Forum South 37 September 12

VOL. 12 • NUMBER 37 • September 12, 2013

Out With The Old, WANTED

In With The New

Police Say Forest Park Rapist Is Connected To Other Sex Attacks Page 9

Stars Come Out in Howard Beach Page 12

Former Councilwoman Melinda Katz defeated Councilman Peter Vallone, Jr. in the Democratic primary for Queens borough president on Tuesday.

She now faces Republican Tony Arcabascio in November's general election. See Story on Page 4

Community Mourns Woodhaven Teen Who Died in Tragic Accident Page 18

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 1

2 2 | THE THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 FORUM NEWSGROUP • October 25, 2012

Raucous CB9 Meeting Includes Outrage Over District Manager Evaluation Ozone Park pedestrian plaza also discussed

By Anna Gustafson Ever epic, the Community Board 9 meeting this month included board members shouting at one another over an evaluation of District Manager Mary Ann Carey - as well as a presentation about a pedestrian plaza proposed for Ozone Park and a near unanimous vote to deny a liquor license to a Rockaway Boulevard billiard hall that neighbors said had, in the past, been the scene of brawls and underage drinking.

At the board’s June meeting, some members had originally entertained a notion to dismiss Carey but instead opted to retain Queens’ longest-serving district manager, with the provision that she and board members work together to address concerns. Among the problems cited by various members were a lack of communication and the speed with which issues are dealt.

Board member John Carter said at Tuesday night’s meeting that he and two others worked with Carey on a report about the district manager’s general responsibilities, but they themselves did not evaluate Carey’s own performance.

“We recommended the district manager receive an evaluation as soon as possible, certainly before the September meeting,” Carter said. “If the evaluation is such that probation is deemed warranted, we’d start the six-month clock from that point.”

Some members praised this collaboration, but there was consternation over other writings specifically in reference to Carey’s performance which caused a general breakdown among board members at Tuesday’s meeting.

Board member Sam Esposito, pointing to a

Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup

City Planner Emily Weidenhof, standing, gives a presentation about the city's plan to implement a pedestrian plaza in Ozone Park as CB 9 District Manager Mary Ann Carey looks on.

document he accused CB 9’s chairman of writing - but which Chairman James Coccovillo noted was not signed with any specific person’s name, said, “we all know what’s going on here.

“Whoever did this evaluation, we do not trust,” Esposito said. “I want someone to evaluate her who’s going to do an honest assessment.”

Carey, whose board covers Kew Gardens, Richmond Hill, Woodhaven, and Ozone Park, said at the meeting that Carter’s report about their collaboration was correct but that “this evaluation I received from Jim Coccovillo’s horrible and says I don’t meet any of the standards.”

Less dramatically, City Planner Emily Weidenhof gave a presentation about the city’s proposal to build a pedestrian plaza at 101st Avenue and Liberty Avenue between Drew Street and 75th Street. The plaza, which would at first be temporary in the case that it is a problem for the community, would include sitting benches and planters separating the space from vehicles.

“There’s no place for people to gather, no place for people to sit,” Weidenhof said of the area.

Weidenhof said the plan has landed support from Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), area businesses and Community Board 5 in

Brooklyn. CB 9 did not vote on it during Tuesday’s meeting and is instead expected to make a decision next month.

“There’s also potential for art there,” Weidenhof said. ‘It’s another great way for local artists to get involved and bring anything from performance to physical artworks to the space.”

Esposito disagreed, saying he had not spoken with any business owners who support the plaza and noted “you have a par two blocks from here.”

Other board members backed the idea, including Andrea Crawford and David Adorno.

“I think it’s a wonderful idea,” Crawford said.

Adorno emphasized that it would be “an incredible opportunity to bring out different people in the community.

“I think it’s a great idea, especially because it’s temporary, so if it causes problems, we can have it removed,” Adorno continued.

At the end of the meeting, all board members but one - who abstained - voted to deny a liquor license for El Rey IV Billiard Lounge, Inc. at 75-16 Rockaway Blvd. in Woodhaven.

Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association President Ed Wendell said his organization had received numerous calls from concerned residents about this property and the potential of it receiving a license. Wendell said residents said that when it once operated with alcohol, there was “underage drinking, fighting, assaults, weapons, trash” and other problems.

“Since the place has closed, it’s been relatively quiet,” Wendell said.

Lindenwood Alliance Resumes Meeting Schedule

Discuss bank robbery, question Republican mayoral candidate Joe Lhota

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Lindenwood residents expressed their concerns over the bank robbery that occurred Saturday morning at the Queens County Savings bank across the street form the Lindenwood Shopping Plaza.

By Patricia Adams A few dozen residents turned out for the first meeting of the Lindenwood Alliance since the summer. A number of topics were bantered about but the one that was at the tip of everyone’s tongue was a bank robbery over the weekend at Queens County Community Savings Bank.

On Saturday morning, as reported at the meeting, a white male in his mid-40s to 50s stood in line with other patrons at the bank, wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses. When the man got up to the window he presented the teller with a note demanding money. The teller handed over an undisclosed amount of cash and he left the bank without incident. He proceeded

to walk along 151st avenue before turning left on 83rd street and disappeared. Police are looking for the suspect. An unconfirmed report said the suspect made threats associated with a bomb in the note.

Assemblyman Phillip Goldfeder addressed the meeting and spoke about the continuing dangers of increased traffic and congested parking conditions that traditionally accompany the back to school season. Goldfeder reviewed problems at the intersection at MS 232, the Walter Ward School, and how measures must be taken to help the crossing guard there. Goldfeder has brought repeated attention to conditions at the dangerous intersection. Goldfeder reminded those in attendance of legislation that was passed

by the state and signed by the governor a few weeks ago that will now tack on 5 points to the driving record of anyone caught texting while driving. “The significance of this,” Goldfeder said is, “it’s not about the fine. It’s about reducing the number of people who do this very dangerous— deadly thing—texting while driving.”

The assemblyman also invited all those in attendance to attend a health fair that will take place on Sunday, September 15 at PS 232 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. The fair will feature an array of health services and information provided by local hospitals, health organizations and community groups as well as free nutritional information, flu shots, glucose and blood pressure screenings. The event is rain or shine and will be held in the schoolyard.

Also on hand was Councilman Eric Ulrich, who emphasized the importance of participating in the following day’s primary election. Ulrich thanked the Alliance for their continued support of him and reminded the crowd that he would be facing an opponent in the November election.

Following regular business, Alliance founder, Joann Ariola, introduced the residents to the Republican mayoral candidate, thanking Joe Lhota for coming out on such a busy night for him.

Joe Lhota outlined his background and experience and then followed up with a question and answer session from the audience.

Lhota answered a number of questions

about city jobs and pensions, vowing to sit down as early as November 7, with various unions in order to make sure that contract negotiations for city workers who have been without contracts for so long spoke to the residents about the things he will bring to the city and vowed to come back to speak to the membership again before the general election.

The Lindenwood Alliance meets on the first Monday of every month in the community room of the Fairfield Apartments in Lindenwood.

Joe Lhota paid a visit to the Lindenwood Alliance meeting on the night before the primary, which has ushered him into the Republican candidate for Mayor.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 3

Melinda - The Katz That Won Defeats Peter Vallone 44% to 33%, will face Republican Aurelio Arcabascio in November

By Patricia Adams and Kate Bubacz In the Democratic primary for Queens Borough President, Melinda Katz faced Councilman Peter Vallone (D-Astoria) in a field once filled with candidates. The Forum was on the scene Tuesday night with both candidates and their supporters.

In Forest Hills crowds gathered at the popular eatery, The Flying Pig, on Austin Street, waiting for the arrival of Melinda Katz. Election results flashed repeatedly on TV screens hung throughout the room; intermittent cheers erupted with every blurb on the BP race: polls showed Katz with a ten point lead over challenger Peter Vallone with nearly three-quarters of all precincts reported—victory was here.

Katz defeated Vallone by 44.45% to 33.69%, according to unofficial numbers from the Board of Elections.

And in Astoria, Peter Vallone supporters, many of whom have known the candidate since he was a boy, gathered at Studio Square.

“He’s not about big politics, he knows what we need, not what we just desire,” says David Rosasco, the chair of the Woodside Neighborhood Association.

The room was packed with supporters, but the enthusiasm was dampened by TV screens which revealed Katz with a 10-point lead.

It was after 10:30p.m. when Val-

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Melinda Katz thanked her party machine, staff and volunteers for her ten point victory over Vallone. She dedicated the primary victory to her parents, whom she said dedicated their lives to the borough of Queens.

lone finally arrived, and the crowd had thinned down to only about 100 people. “We took on the world, and we scared the hell out of them,” he said.

“I’m proud of the hard work of everyone in this room, and it was an honor to be out there. " “I called Melinda and told her I’m going to do everything I can to achieve our goals. I’m not going anywhere...

We’re still going to fight for Queens.”

Back at the Katz party, campaign staff and team insiders signaled the impending arrival of the candidate.

And as they made their way through

the pulsating crowd, trading smiles, hugs and handshakes, the excitement ramped up. A combination of anticipation and exuberance filled the room, literally exploding as the door swung open to reveal an exhausted yet energized Katz.

After more hugs, kisses and handshakes, the seasoned politico took the mic. “We stood together,” declared Katz, “and now I will tell you what it means to have the Democratic Party endorsement…it means you win.”

Waiting for the cheers to subside, she thanked elected officials, district and

Kate Bubacz/The Forum Newsgroup

Peter Vallone takes to the stage at Studio Square Beer Garden where his supporters gathered to view election results for his Queens Borough President candidacy.

community leaders and volunteers for helping get her message out.

“We had a message. And it was well received,” Katz said. “We are a diverse wonderful array of people…we need to make sure that Queens goes forward, that we’re not left behind.”

Katz thanked her sons Carter and Hunter and partner Curtis Sliwa for holding down the home front. “You might still be my favorite Republican,” she joked with Sliwa.

She closed by sharing a special dedication with the crowd, “My father started the Queens Symphony

in 1953. My mother founded the Queens Council for the Arts in 1969; me standing here is a culmination of their careers. They died a long time ago, but they had faith in me that I would continue the tradition of public service.” After pausing she continued, “So I dedicate this evening and the win we are going to have in November to both of my parents who dedicated their lives to this borough of Queens. Thank you all!”

Melinda Katz will face Republican Aurelio “Tony” Arcabascio on November 5, 2013.

De Blasio Faces Potential Run-Off Against Thompson For Mayor, Lhota Handily Lands GOP Nomination

By Anna Gustafson A roller-coaster of a Democratic race for mayor that began with City Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan) as the frontrunner and diverted into the ultimate spectacle that was former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner’s bid came to a tentative end last night, with Public Advocate Bill de Blasio securing more votes than his eight challengers.

Republican candidate Joe Lhota, meanwhile, handily clinched the GOP’s nomination for mayor, beating billionaire John Catsimatidis 52.64 percent to 40.59 percent, according to unofficial city Board of Election numbers. Lhota, the former chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, received 29,908 votes, while Catsimatidis, the CEO of the Red Apple Group, landed 23,064 votes. Doe Fund founder George McDonald came in last in the Republican bid for the city’s highest office, garnering 3,845 votes.

De Blasio, a Park Slope resident who previously represented parts of Brooklyn in the Council, landed about 40.19 percent of the vote - or 257,034 votes, according to unofficial numbers from the city BOE. Former City Comptroller Bill Thompson, a Brooklyn resident for most of his life before moving to Harlem several years ago, came in second, with 26.04 percent of the vote, or 166,516 votes.

Bill de Blasio

Bill Thompson

De Blasio’s lead, however, may not be enough to ensure he will not have to participate in a runoff against Thompson, and the city BOE will begin on Friday looking at the 19,000 paper ballots cast. The board is expected to examine the mechanical voting machines by the beginning of next week. If, after all the ballots are counted, de Blasio does not have more than 40 percent of the vote, there will be a run-off between the two leading contenders.

