Empire State Arm wrestling Showdown in Flushing. 544-4592.

HOLIDAY CONCERT Sunday, December 16 at Cardozo HS at 4. 5700 223rd Street, Bayside. Free.

No ticket needed.

WINTER SOLSTICE Sunday, December 16 Queens Botanical Gardens $5 car parking. 8863800.

EDUCATION/GAMES/CRAFTS JOB STRATEGIES Saturday, December 8 Job Search Strategies and Resume Writing at noon at the Far Rockaway library.

SCRABBLE CLUB Saturdays at 10 at Count Basie Jr. HS. 886-5236.

METRIX TRAINING Mondays, December 10, 17 31 free online training through Metrix Learning at t h e C e n t r a l l i b r a r y. 9 9 0 5148 register.

ENGLISH CONVERSATION Mondays, December 10, 17, 31 at the Douglaston library.

Register.

OPEN LAB Mondays, December 10, 17, 31 Central library at 2.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays, December 10, 17 Douglaston library at 4.

BEGIN CROCHET Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Arverne library at 5.

MAC MONDAYS Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Central library. Register. 990-5148.

START UP BUSINESS Monday, December 10 business plan competition at the Central library at 6:30.

FOREIGN DEGREE Monday, December 10 and Thursday, December 13 making your foreign degree count in the US at 6 at the LIC librar y. Register.

BALLROOM DANCING Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Forest Hills library at 6:30.

ENGLISH CONVERSATION Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Douglaston librar y.

Register.

POTTERY CLASS Monday, December 10 at the Astoria library. Register.

METRIX LEARNING Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Central library. 9905148.

INTRO EXCEL Tu e s d a y , D e c e m b e r 1 1 Central library. Register.

KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays, December 11, 18 Windsor Park library at 2.

COLLEGE PREP SERIES Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Far Rockaway library at 5. 327-2549 register.

INTRO INTERNET Tuesday, December 11 at the Queens Village library.

Register.

SMALL BUSINESS Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Central library. 9908625 register.

JOB READINESS Tuesdays, December 11, 18 Woodside library at 6.

MASTER PUBLISHER Tuesday, December 11 at the LIC library at 10.

INTRO WORD Tuesday, December 11 at the Flushing library at 10.

BEGIN COMPUTERS Tuesday, December 11 at the Flushing library at 10.

LIC CHESS CLUB Tuesdays LIC library at 4.

INTRO INTERNET Wednesday, December 12 Central library and Windsor Park library. Register.

COMPUTER BOOT CAMP Wednesdays, December 12, 19 at the Far Rockaway library. 327-2549 register.

KNIT & CROCHET Wednesdays, December 12, 19 at the South Ozone Park library at 1.

OFFICE SUITE Wednesdays, December 12, 19 Microsoft Office Suite for Entrepreneurs at the Far Rockaway library. 327-2549.

Queens Today MEETINGS GARDENING CLUB Saturdays in the Steinway library court yard at 4.

TABLE TENNIS CLUB Mondays, December 10, 17 at 1:30 at the Seaside library.

AMER. LEGION Monday, December 10 American Legion Post 510 at St. Robert Bellamine in Bayside Hills. 428-2895.

CATHOLIC VETS Monday, December 10 American Mart yrs Catholic War Veterans Post 1772 in Bayside. 468-9351.

VFW 4787 Mondays, December 10, 24 VFW Post 4787 meets at 1912 149th Street, Whitestone at 8. 746-0540.

TELE. PIONEERS Tuesday, December 11 Tele-

HEALTH

phone Pioneers of America meet in College Point. 4634535.

COMM. BD. 9 Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 Communit y Board 9 meeting at 7:45. 286-2686 for location.

LIONS CLUB Tuesday, December 11 Lions Club of Ravenswood at 6:30 at Riccardo’s by the Bridge, 21-01 21 st Avenue, Astoria.

WRITING CLUB Wednesdays, December 12, 19, 26 Seaside Writing Group at 1 at the Seaside librar y.

TRAVEL CLUB Wednesdays, December 12, 19, 26 at the Seaside library at 3:15.

CONVERSATION CLUB Wednesdays, December 12, 19, 26 at the Seaside library at 5:30.

DEMOCRATIC PART Y Wednesday, December 12 Clinton Democratic Club H o l i d ay Pa r t y a t 6 a t Patrizia’s of Bayside. $45.

428-7285.

SCRIBBLER’S SALON Thursday, December 13

writers can discuss the craft of narrative at 6 at the Central library.

JEFFERSON DEMS Thursday, December 13 Jefferson Democratic Club meets 7:30 at the Clearview Golf Course Clubhouse.