“We know there’s a long road ahead,” de Blasio said after being introduced by his 16-year-old son, Dante, who become a celebrity of his own after appearing in a campaign ad for his father, and his 19-year-old daughter, Chiara, at his victory party at the Bell House in Gowanus, Brooklyn.

“That’s true for this campaign, but also in the job

4 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

Joe Lhota

that we’re seeking to do.

“We are better as a city when we make sure that everyone has a shot,” said de Blasio, who has emphasized issues of income inequality in his campaign. “We begin tonight.”

Thompson, meanwhile, did not concede and said he would continue to fight for the position for which he also ran in 2009 against Mayor Bloomberg.

“Tonight is for everyone out there who’s ever been counted out, for everyone who’s been told their dreams are too big,” Thompson said at his campaign party Tuesday night in Midtown Manhattan. “We are just getting there.”

De Blasio and Thompson also beat Quinn, whose bid for office appears to have been marred by her positive connection with Bloomberg and

who received about 15.5 percent of the vote. City Comptroller John Liu, a former councilman representing Flushing, placed fourth, followed by Weiner, who was dogged by a continued sexting scandal - and who fled from his campaign party by giving reporters the middle finger, Bronx Rev. Erick Salgado, comedian Randy Credico, attorney Neil Grimaldi, and, coming in last, former Brooklyn Councilman Sal Albanese.

Standing alongside his wife, Tamra, and daughter, Kathryn, at his victory party at the Hilton in Midtown Manhattan, Lhota said he would “like John Catsimatidis and George McDonald to stand with me and help unify the party.

“John is a good man and a solid New Yorker,” Lhota said. “He and I agree on more than we disagree. George is a great guy and a visionary leader.

He has become a true friend during this primary.

I will seek the advice and counsel of these men as my campaign goes forward.”

The Republican touched on a variety of topics in his victory speech, including supporting the NYPD and small business, as well as cutting taxes.

Catsimatidis appeared downtrodden in his concession speech.

“I wanted to come through - not just for myself, but for all of you,” he said. “I want to apologize to my staff that I didn’t do better, that I didn’t win this thing for all of you. Next time, I’ll work harder.”

Stringer's Integrity Tops Spitzer’s Experience in City’s Comptroller Race

By Alan Krawitz In what turned out to be a nail-bitingly close race for City Comptroller, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer beat embattled ex-Gov. Eliot Spitzer in the Democratic primary Tuesday night.

Stringer, a political veteran with more than 20-years’ experience as borough president and a state assemblyman, edged out Spitzer, a former state attorney general, with about 52 percent of the vote. Stringer will next face Republican John Burnett in the Nov. 5 general election.

Spitzer, who resigned as governor in 2008 amid a lurid prostitution scandal that involved use of public funds, was seeking an improbable political comeback which he tied to his vast experience rooting out corruption on Wall Street and tackling organized crime.

“For me, politics was never a profession. It was a cause,” Spitzer told supporters at a Manhattan restaurant, as he conceded the election to Stringer. “It was a calling to serve and to try to fight for those issues that we believed in, to see them sometimes before others and sometimes to take the slings and arrows of taking on those who were powerful.”

Spitzer’s campaign had tried to paint Stringer as part of the political establishment, lacking the skill and tenacity to pursue financial impropri-

Public Advocate Candidates James, Squadron to Face Run-Off Election

By Alan Krawitz

Facebook

Scott Stringer and his wife, Elyse Buxbaum, with their two sons, Maxwell and Miles.

eties within the city’s more than $140 billion budget.

The office of comptroller is charged with auditing city agencies, scrutinizing budgets and handling city workers’ pension funds, among other responsibilities. Incumbent John Liu concluded his bid for mayor on Tuesday with a fourth-place finish in the Democratic primary.

For his part, Stringer, speaking to supporters from a Chelsea restaurant, promised to bring “integrity, leadership and leadership” to the office. In countering Spitzer’s frequent last-minute attack ads, Stringer underscored his solid—and untarnished—reputation in office.

Through his campaign, Stringer implored voters to not return someone to office who had been forced to

resign amid disgraceful, if not criminal activity.

Speaking about the campaign, Stringer spokesperson Audrey Gelman said the focus was “integrity.”

“We ran a methodical campaign, we stuck to the plan …Integrity and high ethical standards, maybe it is out of fashion, but it is how he rolls,” Gelman said.

Further, Stringer appeared before his supporters with his wife by his side.

By contrast, Spitzer’s wife, Silda, was noticeably absent from the campaign trail. Numerous reports say Spitzer and his wife are now separated.

Looking to the future, Spitzer implied that he will be back. “Service is something I believe in and I think we all believe in, and we will continue, in many and varied capacities,” he said.

The Democratic primary for an office few New Yorkers are familiar with, the city’s Public Advocate, provided no clearcut winner as the two leading candidates, state Sen. Dan Squadron (D-Manhattan and Brooklyn) and City Council Member Letitia James (D-Brooklyn) both failed to get 40 percent of the vote and will now face each other in a run-off election next month.

As of Wednesday morning, with more than 98 percent of city precincts reporting, James had 36 percent of the vote with Squadron just behind at 33 percent.

By law, a run-off election must be held when no candidate achieves at least 40 percent of the vote. The runoff election is scheduled for Oct. 1.

Squadron, whose district includes parts of Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, issued a statement late Tuesday touting his “momentum and grassroots support” heading into the runoff. Squadron was endorsed by the New York Times as well as by U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-New York).

"Over the next 21 days, we’ll keep talking about my record - about results, reform, and integrity," Squadron said in a prepared statement. "And we will talk about my plan to make the Public Advocate’s office essential to our city, getting results for New Yorkers who need them."

By contrast, James, a progressive Council voice whose backing includes major city labor unions, said little, only issuing a few sparse tweets thanking her supporters and exclaiming, “On to the run-off!” A spokesman for James did not respond to requests seeking comment.

Both candidates have cited the city’s lack of affordable housing and scarcity of jobs as being major issues which need to be addressed.

And, despite the fact that neither James nor Squadron could muster 40 percent of the vote, the other three Democratic candidates fared even worse. The other candidates included Catherine Guerriero, a college professor, former deputy Public Advocate ReshmaSaujani, and SidiqueWai, a consultant for the New York Police Department.

Arguably, the Public Advocate’s office itself suffers from an acute PR problem as well as a relatively small budget, with many city residents admitting to being completely in the dark as to the office’s primary functions.

Created in 1993, the public advocate is something of a watchdog post to give voice to residents’ complaints and concerns. Democratic mayoral candidate Bill de Blasio has held the office of public advocate since being elected in 2009.

"Thank you to all of our supporters,” added Squadron. “We wouldn't have gotten this far without you. Now let's bring it home."

Boy Scouts of America All Are Welcome Pack & Troop 139

St. Helen’s School Cafeteria 84th Street & 157th Avenue Join The Fun & Make New Friends Cub Scouts Grades 1-5

Meet Friday Nights 7:00 pm Registration: 9/13/13 & 9/20/12 at 7:00 PM Boy Scouts Grades 6-12

Meet Wednesday Nights 7:30 pm Registration: 9/11/12 & 9/18/12 at 7:30 PM

For More Information, Call Tom Scorcia (718) 738-6862 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 5

In Remembrance of 9/11/01 Dear Editor: Every year since 2001, the month of September has brought with it a very sad, special feeling. It is a feeling that filled our very being and souls, because of the sad events of September 11, 2001.

It has been 12 years now and our wounds are still painful and strong. In September of 2002, I spoke at an Ecumenical prayer mass at St. Thomas the Apostle Church. The words that I wrote and stated at that time are still poignant now 11 years later. I would like to share them with you, so that we may reflect and pray.

Since last year, the sadness of September 11th, 2001 has been constant, as we in Woodhaven cope with the life stories of all those heroes lost and their families that are suffering from their loss. The dirge of bagpipes and the flow of tears have been with us every day, and we grieve. We grieve for all of the innocent men, women, and children that were so brutally taken from us that fateful day. We grieve for our majestic twin towers, forever taken from our skyline. These innocents were taken because they were Americans, and our towers for they were symbols of America. Our eyes may be filled with tears, but our vision is clear. Our America is at war and we view the enemy, terrorism, through eyes of strength and with resolve. The men and women of our armed forces are fighting this war, against terrorism with bravery, not as our enemy, who act in cowardice. Woodhaven supports these good defenders in this war against these hateful evil-doers. And because of our good, we will be victorious against this evil. In this time of war, may our leaders, our country and our little Woodhaven be protected. May we be resolute in stating: “Never forget, never again.”

Maria A. Thomson Woodhaven

Keep Stoppin’, Keep Friskin’ Dear Editor:

argue that most people who are stopped at airport security stations don't have explosives on them; however, potential airplane terrorists are greatly aware that they probably will be stopped and arrested because of these procedures.

Would Finney care to travel by airplane without airport "stop and frisks?" As an aside, recently on a trip to the west coast, I was asked to step aside by airport security officers. I am a gray-haired, white senior citizen who was not only frisked, but tested for explosive residue on my hands and clothing. Was I angry? No! I was somewhat amused. I felt that the security officers were doing a necessary job. As my mom used to say, "Better safe than sorry!" Likewise, many miscreants thinking of carrying weapons in public in NYC will think twice about getting caught because of a possible stop and frisk situation.

As to Finney's second argument that NYC cops are not colorblind–apparently she doesn't watch TV news or read the daily newspapers where every day we are made aware of gun fights among young men in dangerous neighborhoods who don't give a damn even if some of their bullets strike innocent victims, even toddlers! This is not an everyday occurrence in Whitestone, or in other non-violent neighborhoods. Maybe more white, gray-haired senior men and women should be stopped and frisked to illogically balance the scales. Would this make Finney, and those who think like her, happy campers?

Dave Shlakman Howard Beach

Not Again Dear Editor: This “Nutty Professor” would like to share with Forum readers several thoughts on the pending crisis in Syria.

1) President Obama made a very astute observation when he refuted his critic’s attack that he backed away from his “red line” on military action in Syria. Obama correctly stated that the world drew the red line on June 17, 1925, when at a League of Nations arm traffic convention, a protocol was signed prohibiting use of poison gas. America participated at that convention, and along with most nations of the world representing 98% of earth’s population, signed the proto-

A letter writer to the Daily News named Jan Finney argues that most people stopped to be frisked are found to have no weapons on them. I would 6 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

col. Later, our congress ratified the ban on poison gas.

2) I was appalled to watch on C-Span, the debate in the House of Commons which forced the prime minister to “call off” his strong support for Obama’s urging out allies to take a united military strike against Syria’s Assad regime and his barbaric use of chemical weapons to gas nearly 1,500 women and children!

Is this the same Great Britain, which for centuries, trumpeted values and respect for law?

3) A diplomat I greatly admire, Dr. Zbigniew Brzesinski, former National Security advisor to President Carter said that he was very pleased with Secretary of State John Kerry’s performance at the recent senate foreign relations committee hearing. Kerry clearly outlined Obama’s limited military plan, and skillfully defused Sen. Rand Paul’s petty objections.

4) While a majority of Americans oppose any form of military action against Syria, it is my view that we must prevent the return to pre-WWII shades of appeasement, indifference and silence as we turned our backs on Hitler’s “final solution.” We must not let this twisted, evil, historic event repeat itself in 2013.

We Americans need to support our president’s limited military involvement, so as to show the world that American is morally right and respects its legal international commitments.

One final thought. Assuming Obama gets the “green light” from Congress, I would hope he tries diplomacy once more.

At the annual Sept. General Assembly, he should urge the U.N. to endorse his military strike on Syria’s Assad regime!

Building an international coalition should be his goal.

Anthony Pilla Forest Hills

Food for Thought Dear Editor: The following facts are all true. A few weeks ago an article was written about the high-priced perks our city's wealthiest citizens can afford.

You might call them the 1%ers.

A $1,250 haircut from stylist Ted Gibson. A $295 burger from Serendipity 3 (of course it does come with a toothpick encrusted with gold and diamonds); they also have the

"Frozen Haute Chocolate"$28,000. A blend of 28 cocoas infused with 5 grams of edible 23-karat gold. An apartment at the Pierre Hotel goes for $125 million with a $42,000 monthly maintenance fee.

Not interested in purchasing? Just looking for a room for the night? Then pack a bag and head to The Four Seasons Hotel. The suite, that encompasses the entire top floor and affords you a 360-degree view of the Manhattan skyline, goes for a mere $41,836. Per night.

A parking spot recently sold for $80,000. No car, just the spot. Although what must be "THE" prime parking spot in the city is still available at 1st and University Place for an asking price of $1 million. Do you need a drink after hearing that? Then hop in your limo, head on over to "Uncorked Wine and Tapas" on the Up-

per East Side and sip on a $10,000 martini (Grey Goose, "fresh" lime juice and a 1-karat diamond engagement ring).

After you've finished your day you might feel bloated. Not to worry, your $26,000 membership at The Madison Square Club will come in handy as you hope to sweat next to the likes of Heidi Klum, Liv Tyler and Ivana Trump. Obama and Democrats expect these people to pay a tax increase of 1%? God forbid. Thank goodness the GOP is there to remind us that the problem with our economy are those vile union workers who claim they deserve a decent wage, decent working conditions and a pension to help them adjust to retirement while they fill out that application for McDonalds.

Robert La Rosa Whitestone

PUBLISHER Patricia L. Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anna Gustafson PRODUCTION EDITOR Marisa Pilato REPORTERS Alan Krawitz Samantha Geary CONTRIBUTING REPORTERS Will Sammon Hannah Sheehan Kerry Goleski Kate Bubacz PHOTOGRAPHERS Robert Stridiron Richard York

______________________________________________ THE FORUM NEWSGROUP 155-19 Lahn Street, Howard Beach, NY 11414 phone • 718-845-3221 fax • 718-738-7645 e-mail • forumsouth@gmail.com site • theforumnewsgroup.com THE FORUM NEWSGROUP publishes every Thursday. Ad space reservations by Monday, 12 noon, preceding date of publication. Editorial submission must be made

by Monday, 3 P.M., preceding date of publication.

All letters to THE FORUM NEWSGROUP should be brief and are subject to editing. Writers should include a full address and home / office telephone number.

Anonymous letters are not printed. Name withheld on request.

No such ad or any part thereof may be reproduced without permission of THE FORUM NEWSGROUP. The publisher will not be responsible for any error in advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Errors must be reported to THE FORUM NEWSGROUP within five days of publication. Ad position cannot be guaranteed unless paid prior to publication.

Genesis Print Media & Consultation assumes no liability for the content or reply to any ads. The advertiser assumes all liability for the content of and all replies. The advertiser agrees to hold THE FORUM NEWSGROUP and its employees harmless from all costs, expenses, liabilities, and damages resulting from or caused by the publication placed by the advertiser or any reply to any such advertisement.

EDITORIAL

Remembering What It Is To Be Human

Outside the burnt buildings that families once called home are the remnants of life: an “Annie” doll, winter coats, a slipper, a baby carriage.

They are important reminders that, while so much was destroyed in the fire that devastated residents in Middle Village earlier this week, life is not over. They are reminders, for those who lost so much, that, in a sea of all that has vanished, there are still pieces of you, waiting for you to reclaim them, to start building lives once again.

And, for those of us who were not directly impacted, they are reminders that whole lives were completely changed this week - and we need to step up and help. Thank goodness no residents were physically harmed in the blaze that took 200 firefighters three hours to bring under control - but they still need a lending hand.

In a matter of moments, people lost nearly everything this week - their homes, the house where they grew up or raised families, their irreplaceable wedding photos and pictures of relatives long gone. True, that which we can never get back, our lives, were not taken - and that is something worth remembering over and over in the hard days immediately following the fire - and those that will undoubtedly continue to come. But, we all know that it is possible to die many emo-

tional deaths when something like this happens - and that it takes time, and support from others, to get through times you never thought possible just a week ago.

So many of us know what it is to lose everything. So many of our readers, who saw everything they owned floating in basements and living rooms and bedrooms in Hurricane Sandy, know, still vividly, how that feels.

And we know how it is up to neighbors to come forward - to bring forward donations. So much is needed - clothes, toiletries, toys for the children. Of those displaced, more than a dozen are between the ages of 2 and 19.

St. Margaret’s, which had a number of children impacted by the fire, will be collecting gift cards for supermarkets, restaurants and pharmacies such as CVS. For more information about donating, contact the school’s principal, Philip Franco, at (718) 326-0922.

The church is also helping families who were forced from their homes and will be collecting everything from toys to toiletries. Those who want to know more about that can call (718) 326-1911.

These are the times, when our neighbors are, all of a sudden and without warning, living in very dark moments, that we have to take it upon ourselves to step away from our busy lives and remember one of the most important parts of what it is to be human - helping.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 7

Celebrating 50 Years Of The JFK International Airport Hundreds gather in Howard Beach to mark the anniversary

By Anna Gustafson More than 500 people packed into Russo’s on the Bay in Howard Beach on Tuesday to mark the 50th anniversary of the naming of John F. Kennedy International Airport, as well as to celebrate the facility reaching 50 million annual travelers this year.

The JFK International Airport Chamber of Commerce sponsored the event, which was attended by John "Jack" Schlossberg, President John F. Kennedy’s only grandson, Chamber President Robert Caton, and David Neeleman - the founder of JetBlue who is credited with building five airlines.

“Airports in general don’t get the notoriety that they should,” Caton said. “For New York, it’s a big driver of commerce. It’s the first perception people from around the world get of New York - the airport.

We want to acknowledge its role in making sure business flourishes in the New York area.”

Construction began on what was once known as Idlewild Airport in 1942, and the initial plans called for only 1,000 acres to relieve the overcrowded LaGuardia Airport. However, it grew to five times that size by the time the facility was completed.

The airport was rededicated to honor Kennedy on Dec. 24, 1963, in memory of the nation’s 35th president, who was assassinated one month prior.

Chamber members said the airport has grown by leaps and bounds over the past five decades and

President John F. Kennedy's only grandson, John "Jack" Schlossberg, the son of Caroline Bouvier Kennedy, attended Tuesday's event commemorating naming the airport in honor of his grandfather.

The Aviation High School's Color Guard performed during the ceremony.

has become the 13th busiest airport in the world. In 2012, JFK International handled 49,292,733 passengers - and more than 50 million people are expected to travel through the airport this year.

“Fifty million passengers is a big feat,” Caton said.

JFK International Airport Chamber of Commerce President Robert Caton said in addition to marking the anniversary, he said it was a milestone that the airport expects to draw more than 50 million people through its gates this year.

Mayor Bloomberg noted in a proclamation he issued for the airport’s anniversary that it employs about 35,000 people and generates $30 billion in economic activity each year.

“For a president who spoke eloquently of the imperatives and opportunities of cooperation across national borders, renaming a travel hub serving the world’s most international city was a fitting tribute,” Bloomberg said in the proclamation.

Frank Festa, the past president of the chamber who has worked at the airport for 52 years, said the celebration Tuesday is also representative of a bright future for the facility.

“It’s really something special,” said Festa, previously the chief of U.S. Customs at JFK. “The airport has changed a lot. Fifty years - and 50 million passengers - is a big milestone.”

Tuesday’s ceremony included the Color Guard from Long Island City’s Aviation High School, and attendees each received a commemorative book with photos of everything from John F. Kennedy’s brother, Robert Kennedy, attending Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup the airport’s renaming to the Beatles landing at JFK in 1964.

Photo Courtesy JFK International Airport Chamber of Commerce

Robert F. Kennedy stands in front of the airport newly renamed for his brother, President John F. Kennedy, a month after the nation's leader was assassinated in 1963.

Cuomo Green-Lights Plan To Expand National Tennis Center

By Anna Gustafson

The thumbs-up from Cuomo now allows the USTA to expand the tennis center by adding 0.68 acres to the 42 acres it already owns. As part of the plan, the USTA will also return 1.56 acres of land to the city Parks Department for public recreational use.

Following negotiations with the City Council, including Councilwoman JulissaFerreras (D-East Elmhurst), who represents the area that includes the tennis center, the USTA agreed to, beginning in 2014, provide $10.05 million for Flushing Meadows Corona Park - including $5 million for capital projects; $350,000 a year for three years for maintenance and programms; and $200,000 annually for

the next two decades. The Council voted 47-1 in late July to permit the group to expand. The only legislator to vote against the proposal was Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone), who said his constituents were against further development in Flushing Meadows.

The USTA’s $500 million expansion plan includes tearing down two aging stadiums built for the 1964 World’s Fair and replacing them, as well as adding seats and more parking.

In addition to the $10.05 million, the USTA - which runs the U.S. Open agreed to provide a series of other items, including quarterly presentations on events and available jobs at the National

Gov. Cuomo gave his stamp of approval for the United States Tennis Association’s plan to expand its complex in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, following the City Council’s move to green-light the proposal to replace two stadiums and add thousands of seats in exchange for ongoing funding for the park for years to come.

Cuomo announced last Friday that he signed the legislation to expand and improve the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, saying the legislation will enable critical infrastructure repairs, allow more fans to attend major tournaments and create more than 1,500 construction and full-time jobs.

“As the site of the U.S. Open, the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center brings thousands of fans to New York every year, boosting our tourism industry and spurring local economic activity,” Cuomo said as the world-renowned tennis tournament was being held in the Queens facility.

“New York is proud to showcase the biggest players in tennis at this annual event, and I am committed to making this facility the best it can be to attract and host more Gov. Cuomo last week approved the USTA's plan to expand its facility in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. events like the U.S. Open.”

8 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

Tennis Center and an annual “Queens Day,” which would likely be held during the U.S. Open qualifying tournament and would feature a performances from Queens bands and opportunities for the public to participate in tennis-related games and activities.

The USTA also agreed to run an annual U.S. Open job fair exclusively for Queens residents, hold auditions each year for U.S. Open anthem singers in Queens, and host school graduations.

“The USTA is proud of its rich history in New York, which dates back to 1915,” said Dave Haggerty, USTA chairman of the board and president. “As the world’s largest annual sporting event, the U.S. Open is proud to bring worldwide attention to the city and state that it calls home, and is pleased that this legislation will allow the longstanding tradition to continue.”

Lawmakers also praised the governor’s decision to approve the proposal.

“The U.S. Open is the premier sporting event in Queens, when the eyes of the world are on us,” Assemblyman JeffrionAubry (D-Corona) said. “This expansion will secure the excitement and tradition of world class tennis in our File Photo community and state for both today’s tennis fans and those of the future.”

JFK AirTrain To Partially Shut Down

JFK International Airport’s AirTrain will be suspended at times through mid-October, the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey said.

The temporary shutdowns began Sept. 7 as part of the first overhaul of the system since its inception a decade ago, according to the Port Authority.

A free bus service will be provided from the AirTrain’s Howard Beach and Jamaica stations to Federal Circle, where residents will be able to hop on buses destined for the terminals.

As part of the improvements, the 10-year-old AirTrain will have its track switches, operational software and train control equipment replaced, according to the Port Authority.

For more information about the shutdown schedule, visit www. panynj.gov/alerts-advisories.

NYPD: 'We Are Following Every Lead' To Track Down Forest Park Rapist

By Anna Gustafson Police said this week they are pulling out all the stops trying to find a stun-gun wielding man who raped a 69-year-old jogger in Forest Park at the end of August - and who the NYPD announced last week has been linked to at least five other sexual assaults in the area since 2011.

“We are following up on every lead; nothing is being passed over,” 102nd Precinct Commanding Officer Henry Sautner said at a Community Board 9 meeting Tuesday night.