98 TH STREET BLOCK Thursday, December 13 98 th Street Block Association at 6 at the East Elmhurst library.

ILION BLOCK Friday, December 14 Ilion Area Block Association meets at the African Center for Communit y Empowerment, 111-92A Farmers Blvd., St. Albans at 7:30.

PUBLIC SPEAKING Saturdays, December 15, 22 learn how to communicate effectively from 10-12 at Elmhurst Hospital. 646748-8290.

SCRABBLE CLUB Saturday, December 15 at 3 at the Peninsula library.

P-FLAG Sunday, December 16 PFlag, a support group for parents, families and friends of lesbians and gays meet in Forest Hills. 271-6663.

SENIORS CHRISTMAS CONCERT Sunday, December 9 at Silvercrest Center for Nursing, 14-45 87th Avenue, Briarwood at 10:30. For residents and families.

DEFENSIVE DRIVING

TALKS AUDIO BOOK CLUB Mondays, December 10, 17, 24, 31 at the Seaside library at 11.

FINANCE & BILLING Tuesday, December 11 free financial and billing assistance courtesy Councilman Leroy Comrie. 776-3700.

CUSTOMER SERVICE Thursday, December 13 Customer Service Basics at the Central library. Register 990-8625.

WINDSOR PARK Thursday, December 13 “Kitchen House” will be discussed at 5:30 at the Windsor Park library.

GLENDALE Thursday, December 13 “Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand” discussed at 6 at the Glendale library.

ED UNDER FIRE Saturday, December 15 “Education Under Fire” screening and discussion at the Forest Hills library at 2:30.

Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Queens Village library. 776-6800.

AARP 4158 Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 North Flushing chapter meets at noon at Church on t h e H i l l , 1 6 7 - 0 7 3 5 th A v enue, Flushing. STAR acting company entertains.

BASIC COMPUTER Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 South Ozone Park library at 10.

AARP 29 Thursday, December 13 AARP 29 noon at Grace House, 155-02 90 th Avenue, Jamaica.

HOLIDAY MEMORIES Friday, December 14 Christmas and Hanukkah M e m o r i e s : A Te l e c o n f e r ence for older adults and homebound customers.

Queens Village library. 4640084.

FREE LUNCH Saturday, December 15 All Saints Church in Richmond Hill. 849-2352 reservations.

THEATER I SAY TOMATO Through December 9 “You Say Tomato, I Say Shut Up!” at Queens Theatre in the Park. 760-0064.

OPEN MIC Sunday, December 9 for Poets Central library at 2.

LAPTOPS Mondays, December 10, 17, 31 at the Hollis library at 3.

LEARN TO CROCHET Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Arverne library at 4.

TEEN ZONE Mondays, December 10, 17 Queens Village library at 4.

COLLEGE PREP SERIES Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Far Rockaway library at 5. 327-2549 register.

LAPTOPS Tu e s d ay s , D e c e m b e r 1 1 , 18, 25 Hollis library at 3.

LAPTOPS Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Arverne library at 4 CROCHET CLUB Tuesdays, December 11, 18 McGoldrick library at 5 KNIT & CROCHET Tu e s d ay s , D e c e m b e r 1 1 , 18, 25 at the Rochdale Village library at 5.

DRAWING Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Langston Hughes librar y. Register.

COLLEGE PREP Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Far Rockaway library.

327-2549.

HOLIDAY JEWELRY Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 Briarwood library at 3:30.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesday, December 11 at the Hillcrest library at 4.

TEEN JEOPARDY Tuesday, December 11 at the Flushing library at 4:30.

CHESS CLUB Wednesdays, December 12, 19 at the Poppenhusen library at 4.

ORNAMENTS Wednesday, December 12 make your own holiday ornaments at 4 at the North Forest Park library.

ORIGAMI XMAS Wednesday, December 12 create origami Christmas decorations using recycled paper at 5:30 at the Woodside library.

LAPTOPS Thursdays, December 13, 20 at the Hollis library at 3.

VIDEO GAME ACADEMY Thursdays, December 13, 20 at the Pomonok library at 4:30. For those 10-14.

ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Thursdays, December 13, 20, 27 at the Seaside library at 5:30.

TEEN ZONE Thursdays, December 13, 20 at the Queens Village library at 4.

RESUMES Thursday, December 13

Word for resumes at the Flushing library. Register.

TEEN ADVISORY BD. Thursday, December 13 at 4 at the Central library.

ANIME CLUB Thursday, December 13 at the Flushing library at 4.

TEEN TALENT SHOW Thursday, December 13 at the LIC library at 4.

WII GAME DAY Fridays, December 14, 21,

28 Poppenhusen library at 4.

HAPPY HOUR Fridays, December 14, 21, 28 Flushing library at 4.