NYPD officials said last week that the perpetrator wanted for the Aug. 26 crime - which happened in broad daylight, around 4:30 p.m., in the Forest Hills section of the park near 72nd Street and Union Turnpike - is also wanted for attempting to rape a 23-year-old female jogger near Union Turnpike and Metropolitan Avenue on March 29 of this year. After police said he used a stun gun on the woman’s neck, he attempted to rape her but ran off after he saw another person near them in the park.

The NYPD said the same perpetrator is wanted for a Nov. 28, 2012 assault in which he touched a 40-year-old woman jogging with her dog near Park Lane South and Myrtle Avenue around 9 p.m. with his genitals - and then ran away when she screamed.

He is also allegedly responsible for three incidents in 2011, police said. On Sept. 7, 2011, the assailant again attempted to rape a female - this time a 13-year-old girl who was walking near Park Lane South and Myrtle Avenue in Forest Park. Police said he grabbed the teen from behind and shoved her to the ground before fleeing the scene when the girl fought back. The suspect attempted to fondle NYPD a 34-year-old female while she walked near Park Lane South and Police released this sketch of the man they said is connected to five sexual Woodhaven Boulevard around 1 p.m. on Aug. 15, but, again, ran attacks in the Forest Park area over the past couple of years, including the away when she screamed. The attacker is also wanted for attempt- recent rape of a 69-year-old jogger.

ing to rape a 54-year-old female jogger early in the morning on March 25, 2011. At that time, police said he threw the woman to the ground and tried to pull off her pants before she was able to escape.

Police are offering a $22,000 reward for the arrest, indictment and conviction of the person responsible.

In response to the most recent incident, police have increased their presence in the park, a massive swath of land that covers more than 500 acres - a size that obviously makes patrolling difficult.

“If I had 500 officers working in the 102nd, that still wouldn’t be enough,” Sautner said at the CB 9 meeting. “...And I can’t put every single cop I have into the park,” Sautner continued.

Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association President Ed Wendell and other civic leaders are advocating for the park to be designated as a separate precinct - or, at the very least, place an NYPD substation in the green space.

“Obviously, whatever happens, they need more enforcement,” Wendell said.

Wendell and others have also stressed that there are too many park lights that are not on in the early morning hours. The WRBA president said, following complaints last week about the number of lights being out, that the city seems to be leaving them on after 5 a.m. - typically, many of them would be turned off before then, leaving many early-morning walkers and joggers in the dark.

Problem areas have included the stretch from Park Lane South to Myrtle Avenue along Forest Park Drive - where the suspect has attacked - as well as along Myrtle Avenue from Woodhaven Boulevard to Park Lane South.

Anyone with information about the suspect should contact the NYPD at (800) 577-TIPS.

Now Now that that the the dog dog days days of of summer summer are are gone, gone, we we have have fall fall to to enjoy. enjoy.

Why not treat your pet to a day of pampering to start the new season?

FREE

Flea or Medicated W ith 13 Bath / 1 / thi 11 s co

Reliable Grooming Inc. 163-11 Cross Bay Blvd, Howard Beach, NY 11414 718-835-7487

upon. Expires

• Serving the Queens Area for 15 Years • No Cage Dryers Used • No Tranquilizers Administered • SPA Products Used THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 9

Queens to Congress: Flood Insurance Rates Will Drive Us From Our Homes

By Anna Gustafson The Federal Emergency Management Agency finally made public its flood insurance premium guidelines last week - and the numbers, Queens residents and coastal dwellers across the country said, are financially devastating.

FEMA released a report for homeowners in areas labeled as being at a high risk for flooding - which includes parts of Howard Beach, Broad Channel and the Rockaways, in addition to neighborhoods in Staten Island and Brooklyn - just weeks before increased flood insurance rates are expected to go into effect in October because of the 2012 Biggert-Waters Act. Approved by Congress in 2012, Biggert-Waters phases out some subsidized insurance rates and allows for rate increases of about 20 to 25 percent each year until properties reach actuarial status.

According to the new numbers released

by FEMA, individuals in homes four feet below the agency’s base-flood elevation, premiums would be what many say is an unsustainable $9,500 annually, and for those with homes at FEMA’s base-elevation levels, the rates would be about $1,410 each year. Residents in houses three feet above base-flood elevation would need to fork over $427 a year.

“If left unchecked, people are going to lose their houses and property values and local economies will tank,” West 12th Road Block Association President Peter Mahon wrote following a conference call with the

Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup

Queens residents said FEMA's new details on flood insurance plans released last week would be disastrous for many homeowners.

Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance last Friday. “Real estate appraisers stated that the problem is ‘astronomical’ to the point that they don’t even want to think about it.”

While supporters of the Biggert-Waters Act have said that the bill was meant to make a debt-ridden National Flood Insurance Program more fiscally stable, as it has been hemorrhaging money, homeowners in Queens and coastal

10 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

communities across the country have said the new rates will force many from their homes because they won’t be able to afford the increases.

Because of this, Queens residents, among others, are calling on Congress to amend the Biggert-Waters Act so that residents who have been living in houses that have been moved into high-risk areas would be grandfathered into the legislation and thus would not have

to pay the flood insurance rates that many say will force them to move from their homes.

Some legislators, including Louisiana Sen. David Vitter, are urging President Obama to delay Biggert-Waters’ implementation until officials can study ways to make it more affordable. Numerous members of Congress - including U.S. Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-Queens, Brooklyn) have also asked FEMA administrator Craig Fugate to hold off on increasing residents’ bills.

Even U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), for whom the Biggert-Waters Act is in part named, has said the increases would be unsustainable.

“While actuarial rates are critical to the program’s success, we strongly believe that we should not burden homeowners with punitive or unaffordable rates that will slow our housing market recover and force families out of their homes,” Waters said in a prepared statement.

Queens residents will address the flood rate increases at a rally on Saturday, Sept.

28 at noon at the American Legion Hall on Cross Bay Boulevard in Broad Channel.

Mahon urged all those impacted - and those who are not but do not want to see residents potentially forced from their homes and businesses drained - to attend the event.

“There is strength in numbers, and a big turnout for this event would certainly bolster the gravitas of our representatives when dealing with FEMA to address this issue,” Mahon wrote. “This affects all of us.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 11

Spreading Hope: Howard Beach Pays It Forward

Community joins in Star Paint event at HB Assembly of God Church

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

More than 500 stars were ainted at the Howard Beach Assembly of God on Tuesday afternoon. They will be hung in towns devastated by Hurricane Sandy along the Jersey Shore.

By Patricia Adams The stars were out in Howard Beach on Tuesday evening; not the stars expected in a nighttime sky—these were wooden stars—the ones so many wondered about as they began to appear throughout the community shortly after Superstorm Sandy stopped by.

Howard Beach resident Janine Pizzariella is responsible for bringing the stars to Howard Beach. She first saw them on a visit to Rockaway right after the storm. “I saw these stars hanging on the few things still left standing,” Pizzariella said. “As soon as I saw them I knew we had to bring them to Howard Beach.” Armed with little knowledge and lots of determination, she sat down at the computer, discovered the origin of the stars and contacted Stars of HOPE, the organization responsible for their production.

After speaking with them, it was agreed that they would come to Howard Beach on January 18 and do a star paint with students at the reopening of MS 207, which had been closed down due to devastation by the storm.

Students there engaged in a day-long paint that produced hundreds of stars which were subsequently hung on trees, poles and fences throughout Old Howard Beach, Hamilton Beach and Rockwood Park. Stars that read

Children came in large groups to the star paint, creating beautiful designs and writing inspirational messages.

“Hope,” “Faith,” “Courage,” and "Strength" and delivered so many other inspirational messages to the community.

The organization that began the community project events is known as Stars of Hope, a pay it forward, non-profit whose mission statement defines them as “one that empowers children to transform communities impacted by disaster through inspiring and colorful art. Stars of HOPE also transforms the way we express our compassion and connectivity following disasters at a national – and global – scale.”

Stars of HOPE is a unique disaster relief/ community art project launched in communities devastated by natural disasters like tornadoes, wildfires, hurricanes, and floods as well as man-made disasters such as mass-shootings and industrial accidents. Children are asked to paint hopeful messages, inspirational words, and colorful designs on one-foot wooden stars as part of their personal, and their community’s collective, healing process.

The organization was started to help the children of Greenburg Kansas in 2007 to bring hope and color back to their tornado-ravaged community, Stars of HOPE is operated as a joint project of New York Says Thank You Foundation and Groesbeck Rebuilds America.

In their second visit to Howard Beach, 26

Right: Determination is what the mayor of Joplin says pulled her town back together after two thirds of it was destroyed in a 2011 tornado.

volunteers from 8 states arrived on Tuesday where they supervised a community paint at the Howard Beach Assembly of God Church as a follow-up to Pizzariella’s event in January.

“It’s a great feeling to see this happening,” said Pizzariella. “All these stars will go to the Jersey shore and we will have been able to take part in paying it forward after we received so much help here from these people.”

Among the volunteers were Melodee Colbert-Kean and her 7-year-old daughter Alissa.

Colbert-Kean is the mayor of the city of Joplin Missouri which lost 161 lives, 8 thousand homes, 500 businesses and 14 schools in a tornado in 2011. “We learn a lesson from these events in life,” the mayor said. “And that is that devastation does not stop determination.” Colbert-Kean says that even though her daughter is losing some time from conventional school by making this trip, the lessons she is learning are far more valuable than anything she could learn elsewhere. “Teaching children how to give back is unspeakably important. They have to learn

More than 500 stars were painted at the Howard Beach Assembly of God on Tuesday afternoon. They will be hung in towns devastated by Hurricane Sandy along the Jersey Shore.

about community and how to help.”

And after a three-hour paint event which drew hundreds of community residents and their children, more than 500 stars were painted and prepared for their next stop along the Jersey shore. Those who turned out were brimming with excitement and thankful for the opportunity to give back. “I remember first seeing these around town and thinking how nice it made you feel,” said Robin Triano, a member of the HB Assembly of God. “It’s nice to be able to give it back.” The volunteers planned to visit a number of towns, leaving behind stars of inspiration created in Howard Beach. There they will also host two paint events and prepare the stars painted there to be brought on their next rip out to Moore, Oklahoma.

If you would like to learn more about Stars of Hope, you can visit their website at http:// starsofhopeusa.org/ More photos on page 26

Two Elevators Coming To Lefferts Boulevard Subway Stop, City Officials Say

By Anna Gustafson Renovation work at the Lefferts Boulevard subway station in Ozone Park now includes plans for two elevators, instead of the original one, city officials announced at the Community Board 10 meeting on Monday night.

The upgrades to Lefferts Boulevard is part of a larger project, first announced in 2012, that includes work at the six elevated stations along the A line between Lefferts Boulevard and the Brooklyn border, including those at 80th, 88th, 104th, and 111th streets, as well as at Rockaway and Lefferts boulevards.

“This is going to be work that’ll do a lot for this station,” MTA representative Joseph Raskin told CB 10 attendees.

Vinod Patel, the project’s design manager, gave an update about the project at the board’s first meeting following the summer break, at which time he said the plans for two elevators would prove to be a big boost for those who are disabled. The existing Lefferts Boulevard station, he noted, is not ADA accessible.

In addition to the elevators, Patel said work will include platform reconstruction and new stairs.

12 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

tors in the homes of senior citizens and others in community boards particularly affected by Hurricane Sandy. Hogan said fires increased by about 37 percent in the seven community boards in Queens, Brookly and Staten Island where the FDNY aims to partner with community groups and other organizations, including churches and synagogues, to conduct safety presentations and hand out the detectors.

“We want to go into the older folks’ homes and do home safety reviews,” Hogan said. “We’ll point out things that you can improve.”

Hogan urged residents to reach out to him and let him know about groups that may benefit from such tutorials.

“We want to reach the kids, reach everyone in the community,” said the lieutenant. “We want to bring the levels of fires to what they were before Sandy.”

Community Board 10 Chairwoman Betty Braton said HoAnna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup MTA representatives Vinod Patel, standing, and Joseph Raskin gave an gan’s proposal is “very important to this community,” particuupdate about renovation work being done at subway stations in Community larly because of the high concentrations of senior citizens in the Board 10. area.

“We have many people over the age of 75 here,” said Braton, Also at the meeting was FDNY Lt. Chris Hogan, project manager for the Fire Department, who spoke about a grant that who added that Lindenwood ranks particularly high in the city the city is using to provide smoke and carbon monoxide detec- when it comes to the number of elderly individuals.

Enzo’s Pizzeria Enzo’s Pizza

Restaurant Quality Food…

Expanded seating area ’s V T n ee r c s t la f 2 g in r tu ea f

Neighborhood . s e c i r P a i r e z z i P

MaximoPino Gelato & Sorbetto Bar

r e t a C s U Let ! y t r a P t x e Your N

Big or small.. .

We Also Offer a Full Dessert Bar as well we can do it all! as Espresso, Cappuccino and Coffee s an pl rty pa ur yo Call us with and we’ll design the perfect menu for any budget

Your New Place for g in k o o C n a li ta I c ti en th u A

d e t a v o n e R y l l u F e r u s a e l P g n i n i for Your D

r u o r o f Ask s u o i c i l e D s l a i c e p S Daily g Somethin day! new every

Enjoy Your Meal in our Outdoor Dining Area

Full Selection of Premium Wine & Beer

81-02 Rockaway Blvd., Ozone Park • 718.296.0880 www.EnzosPizzaOzonePark.com THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 13

De-stressing Moms After Kids Go Back To School

By Samantha Geary Kids aren’t the only ones that have to face the transition of going back to school. For moms, back to school can represent a trying time—winding down from the summer and winding up for school at the same time can really bring on a load of unwanted, and definitely un-needed, stress.

This week we’d like to share with you a few ideas to help you relax and offer some suggestions as to how to put you back in touch with some things you might have let go for the last few months.

Without a doubt, there are probably more nail salons than just about any other type of business, no matter where you live. One of the best things about them is that most of them offer quick and inexpensive massages. So here’s our number one suggestion to take a load off your week. For 10-20 bucks you can go tune out the world for

10-20 minutes and get the kinks removed from your back, neck or our personal favorite, tired feet. Some salons offer reflexology treatments and other massage services that will also offer you inexpensive, local options to take a load off. The few minutes you spend there will most assuredly make the rest of your day look good.

This is also a time when you may be worried about losing the color you got over the last few months.

Let’s face it. It’s one of the only trophies you brought away from the trips to the beach, water parks, pools and parks, trying somehow to keep the little guys occupied for the whole summer. You can keep your tan aglow and steal away for a little tanning session at very reasonable rates. Make sure you look at the type of equipment used by the tanning salon of your choice and make sure it offers you the most protection.

For the more ambitious, there

are more and more afternoon yoga sessions cropping up—for beginners or advanced pupils of the ancient relaxation technique—there are plenty of options for you to steal away an hour while the kids are in school.

And for those who can steal some time home alone, jump in a luxurious bath, read a book or just close your eyes for a 30 minute power nap. Cost: nothing. Benefit: invaluable.

In any case, this is the time when you will undoubtedly find yourself with a little more time than you’re used to and you should use it to the maximum of your ability. Time for you is ever so important, to you personally and to your whole family. A tired, overworked mom—with no time for her—is never the right way to go.

If you have let your hair, nails and so many other personal points fall to the wayside just a little bit, now is definitely a good time to catch

Grand Opening!

up. Physical projects like makeovers and anti-aging procedures have been recorded in studies as being lead contributors to boosting energy levels, confidence and believe it or not, patience.

Who would have thought that getting unwanted hair lasered off your body could provide more than just the promised aesthetic benefits? But researchers show that having unwanted hair removed, whether it’s on men or women, can make you feel much more at ease in your own skin.

In fact researchers say anything that contributes to the improvement of a person’s complexion, has obvious mental benefits to the individual as well.

Bottom line is that mom-time is essential. So whether you decide to go to the gym, the spa, the nail salon or color your hair, scientists agree that it’s to your benefit, along with everyone else’s for you to take it!

Mon-Sat: 9:30am-7:30pm Sun: 10:00am-6:00pm

135-15 Cross Bay Blvd, Ozone Park, NY 11414

Located next to Liquor Town

718.738.3868

Introducing the neighborhood’s newest destination nail spa!

If comfort, elegance and cleanliness appeal to you, then you’ll appreciate the Nail Tek difference! We commit to exceed our guests’ expectations and to make sure that you will leave our spa pampered, rejuvenated and relaxed!

Come Experience the Difference!

Green Tea Pedicure • Reflexology • Jelly Pedicure • UV Gels • Bio Gels Color Gels • Dream Manicure & Pedicure • All Your Waxing Needs

10% OFF

CHILDREN’S SPECIAL!

ANY SERVICE

2 FREE Designs with Any Service

Expires 9/27/13

Expires 9/27/13

14 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

We use state-of-the-art, hospital grade Tuttnauer sterilization equipment.

• All equipment sterilized after every use • All brand new equipment

Thousands Flock to Fresh Pond Road Street Festival The Fresh Pond Road Street Festival drew thousands of people to Ridgewood last week, which celebrated the four-day feast with everything from children's rides to eating zepoles and dancing to live music.

La Federazione Italo-Americana di Brooklyn e Queens sponsored the 20th annual festi-

val, which ran from Thursday evening through Sunday on Fresh Pond Road from Woodbine Street to Menahan Street.

The event drew about 6,000 people from throughout Queens, and beyond, and included such entertainment as a carousel and other rides and tunes provided by Carmelo Raccug-

lia, Filippo & Complesso Armonia, TBA Music, and 747 Entertainment Music.

The feast is based on a tradition that dates back to the 16th century in Sciacca Sicily and is inspired by the devotion of the town's fishermen to Maria SS del Soccorso the Patrona Castellamarre del Golfo. On Sunday, there was

a procession honoring Maria SS del Soccorso.

The festival raises funds for the Italian federation, a nonprofit based at 66-35 Myrtle Avenue. The group has for 23 years provided social services for the elderly at no cost to the residents.

Photos by Anna Gustafson

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 15

Do your laundry without being taken to the cleaners!

At

Lindenwood Laundromat

We give you the best price and the best service.

Don’t take our word for it – just try us out!

We’re pretty sure you’ll stick around.

Wash Here and Dry for FREE* Monday thru Friday ALL DAY! *30 Min. Max

FREE up k c i P ry! e v i l & De

DRO Same P-OFF Day S ervice Now 80¢ p er lb.

Take your clothes to the cleaners, not your wallet!

We have the BEST DRY CLEANING PRICES AROUND! Pre Pay and Save Big Offers!

All offers only with prepayment. There are no exceptions.

Blouses Sweaters Polos Now $2.99 Reg. $3.75

2-Pc Suit Now $7.99 Reg. $10.00

Pants and Skirts Now $2.99 Reg. $4.00

ather We Clean Le and Suede

3-Pc Suit Now $8.99 Reg. $12.50 Light Jackets Now $7.99 & up

You can now schedule your pickup online at

www.lindenwoodlaundromat.com

Alte

82-10 151st Avenue, Howard Beach Around the corner from the Lindenwood Shopping Center 718-641-8437

16 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

ratio n Avai Service lable s !

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 17

Woodhaven Teen Died 'Doing What He Loved Best' Community mourns Roman Pirozek, Jr.

By Anna Gustafson Roman Pirozek, Jr. was only 19 years old, but he knew what he loved more than anything else: Family, friends, and flying - and rarely a day went by that did not involve all three, those mourning the young Woodhaven resident said this week.

Pirozek died last Thursday afternoon when he was struck in the head by one of the blades of the remote-control helicopter he was flying in Calvert Vaux Park in Gravesend, Brooklyn, around 3:40 p.m., police said. The NYPD said emergency responders found the graduate of Ozone Park’s High School For Construction, Trades, Engineering and Architecture unresponsive and with severe head trauma around Bay 44th Street and Shore Parkway.

There has been an outpouring of grief over the young man’s death, with family and friends describing Pirozek as someone who was dedicated to those he

loved, as well as to his helicopter hobby.

“Although we lost Roman doing what he loved to do best, Heaven has gained an angel who will be missed here on Earth,” said Debbie Weber Gamble, who knew Pirozek for much of his life.

Also a graduate of St. Thomas the Apostle in Woodhaven, the helicopter enthusiast was well known throughout the neighborhood as someone who was a “bright, fun, respectful, responsible young person.”

“I can emphatically say that Roman was a good person,” Weber Gamble said.

“He would always make sure that if I saw him in the neighborhood, he would stop and say hello and ask how my son and I were doing. He didn’t have to, as a 19-year-old, but I have known him since he was in third grade and that’s the way he was raised by his parents - and he held onto those good qualities.”

An avid flier, Pirozek posted a number of videos and other commentary on social media about his love for the

Facebook photo Roman Pirozek, Jr., was killed last Thursday when the remote-control helicopter he was flying in a Brooklyn park hit him.

hobby, and helicopter enthusiasts from around the world wrote numerous condolence messages online.

“My heart and prayers go out to his

Rescuers Save Man Pinned Beneath E Train

Emergency responders extricated a man who was struck and pinned beneath an E train at the Jamaica Avenue and Van Wyck subway station at about 6 p.m. on Aug. 31. The victim was rushed to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, but officials said his leg was unable to be saved.

Photos by Richard York

18 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

father, his biggest fan and co-pilot, and his entire family,” one person wrote on Pirozek’sYouTube site. “This kid had skills… For those of us who know this hobby, [we] know that he was a RC flying ace. I would have been in awe if I had ever had the chance to meet and talk to him.”

Many agreed with that sentiment.

“My condolences to his family, and may he be enjoying his flights with the angels now,” another person wrote. “My radio tag is at half mast for a while.”

The helicopter model that killed him was a TREK 700N DFC, which is gas-powered and includes two foot-long carbon fiber blades. Whey Roberts, an expert in remote-control helicopters, told ABC News that it was likely a mechanical failure with the model’s equipment that led to the tragic accident. “‘There was something wrong with that helicopter,’” Roberts told ABC. “‘I’ve seen many [of Pirozek’s] videos - I was looking at the helicopter as it took

off and had noticed strange oscillation.

There was an imbalance somewhere there, something was off slightly. It was minute.’”

The accident has raised a number of safety concerns, and Councilman Domenic Recchia (D-Brooklyn), who represents the area where Pirozek was killed, said “we need to make sure proper safeguards are put in place.”

Recchia has asked the city Parks Department to implement a moratorium on the use of remote-control helicopters in city green spaces until an investigation into the accident is completed.

A wake for Pirozek was held at Walsh-LaBella & Son Funeral Home at 70-17 Cooper Ave. in Glendale on Wednesday, Sept. 11 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and again from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. A funeral will be held on Thursday at St. Thomas the Apostle at 87-49 87 St. in Woodhaven. A burial will proceed after the mass at Maple Grove Cemetery in Kew Gardens.

Goldfeder To Gov: Reduce Airport Noise Enough with the noise.

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Broad Channel) this week urged Gov. Cuomo to sign legislation that would require the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to conduct a noise study and hold public meetings in South Queens and Rockaway.

"As far back as I can remember growing up in Rockaway, airplanes have always plagued our family and community," Goldfeder said. "We have been through enough after Sandy and deserve to have quiet and peace of mind while sitting in our own home."

The legislation, co-sponsored by Goldfeder and uninamously passed in both the Assembly and state Senate, would require the Port Authority to routinely conduct noise studies and mitigate the noise levels. Currently, many of the houses adjacent to JFK International Airport receive a volume over 100 decibels - a level that is nearly twice as high as what is recommended as an acceptable living noise.