BOOK BUDDIES Fridays, December 14, 21, Fresh Meadows library at 4.

STEP DANCING Friday, December 14 StepDancing with “nu Gamma Psi” at the Queens Village library at 4.

YOUTH TUNEY TOTS Monday, December 10 a t the Douglaston library. Register.

FAMILY STORY TIME Monday, December 10 at the Auburndale library at 4.

WORD OF THE WEEK Mondays, December 10, 17, 24 McGoldrick library at 5.

BABY & ME Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Bayside library at 11.

STORYBOOK EXPLORERS Monday, December 10 Central library. Register.

EARTH STORIES Monday, December 10 at the Astoria library at 4.

ORIGAMI POP UP Monday, December 10 Richmond Hill library.

TOTE BAG Monday, December 10 at the Sunnyside library at 4.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Windsor Park library.

Register.

READING PRACTICE Tuesdays, December 11, 18 for grades K-2 at the Bellerose librar y. Register.

DRAWING Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Langston Hughes library. Register.

BUGS AS PETS Tuesday, December 11 at 5 at the McGoldrick librar y.

Live Animal Program.

COMPUTER LITERACY Tuesdays, December 11, 18 R i d gewo o d l i b ra r y. Re g i s ter.

COMMUNITY WORD Tuesdays, December 11, 18 at the Central library at 4:30.

SISTER TO SISTER Tuesday, December 11 at the Pomonok library at 4:30.

SEA CREATURES Tu e s d a y, D e c e m b e r 1 1 Woodhaven library at 4:30.

I CAN READ Wednesday, December 12 at the Glendale library at 4.

BUGS AS PETS Wednesday, December 12 at 3:30 at the Astoria library.

Live animal program.

CRAFTIVITIES Wednesdays, December 12,

19, 26 at the East Flushing library. Register.

ALPHABET CITY Wednesdays, December 12, 19, 26 at the Laurelton librar y. Register.

CHESS CLUB Wednesday, December 12 Poppenhusen library at 4.

READING FOR FUN Wednesdays, December 12, 19 Laurelton library at 5.

ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesday, December 12 Auburndale library at 4.

HOLIDAY CRAFT Wednesday, December 12 Windsor Park library.

HEALTH & SCIENCE Wednesday, December 12 McGoldrick library at 5.

ORIGAMI DECORATIONS Wednesday, December 12 Woodside library at 5:30.

READING BUDDIES Thursdays, December 13, 20 McGoldrick library at 5.

FAMILY STORY TIME Thursdays, December 13, 20, 27 at the Bay Terrace library at 11:30.

ZUMBA FOR KIDS Thursday, December 13 Lefrak Cit y library. Register.

MATH DAY Thursday, December 13 at the Central library at 4:30.

PRESCHOOLERS Thursdays, December 13, 20 Forest Hills library at 3:30.

VIDEO GAME ACADEMY Thursdays, December 13, 20 Pomonok library at 4:30.

READ TO A DOG Thursday, December 13 North Hills library. Register.

DRAMA POSSE Thursday, December 13 at the Hillcrest library at 4:30.

ORIGAMI WORKSHOP Thursdays, December 13, 20 Seaside library at 5:30.

BUGS AS PETS Thursday, December 13 at 4 Steinway library. Live animal program.

WATER WORKS Thursday, December 13 at the Central library at 10:30.

Tickets available at 10.

HOLIDAY ORNAMENTS Thursday, December 13 Richmond Hill library at 3.

Dec. 7-13, 2012 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 17

SCHIZOPHRENICS ANON. Sundays in Rego Park. 8963400.

VISITING NURSE Monday, December 10 at 2 at the Ridge wood libra ry.

Wednesday, December 12 at 2 at the Queens Village librar y. Thursday, December 20 at 2 at the Far Rockaway library. Visiting Nurse Service Program.

HATHA YOGA Mondays, December 10, 17 at the Flushing library. Register.

MS Tuesday, December 11 National Multiple Sclerosis Society support group at 1 at the Howard Beach library.

RELAX/MEDITATION Tu e s d a y s , D e c e m b e r 1 1 , 18, 25 Relaxation and M3editation Time at 5:30 at the Seaside library.

ALZHEIMERS Tu e s d a y , D e c e m b e r 1 1 Caregiver Support Group in Forest Hills. 592-5757, ext.

237.

WELL SPOUSES Wednesday, December 12 well spouses or partners of the chronically ill and disabled meet at St. Charles Rehab Center in Albertson at 7. 516-829-8740.

HEPATITIS C Thursday, December 13 at the Corona library at 5.

RECOVERY INT. Thursdays, December 13, 20, 27 Recovery International meets at 2:30 at the Forest Hills library.