"The Broad Channel Civic Association commends Assemblyman Goldfeder for fighting for this critical legislation to assess the dramatic increase in air traffic noise that our community is experiencing," said Dany Mundy, Jr., president of the Broad Channel Civic. "The FAA is now implementing ... technology that will increase tremendously the number of flights in and out of JFK airport at a time when the surrounding communities are already suffering from unacceptable noise pollution. This legislation will allow for the necessary monitoring needed to enable a comprehensive discussion of the impacts that this noise pollution is producing on residents and their families."

The assemblyman noted that long-term exposure to loud jet engines can permanently harm hearing.

"The FAA has significantly increased the number of aircraft flying over our homes," said resident Ray Gaudio. "This has negatively impacted our health and quality of life."

Fun & Games ACROSS

1. *It reads music on CDs 6. "___ a Wonderful Life" 9. Praise or glorify 13. Domicile 14. *"The One I Love" group 15. Rid of impurities 16. Medical helper 17. Schiller's "___ to Joy" 18. Light-footed 19. *Stone's Oscar winner 21. *1985 London/Philadelphia Fundraiser 23. "The ___ of All Fears" 24. Ancient colonnade 25. *"Simon & Simon" network 28. "____ Was a Rollin' Stone" 30. *MTV first began asking artists to do this in 1989 35. Nuclear fission chemist Otto ____ 37. Suspend 39. Muse of love poetry 40. UN civil aviation agency, acr.

41. Befuddle 43. Done 44. Relating to a node 46. Fake or phony 47. Balkan native 48. Be that as it may 50. Bypass 52. Do it yourself 53. Carpet style 55. Romanian money 57. *Moonwalk dancer 61. Puts in motion 65. To come into use 66. *Lots of this hair product sold in the 1980s 68. Indian monetary unit 69. Large-eyed lemur 70. Last word of "America, the Beautiful" 71. About to explode 72. Small amounts 73. *Yoda: "Do. Or do not. There is no ___."

74. Water balloon sound

DOWN

1. Often covered with a shade 2. Cain's brother 3. *Diet Coke 4. Written corrections 5. Recover 6. Caddie's offering 7. *One excellent adventurer 8. Extract (metals) by heating 9. Winter Olympic sport 10. Cantatrice's offering 11. Tangerine and grapefruit hybrid 12. A good one of these is often rewarded 15. Royal court dance 20. D-Day beach 22. Debtor's note 24. Slang for urban miners 25. *Tiananmen Square country 26. *Star of 1984's "Footloose" 27. Disreputable 29. *Shoulder accessories 31. *"The ____ and Cons of Hitch Hiking" 32. Cleansed 33. Wombs 34. *Soviet leader, affectionately 36. *Won French Open in 1983 38. Glamorous 42. Jean-Jacques Rousseau's character 45. They're denoted in red 49. *"The ___" charted with "You Better You Bet" in 1981 51. *Puzzle game 54. *Molly Ringwald films are full of this teen worry 56. Seize the throne 57. Leave at the altar, e.g.

58. Dwarf buffalo 59. Sour milk sign 60. Actor Kristofferson 61. Take out, as in dragon 62. October birthstone 63. Greek cheese 64. Three of these in a yard 67. Always, in verse

CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE

SUDOKU

TRIVIA

1. What 80s actor was valedictorian of his high school class and later turned down the lead in “American Beauty?"

2. What was the first word uttered by Allison (Sheedy), the Basket Case in The Breakfast Club?

3. What 80s rock band trio agreed to bleach their hair blonde in

order to do a chewing gum commercial?

4. What soda had six times the caffeine of any other

soda on the market?

5. On Family Ties, what president's picture did Alex Keaton keep on his nightstand?

Answers from Last Week: 1: The twenty. 2: Five.

3: Vince Lombardi. 4: John Madden. 5: Helmets.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 19

THE HAPPENINGS Thursday, Sept. 12

Community Board 6 Meeting 80-02 Kew Gardens Rd., Suite 202 - 7:45 p.m.

All members of the public are invited to attend the CB 6 meeting. The board covers the neighborhoods of Forest Hills and Rego Park.

Saturday, Sept. 14

jian uses a variety of traditional and non-traditional art materials to make memory boxes. This event is free and open to the public.For more information, visit www.socratessculpturepark.org.

112th Precinct Community Council Meeting

Sunday, Sept. 15

7:30 p.m. - 68-40 Austin St., Forest Hills All members of the public are welcome to attend the 112th Precinct Community Council’s meeting on Monday. Police and civic leaders will be on hand to discuss any concerns residents have about crime or other happenings in the neighborhood. Refreshments will be served.

Myrtle Avenue Fall Street Festival

Tuesday, Sept. 17

12 p.m. to 6 p.m. - Myrtle Avenue from Fresh Pond Road to Wyckoff Avenue The Myrtle Avenue Business Improvement District is sponsoring its annual fall festival, which will include more than 200 merchants, rides and game booths. There will be performances by Joe Fuoco’s Music Center and the Banjo Rascals, as well as vintage buses presented in cooperation with the MTA. 7:30 p.m. - 97-14 135th Dr., Ozone Park An array of antique and custom cars will be shown from the Pat's Sports Bar 8 p.m. to 1 a.m.

The Ozone Park Civic Association monthly meeting will feaEast Coast Car and Riviera Owners.

73-13 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village tured the certified financial planner Eric S. Tom as the guest For more information, call 646-230-0489.

The nonprofit Play4Autism will hold a "Hockey Night in Mospeaker. He will discuss retirement planning and decisions. town" raffle and darts tournament fundraiser. There will be a Those planning to attend should use the entrance at Centrev50/50 dart tournament and drawing for the Hockey Night in ille Street and 149th Avenue, by the ballfield parking lot.

Motown. There is a $10 entry fee for the dart tournament, and For more information, darts will begin at 8 p.m. email ozpkcivic@gmail.com or call (646) 298-7575.

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Play4Autism, which provides a variety of free programs for children with autism and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. - Queens County Farm Museum their families.

73-50 Little Neck Pkwy., Floral Park For more information, This beloved show includes a display of various makes and call Play4Autism's Greg at 718-894-3400. models of motorcycles that have been out of production for 10 years or more. Music, farmhouse tours, hayrides and food provide fun for the entire family. Admission is $5.

For more information, visit www.queensfarm.org.

8 p.m. - Alley Pond Environmental Center 3 p.m. - Resorts World Casino New York City 228-06 Northern Blvd., Douglaston 110-00 Rockaway Blvd., South Ozone Park The Queens County Bird Club kicks off its series of free eveMore than 400 cars will be shown in the parking lot near ning programs on Sept. 18 with a talk, “Reptile Ecology and Home Depot. The event is being sponsored by 92.3 NOW Conservation Projects,” by Peter Warny. This illustrated talk and there is a $23 fee for those showing vehicles. will include information about the declining reptile and amFor more information, visit www.rwnewyork.com. phibian populations as examples of ecological issues affect3 p.m. to 5 p.m. - King Manor Museum ing habitats, migration and nesting behavior as well as preda150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica tion, genetics, diseases and other factors involved in shaping Modern-day butler and author NikolausChristmann reads the current state of reptile populations. A variety of other isfrom his new book, signs autographs and answers questions. sues will be discussed, including habitat management and Learn about the staff that served Rufus King and his famtadpole development. ily and kept their household running smoothly. Books will be Peter Warny has worked for The Nature Conservancy and the available for $9, and proceeds benefit the King Manor Mu- National Audubon Society. He currently owns and manages a seum. private reptile reserve in northern Florida. He travels extenFor more information, visit www.kingmanor.org. sively throughout the country to ecological management and restoration projects, as well as reptile and amphibian surveys involving radio tracking snakes and turtles.

Light refreshments will be served.

For more information, visit qcbirdclub.org.

Ozone Park Civic Association Meeting

Play4Autism Hockey Night in Motown Fundraiser

Annual Antique Motorcycle Show

Wednesday, Sept. 18

Queens County Bird Club Free Evening Program

Super Tuner Car Show

The Butler’s Dinner Stories: Free Talk and Book Signing

Hands-on History

Monday, Sept. 16

Oysterfest at London Lennie’s

Members of the public will get a chance to learn how students fared more than 200 years ago at the King Manor Museum in Jamaica.

London Lennie's will host its annual Oysterfest from Sept. 16 through Sept. 27.

63-88 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park Sept. 16 through Sept. 27 London Lennie’s is hosting its fourth annual Oysterfest festival, during which the restaurant will offer an oyster-packed menu featuring between 10 to 15 different kinds of oysters. The menu will include everything from oyster po’boys to fried oysters and oyster-infused specialty cocktails.

An oyster party will be held Sept. 20 and will feature live music and a slurp-off competitions, during which participants will eat oysters with their hands tied behind their backs. The winSocrates Sculpture Park ner will get a $500 prize and will be crowned King or Queen 32-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City of the Slurp.

What are your favorite summer memories? Artist Linda Gan12 p.m. to 3 p.m. - King Manor Museum 150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica Discover what school was like 200 years ago and what Rufus King had in his library. Participants will be able to learn how to write with a quill pen and make a book. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit www.kingmanor.org.

Summer Memory Box Workshop

20 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

Friday, Sept. 20

Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association Annual Fundraiser Joe Abbracciamento Restaurant 62-96 Woodhaven Blvd., Rego Park The WRBA’s annual fundraiser will honor the American Legion Pos 118 as Organization of the Year, Paul Rudolph of Walker Funeral Home as Man of the Year, St. Thomas the Apostle teacher Patti Eggers as Woman of the Year, and the Woodhaven firm Ohlert-Ruggiere as the Hall of Fame inductee. The annual event celebrates the civic group’s work and history, and this year participants have a chance to also purchase a ticket for a neighborhood veteran.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit woodhaven-nyc.org.

.. e. m ti d o go a ve ha to w ho u yo w We'll sho Enjoy your community.

Viva la Comida!

Food and Music Festival

Sunday, Sept. 22

Kew Gardens Community Arts Day

part of the event, you will learn about the history and ecology of the bay and see nesting and migrating hawks, peregrine falcons, oystercatchers, ospreys, herons, egrets, Ibis, shorebirds and waterfowl.

The tour will be led by Don Riepe, Guardian of Jamaica Bay and noted local naturalist. The tour is $55 per person and includes wine, cheese, fruit and snacks. It will depart from Sheepshead Bay’s Pier 4 at Emmons Avenue and Bedford Avenue in Brooklyn.

To purchase tickets by credit card, go tohttp:// cruiseseptember28th. eventbrite.com/ Individuals may also send a check for $55 per person to the American Littoral Society, c/o Don Riepe, 28 West 9th Road, Broad Channel, NY 11693.

The cruise is a cooperative program with the American Littoral Society, Gateway National Park Service, NYC Audubon, and NYC Sierra Club.

For more information, visitwww.littoralsociety.org, call (718) 474-0896, or email donriepe@gmail.com

11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Come celebrate Queens artists at the Kew Gardens Community Arts Day, when the neighborhood will be transformed into an art experience.

An outdoor art show, “Art in the Kew Gardens Cinemas Park,” will be held on Austin Street off of Lefferts Boulevard.

The event’s organizers, a small group of local artists, had a vision for Kew Gardens: Bring together talented Queens painters, photographers, glassmakers, potters, jewelry artists, illustrators and fiber artists for a professional art show with a small town feel.

Those who come will be able to watch sidewalk chalk artists transform city concrete into wild works of art and can learn how culture influences art from demonstrations by multicultural artists.

There will also be crafts for children, and a recently published comic book writer and illustrator will be on hand to speak to the public at The Comic Den. Live music will feature Broadway tunes, musical standards and beautiful Spanish melodies.

The Viva la Comida Food and Music Festival in Jackson Heights on Sept. 20 The day’s finale will be a poetry and prose readings by the will include a variety of food trucks, interactive art, dancing and more.

REZ Reading Group at the Odradeks Coffee House at 82-60 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. - 82nd Street between Roosevelt Avenue 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Austin St. beginning at 5 p.m. and Baxter Avenue, Jackson Heights The Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association and commuFor more information, Viva la Comida! is a festival highlighting the best food in the nity members are holding the Great Woodhaven Yard Sale at email kewgardensarts@gmail.com city, combined with great music, interactive art, dancing and various locations throughout the neighborhood on Sept. 28. or call (917) 881-3358. more on a street known for its authentic food and culture.

A large number of residents are expected to participate in the Some of the best food trucks in the city, selected by Queens event, and a wide variety of merchandise will be available culinary tour guide Jeff Orlick, will assemble for this food and during the community event. The WRBA will distribute a map music festival. There will be interactive art by Hibridos Colshowing the location of the participating households. lective, a pop-up market, live music and a dance competition.

Households who want to sell merchandise can be a part of For more information, visit vivalacomida.com, the event by registering with the WRBA by Sept. 13. Register call (718) 335-9421, or tweet @82ndstreetQueens. by visiting woodhaven-nyc.org or calling (718) 296-3735.

The Great Woodhaven Yard Sale

Tuesday, Sept. 24

Saturday, Sept. 21

Colum McCann With Leonard Lopate at Queens College

Sunday, Sept. 29

LeFrak Concert Hall, Queens College 65-30 KissenaBlvd., Flushing - 7 p.m.

National Book Award-winning author Colum McCann will read his work and be interviewed by WNYC’s Leonard Lopate at 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. - Park Lane South and Myrtle Avenue The Richmond Hill Block Association is hosting its 40th an- Queens College’s LeFrak Concert Hall. McCann is the author nual Park Fair at the Buddy Monument in Forest Park. The of such novels as “This Side of Brightness,” “Dancer,” “Zoli,” 9 a.m. - Flushing Meadows Corona Park fair features local vendors, carnival rides, games, live music, “Let the Great World Spin,” and, most recently, “TransAtlan111th Street and 55th Avenue tic.” McCann’s work has been celebrated across the globe a flea market, raffles, and all sorts of family-friendly fun.

The third annual Queens Walk to End Alzheimer’s will raise and described by critics as masterful and profoundly moving. money for the Alzheimer’s Association. Last year, the walk Tickets to individual readings can be purchased for $20 at raised $93,000 and residents are hoping to do even better the door at 6:45 p.m. on the evening of the event. Visit www. this year. qcreadings.org for more information.

For more information, and to sign up for the walk, visit http://www.alz.org/nyc, or reach Alzheimer’s Association Celebration Hall at The Center at Maple Grove representative Candace Douglas at (800) 272-3900 or via 127-15 Kew Gardens Rd. - 8 p.m. email at walk@alznyc.org.

The Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery announces the return of the Lhevinne Classical Concert series.

The hour-long program, with a 10-minute intermission, also includes a pre-concert wine and cheese reception scheduled for 7:30 p.m.

7:30 p.m. - Knights of Columbus Hall you would li This year’s concert features the sought-after piano recitalist ke to includ 135-45 LeffertsBlvd., South Ozone Park e and chamber musician Steven Graff, who made his concerto in The Foru All members of the community are welcome to attend the civic m's Happen debut with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and is the reings, meeting. September’s event will feature Assemblyman Phil please ema cipient of numerous distinguished awards and glowing critical il Goldfeder as the guest speaker. in fo r m praise. and photos ation There is limited seating and tickets are $25 for the general to forumsouth public, $20 for seniors and $15 for members. @ g mail.com Checks are payable to Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery; or call please include name and number of tickets. Online payment can be made via www.friendsofmaplegrove.org.

For more information, or to reserve seats, 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. call the Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery Everyone is invited to a special three-hour narrated sunset at 347-878-6641. tour of Jamaica Bay aboard the Golden Sunshine ship. As

Richmond Hill Park Fair Lhevinne Classical Concert Series

Queens Walk to End Alzheimer’s

Thursday, Sept. 26

Richmond Hill South Civic Association Meeting

IF YOU HAV E AN EVENT

Saturday, Sept. 28

Jamaica Bay Sunset Tour

(718) 845-3

221.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 21

Furniture

Contracting

Roofing

Zito & Expertise Inc.

CHAIR & FURNITURE RESTORATION

Roofing • Siding • Gutters Exterior Painting All work guaranteed.

Licensed & Insured.

Registered to install modified Butyl roof by Firestone.

Commercial & Residential.

Free Estimates Lic.#1103433

Furniture Reupholstery Slipcovers NEW CHAIR SEATS Dining Room or Kitchen $35 (Fabric Samples Avail.) • CANING $69 (Including Matching Stain, 2 Chair Min) • RUSH SEAT Repair or Convert to Cushion • Loose & Broken Chairs Reglued & Repaired • Stripping & Staining 10% Senior Citizen Discount FREE Estimates FREE Pickup & Delivery (516) 791-0690 Cell (917) 406-4807 Marda1552@yahoo.com

646-721-1444 718-763-0097

Lic.# 1301530

Insured Bonded

On Top Roofing and Construction

Family Owned – 25 Years Exp. We Start / We Finish

Roofing • Soffits • Masonry • Shingles • Rip-Outs Sheetrock • Rubber Roofs • Waterproofing • Painting Skylights • Carpentry • Power Washing 15% Senior Discount | FREE Estimates All Work Guaranteed | Owner Operated Every Job

CONTACT US AT: 347-962-1194

Construction

New Heights Construction LLC Siding • Windows • Roofing • Fences Kitchens • Baths • Basements • Decks Doors • Awnings • Patio Enclosures Brick Pointing • Concrete Stucco

WINTER SPECIAL Gutters • Leaders Siding

FREE ESTIMATES

1-800-525-5102 • 718-767-0044

WWW.NEWHEIGHTSCONSTRUCTIONNY.COM WINTER SPECIALS ON WINDOWS NYC LIC. # 1191201 STORM DAMAGE SPECIALIST

PAINTERS & TILES R US

JIMINEZ

CONSTRUCTION NY INC. RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL

HANDYMAN

INTERIOR & EXTERIOR ROOFING SIDING & CONCRETE BATHROOMS & KITCHENS GENRERAL REMODELING STUCCO & BRICKWORK & MUCH MORE! FREE ESTIMATES

No Job Too Big or Small th with Interior & Exterior - Over 20 Years of Experience BASEMENTS • KITCHENS • BATHROOMS Tile Repairs and Installation • Painting • Skim Coating Sheetrock • Carpentry • Doors • Wallpaper Removal Water Damage Repairs • Wood Floors • Taping & Plaster Work off 15% is ad

ALL WORK GUARANTEED

24 HR SERVICE OWNERS ON JOB SITE LIC & INS -20 YRS EXP.

All Work Guaranteed | Fully Insured | Free Estimates

LUIS JIMENEZ

Call Anthony 347.226.0202

718-930-5360

TO ADVERTISE YOUR SERVICE OR BUSINESS, CALL THE FORUM TO RESERVE SPACE TODAY! 718-845-3221 Legal Notices SUMMONS, NOTICE AND BRIEF STATEMENT OF NATURE OF ACTION CONSUMER CREDIT TRANSACTION SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF QUEENS Index No. 3803/2013 M&T BANK, Plaintiff, -against- DANIEL CHONG a/k/a DANIEL D. CHONG a/k/a DANNY CHONG; JORGE CHONG a/k/a JORGE W. CHONG; SECRETARY OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT; RAB PERFORMANCE RECOVERIES; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; NEW YORK CITY ENVIRONMENTAL CONTROL BOARD; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; “JOHN DOE #1- #50” and “MARY ROE #1- #50”, the last two names being fictitious, said parties intended being tenants or occupants, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises described in the complaint, Defendants.

DANIEL CHONG A/K/A DANIEL D. CHONG A/K/A DANNY CHONG and JORGE CHONG A/K/A JORGE W. CHONG: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to serve upon plaintiff’s attorneys an answer to the complaint in this action within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if the Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service hereof. In case of your failure to answer, judgment will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

Trial is desired in the County of Queens.

The basis of venue designated above is that the real property, which is the sub-

ject matter of this action, is located in the County of Queens, New York.

NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING A PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE New York State Law requires that we send you this notice about the foreclosure process. Please read it carefully.

Summon and Complaint You are in danger of losing your home. If you fail to respond to the summons and complaint in this foreclosure action, you may lose your home. Please read the summons and complaint carefully. You should immediately contact an attorney or local legal aid office to obtain advice on how to protect yourself.

Source of Information and Assistance The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there

22 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process.

To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at to 1-800-269-0990 visit the Department`s website at www. dfs.ny.gov.

Foreclosure rescue scams Be careful of people who approach you with offers to “save” your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner’s distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.

The foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of Honorable Augustus C. Agate, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, signed on the 31st day of July, 2013, in Queens, New York and to be duly entered in the Queens County Clerk’s Office, in Queens, New York.

The Nature of this action pertains to a note and mortgage held by Plaintiff on real property owned by the defendants, Daniel Chong a/k/a Daniel D. Chong a/k/a Danny Chong and Jorge Chong a/k/a Jorge W. Chong. The said defendants have defaulted on the note and mortgage and the plaintiff commenced a foreclosure action. Plaintiff is seeking a judgment foreclosing its mortgage against the

real property and premises which situates in the Neighborhood of Woodhaven, County of Queens and State of New York and is commonly known as 97-28 95th Street, Ozone Park, New York 11416 and all other relief as to the Court may seem just and equitable.

DATED: August 28, 2013 SCHILLER & KNAPP, LLP BY: WILLIAM B. SCHILLER, ESQ. Attorneys for Plaintiff 950 New Loudon Road Latham, New York 12110 Telephone: (518) 786-9069

Don't Forget to Follow The Forum Online, Too...

Our website features weekly stories as well as an E-Forum, or digital edition, so you can flip through the pages of our paper right from your computer. Visit us at: www.theforumnewsgroup.com Follow us on Twitter @forumnewsqueens and Facebook www.facebook.com/ TheForumNewsgroup

We'll keep you in touch with your community!

Help Wanted

Flea Market

OZONE PARK 1 bedroom, heat and hot water included, no pets, credit and proof of funds $1300

DRIVERS (TRUCK) Must have 5 yrs Truck Driving exp. Only 4 day work week. MonThurs. Salary $700/wk.

401K, 100% Med & Dent bnfts & uniform.

All trucks brand new automatics. Call Ahead is accepting all licenses. Clean license reqd.

Apply M-F, 9-7 pm. 304 Crossbay Blvd., Broad Channel Qns, NY.

NYFAC Foundation Flea Market 164-14 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach September 14 & 15 10 AM – 4 PM $1 Donation upon entry. Donations accepted. Something for everyone! New and used items.

Food and beverages will be sold. Any questions please call Sara: 347-566-3122 ext. 305 VENDORS NEEDED!

MIDDLE VILLAGE Juniper Valley Park area. 2 bedrooms, includes gas, electric, driveway, yard and storage, and balcony $2000 OLD HOWARD 3 bedrooms, 1 bath, carpeted bedroom, wood floors, no pets/ smoking, 1 month security, pay all utilities $1600 CENTURY 21 718-835-4700

DRIVERS WANTED New and expanding company looking for cement truck drivers.

Experience required.

Class B with a tanker endorsement needed.

718-322-2770

Tutoring

Parking Spots

Experienced, Certified Teacher will tutor in math, science and reading.

Very reasonable rates. SAT tutor.

CALL 718-763-6524

Commercial vehicle spaces available.

Call 718-835-8599

For Rent HOWARD BEACH One bedroom (large) walk-in apartment.