MEDITATION CLUB Thursday, December 13 at the Bellerose library at 5:30.

ZUMBA Friday, December 14 Latin dance fitness program at the Woodside library. Register.

TEENS

Trumps Twitter (l. to r.): Donald Trump, Olivier Martinez, Halle Berry, Gabriel Aubry

Trump’s Twitter Now that the election is over, Donald Trump has moved on from trying to make the President his own personal punching bag.

The Queens-born billionaire called out Canadian model Gabriel Aubry, Halle Berry’s ex-boyfriend, after Aubry started a fight – and lost – with Berry’s new beau, French actor Olivier Martinez.

Aubry instigated the Thanksgiving Day brawl that resulted in him receiving a severe beating from Martinez.

“Gabriel Aubry should learn how to fight—he became a punching bag,” Trump tweeted. And just so no one felt left out, he turned his Twitter-ire towards Berry: “Always drama with Halle B!” We’re glad to see Trump has moved on to more important issues now that the election is over.

Nicki Minaj with the kids from her Queens alma mater, PS45

Nicki Minaj At Alma Mater Hip hop sensation Nicki Minaj returned home to her Queens alma mater, PS45, on Nov. 19.

The superstar surprised students at the school by giving out free Thanksgiving turkeys. Some of the recipients for the free turkeys included victims of

Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens Dec. 7-13, 2012

Go To The Dogs When it comes to animal abusers tossing dogs out of windows, Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (DAstoria) has come up with a karmic punishment: Toss the bum out of the country.

Vallone is launching a letterwriting campaign to get Milan Rysa deported from the U.S. to the Czech Republic after the immigrant threw his 50-pound dog out of his Astoria apartment window. The pet, a Chinese Shar-Pei named Brooklyn, sadly did not survive the fall when it occurred in September 2011.

“He tossed a defenseless dog out the window and we need to toss him out of the country,” the councilman said. “Anyone who would do this doesn’t deserve to live here.”

Rysa pleaded guilty to second-degree reckless endangerment and served two-thirds of his 364-day term for his actions. In May 2013, he will face a deportation hearing.

It’s said that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but let’s hope Rysa proves to be the exception to that rule and that he’s learned his lesson for his cruel actions.

QConfidential: Who We Are QConf is edited by: Michael Schenkler. Contributors: Steve Ferrari, Natalia Kozikowska, Joe Marvilli, Megan Montalvo, Marcia Moxom Comrie, Domenick Nunziato, Mike Nussbaum.

You can reach us by email at Conf@QueensTribune.com

Superstorm Sandy.

More than 600 students and parents were on deck for the holiday homecoming, where Minaj teamed up with New York radio station, Hot 97.

Minaj, who moved to Jamaica, Queens when she was 5-yearsold, posed for photos with her little fans and even gave a speech.

In her speech, she encouraged students to stay in school and to go out into the world “and be amazing adults.”

Confidentially, New

Models Of Queens

Mom

This beauty has been modeling on and off for a few years.

Miylah started her modeling career while living in Dallas, Texas. She was signed originally by the Dallas Model Group, which led to her doing some print work, most notably in a circular for Best Buy. The mother of two boys, Miylah moved to New York when she enrolled at Parsons The New School for Design, where she studied fashion.

With experience on the runway and behind the camera doing promotional Miylah Maguire work, Miylah said she Home: Forest Hills would love to turn Age: 31 modeling into a fullHeight: 5’6 time gig.

“I love interacting Weight: 113 lbs. with all these differ- Stats: 32-26-34 ent personalities,” Photo by John Scandalios she said. “I really enjoy what I do.”

Her talents aren’t left to the camera, however. Miylah also plays the drums and the violin. She said she picked up the violin when she was just five years old, after she saw a violin while at a friend’s house.

“I saw it and I loved the shape,” she said. “After that, I told my mom I wanted to learn how to play.”

When she’s not modeling, or taking care of her two boys, Miylah said she loves to hang out on Austin Street and Continental Avenue to take in a meal. Her favorite place, she said, was Exo Café on Austin Street.

“I love their appetizers, the food there is so good,” she said.

Miylah said to keep an eye out for her in the coming months, as York . . . she has some print work in a jewelry magazine appearing in January, along with a swimsuit catalog upcoming.

Toon-ing Out After ongoing privacy complaints focused on the full body scanners at LaGuardia and JFK, the TSA is switching out the old machines – which create what some would call creepy clear images of naked bodies – to new ones that show more cartoon-like pictures. The old scanners will be moved to smaller airports around the country.

TSA says the switch is to get people through security faster, but passengers worried about their privacy will undoubtedly feel more comfortable.

Did anyone say Cartoonist?

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