Newly decorated. All new appliances! Gas, electric, and cable included. References required. $1250 718-845-1597 Call after 6

Table For Sale Beautiful dark wood dining table with 4 chairs. It is tall and leaf is included. Email pjp03356@yahoo.com for pictures and/or to make offer. Asking $500

Help Wanted

SALES POSITION

PART-TIME/FULL-TIME

Halloween store seeking experienced, ghoulish, sales associates for its busy season.

Please call for an appointment Monday through Friday 11am-4pm at:

718-846-1008 ext. 132

FOR SALE!!

For Rent

Hi Ranch w/ 3 bedrooms, 1.5 bath & garage. Excellent condition. 40X100

ROCKWOOD PARK – Walk-in with extra large rooms. All included. $1300 OLD HOWARD BEACH – 2 bedrooms. $1600 OZONE PARK – Commerical space. Store for rent. 1,000 sqare feet. $1800

ROCKWOOD PARK

CALL MARIA FOR MORE INFO: 718-757-2394

Legal Notices

Call The Forum to place your ad today! 718-845-3221

For Rent

CALL MARIA FOR MORE INFO: 718-757-2394

Legal Notices NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: FLUSHING ASPHALT RECYCLING, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/12/13.

Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, 120-01 31st Avenue, Flushing, New York 11354. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Be Seen–

Be known

133 47 LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/24/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC, 136-31 41st Avenue, Suite 5A, Flushing, NY 11355.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Pritpal Kaur LLC Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 8/14/13.

Office: Queens. SSNY is design. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail process to 162-03 84th Dr. Flr 1 Jamaica, NY 11432. Purpose: any lawful activity.

The Forum serves a combined circulation of 45,000 a week. We service 11 communities with more than 500,000 readers.

Call today for advertising space. 718 845 3221

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 3168 35th STREET LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/04/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, P.O. Box 575042, Whitestone, New York 11357. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of 579 92nd Street LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State on 8/2/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. bus. addr.: 616 Lowell Rd., Concord, MA 01742. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: c/o Mark B. Elefante, Hemenway & Barnes LLP, 60 State St., Boston, MA 02109. Purpose: all lawful purposes.

GRAND APTS LLC Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/19/2013. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: the LLC, 6548 174th Street, Flushing, NY 11365. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of Formation of GOMMA, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 07/11/2013.

Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Carlos M Roman II at 41-34 Crescent Street, Long Island City, NY 11101. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

ENNOID LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/17/13.

Office in Queens Co. SSNY design.

Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC, 2800 Coyle Street, Apt. 121, Brooklyn, NY 11235.

Purpose: Any lawful activity.

ESMEE LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 7/29/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to Revonia King-Asonye, 123-42 Irwin, Saint Albans, NY 11434. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

48-03 30th Avenue LLC Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 8/1/13. Office:Queens Co. SSNY is design. as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail process to 48-21 30th Ave. Astoria, NY 11103. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of SCOTT AVE PARTNERS LLC Arts. of Org. filedwith Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on08/19/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 63-23Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village, NY 11379. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

JFK SOLAR ENTERPRISES LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 8/16/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 32 Cherry Wood Lane, Port Washington, NY 11050. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

STANDING WITH GOD L.L.C Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 5/22/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail copy of process to The LLC 11175 158th St Jamaica, NY 11433. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Registered Agent Winter Jade Flowers-Olowofela 11175 158th St Jamaica, NY 11433.

PYJ REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 7/5/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Yuval Jacob, 7554 190th St., Fresh Meadows, NY 11366. General Purposes.

Notice of Formation of 89-65 216 ST LLC, Art. of Org. filed Sec’y of State (SSNY) 5/24/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to c/o Dhanpaul Naraine, 22029 Jamaica Ave., Queens Village, NY 11428. Purpose: any lawful activities.

EASTGENE REALTY LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 6/20/12. Office in Queens Co. SSNY design. Agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to C/O Libo Qiu & Ruliang Xu 43-20 214th Pl 1st Fl Bayside, NY 11361. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of WEIGHT MANAGEMENT PHYSICIAN, PLLC. Art. of Org. filed NY Sec’y of State (SSNY) 07/22/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. as process agt. Process service address: 7211 Austin St, #372, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: Any lawful purpose or activity.

Notice is hereby given that license Notice of Formation of MAY SQUARED #1273054 has been applied by the REAL ESTATE LLC. Arts of Org. filed undersigned to sell alcoholic bevwith NY Secy of State (SSNY) on erages at retail in a bar under the 4/24/13. Office: Queens. SSNY is desalcoholic beverage control law at ignated as agent of LLC upon whom 80-14 Roosevelt Avenue, Jackson process against it may be served and Heights, NY 11372 for on-premises shall mail process to The LLC, 255-07 consumption. EL AVENTURERO 61st Avenue, 1st Floor, Little Neck, NY BAR RESTAURANT CORP d/b/a 11362. Purpose: any lawful activity.

EL AVENTURERO THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 23

OPEN HOUSE SAT 9/14, 12-2 PM 109-07 86 STREET OZONE PARK 1 family with 6 rooms, 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bath, updated kitchen, full basement.

OZONE PARK Lafayette Street 2 family brick home with 5 rooms, 2 bedrooms over 5 rooms, 2 bedrooms, full finished basement. CALL NOW! HOWARD BEACH 1 family cape, 7 rooms, 4 bedrooms, full basement, 1.5 car gar, private driveway, new heat & hw, new floors. CALL NOW! HOWARD BEACH Heritage House condo on lobby floor.

5 rooms, 2 bedrooms, 2 bath.

HOWARD BEACH 5 room, 2 bedroom Garden co-op with updated kitchen and bath, full dining room. Asking $139K HOWARD BEACH Hi Rise Co-op 3.5 room, 1 bedroom, 1 bath all new kit, bath completely remodeled, parking available. Asking $108K OZONE PARK Detached two family, 3 rooms over 4 rooms, 1 bedroom on each floor, full basement partly finished, garage, driveway and yard. ONLY Asking $465K HOWARD BEACH Hi Ranch 60x100 with 10 rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 new bath, new kitchen, new heat and hot water heater. CALL NOW!

HOWARD BEACH Hi Rise Co-op Jr. 4.5 rms, 2 bedrms Asking $129K HOWARD BEACH 6 rm Garden Co-op converted to 5 rms 2 bedrooms w/ formal dining.

Asking $159K

Interested in advertising your home or apartment listing?

CallThe Forum for rates!

718.845.3221

24 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

ALL ROADS LEAD TO JAMAICA HOSPITAL

The many roads that make up our community are the same roads that lead to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center.

As your neighbor, our wide variety of clinical services are always available to you and your family.

Learn More About our Many Quality Services Including Emergency Medicine • Cardiology • Pulmonary Medicine • Ambulatory Care Advanced Radiology Services • Sleep Center • Obstetrics and Gynecology • Pediatrics

By Calling us at 718-206-6000 or Visit our Website at www.jamaicahospital.org

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 25

Never Forgotten:

Glendale Remembers Victims of Sept. 11 Attacks

Hannah Sheehan/The Forum Newsgroup

A woman lays roses at the 9/11 Memorial Garden in Glendale.

By Hannah Sheehan Area officials, clergy members, and community leaders gathered in Forest Park on Sunday to honor those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, including 42 residents of Glendale, Middle Village, Ridgewood, and Woodhaven. Organized by the American Day Parade committee, the annual service drew a small crowd to the 9/11 Memorial Garden located near Dry Harbor Playground on Myrtle Avenue.

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) spoke from the podium about the importance of continuing to honor the anniversary.

“We must remind people - remind the world - that the events that happened 12 years ago and the people who are not with us anymore have never and will never be forgotten,” she said.

Linda Catalano, of Glendale, honored her friend, Firefighter Lt. Robert F. Wallace of Woodhaven, at Sunday's ceremony.

Meng expressed her gratitude to first responders and members of the military, acknowledging their contribution to combating terrorism since 2001. The first-term congresswoman also discussed the long road ahead, especially in the “world of cyber.”

State Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) told the crowd that the tragedy remained fresh for him despite the intervening years, while Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Glendale) shared personal stories about a friend of his mother’s who was killed during the attacks, and his stepdaughter, who narrowly escaped.

“I was very lucky,” Miller said. “My stepdaughter got out. They were in a meeting in the second building. They saw some debris falling.

Her boss said, ‘Come on, let’s get out. We’ll just go downstairs and see what happened.’ And as

Spreading Hope Continued from page 12

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Looks like Forum pub’s granddaughter Gianna, 2, already has writing in her genes.

Hey, did Nana help with that star Gigi?

Trista Gentile (center) and cousins Seth and Peter Traino appear to be very serious about their star painting, but we’re sure they’ll be smiling Thursday when they celebrate Trista’s 9th birthday!

26 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

Members of the Color Guard pay tribute to victims of Sept. 11, 2001.

they reached the bottom, the second plane struck her building.”

City Council Member Elizabeth Crowley (DMiddle Village), who also spoke, focused on the positive aspects of the anniversary.

“It’s so important to come together to remember and to be grateful for what we have--a great city and a great country,” she said.

Rabbi Joel Zdanowitz, of the Forest Park Jewish Center, rededicated the memorial stone with a reading from the High Holy Day liturgy.

“Our sympathy continues to pour forth to the families,” he said. “None of us will ever forget the significance of 9/11.”

Following the dedication, community members took turns reading the names of the victims etched into the memorial stone as ceremony participants laid red roses - donated by Enchanted

Florist and Greenhouses in Maspeth - at its base.

A member of Glendale’s Chapter 32 of Vietnam Veterans of America sounded “Taps” on his bugle.

Glendale resident Linda Catalano, who attended the service for the first time to honor the memory of her friend, Firefighter Lt. Robert F. Wallace of Woodhaven, was deeply moved by the service.

“I didn’t even know this was here,” she said. “... when I got here I didn’t even realize that my friend’s name was gonna be on the [stone], so I asked if I could read his name,” she said.

Although Catalano has privately paid tribute to her fallen friend every year since his death, she was touched to see his sacrifice publicly recognized.

“It means everybody honors him,” she said.

“He used his own life to help other people.”

5-Year-Old Hit By Van In South Ozone Park A 5-year-old boy was rushed to the hospital last Thursday after he was struck by a van in front of 114-36 115th St. in South Ozone Park, officials said.

The child sustained a major head injury and was transported to Long Island Jewish Hospital, according to the FDNY. The driver of the van that hit him stayed at the scene. Witnesses told NYPD officers that the driver was allegedly going very fast in the residential area.

Photos by Richard York

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013 | 27

FREE HOME DELIVERY

SALE STARTS 09/12/13

Sclafani Crushed Tomatoes 28 oz. can ...................... $1.69 Dozen Jumbo Eggs ...................................................... $1.99 New York Ravioli 24 count ........................................... $3.99 Asti Marinated Artichoke Hearts 6 oz. jar ................... $1.29

SALE ENDS 09/18/13

Bell & Evans Thighs & Drumsticks (Family Pack) ................................................... $2.49 lb.

Beef Stew Meat ............................................................ $3.99 lb.

Black Angus Flank Steaks ........................................... $5.99 lb.

Perdue Chicken Breast Bone In ................................. $1.99 lb.

The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the thrill of a bargain has passed.

Eggplant ....................................................... $1.00 lb.

California Iceberg Lettuce .......................... 99 ¢ Zucchini ........................................................ $1.69 lb.

Plum Tomatoes ............................................ $1.00 lb.

Mangos ......................................................... $1.99 each Green & Red Grapes ................................... $1.99 lb.

Boars Head London Broil ......................................$8.99 lb.

Boars Head Black Forest Ham ..............................$7.99 lb.

Boars Head Swiss Cheese .....................................$5.99 lb.

Homemade Eggplant Salad ...................................$3.99 lb.

Homemade Cucumber Salad .................................$3.99 lb.

SANDWICH SPECIAL:

Panini #5 (Roast Beef & Provolone Cheese) ..........................$5.99

28 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • September 12, 2013

Not Responsible for Typographical Errors

IT PAYS TO BUY THE BEST: