The Forum South 45 2013

VOL. 12 • NUMBER 45 • NOVEMBER 7, 2013

VICTORY! Councilman Eric Ulrich was joined by his wife, Yadira, in Howard Beach Tuesday night to celebrate the incumbent winning his bid to once again represent South Queens' 32nd Council District. Melinda Katz was also cheered on by supporters after she handily won her campaign to become the next Queens borough president.

See coverage on page 16 and 17 Photos by Patricia Adams and Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup

106 Lands Additional Officers Page 3

FDNY Family Needs Help for Sick Son Page 8

Queens Honors Veterans at Parade Page 34

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 1

2 2 | THE THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 FORUM NEWSGROUP • October 25, 2012

A Celebration of Community at St. Barnabas

By Kate Bubacz “This is not just a celebration of St. Barnabas, it’s a celebration of the community,” Randy McNeill, a church member at the Howard Beach parish, said to an audience of about 100 people who gathered to commemorate the reopening and rededication of the St. Barnabas sanctuary hall Saturday.

Almost exactly one year after Hurricane Sandy, the damage done to the church has been repaired, something certainly worth celebrating.

“It’s important that St. Barnabas is back,” said state Sen. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach).

“They open their doors to everyone.”

The church is famous for its generosity. The ruined sanctuary hall is as much community space as any other, being used by the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and for civic meetings, Kiwanis club meetings and the annual rummage sale. In the wake of the terrorist attacks in Manhattan on Sept. 11, 2001, St. Barnabas acted as a shelter for tourists that were stranded. They continued to serve their community in the wake of Hurricane Sandy when they opened their doors and held services.

“We had no heat and light but were still able to be here on Sunday,” said Rev. William Baum, the pastor at St. Barnabas.

“During services, we could see our breath,” Deacon Chris Jones said of the services in the days and weeks after Sandy.

Kate Bubacz/The Forum Newsgroup

Rev. William Baum, the pastor at St. Barnabas Church, left, Bishop Robert Rimbo, and Councilman Eric Ulrich attend the rededication of the Howard Beach parish. Ulrich was honored at the event.

The continuity was important for Baum, who said, “people needed to be together.”

It was not just St. Barnabas that provided help. The list of contributors to the recovery of the church goes for four pages in the days program; too many to name aloud. By their orders, the parish cannot ask for donations but contributions still poured in from other parishes across

106th Precinct Lands 16 New Police Officers

the country.

Of the 12 churches in Bishop Robert Rimbo’s synod, he estimated that St. Barnabas was hit the worst in Queens in terms of physical damage. As unprepared as Howard Beach was for Sandy, the Bishop was not surprised by the reaction.

“The congregation rose to the occasion” he said. “I know the church and pastor, and the

congregation is strong and committed to community” That commitment showed itself throughout the sanctuary hall on Saturday. John Scheper, an electrical contractor and a volunteer on the church’s building committee, helped to oversee the installation of the main electric, which was moved upstairs after the hall took on four and a half feet of water.

“We learn from mistakes,” Scheper said.

The new paint on the walls was applied as a part of an Eagle Scout project. Another Eagle Scout rebuilt the ruined stage. The refinished floors gleamed and the tables were all set, ready for the next community meeting. The new piano, a donation from a fellow parish, had arrived the day before the reopening and still had a bright red bow on it when the audience filed into the new hall for coffee and snacks and communal catch-up after the service.

“This church is a symbol for the community resiliency, and the strong recovery that they have been able to make in one year,” Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said.

During Saturday’s program, Ulrich, Addabbo, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park), Community Board 10 Chairwoman Betty Braton, and West Hamilton Beach Volunteer Fire Department Chief Jonah Cohen were honored.

“A year ago today, it was such a mess. Who would have thought that it could be so beautiful?” Reverend Baum said.

Residents To Get Help

Ulrich commits to bring safety to Bridgeton Street

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Police officers Adolpho Berrios, left, Vincent Brites, Brendan Storz, Vincent Guerriero, Michael Martinez, and Andrew Rosen are six of the 16 new cops just assigned to the 106th Precinct.

By Anna Gustafson Sixteen new police officers have been assigned to the 106th Precinct in South Queens, thrilling top NYPD brass and area legislators who have long advocated for additional manpower that they said is sorely needed.

“They are a most welcomed addition to the community, and we are very happy to have them join our local team,” 106th Precinct Deputy Inspector Jeffrey Schiff, the commanding officer, said of the officers who hail from various impact units within the NYPD. “During their precinct orientation, various community members will address these 16 new officers. This will be their introduction to the many culture that populate our community, and they will be able to hear firsthand the concerns they may have. We expect that they will quickly absorb the local flavor and perform admirably, making all of us proud.”

While making the rounds to get acquainted with their new patrol zone - including stopping at MS 207 during voting hours on Election Day the officers said they were very happy with their posts and look forward to working in their new command. Prior to working in various impact units, the newest officers have formerly been assigned to such nearby precincts as the 104th, 113th and 105th.

Area legislators praised the NYPD for increasing the number of police in the 106th, which covers Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, Lindenwood, and Howard Beach.

“The NYPD does a phenomenal job in keeping our community safe,” Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said. “The additional officers we have just gotten from the department will enable the 106 to do an even better job fighting crime.”

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park) called the increase “a huge victory” for the communities served by the precinct.

“We’ve asked repeatedly for more police officers and finally our voices have been heard,” Goldfeder said. “I commend Commissioner Ray Kelly for providing the 106th Precinct with the necessary tools and resources they need to keep our streets safe.”

The assemblyman said the extra officers will help the precinct to further combat such issues as car thefts and break-ins. According to police statistics, those two crimes have jumped by more than 65 percent in the most recent 28-day period as compared to last year and are up by about 20 percent overall.

“The officers at the 106th Precinct have always done an outstanding job, but now they will have the resources they need to protect our streets and families,” Goldfeder said.

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Residents hope that Councilman Ulrich will be able to help them get the direction of the street changed so that lives can be saved on the extremely dangerous corner.

By Patricia Adams A group of Howard Beach homeowners will get the support of newly re-elected Councilman Eric Ulrich in their fight to remove unsafe conditions from their block --Bridgeton Street in Howard Beach–after having compiled and submitted a petition signed by nearly every resident on the street.

A few weeks ago, The Forum was contacted with regard to the speeding, recurring crashes and property damage and the dangers that pedestrians who cross the street there are facing.

Bridgeton Street lies at the foot of a small hill that leads away from the turn at Cohancy Street,

and drivers round the corner there with increased speed and the inability to judge the turn correctly.

Residents say they have the answer—to reverse the direction of the street so that drivers would not be able to make the left turn off 155th Avenue onto their street. “Often motorists turn onto the street at 40 mph or more…” the petition reads, “…the street is not suited for such speeds…

Ideally, Bridgeton Street needs to be a one-way street in the opposite direction.”

And if the skid marks permanently embedded in the pavement at the streets entrance were not enough to support their quest, less than one week after having contacted the newspaper about the conditions, an 18-year-old pedestrian was struck at the intersection of Bridgeton and 155th Avenue.

“We will immediately send this petition with a letter from me,” said Ulrich, “so that a feasibility study can be done by DOT.” In addition to that, the matter would have to be reviewed by Community Board 10. “There is a legitimate concern over safety here,” said Ulrich, “and I will do everything I can to secure safe conditions at this location.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 3

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Brooklyn Man Charged with ‘One-Man Crime Wave’ Allegedly burglarized 11 homes throughout Queens

A Brooklyn man has been charged with breaking into 11 homes in Howard Beach, Ozone Park, South Ozone Park, and Forest Hills and stealing thousands of dollars worth of jewelry, cameras, computer equipment and other items, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said.

Mario Girau, 28, was charged in September in connection with the burglary of a house on Tahoe Street in Ozone Park and last Wednesday was charged in connection with burglarizing another 10 homes, according to the DA. “I commend the police and prosecutors in this case for their hard work in tracking down the defendant and working to end his alleged one-man crime wave,” Brown said in a prepared statement. “People’s homes are their sanctuaries and this defendant is alleged to have crossed a very serious line in entering those homes and stealing personal and valuable items.”

Girau has been charged with multiple counts of burglary, criminal possession of stolen property, and criminal possession of a weapon.

According to the criminal complaints, Girau allegedly broke into the homes between Sept. 12, 2011 and Sept. 13, 2013 - with 10 of those incidents happening in 2013 and one in 2011. During these alleged crimes, Girau reportedly swiped jewelry, computer equipment, cameras, sports memorabilia, and ammunition.

Police officers assigned to the Burglary Larceny Apprehension Surveillance Team -

known as BLAST - were investigating a pattern of residential burglaries on Sept. 19, 2013 and, as part of that investigation, were conducting surveillance of the defendant and observed him driving a 2004 Chrysler Pacifica in residential neighborhoods, Brown said. Girau was allegedly observed looking into the windows of several residential homes and allegedly entered a Tahoe Street residence and burglarized it, according to the DA. He was arrested shortly thereafter by members of the BLAST team, who recovered jewelry and “burglar’s tools” from Girau, Brown said.

Subsequent to Girau’s arrest, a search warrant was obtained for the defendant’s Brooklyn home, from where police recovered items later identified as the property of the 10 victims whose homes had been burglarized, including a Canon camera stolen from a Ridgewood home in 2011, according to the DA. In that instance, investigators identified the owner of the camera by tracking down a bride who appeared in images taken at a wedding venue in Connecticut and learning that the guests of the wedding who had taken the images were the victims of a burglary in Queens, Brown said.

The other burglaries all allegedly occurred in 2013, including on Jan. 11 in South Ozone Park; March 19 in Ozone Park; May 22 in Ozone Park; May 25 in South Ozone Park; Aug. 5 in Ozone Park; Aug. 7 in Forest Hills; Aug. 24 in Ozone park; Sept. 5 in Forest Hills; and Sept. 13 in Howard Beach.

Nursing Home Resident Bludgeons Roommate with Wheelchair Leg Rest Thomas Yarnavick, 66, of 140 Beach 113th Street, in Rockaway Park, has been arraigned on second-degree murder and other charges in the alleged beating death of his roommate at the Beacon Rehab and Nursing Center.

According to the charges, Yarnavick was observed next to the deceased victim, Jailall Singh, 71, who was lying face up in his bed on last Wednesday between 1:15 and 1:25 A witness said that Yarnavick was holding the leg rest from a wheelchair in his hand and

that it had blood on it. He then placed the leg rest in a hamper, where it was discovered later.

The defendants clothing and body had blood all over it and the victim was covered in blood. The defendant allegedly the admitted to the attack, “I just killed him.”

Yarnavick was ordered held without bail

by Queens Supreme court Justice Donna Golia and ordered to return to court on December 4, 2013. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years to life in prison.

Queens Man Rapes Two Women in Two Days Convicted on multiple counts

A 34-year-old Queens man has been convicted of raping two women on two consecutive days at gunpoint inside of his car. Queens DA Brown described the defendant as a “violent predator who deserves to spend the rest of his life in prison.” The DA also urged the court to deliver the maximum sentence.

Leaman King, 34, of 175-02 139th Road Queens was convicted of two counts each of first-degree rape, first-degree criminal sexual assault, second-degree kidnapping, and second and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon before Queens

Supreme Court Justice Deborah Stevens Modica last week.

King struck his first victim on last Tuesday, October 29 as she was walking down Springfield Boulevard. He abducted her at gunpoint and forced her into his vehicle where he raped and sodomized here.

On the following day, around 8:30p.m., a second victim was walking down Eveleth Street when she was abducted by the defendant at gunpoint and forced into his vehicle where he raped and sodomized her.

King faces up to 130 years in prison for the rapes.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 5

A Job Well Done Dear Editor: In your “Letter from the Publisher” in the October 31st edition of The Forum, it states that you could never thank individually all who were instrumental in making the newspaper what it is today. Certainly, a news organization such as yours that tries to cover so many issues and report on such a diversity of communities that is the amalgamation of the borough of Queens, it must take a large, dedicated and talented staff. But from where I sit as a reader of The Forum, one person stands out - Editor-inChief Anna Gustafson. In this issue alone, there are nineteen articles on a variety of topics with her by-line. The sheer number of pieces that she puts together within each week’s deadline is a daunting task, but when it is accomplished with solid reporting and good writing, that’s special Steve Fisher Middle Village

Charles Park Dear Editor: I live in Old Howard Beach and frequent Charles Park for a number of reasons. I walk my little chihuahua named Chalupa there everyday. I take my two girls to the playground with their friends and my two boys to baseball practices and games. I cannot say that I don’t love Charles Park, because I do. It has been a part of my life since my childhood and I think it’s important for every child to get dirty and mess around at their neighborhood park. It's a great place to make memories.

I really hate to complain because I realize how fortunate we are and how much our neighborhood has to offer. I do wish that the park was a little more lively though–and I don’t mean more populous.

I would love if some beautiful flowers and trees could be planted. If there could be more lights installed in the back. If it could just be a little bit more appealing. I’m not looking for waterfalls and cherry blossom trees–but just a little more oomph.

I was hoping by the spring of 2014, there could be some efforts made to improve our

park. Does anyone have any suggestions or know of anyone who would be willing to donate flowers/bushes/ trees? I’m sure it would be no problem to gather together a group of volunteers to clean up, plant and put it all together. I think it would be great to work together as a community to better our community.

If anyone has any ideas, please write back and offer them! Thanks so much! I hope we can really turn our community park into an even more beautiful place to spend our days.

Janet Georgio Howard Beach

Morals, Anyone?

Dear Editor: This year, a dark light has been cast over my formerly favorite holiday, Halloween.

I thought that last year’s was a little grim, considering what everyone was dealing with due to the Sandy disaster.

However, the costumes that I saw some individuals wear this year, has put a knot in my stomach.

I did not personally see them, but the images and stories were found online.

Some seemingly heartless individuals dressed up as Boston Marathon bombing victims while others teamed up for a Trayvon Martin/George Zimmerman duo. I will never understand the thought process, if any, these people went through.

I am definitely one to try and make light of dark times.

But what these people have done is outright disrespectful, distasteful and simply wrong.

I was pleased to find out that one was actually fired from her job for having the audacity to dress as such at work.

What has this world come to?

I think it’s time for everyone to brush up on their manners and their morals.

Regina Simonetti Howard Beach

It Makes No Sense Dear Editor:

Recent legislation passed by the New York City Council, raising the age for con6 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

sumption of cigarettes from 18 to 21 is doomed to fail.

The growth of street corner cigarette sales, known as "loosies" 2 for $1, will grow as a result of this legislation.

The underground economy will make even more money selling tobacco products to those under 21. New York city and state will continue to lose tens of millions of dollars and now more in uncollected tax revenues. Why sell hard drugs when you can sell cigarettes with no penalties?

Consumption of tobacco has been part of mainstream America, transcending generations. Despite the best efforts of government to limit consumption via excessive taxes and smoking restrictions–just like alcohol prohibition in the 1920s–both have been total failures.

Creative entrepreneurs will always provide the citizens desire, regardless of government approval. Consumers have voted with their dollars, making tobacco consumption a multi-billion dollar enterprise today.

Our tax dollars would be better used if police and judges spent more time prosecuting those who commit real crimes against individuals or property than going after those who openly display cigarette packages in stores or sell to those between 18 and 21 years old.

Law enforcement authorities should be free to pursue those who commit real crimes against citizens and property.

This proposal is the latest in a steady stream of insane and expensive legislation coming out of Washington, Albany and City Hall that is infringing on both our economic and civil liberties.

At 18, you are old enough to vote, be a parent, pay taxes, own a car, take out a bank loan, serve in the military and die for your country — but not consume tobacco. It makes no sense.

Larry Penner Great Neck

Time For A Name Change Dear Editor: When I served in the army at Ft. Meade, MD, a few of my buddies decided to attend the annual Cherry Blossom Festival in D.C. After walking around the tidal basin and climbing up 776 steps to the top of the Washington Monu-

ment, we decided to go get some chow.

While enjoying our meal at a nice sports dinner, I noticed a huge photo on the wall of the Redskins football team.

I was offended at the name given to the team. I shared my thoughts with my friends.

They began to laugh and said my remarks were silly.

Folks, were they really silly?

56 years later, I was pleased to hear President Obama expressed the same view I had in 1957. Time and events have a way of changing attitudes.

I firmly believe Daniel Snyder, owner of the Washington football team, should keep up with the current thinking.

Using the word “redskin” is defined in the American heritage dictionary as an “offensive slang word referring to a North American Indian.” Ray Halbritter, head of the Oneida nation said, “usage of the word redskin Is an assault of our history.”

If students at St. John’s University had the wisdom to

change the name of their basketball team from Redmen to Redstorm, I think Mr. Snyder should follow their example.

The Washington D.C. City Council informed Danile that if he wishes to return his team back to D.C., he would hae to change the team’s name.

Right on, D.C. leaders!

Mr. Snyder, my advice for you is to bring your team into the 21st century. The name Redskins has a negative racial overtone. Daniel, call your team: Washington Leaders.

It is my understanding that leaders of the Oneida nation have requested a meeting with Mr. Snyder to discuss their concerns. I hope only positive results will come forth.

If any member of New York’s congressional delegation reads my letter, please share my views with members of the D.C. City Council, and/or, Mr. Daniel Snyder.

Anthony Pilla Forest Hills

PUBLISHER Patricia L. Adams EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Anna Gustafson PRODUCTION Marisa Pilato EDITOR REPORTERS Alan Krawitz Samantha Geary CONTRIBUTING Hannah Sheehan REPORTERS Kerry Goleski Kate Bubacz Michael Florio Ben Kleine DIRECTOR OF Donna DeCarolis MARKETING 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.

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EDITORIAL

Heads Up, You Newly Elected More of the arts in schools?

Better public transportation?

A Cross Bay Boulevard that isn’t so consistently chaotic?

Now that the election is over, the campaign signs are fading from view, and the pollsters, thankfully, are no longer calling, it’s time for residents to take out their wish lists - and bring them to the politicians that they just supported at the polls. After all, democracy doesn’t stop after you pull the lever - Queens’ incumbents, and newly elected folk, need to hear what we want.

We’ve heard a lot of ideas thrown around this campaign season - everything from more resources for those still struggling to rebuild after Sandy to landing more funding for the borough’s roads, schools and more from a City Hall that has, for as long as we can remember, been a complete Scrooge when it comes to supporting Queens.

Now, it’s time for those ideas to become reality.

So, what’s on our wish list?

One, Sandy. We can’t say this enough: An entire year after that hurricane changed so many of our lives, it’s time for our residents to finally - finally - feel as though they are supported by their government.

There are plenty of places to start, but perhaps let’s begin with a review of the Build It Back program. Many of our readers have told us time and again about how completely unhelpful the program has been. It is time to identify the problems, work out the red tape and get people the help for which they’ve been waiting for far too long.

Two, transportation. Our Borough President-elect Melinda Katz has not, to our knowledge, taken a definitive position on whether she supports the old Rockaway Rail Line being reactivated or transformed into a greenway akin to Manhattan’s High Line. Let us just say - we could not support the creation of parks more but not along the rail line. There are

Zainab Akande/The Forum Newsgroup

plenty of other places to put a park in the borough - let us not further alienate the residents of South Queens and Rockaway who are faced with a horrifically limited public transportation system.

We understand the benefits of what is being proposed as far as the greenway - but can we not find an-

LEGALLY SPEAKING

As a 25-year attorney in the field of Workers’ Compensation, I have represented thousands of injured workers and heard all kinds of stories -- many involving workers who didn’t file a Workers’ Comp claim for one reason or another. Some of the most frequent reasons I’ve heard from workers who get injured on the job and don’t file a claim include fear of getting fired, or intimidation by a system that seems cumbersome and hard to navigate.

First of all, it is against the law for an employer to fire you in retaliation for filing a Workers’ Compensation claim. You should know that Workers’ Compensation is a no fault system. In exchange for timely payment of medical and indemnity benefits, workers gave up the right to sue their employer. These laws went into effect in the early 20th Century as a result of social reform and tragedy.

While every state in the nation has some form of Workers’ Compensation laws, they all vary in scope and date of inception. In New York, the pivotal event that culminated in the passage of Workers’ Compensation legislation occurred in 1911 after the horror of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, where 146 individuals per-

ished–some burned to death while others leapt to their deaths when they tried to escape the fire and found the emergency exits locked. This was a preventable tragedy caused by unsafe work conditions and was a catalyst for change. I give you this historical perspective to try to impart upon you that Workers’ Compensation benefits are available to injured workers as a result of this compromise made more than 100 years ago.

There are some basic steps you should take if you get injured on the job. The first thing you should do is file an accident report with your employer within 30 days of the accident, and file a claim with the Workers’ Compensation Board within two years. You should immediately seek medical treatment and let your medical provider know that the injury occurred on the job. Do not give the doctor or medical facility your private insurance. This is important to remember because a doctor who is treating you for a work-related injury will be paid by the Workers’ Compensation insurance carrier chosen by your employer and not your own insurance. It is always a good idea to know who the Workers’ Compensation carrier is before you get hurt. The law requires that the name, address and phone number of the insurer be posted in a conspicuous place, such as the bulletin board or lunchroom in the employer’s place of business.

Keep this information handy.

In addition to medical and indemnity benefits, injured workers

are entitled to reimbursement for medical and travel expenses such as co-payments for prescriptions, mileage to and from a doctor, therapists or chiropractors, and payment for certain permanent injuries including loss of vision, loss of hearing, facial scarring and loss of function to an extremity.

In future issues I will go into further detail regarding some of these benefits, but you should know that many benefits are payable even if the injured worker has returned to work. Unfortunately, it is not the employer’s responsibility to advise you as to your rights under Workers’ Compensation.

I hope that you will not have a personal need to use this information, but just in case, I am hoping that these basic steps will assist you in navigating the process.

Catherine M. Stanton is a senior partner in the law firm of Pasternack Tilker Ziegler Walsh Stanton & Romano, LLP. She focuses on the area of Workers’ Compensation, having helped thousands of injured workers navigate a highly complex system and obtain all the benefits to which they were entitled. Ms. Stanton has been honored as a New York Super Lawyer, is the past president of the New York Workers’ Compensation Bar Association, the immediate past president of the Workers’ Injury Law and Advocacy Group, and is an officer in several organizations dedicated to injured workers and their families. She can be reached at 800.692.3717.

other space for it? Why must it be along that rail line? It’s time to get creative and reach a compromise that involves bettering our public transit system so people on the peninsula don’t have to spend two hours getting to Manhattan. Surely, in New York City, we can make it so those who live in the boroughs can get to

midtown Manhattan in less time than what it would take to fly a plane from Queens to Florida.

This will be our last item - though, believe us, dear legislators, we have a much longer list; you are being saved solely for reasons of space - schools.

We need so, so much for our schools. How about a functioning fire alarm system at PS 207? Or eliminating the trailers our students use for classrooms - many of which the city had promised would be gone after a year but remain a decade later.

We need more physical activity in our schools - and space for that to happen; we need a resurgence of the arts following the abominable hack job our mayor did on anything involving art, music, or after-school programs in our public schools.

Essentially, we need a near overhaul of our school system to ensure that parents and teachers, once again, have a voice instead of only hearing the screeches of the mayor drowning us all out.

Op-Ed Playing Roulette with Labor Rights

By John C. Liu Working men and women at Resorts World Casino hit the jackpot last week in what is sure to become a benchmark agreement for casino labor statewide.

More than 1,400 employees who work at the Jamaica Racino and are represented by the Hotel Trades Council are celebrating a groundbreaking contract that will raise their wages from an average $10.15 an hour to an average $19.91.

In subsequent years, the contract provides a majority of the workers with salaries of more than $60,000 annually.

Additionally, the new contract grants paid sick days, holidays, personal days, vacation days, and free family healthcare.

Sound like a winning streak? Let’s double down.

The victory was made possible thanks to labor peace agreements that prohibited strikes. Instead, amicable negotiations took place that did not disrupt operations at the Racino.

While the two-year process reached its conclusion last week through arbitration, both HTC and the Racino operator, Genting, are moving forward with a win/win contract made possible without the sabre rattling and condescension that has become all too commonplace between Mayor Bloomberg and the City employee unions.

The impact of doubling the salaries of more than a thousand workers at a southern Queens business is sure to have a direct and positive effect on the local economy.

Despite the Mayor’s continual jabs at the labor movement, contract negotiations like these can lift people out of poverty and put them on the pathway to the middle class.

Income inequality is a burgeoning issue in New York City. Last year, my office found that the top 1 percent of income tax filers received one-third of all of the City’s personal income, a share that is almost twice the national average.

Such a wide income gap can weaken or destabilize the local tax base, reinforce patterns of racial and economic segregation, and undermine the vibrant social, cultural, and economic mix that is the foundation of New York City’s identity.

HTC and Resorts World Casino showed us that labor can be treated with the respect it deserves without driving away business. The real gamble is the one we take when we treat those in our workforce as second-class citizens.

John C. Liu is the New York City Comptroller.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 7

FDNY Family Searches for Bone Marrow Match for 2-Year-Old Son

Owen Hogan fighting a rare, life-threatening blood disorder

By Anna Gustafson When Owen Hogan’s parents first noticed their 2-year-old son seemed to be spontaneously developing bruises earlier this year, they didn’t think much of it - after all, their little boy is an energetic toddler with a penchant for playground swings.

Then, however, the rambunctious toddler who loves playing with firetrucks - an effort to be like his father, a firefighter with Engine 216 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn - started developing small red spots, prompting his parents to take him to the hospital last spring.

There, Owen’s parents, Kathleen and Tim Hogan, who had just moved from Bellerose to New Hyde Park with the toddler, learned last April that their son had severe aplastic anemia - a potentially fatal disease in which the bone marrow does not make enough blood cells for the body.

“Four months ago, life was pretty good - we had a happy, healthy toddler and a new baby on the way,” said Tim Hogan, Owen’s father. “Then, after bringing Owen to the hospital, we received the devastating news that he had severe aplastic anemia. As he battles this life-threatening disease, we learned that he will need a bone marrow transplant to survive. As of now, we know there is no available match for Owen but we re-

Photos Courtesy the Hogan Family

Owen Hogan, 2, his parents, Kathleen and Tim, and baby brother Ethan, celebrate Halloween together this year.

Much to the delight of his father, a member of the FDNY, Owen wanted to dress up as a firefighter.

main hopeful that in spreading the word, the registry will continue to grow and a match for Owen will be found.”

To save their son’s life, the Hogan family has teamed up with the organization Delete Blood Cancer to find potential bone marrow matches for the 2-yearold, as well as the thousands of other patients who are desperately searching for the same thing.

The drive for Owen will be held this Saturday, Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Floral Park Village Hall.

“It’s such an easy process,” Tara Schuh, communications director for

Delete Blood Cancer, said of the process to discover whether someone is a bone marrow match. “It takes about five minutes, you swab your cheek, and if you do match, you get to save somebody’s life.”

When Owen was first hospitalized, his now 6-month-old brother Ethan was born, and there were hopes that the new baby’s cord blood would be a match for Owen. Unfortunately, the cells were not a match. No one in the toddler’s immediate family proved to be a potential donor for the 2-year-old, who has the rare blood type of O-, which means the only blood type the doctors would be able to

Owen Hogan is fighting a life-threatening blood disorder and needs to find a bone marrow match.

transfuse is O-.

In mid-May, Owen began an intense inpatient immunosuppression therapy regiment at Cohen Children’s Medical Center at North Shore-LIJ, a process that his doctors and family hoped would force his bone marrow to start making healthy blood again.

Over the summer, Owen needed platelet transfusions one to two times a week and blood transfusions about once every 10 days. After three months of the treatment, it seemed as though Owen was potentially responding to the treatment. However, then Owen’s blood

count began to fall again after a temporary rise, and in late October it was determined that the little boy was not responding to treatment.

Now, the Hogan family is searching across the globe for a match for Owen.

“We’re so very thankful for the support we’ve gotten - we’ve gotten messages from people around the world,” Tim Hogan said.

For more information about Owen Hogan and how to help, visit www. aheroforowen.com. More information can also be found at DeleteBloodCancer.org.

Hurricane Sandy Documentary to Premiere in Rockaway "John Cori Warned You" weaves together the story of rebuilding a community

Photos Courtesy Dan Brown

A still from "John Cori Warned You" shows Friends of Rockaway Beach founders Eddy Pastore, left, and John Cori.

the peninsula for far too long, it’s time to remember - and protect - Rockaway.

The story of Cori’s and Pastore’s fight is now Hours after the worst of Hurricane Sandy receded from Rockaway, leaving in its wake a penin- told in a documentary titled with the same four sula nearly unrecognizable to so many of its deni- words that have resounded throughout the Rockazens who lost their homes and livelihoods in one ways in the year since Sandy, “John Cori Warned of the worst storms to ever hit New York City, four You.” The feature-length film, which will premiere words were spray painted on a handball court in Saturday at the Knights of Columbus in Rockaway Beach, not only tells the story of Cori and Pastore, Rockaway Beach: John Cori warned you.

Cori, who grew up in Rockaway, had for years but of residents throughout the peninsula in an atbeen urging the city to prepare for a storm like tempt to weave together a narrative of what it means Sandy, advocating for everything from replenishing to rebuild - homes, lives, and an entire community.

“As much as it deals with John and Eddy and sand on the beach to building rock jetties to better protect the shoreline from the flooding that dev- their journey this year, it also branches off into astated neighborhoods throughout the peninsula others’ perspective - we talk about insurance and during the hurricane. He and another area resident, FEMA and the struggles our residents have gone Eddy Pastore, formed a group called Friends of through,” said Dan Brown, a Rockaway resident Rockaway Beach, and the two have repeatedly is- and director of “John Cori Warned You.” “It’s been over a year, and our town is no longer sued a message to the city: After forgetting about 8 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

By Anna Gustafson

a town of victims or a town of survivors -w e’re a thriving town and we’ve learned to band together,” Brown continued.

The movie, on which Brown has been working for the past 10 months, follows Cori, Pastore and the Friends of Rockaway Beach’s attempts to warn residents, agencies and elected officials about Rockaway’s vulnerabilities in storms following Hurricane Irene in 2011. The movie’s timeline begins in the days leading up to Sandy and ends on the steps of City Hall in March, when Cori, Pastore and a crowd of Sandy victims joined legislators to call for permanent protection against future storms.

The documentary also features testimonials from area residents reliving the night of the hurricane, as well as interviews with U.S. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-Jamaica), city Comptroller John Liu, Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), state Sens. Joe Addabbo Jr. (D-Howard Beach) and James Sanders (D-St. Albans), and Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder about their perspectives on fighting for residents in the aftermath of Sandy.

“Hopefully people will see the movie and have a sense of what went on here,” said Brown, who began working on the movie after he was laid off from his job following Sandy and began volunteering at a redistribution center for hurricane victims.

“At the very least, it’s a platform for people to tell their story,” Brown said of the film. “The story is really the star of this movie.”

And, Brown said, it’s a reminder to all those in power: Rockaway residents will never stop fighting for their home. And they won’t forget those who help them along the way - and those who don’t.

The documentary "John Cori Warned You" will be shown for the first time this Saturday.

“We’ve had borough presidents out here campaigning; the mayoral candidates have come out here to campaign,” Brown said. “We’ve the put the word out that we vote - and vote for the candidates who came out and didn’t ignore us.”

“John Cori Warned You” will be held Saturday, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus located at 333 Beach 90 St. in Rockaway Beach. The movie screening will begin at 8 p.m. There is a suggested donation of $10, which will go towards the local Knights of Columbus chapter.

Queens Veterans Pay Respect to Fellow Brother-in-Arms

By Ben Kleine Twelve men gathered last Thursday morning and saluted the coffin of a man they knew very little about.

With the aid of a small bus, the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32 of Queens escorted Randolph Michael Royal’s body from Hess-Miller Funeral Home in Middle Village all the way to Calverton National Cemetery in Long Island. They arranged to have two present-day Army members attend and conduct a flag folding ceremony for Royal. A live bugler played “Taps.” To the veterans, this was a nice touch - often there is only a recording available.

The Queens organization has buried more than 80 veterans over the past five years. The chapter is led by President Paul Narson, Vice President Mike Daughtry, Treasurer Tom Corbin, and Chaplain Tom Van Etten.

“It’s a matter of respect,” Narson said. “We consider it an honor and a privilege. These men deserve

Photos Courtesy Tom Corbin

Tom Van Etten, a member of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32, salutes the coffin of Randolph Michael Royal at Calverton National Cemetery last week.

to be buried with dignity. They earned it.”

None of the Queens veterans had ever met Royal. What they knew of the man was information delivered as a part of a two-page release from the Mayor’s Office of Veteran Affairs. Royal had served in the U.S. Army during the late 1970s and early 80s.

Royal died July 25 at the age of 60. The long wait period for the fu-

Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America Chapter 32 pay their respects to Randolph Michael Royal at the funeral the group held for him last week.

neral, which can stretch to as long as six months, is not uncommon in these situations, Narson said.

Royal’s sister was listed as having abandoned her brother.

The goal of these Vietnam veterans is to not allow anyone who served their country to end up in an unmarked grave at Potter’s Field on Hart Island in the Bronx - the largest public graveyard in the country. Part of the reason the

Vietnam veterans have taken on this continual task is a loophole that allows them to transport a body out of the city, something the mayor’s office cannot do.

An undercurrent in this activity, that Narson and Corbin acknowledged, is that, in a different world where a few life decisions had been made differently – a family relationship might have been strained – one of them could have

been in the same situation as Royal.

One member of the chapter talked about tearing up at a recent veterans parade when a woman thanked him for his service. Narson said this crowd reaction was not the response when they were returning from Vietnam with the thoughts of war still heavy on their minds. Daughtry served during the Tet Offensive - one of the largest military campaigns during the Vietnam War. He was shot twice.

“In the last couple of years we were starting to get big ovations,” Narson said. “I always tell people, ‘Stop blaming the vets. Blame the people who put us there. We went where we were told to go.’”

These vets are offering the respect they desire. Royal will not be forgotten. Keeping the flag from the ceremony, it will be placed with others along the chapter house’s wall. Should a relative come and claim it, they will conduct a ceremony handing off the flag, but the nameplate will stay up and they will put another flag in its place.

Pols Push to Delay Flood Insurance Prices from Skyrocketing

Cuomo Calls Aqueduct A 'Waste'

premiums to as much as $12,000.

While supporters of the Biggert-Waters Act have said the bill was meant to make a debtridden National Flood Insurance Program more fiscally stable, as it has been hemorrhaging money, homeowners in Queens and coastal communities across the nation have said the rates would force many from their homes because they wouldn’t be able to afford the increases. This would be a particular blow to residents who have just done everything from take out a second mortgage File Photo to spend life savings to rebuild Federal legislators are attempting to push through a bill that would keep flood following Hurricane Sandy. insurance prices at a reasonable level for residents who said they could be “Having seen firsthand driven from their homes if the insurance rates spike as planned. the devastation that the storm brought to thousands of my constituents, many

By Anna Gustafson of whom [are] still not able to return to their A group of federal legislators, including U.S. homes and [are] overwhelmed by a myriad of Reps. Hakeem Jeffries (D-Queens, Brookyn) and restoration expenses, I was deeply troubled by Gregory Meeks (D-Queens, Long Island), are the project steep increases in the flood insurance pushing a bill that, if approved by Congress and premiums,” Meeks said. “That is why I, along signed by President Obama, would delay a spike with 82 other members of Congress sought, and in flood insurance rates that many have said could successfully worked on, a bipartisan solution to drive them from their homes - or prompt another fix the National Flood Insurance Program to enwave of foreclosures if individuals could not find sure that the program remains widely accessible and affordable and to prevent the further victimbuyers because of the steep insurance rates.

The legislation, which was introduced last ization of our stricken communities.”

U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters (D-Calif.), one of week and is called the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act, would delay rate hikes for the namesakes of the Biggert-Waters legislation, up to four years while the Federal Emergency has long said she did not realize the ramifications Management Agency conducts an affordabil- of what Biggert-Waters would mean financially ity study on how to best implement increases in for residents and is also sponsoring the Homeowner Flood Insurance Affordability Act. U.S. flood insurance premiums.

The bill, which is being supported by legisla- Sens. Robert Menendez (D-NJ) is sponsoring a tors across the country, is in response to the 2012 companionship measure in the Senate.

“The Biggert-Waters legislation was designed Biggert-Waters Act - a piece of legislation that was passed by Congress in 2012 and which phases out to address a $24 billion deficit and ensure milsome subsidized insurance rates and allows for lions of American homeowners could continue rate increases of about 20 to 25 percent each year to purchase flood insurance,” Waters said. “But until properties reach actuarial status. In some FEMA’s poor implementation, inaccurate mapsituations, that could mean a jump from residents ping and incomplete data has led to unreasonable paying several hundred dollars for flood insurance and unimaginable increases in premiums.”

cially-strapped racing organization was not going to shutter Aqueduct any time soon.

Following a report by the Albany Times Following protests in September from the New York Racing Association that the Aque- Union that at an Albany meeting of the NYRA duct Race Track in South Ozone Park was in reorganization board, trustees addressed the no immediate danger of closing following a re- group’s financial woes and said they were lookport that said otherwise, Gov. Cuomo said the ing at a variety of ways to give the organization a financial boost, including ending Aqueduct’s space’s days are numbered.

In a recent meeting with the Daily News’ reign as one of three thoroughbred horse-racing editorial board, the governor reportedly called tracks in New York state.

“There are no plans to close Aqueduct,” the race track “a waste” and said it would better serve the state if transformed into something NYRA spokesman Eric Wing said in Septemelse - which the Daily News suggested be some- ber. “There was a lot of preliminary, informal discussion about a host of possibilities regardthing along the lines of affordable housing. “‘You could do anything at Aqueduct,’” the ing everything from [video lottery terminal] Daily News reported Cuomo telling its editorial monies to legislation that hasn’t passed yet, and board. “‘I mean, you’re right at the airport. It’s in the course of that discussion Aqueduct came a great piece of property. It’s one of the largest up.”

Wing said that while trustees did discuss pieces of property, probably in the city of New Aqueduct’s tenure, the idea of closing the track York.’”

State Budget Director Robert Megna, who was in no way meant to be taken as a concrete attended the same meeting, said NYRA Chair- proposal.

NYRA is facing significant financial difman David Skorton was seriously looking into ficulties, and its operating loss for the first six the possibility of closing Queens’ race track.

The governor’s statements follow protesta- months of this year is twice as much as the loss tions from NYRA in September that the finan- that occurred during the same period in 2012.

The numbers improve when incorporating the revenue from the VLTs run by Resorts World Casino New York City - a racino located next to the track, and NYRA reported a net income of $8.1 million when including funds from the terminals.

Additionally, in September a former state official who worked on racing issues, but wished to remain anonymous, panned the notion that Queens’ track would become a thing of the past.

“The idea they would shut down a race track that’s conFile Photo nected to the largest taxpayer in the state - Resorts World - is Federal legislators are attempting to push through a bill that would keep flood insurance prices at a reasonable level for residents who said they could highly unlikely,” the individual be driven from their homes if the insurance rates spike as planned. said.

Says racing site should be transformed

By Anna Gustafson

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 9

With Interactive Property Prices Map, A Story of Financial Duress - and the Need for Change

By Anna Gustafson Where is it affordable - or drastically not so to live in New York City?

Data journalist Chris Walker recently analyzed market value changes on close to 1 million properties throughout the five boroughs to create an interactive map that allows residents to see the rise and fall of property values around the city from 2008 to 2012. The end result is a fascinating account told through numbers of a story of urban migration, an economic downturn and the devastating impact of home foreclosures.

After combing through data from the city Department of Finance, Walker published the map at the end of October on his blog, Vizynary.com.

“I know a lot of New Yorkers almost love to complain about the seemingly relentless rising of prices, and so I wanted to add some fact to those complaints - and challenge the assumption it holds true anywhere in NYC,” wrote Walker, who studied economics at Stanford and lived in Manhattan before recently moving abroad with his girlfriend. “Housing affordability is a major issue for the mayoral election, and I also wanted to add my own original research to the conversation leading up to it.”

As for what Walker found, property prices throughout much of Queens declined during those four years - 2008 to 2012 - while, expectedly, parts of Manhattan and western Brooklyn have experienced dramatic price hikes that are in part the result of mass gentrification.

Property prices dipped throughout South Queens, with South Ozone Park and South Richmond Hill properties declining by about 22 per-

Photo Courtesy Vizynary

A data journalist created an interactive map that allows individuals to see how property values changed between 2008 and 2012

cent and Woodhaven prices dropping by about 23.5 percent. Ozone Park dropped by about 20 percent, while Richmond Hill fell by about 18 percent. Howard Beach experienced the smallest decline, about 5.9 percent.

Neighborhoods in mid-Queens also dropped, though not as dramatically as in the borough’s southern region. Often accused of becoming the next Williamsburg, Ridgewood did not experience anything close to the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood’s spike in prices - it dipped by about 8.7 percent. Williamsburg, on the other hand, seemed to spiral out of control, with its property prices skyrocketing by 175.8 percent.

Queens neighborhoods that did see an increase included Forest Hills - 1.2 percent, parts of Flushing, and portions of Astoria. Many of the borough’s upscale northern neighborhoods too saw a decrease in prices, with Bayside declining by about 0.7 percent and College Point dropping 7.4 percent. Southeast Queens - which was hammered with foreclosures - too saw steep declines.

“There’s a lot of data out there - and a lot we can learn from it, if it’s presented in relevant and focused ways,” Walker wrote. “When I published this map I was hoping that people would use it to think more critically about housing affordability, and to wonder why the map looks the way it does,

Federal Court Halts Stop-and-Frisk Changes, Removes Judge from Case

By Anna Gustafson In what seemed to many to be an unexpected turn of events, a federal appeals court last week halted planned changes to the New York Police Department’s stop-and-frisk practice and lashed out against the federal judge who previously ruled that the policing tactic was unconstitutional.

The Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit ruled that Judge Shira Scheindlin compromised the “appearance of impartiality surrounding this litigation” by ensuring she would hear this case when it was filed about six years ago.

File Photo Scheindlin is now off the case and Changes slated for the NYPD's stop-and-frisk practice are now on hold following a federal ruling her orders for the NYPD, including im- last week. plementing a monitor to oversee stop- lating plaintiffs’ Fourth and Fourteenth communities safe and obey the Conand-frisk reforms and creating a pro- Amendment rights,” Scheindlin wrote stitution. We have to end the overuse gram in which officers across the city in her decision, which did not force of stop-and-frisk - and any delay only would wear cameras to record street the city to halt its practice but aimed to means a continued and unnecessary rift encounters, are currently on hold. bring increased scrutiny. “The city acted between our police and the people they The federal judge in August had with deliberate indifference toward the protect.” lambasted the stop-and-frisk policy, in NYPD’s practice of making unconstituMeanwhile, Lhota began his statewhich cops will pat down individuals tional stops and conducting unconstitu- ment on the ruling with, “Bravo!” they believe could be carrying weapons tional frisks.”

“As I have said all along, Judge - a tactic that Mayor Bloomberg and PoCity leaders had varied reactions to Scheindlin’s biased conduct corrupted lice Commissioner Ray Kelly said has the decision, with Mayor-elect Bill de the case and her decision was not based driven crime down to historic lows but Blasio criticizing it and his former Repub- on the facts,” Lhota said in a prepared which other legislators said overwhelm- lican challenger, Joe Lhota, praising it. statement. “The ruling by the nation’s ingly targets minorities and has driven a “I’m extremely disappointed in second highest court was an unprecwedge between the NYPD and minor- [the] decision,” de Blasio said in a pre- edented rejection of both the result of ity communities. pared statement. “We shouldn’t have the case and the manner with which it “I find that the city is liable for vio- to wait for reforms that both keep our was achieved.”

10 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

not just to complain about their neighborhoods being over-priced.

“I do think the differences shown on the map have something to do with increasing inequality, and with foreclosures since 2008 disproportionately affecting minority homeowners in poorer neighborhoods,” Walker continued. “I think these issues need to be openly discussed, not just before the election but after it too.”

The data journalist, who previously worked for a tech company based in Silicon Valley called Palantir Technologies that makes analysis software used in counterterrorism, combatting bank fraud, and even for Hurricane Sandy relief, said he expects the city will have to focus on making neighborhoods more attractive places for people in order to boost property prices.

“That means more economic opportunity/ jobs, incentivizing more small businesses to take root, ensuring better access to city services,” he wrote. “In this scenario prices would rise only gradually because it takes a long time to fix these problems.

Walker said he is particularly concerned about the transformation of Brooklyn neighborhoods like Williamsburg and Bushwick - where prices shot up - and what that means for nearby areas, including in Queens.

“Opportunistic property developers could snap up bargain properties in Queens with the intent of fixing them up and making them livable for young professionals and urban elite,” he wrote. “In this case, property prices would increase more quickly, but the lower and middle classes would be priced - and pushed - out of the neighborhood.”

For Holidays, Family Only Wants Avonte Back

By Anna Gustafson Exactly one month after a 14-year-old boy with autism disappeared after leaving his school in Long Island City, his brother, Danny, said the Rego Park teen’s family is more determined than ever to find Avonte Oquendo.

“Each day that passes without Avonte being found is more devastating than the previous,” Danny Oquendo wrote on a Facebook page dedicated to finding Avonte. “I still feel your energy, Avonte; I know you are out there somewhere.”

Avonte has been missing since he managed to leave the Center Boulevard School on 51st Avenue in Long Island City unattended Oct. 4. The 14-year-old was last seen on surveillance video running out of the school. Once it was realized that Avonte was missing, all 468 of the city’s subway stations were searched for the boy who is particularly fascinated by trains.

Following a massive sweep of every station, Police Commissioner Ray Kelly enlisted the help of officials outside of the city to find the student whose disappearance has devastated his family.

“I wish this upon no family ever,” Danny Oquendo wrote. “Our lives will never be the same. Miss and love

you Avonte… Let us all please work hard on searching for and spreading the awareness about my little brother. Nothing would make me more thankful than to see him at our dinner table for Thanksgiving.”

There is a reward of about $90,000 for the safe return of the teen. Avonte was last seen wearing a gray striped shirt, black jeans and black sneakers. He is 5-foot-3 and weighs approximately 125 pounds.

Anyone with information about the missing child should call the NYPD at (800) 577-TIPS. The public can also submit tips by logging onto www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or texting tips to 274637 and then entering TIP577.

More information about search efforts can be found at www.findAvonte.com.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 11

Queens Museum Reopens to Public with a Three-Day Whirlwind of Activities

Photos Courtesy the Mayor’s Office

Mayor Bloomberg, Queens legislators and other officials cut the ribbon to the newly renovated Queens Museum of Art last week.

By Anna Gustafson Art aficionados and legislators from throughout the five boroughs celebrated the Queens Museum's $69 million makeover last week, feting the facility’s expansion that almost doubles space for exhibitions.

The art museum, situated in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, will re-open to the public this Saturday, Nov. 9, and there will be three days of grand reopening programs, including a performance from a Bulgarian choir, a fishing expedition, and a walk accompanied by marching bands.

Mayor Michael Bloomberg, museum officials and other legislators cut the ribbon on the

facility, which housed the city’s pavilion for the World’s Fair in 1939 and 1964. When the building reopens, visitors will be able to walk through a display case of memorabilia from the 1939 and 1964 World’s Fairs.

The renovation project created a new, 48-foot tall entrance that replaced the old ice rink. The new institution provides studio space for artists and a new exhibition space, including a 100-foot-by-40 foot curved wall.

The renovated museum also boasts a new 5,000 square foot library and a cafe terrace. The library, however, will not be open to the public until 2015.

As part of the three-day grand reopening weekend, the museum will unveil its exhibits, in-

cluding “Citizens of the World: Cuba in Queens,” “From Watersheds to Faucets: The Marvel of the New York City Water Supply System,” and “Shade Garden: Floral Lamps from the Tiffany Studios,” among numerous others.

The museum will kick off its inauguration weekend with a performance by a Bulgarian women’s choir, followed by a two and a half hour guided fishing trip in Flushing Meadows Corona Park - for which gears and baits will be provided. Artist Lyley Bernstein will lead the trip. There will also be video screenings by Taiwanese artists and a poetry reading by Tan Lin. On Sunday, community members and collaborators are invited to assembly in Corona Plaza, a

City Green-Lights South Ozone Park Co-Location

By Anna Gustafson

The city’s Panel for Educational Policy voted to approve a contentious plan that has been slammed by parents throughout Queens - and the other four boroughs - for 20 new school co-locations, including JHS 226 in South Ozone Park.

The PEP members voted 8 File Photo to 4 to green-light the proposal, with Queens Borough President Community Education Council 27 Helen Marshall’s appointee to member Michael Duvalle pleaded with the city last week to hold its vote the panel, Dmytro Fedkowskyj, on co-locating another school at JHS voting against the plan that he, 226 in South Ozone Park. However, along with educators, parents and the city voted a day after Duvalle area legislators, have vehemently spoke at a hearing to approve the criticized, with many saying the Queens co-location, as well as 19 others throughout the city. co-locations are a last-minute attempt by Mayor Bloomberg’s ad- a high school into the building ministration to implement what that also houses a special educahas proven to be a wildly unpopu- tion school - leaving the buildlar policy of moving schools into ing at 121-10 Rockaway Blvd. already existing school buildings with a total of four schools.

Almost every Council membefore Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio ber, as well as numerous state legtakes office in January. Just two islators, recently gathered on the weeks ago, the PEP approved steps of Borough Hall to urge the 17 other school co-locations Bloomberg administration to halt throughout the city. all co-location plans something Just months after the city voted to co-locate another ju- that clearly has not been heeded. nior high school at JHS 226, Politicians and parents have said now the city has agreed to move co-locations have resulted in di12 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

Museum Executive Director Tom Finkelpearl and Borough President Helen Marshall celebrate the ribbon cutting on the facility's $69 million makeover.

sastrously unequal scenarios in which the DOE favors students in the new, small schools and gives few resources to pupils and teachers in the school that was originally housed in the building.

At a hearing last Tuesday on the JHS 226 plan, parents pleaded with the city to not move forward with the co-location.

“Years after years, they’ve been telling us that we cannot reduce class sizes because there’s not enough room to create more classrooms in the schools,” said Mike Duvalle, a member of the District 27 Community Education Council. “For years, that was the reason we had 36 or event 40 kids in a classroom.”

JHS 226 parent Mona-Lisa Chandler voiced concerns over tight resources, noting that the school already has had to use trailers for additional classrooms - leaving parents to wonder how the building would accommodate other students.

Other schools in Queens being impacted by the PEP’s vote include IS 59 in Springfield Gardens and Long Island City and Martin Van Buren high schools.

new city Department of Transportation pedestrian space that the museum has been designing, and process to the Queens Museum accompanied by marching bands. Neighborhood folk dance groups and musicians reflecting the diverse immigrant communities in the areas near the museum will perform throughout the day.

The celebration will wrap up on Monday, when the Queens Museum will offer free admission to families with children ages 5 to 12. Also on Monday, there will be a museum wide scavenger hunt, puppet making and brush painting.

For more information about all the events happening at the museum this weekend, visit www. queensmuseum.org.

Queens Subway Platforms Plagued by Broken Lights, Report Says

By Anna Gustafson Queens has more broken lighting fixtures in its subway stations than anywhere else in the city, according to a report recently released by the New York Public Interest Research Group Straphangers Campaign.

In the group’s third annual “State of the Platforms” report, it determined that platforms throughout the city are plagued by rats, substantial peeling paint, water damage, and broken lights. About 13 percent of Queens stations have rats, 42 percent have broken lighting fixtures, 71 percent have substantial peeling paint, and 85 percent have substantial water damage, according to the report.

“We found what many riders know from bitter daily experience: Many subway platforms are grim and dreary,” said Jason ChinFatt, the Straphangers Campaign field organizer who oversaw 20 staff members and interns who rated 862 platform conditions between June 4 and Aug. 21 of this year.

“Making observations at every platform allows us to paint a more in-depth picture of the conditions that riders experience travelling through the system.”

The group’s first two surveys were based on a random sample of subway platforms, and the current document is an assessment of the all subway stations in the city, except for those that were closed or under construction.

In all the Straphangers Campaign re-

leased findings on 12 subway platform conditions, including the absence of garbage cans, overflowing garbage cans, broken handrails and staircases, exposed wiring, peeling paint, substantial water damage, floor cracks, rats, large garbage bags on platforms, broken light fixtures, and missing tiles.

The study did find that virtually every platform throughout the five boroughs had at least one garbage can and few platforms had overflowing garbage or trash bags on the platform. Substantial peeling paint was a significant issue, plaguing 74 percent of the platforms, and 82 percent of the spots had significant water damage. About 39 percent of the sites had floor cracks, 32 percent had graffiti and 26 percent had missing tile. Rats were a problem at 13 percent of the platforms.

Since last year, four of nine conditions observed by the campaign appear to have “grown substantially worse,” including exposed wiring, missing tile, graffiti and floor cracks. Five of the categories were slightly better or stayed about the same, including: rats, broken lighting, damaged handrails and staircases, peeling paint, and water damage.

“The data we collected tells a grim tale about some conditions riders face while on subway platforms,” Chin-Fatt said.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority has defended its stations and has stressed that the agency has undertaken significant efforts to deal with trash and eliminate rodents.

Christ the King High School Celebrates Red Ribbon Week

Photo Courtesy Christ the King HS

In honor of Red Ribbon Week, the Prevention Leadership Club (PDHP) at CK celebrated by creating awareness posters, handing out awareness Red Ribbons during lunch periods, and going into various classes to discuss the dangers of drug use with their peers.

Warning signs of teenage alcohol and drug use may include: • Physical: Fatigue, repeated health complaints, red and glazed eyes, and a lasting cough.

• Emotional: personality change, sudden mood changes, irritability, irresponsible behavior, low self-esteem, poor judgment, depression, and a general lack of interest.

• Family: starting arguments, breaking rules, or withdrawing from the family.

• School: decreased interest, negative attitude, drop in grades, many absences, truancy, and discipline problems.

• Social problems: new friends who are less interested in standard home and school activities, problems with the law, and changes to less conventional styles in dress and music.

Some of the warning signs listed above can also be signs of other problems. Parents may recognize signs of trouble and possible use of alcohol and other drugs with their teenager.

If you have concerns you may want to consult a physician to rule out physical causes of the warning signs. This should often be followed or accompanied by a comprehensive evaluation by a child and adolescent psychiatrist or mental health professional.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 13

2013 ELECTION

Third Party Candidates at Major Disadvantage with Ballot Design, Candidates Say

By Hannah Sheehan Third party political leaders are slamming the city Board of Elections over the “severely flawed, defective, and prejudicial” ballot design they say is in flagrant violation of state election law, according to a Nov. 4 press release.

Leaders and candidates from the Libertarian, Working Families, Reform, and Green parties say the ballot used in Tuesday’s election showed preference to the Democratic and Republican parties, which are afforded their own columns.

Third party candidates are left to commingle in joint columns, providing them with a distinct disadvantage, advocates say.

Opponents of the design allege that third party voters run the unique risk of inadvertently selecting candidates they didn’t mean to vote for when they attempt to vote down the line the way Republican and Democratic voters are able to do.

The danger is amplified by the new scanner machines, which don’t protect against voiding a ballot by accidentally selecting more than one candidate for the same office as lever machines did.

Tom Siracuse, the Green Party candidate for Manhattan’s City Council District 6, said the lack of third party influence in the BOE means that candidates from other parties don’t get a fair shake.

“If this ballot were a deliberate attempt to confuse third party voters, it couldn't have been done

Zainab Akande/The Forum Newsgroup

Third party candidates said the city's ballot design unfairly, and illegally, marginalizes them during elections.

better,” Siracuse said.

According to Siracuse, the BOE told Green party leaders that their candidates would be in ‘Column S,’ information the party then repeated in campaign literature. As it turns out, that wasn’t the case.

“We have people in that column that have nothing to do with the Green Party,” Siracuse said.

Bronx Council District 11 Green Party can-

didate John Reynolds said that a more egalitarian ballot design would also represent a positive development for candidates from the two major parties because of the impact third party candidates have on their election results.

“In a close election, Democrats and Republicans need to pay attention to this too,” Reynolds said. “It affects all of us.”

Director of Communications and Public Af-

In Bids for Public Advocate and Comptroller, James and Stringer Easily Win

New York Passes Expanded Casino Gambling

File Photo

Voters green-lighted an amendment to the state's constitution that will allow for an expansion of casino gambling in New York.

Letitia James

By Anna Gustafson While the mayoral race dominated the spotlight Tuesday night, Public Advocate-elect Letitia James reportedly landed more supporters at the polls than Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio.

According to unofficial election results, James, a Democratic Brooklyn councilwoman who made history by becoming the first black woman to be elected to citywide office, garnered the votes of 770,764 people - a whopping 83.5 percent of the vote. De Blasio also fared well, receiving 73.34 percent of the vote - or 752,604 votes.

James trounced her Conservative challenger, Robert Maresca, who landed 112,967 votes - which represented 12.25 percent of those who came out to support the candidates for public advocate. Green Party candidate James Lane came in third, with 1.74 percent of the vote - or 16,088 votes.

“Yes, this is indeed historic, because our government must be representative of all New Yorkers,” James said in her victory speech Tuesday night.

“What I’m really proud of is the fact that we ran a campaign centered on progressive ideas,” the councilwoman continued.

After defeating former Gov. Eliot Spitzer in Sep-

fairs Valerie Vazquez said the ballot is in compliance with election law and that the design choices were intended to remedy the BOE's reliance on tiny typefaces that ballot legibility advocates say are difficult for many New Yorkers to read.

“We’re trying to do everything we can to increase the font size,” Vazquez said.

The issue has been repeatedly addressed by graphic designers, including AIGA, a national professional organization for designers. Alicia Cheng, co-founder of Brooklyn-based design studio MGMT.,agrees that the ballot design presents a “typographic challenge.”

“It’s a lot of information to fit on one sheet of paper,” said Cheng, who feels that the current design is “less than inviting.”

“They have to print in black and white, but you could use a tint of gray to identify each column.

That’s a common spreadsheet delineator to make the eye sort of carry across visually,” she continued.

“The party names could be all caps and in bold, and that could at least help identify the party names,” Cheng explained.

Cheng also suggested nixing duplicated party names and eliminating unnecessary and confusing lines to make better use of space.

Third party leaders said they plan to seek legal advice about how best to proceed in encouraging the BOE to adopt a less preferential ballot design before the next election.

File Photo

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

tember’s Democratic primary, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer easily won his bid to become the city’s next comptroller.

Stringer landed even more votes than de Blasio or James, with 782,703 ballots cast for him - representing 80.53 percent of the vote. Republican John Burnett came in second with 161,608 votes, or 16.63 percent.

Green Party candidate placed third with a little more than 2 percent of the vote - or 19,544 votes.

“Thank you New York, thank you,” Stringer told supporters, including his wife Elyse Buxbaum, at a TriBeCa bar Tuesday night. “I want everyone in this city to know that I will be a comptroller who will serve this city with honesty and integrity.”

After lauding de Blasio for his decisive win, the Manhattan borough president went on to speak about his vision for the new job.

“We have an opportunity to chart a new course for New York - an era when government works for working families, provides opportunity for all and protects our fiscal future,” Stringer said.

14 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

By Anna Gustafson Full gaming? Yes, please.

Voters threw their support behind a Constitutional amendment that paves the way for seven Las Vegas-style casinos to open in New York - though the expanded gambling will not be making its way to New York City any time soon, disappointing a number of area legislators and those at Resorts World Casino New York City in South Ozone Park.

The amendment, passed by 1,472,576 people - 57 percent of those who went to the polls on Tuesday, will allow casinos to offer full gambling, as opposed to the electronic games currently permitted at places like Resorts World. About 43 percent of voters opposed the amendment - or 1,110,282 people.

Gov. Cuomo had pushed the amendment, saying it will give a much-needed economic boost to New York - and particularly to the upstate region.

According to current plans, the first four

casinos are expected to be built upstate at sites tapped by developers. Full gambling will, eventually, arrive in the city - though likely not for seven years.

Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (DRockaway Park), state Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) and representatives from the Queens Chamber of Commerce, the Queens Economic Development Corporations and other area small businesses have railed against the governor’s reluctance to immediately bring full-fledged table games to Queens.

“Post-Sandy, we need to find new and creative ways to help our small businesses to create good-paying jobs that will rejuvenate our local economy,” Goldfeder said at a press conference held outside Queens Borough Hall earlier this year. “Creating a fullscale, enhanced gaming casino at Resorts World would not only increase revenues for the community and the state, but the impact would be felt immediately in terms of economic activity and job creation for Southern Queens and Rockaway families.”

2013 ELECTION

Bill de Blasio Elected Mayor in Sweeping Victory Over Joe Lhota

Kate Bubacz/The Fvorum Newsgroup

Bill de Blasio and his wife, Chirlane, celebrate his decisive victory over Joe Lhota Tuesday night.

By Kate Bubacz and Ben Kleine Landslide. Mandate. Triumph. Democrat Bill de Blasio won the mayoral election by a stunningly wide margin Tuesday night, defeating Republican Joe Lhota with a severe blow that many have said amounts to a citywide rebuke of Mayor Bloomberg’s policies.

The first new mayor in 12 years, de Blasio, the city’s public advocate and a former councilman from Brooklyn, pummeled Lhota, the former chairman of the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, in the polls, landing 73.6 percent of the vote following the Democrat’s campaign focusing on a promise to even the city’s financial playing field, which many have felt widen over the years.

“My fellow New Yorkers, today you spoke out loudly and clearly for a new direction in our city, united by a belief that our city should leave no New Yorker behind,” de Blasio told a jubilant crowd at his campaign party in Park Slope Tuesday night. “...But let me be clear. Our work - all of our work - is really just beginning. And we have no illusions about the task that lies ahead. Tackling inequality isn’t easy; it never has been and never will be. The challenges we face have been decades in the making, and the problems we set out to address will not be solved overnight.”

While many have said that Lhota’s defeat has more to do with a repudiation of the mayor’s policies, including a frustration with aggressive policing, than with Lhota himself, the Republican stressed in his concession speech

at the Gansevoort Park Avenue Hotel in Manhattan that crime is at a historic low at the end of Bloomberg’s tenure. After quieting the boos that erupted when Lhota brought up de Blasio’s name, the candidate expressed solidarity with the mayor-elect.

“We are one city,” he said. “We all want good paying jobs. We all want a strong quality of life.

We want our city to move forward.

De Blasio’s sweeping victory followed a rapid rise in public opinion, with the candidate emerging from a packed field of primary election contenders - including Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan), once considered by many to be the next mayor, former Comptroller Bill Thompson, and former U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner - as the front-runner who seemed to capture a city angry with income inequality, the NYPD’s stop and frisk program, and little in the way of affordable housing.

Following September’s primary, his campaign gained momentum and culminated when de Blasio was announced as the projected winner immediately after the polls cosed at 9 p.m.

His victory was so inevitable that the only people in the Park Avenue Armory YMCA to cheer the results were the press corps. The doors opened shortly thereafter and about 2,000 well wishers, volunteers and community advocates from all backgrounds filed orderly into an area in front of the stage to await the new mayor.

“We have been with the campaign since the

Continued on page 28

Thousands of supporters swarmed the Park Slope armory where de Blasio held his victory party.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 15

2013 ELECTION

A Comfortable Victory for Ulrich Council Bid

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup An exuberant Ulrich used most of his time at the mic

Ulrich arrived to vote at his own polling site at 7:30 a.m., with wife Yadira and daughter Lily in tow. Although not old enough to vote or even speak yet, there’s no doubt that Lily Ulrich swayed a few doubts with that beautiful smile.

By Patricia Adams Defeats Simon Eric Ulrich walked into a screaming crowd at his victory celebration at Russo’s on the bay Tuesday night. Accompanied by his wife, Yadira Moran and beautiful baby daughter Lily, Ulrich arrived on the heels of an announcement from NY1 that Lew Simon was in the lead by 62% over

to thank those who returned him to office especially a staff he says was incomparable and also offered the assurances that he’s going to be around for a long tie.

the posted 38% for Ulrich.

But minutes later, when Ulrich took the mic at the podium, the shock of the results posted by NY1 initially was quickly set to rest. “Despite the fact that NY1 has us on the losing side of things but I can assure you that with only two poll sites outstanding I am ahead by roughly 1500 votes.”

Ulrich went on to praise those he considers for the successful re-elec-

tion bid. “Because of your good work and all of the support throughout the district, we have a very strong lead,” he beamed.

Ulrich also told those assembled that regardless of the number of paper ballots outstanding and paper that we yet to be counted, his victory was not in jeopardy.

“I am just so thrilled to be in this room tonight with all of you. Many of

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you have been with me since the very beginning and this is not going to be the end, I can assure you of that.”

The councilman was especially effusive with the praise for his family especially wife Yadira whom he said “puts up with so much, it’s just incredible. I think I see much more of all of you than I do of her.” Ulrich also praised his grandmother and grandfather for their unwavering support of whatever choices he makes.

In concluding Ulrich turned serious, “I would not be the person that I am today without the people that are standing behind me standing-with me I should say. I am so blessed to have the love and support and the confidence of these people.”

“But, there is one person who stands out above the rest. The person that was always able to cheer me up and able to give me the good spirit to fight on each and every day,” said an obviously emotional Ulrich, “and that is my beautiful daughter Lily.”

“Go to bed tonight knowing two things--that we made a difference”– and joked Ulrich, “we kicked Lew Simon’s butt.”

By The Numbers How You Voted Unofficial Numbers Released From the Board of Elections early Wednesday: 23rd Assembly District Eric Ulrich 7,640 Lew Simon 5,489 28th Assembly District Eric Ulrich 359 Lew Simon 418 31st Assembly District Eric Ulrich 330 Lew Simon 519 38th Assembly District Eric Ulrich 1330 Lew Simon 2094 Total Votes: Eric Ulrich 9659 53.13 % Lew Simon 8420 46.87 %

Auto Vandals Strike Again Latest incident in Ozone Park

Donations are being picked up on Friday, November 8.

Robert Stridiron/The Forum Newsgroup

Anjella Baglobind looks on in disbelief as police fill out the report detailing the theft of two tires and rims from her family vehicle.

By Patricia Adams

16 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

Pooran Baglobind is kicking himself in the pants for not following his wife’s urgings to call the police about a vehicle that was blocking their driveway on Sitka Street off Pitkin Avenue in Ozone Park for nearly a week.

Anjella Balgobind wanted her husband to have the car towed so they could access their driveway. But instead, the couple was forced to park their 2013 Toyota Corolla, less than six months old, on the street outside their home.

“It was about 6 o’clock in the morning when the neighbors came to wake my wife up,” Baglobind said. She went outside to discover their late model grey sedan up on a jack with the two wheels on the street side having been removed.

They got it only about six months ago.

“I figured the person would come back soon, and I didn’t want to give any problems,” he said, “so I didn’t call the tow truck and now I’m paying for it.”

The Baglobind’s are one of dozens of victims

over the last ten months that have been caught up in a skyrocketing rise in local auto crime plaguing many precincts. Police say they will continue to step up efforts to drive the vandals away from neighborhoods they now use as a veritable hunting ground for desirable wheels and rims.

On many occasions, authorities say, the thieves arrive in communities with an order list for wheels that others wish to purchase. Among the most popular vehicles targeted are the Nissan Maxima and Altima, the Toyota Camry and Corolla and the Honda Accord.

The problem is one that continues to frustrate police and community residents. Within the confines of the 106th Precinct, the dedication of additional resources and serious concentration on the issue has resulted in several arrests, and now the precinct hopes that the recent assignment of 16 additional officers at the precinct will further their success.

If you have any information with regard to this or similar auto crime, please call the precinct at 718-845-2211.

2013 ELECTION

Katz Wins Boro President Race in Landslide Victory

Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup

Melinda Katz was elected as Queens' next borough president with a decisive 80.3 percent of the vote, according to unofficial results.

By Anna Gustafson Raising her arms and beaming at the crowd of supporters gathered in the Queens County Democratic Headquarters on Austin Street in Forest Hills Tuesday night, Borough President-elect Melinda Katz claimed victory over Republican candidate Tony Arcabascio and promised her upcoming tenure would focus on securing resources for a borough she argued is too often snubbed by City Hall.

“We deserve arts and culture in our schools,” said Katz, who landed 80.3 percent of the vote, according to unofficial election results. “We deserve to have our parents able to live near us.”

A former city councilwoman and Assemblywoman from Forest Hills, Katz handily defeated Arcabascio, a businessman from Astoria, who received 17.1 percent of the vote. Everly Brown, who had run as a Democrat in September’s primary and ran in the general election on the Jobs and Education line secured about 2.6 percent of the vote.

Katz highlighted her family during her speech, saying her victory was the culmination of her parents’ careers. Katz’s father, David, was the founder and conductor of the Queens Symphony Orchestra and her mother, Jeanne, was the founder of the Queens Council for the Arts.

“They taught me this is a borough worth fighting for,” Katz said. “...I dedicate this evening to my parents.”

The Democrat also thanked her numerous volunteers and staff for running “a campaign that I’m extremely proud of.”

Saying it was a "long and mostly enjoyable campaign with many nights spent speaking to inform the people and the voters that we had what this borough needed to finally move in the right direction," Arcabascio said he wishes "only the best for our borough and our city."

"I hope that the new administration will listen to the people they represent and not exercise their own wills as they have in the past," Arcabascio said.

"I congratulate all the winners and hope and pray that they truly put the people and our borough of Queens first. Their success will be our success."

As borough president, Katz said she plans to work with the diverse communities in Queens, as well as fight for funding that the borough needs for everything from transportation to education.

“We’re a borough of diversity and that’s an asset, not a flaw,” Katz said.

Borough President Helen Marshall attended Katz’s party Tuesday night and said she was “very, very proud of her.”

“She’s young and ready and full of enthusiasm,” Marshall said.

Michael Reich, the Queens Democratic Party's executive secretary, also lauded the incoming borough president.

"The people of Queens County have spoken," Reich said of Katz's victory.

Born and raised in Forest Hills, Katz represented her home neighborhood, Rego Park, Kew Gardens and parts of Maspeth, South Elmhurst and Richmond Hill in the City Council from 2002 to 2009. There, she was chairwoman of the powerful Land Use Committee. Prior to serving

Queens Borough President Helen Marshall, left, and Borough President-elect Melinda Katz celebrate Katz's victory on election night.

Michael Reich, the Queens Democratic Party's executive secretary, heaped praise on Melinda Katz, saying the borough will be well served by her.

on the Council, Katz was the director of community boards for then Queens Borough President Claire Shulman and represented Forest Hills, Rego Park, Middle Village, and Glendale in the state Assembly.

She lives with her partner, radio personality and Guardian Angels founder Curtis Sliwa, and their two sons in the same Forest Hills house in which she grew up.

Much of Katz’s campaign hinged on the lack of resources stemming from City Hall for Queens, and Katz previously told The Forum that she plans to fight for funding for “arts and culture

for our schools, after-school programs, our sewer system because there’s such flooding throughout the entire borough, [and] cleanup for Sandy.”

She has said that one of her first priorities upon taking office will be to address storm preparedness and support for individuals still dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy.

“The city seems to be ready for the summer crowd in the Rockaways, but there’s a real concern about the speed and effectiveness of permanent protection there,” she said in a previous interview. “Not protecting the Rockaways means the rest of the borough is in danger.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 17

FREE HOME DELIVERY SALE STARTS 11/07/13

LaValle San Marzano DOP Italian Peeled Tomatoes 28 oz. can ............................. $2.99 Monari Balsamic Vinegar 16 oz. bottle ........................... $2.99 New York Ricotti Cavatelli 13 oz. pkg ............................. $2.99 Pizza Dough 1 lb. bag ......................................................... 99 ¢

SALE ENDS 11/13/13

Boneless Sirloin Steaks ...................................................... $3.99 lb.

Boneless Pork Roast ........................................................... $2.99 lb.

Perdue Chicken Leg Quarters ............................................. 99 ¢ lb.

Osso Bucco Shin of Beef (Great for Soup) ........................ $2.99 lb.

Nature Veal Stew ................................................................... $4.99 lb.

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

IT PAYS TO BUY THE BEST:

Boars Head Honey Ham & Swiss Cheese Combo (1/2 lb. Min) .......................... $6.99 lb.

Boars Head Blazing Buffalo Chicken Breast ............... $6.99 lb.

Boars Head Oven Gold Turkey ...................................... $8.99 lb.

Homemade Shrimp Salad .............................................. $7.99 lb.

Homemade Rigatoni Salata Salad ................................. $2.99 lb.

SANDWICH SPECIAL: Philly Cheese Steak Hero ................................................. $5.99

Not Responsible for Typographical Errors

Cello Carrots ......................................................... 2 for $1.00 Eastern Potatoes 5 lb. bag ............................................. $1.79 Onions 2 lb. bag .............................................................. $1.49 Celery ......................................................................$1.79 each Escarole & Chicory ......................................................99 ¢ lb.

18 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

Serves 8-10 people 18lb. to 20 lb. Freshly Killed Turkey (cooked), Sausage Stuffing, Yams, Steamed Broccoli, Cranberry Sauce and Gravy.

Apple and Pumpkin Pie. Three loaves of Italian Bread.

1 Dozen Rolls. 2-pound Cookie Tray.

$199 Stuffed Mushrooms .....................$69.00 full pan Candied Yams .............................$39.99 full pan Stuffing ........................................$49.00 full pan with Sausage ............................$59.00 full pan String Bean Almondine ...............$49.95 full pan Roasted Potatoes Garlic & Oil ....$49.95 full pan Cream Corn Medley .....................$49.99 full pan Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes .....$49.99 full pan Steamed Broccoli with Garlic ................. $49.99 Sweet Potato Mash .................................. $49.99 Lasagna .......................................$79.00 full pan Baked Ziti ....................................$70.00 full pan Stuffed Shells ..............................$70.00 full pan

Manicotti .............. $70.00 full pan Large Stuffed Artichokes ...................$5.99 each Cranberry Sauce ..................$9.99 Sausage Bread ....................$7.99 Cookie Trays (2 pounds and up) ...............$8.99 per pound Sliced Platters of Fruit Small $39 Medium $59 Large $89

All Turkeys are Bell & Evans organically raised:

16-18 lb. Cooked Turkey $69.95 & 20-24 lb. Cooked Turkey $89.95

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 19

Flowers in the Park Thanksgiving Centerpieces

Fall & festive $75

Vintage Thanksgiving $75 Antique blue hydrangea, seeded eucalyptus, mini white pumpkins, cabbage flowers and roses in an elongated wooden container complete the newest addition to our Thanksgiving portfolio.

Rich colors of maroon, orange and green make up this beautiful cornucopia arrangement including roses, berries, leucadendron, peony& foliage

Beautiful & bold $55

Simple & elegant $45

Assorted jewel toned roses mixed with berries finished in a square birch bark covered vase.

Beautiful fall hydrangea mixed with jewel toned roses, fresia & berries in a birch bark covered pot

Fabulously fun $70 Orange & yellow tulips, fresia, pin cushions & roses fill this lovely pumpkin centerpiece

Modern flair $45 Gorgeous fall hydrangea surrounding bold pink celosia in a square birch bark covered vase.

Custom Designs • Market Price

The above are just a few samples from our portfolio. We would love to work with you on a custom arrangement.

Just let us know what you have in mind and we will create your perfect centerpiece.

In order to provide you with the freshest flowers, slight substitutions may sometimes be necessary

DELIVERY charge is $5 and available in Howard Beach, Ozone Park, Middle Village, Maspeth and Forest Hills on Tuesday 11/26 between 4pm – 7pm, Wednesday 11/27 between 2pm - 6pm & Thursday 11/28 between 8am - 12pm* *No Manhattan deliveries on Thursday 11/28

To place an order or request additional information, please email us at flowersintheparkct@gmail.com.

All orders must be placed by Monday, November 18th.

Or call 917-881-9760

Happy Thanksgiving!

20 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

At Dolce Aesthetics, A Chance to See Yourself in A New Light

Donna DeCarolis/The Forum Newsgroup

The waiting room at Dolce Aesthetics in Glendale immediately makes people feel at ease.

By Anna Gustafson For Dolce Aesthetics NY owner Jennifer DiLandro, there is nothing better than walking into work and hearing, on a nearly daily basis: Thank you. I feel wonderful.

After she opened Dolce Aesthetics at 8747 Myrtle Ave. in Glendale almost exactly one year ago, DiLandro has repeatedly worked with individuals on everything from botox to chemical peels and eyelash extensions - and has gotten to hear, time and again, what a difference it has made in people’s lives.

“I have a lot of women who come to me and

say how wonderful they look - that’s the best feeling in the world,” said DiLandro, a Howard Beach native who spent years as a nurse before deciding to forge a new path for herself and open a business.

A space filled with artwork and a dedicated staff of five, many of whom hail from Howard Beach, Dolce Aesthetics offers a variety of services, including botox, juvederm, radiesse, belotero, laser treatment, eyelash extensions, vein therapy, chemical peels, ear candling, facials and more.

Stressing that she wants individuals to be able to transform the way they look without having to undergo surgery, DiLandro said she and her staff work hard to boost individuals’ self confidence

Dolce Aesthetics offers a wide variety of services, including botox, laser treatment, facial spa, eyelash extensions, and more.

with their work.

“I’ve found my own demographic here - women who don’t want plastic surgery but want their skin looking fresh and beautiful,” DiLandro said.

A registered nurse who has both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nursing, DiLandro worked at Long Island Jewish Medical Center for 10 years - during which time she received numerous awards for nursing excellence. She graduated Magna Cum Laude from Molloy College and, during her tenure at Long Island Jewish she received her master’s. In 2005, she became the director of nursing at Synegeryfirst Surgical Center in Brooklyn.

While DiLandro was always interested in self and beauty, her desire to work in the world of botox and dermal fillers after partnering with numerous plastic surgeons as a nurse. She received her first certificate in botox and dermal fillers from Aesthetic Advancement in the winter of 2005 and, over the past eight years, she has injected thousands of patients and has been deemed an expert injector.

“Injecting is an art form that you develop over time,” said DiLandro, who now works under the supervision of Medical Director Dr. Jean Claude Compas. “I’m one of the best injectors in the city; my work stands on its own.”

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 21

22 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

forum Fun & Games ACROSS

1. Ottoman title 6. Goes with flow?

9. Recipe amt.

13. Partner of pains 14. Calendar mo.

15. Singer Abdul 16. Rope spiral, e.g.

17. Cultural Revolution leader 18. _____ room 19. *"The most distinguished contribution to American literature for children" medal 21. *"The Wind in the _______" 23. *___ Spot run!"

24. Move slowly and carefully 25. Onomatopoeia for collision 28. Rodeo Drive tree 30. Winter hat feature 35. Fusses 37. Toothed groomer 39. New Zealandian minority 40. Eight bits 41. *"The Giving ____" and "The Magic ____ House" 43. Equal exchange, like swap 44. Leaning 46. Make a picture 47. Can be smoked or tied 48. Natural ribbon alternative 50. Glitch 52. Romano or Barone 53. Supreme Court count 55. More, in Madrid 57. Gandhi, to many 61. *Bigg's neighbors 65. Cover story 66. Marienbad, e.g.

68. Launch or throw 69. Colorado ski resort 70. One less than jack 71. "Sesame Street" regular 72. Lion's share 73. Talk, talk, talk 74. Film amount, pl.

DOWN 1. TV's "____ Stars" 2. Advil target 3. It must go on?

4. Basil, chives and bay leaf, e.g.

5. In R.E.M. stage 6. Awarded to "Breaking Bad" 7. Sheep sound 8. *Like Eric Carle's bear 9. *Adjective for Sarah 10. Plague symptom 11. Like Food movement 12. *Clifford the Big Red Dog's feet 15. Horse mouthpiece 20. Don't just stand there 22. Rocks to some 24. Plunge 25. *King of the Elephants 26. Temple's innermost sanctuary 27. Recurring theme 29. *Ruler of rings or flies 31. Reckless 32. Reduce 33. Something in the air 34. *a.k.a. Pippilotta Delicatessa Windowshade Mackrelmint 36. American women's magazine 38. *Ivy's best friend 42. Hindu religious teacher 45. *Comic book reporter and Snowy's master 49. Between "ready" and "fire" 51. Assemble for dinner, e.g.

54. Foul 56. About 1.3 cubic yards 57. "Yes, ____!"

58. "The Sun ___ Rises" 59. Shakira's don't lie?

60. Aid in crime 61. Long and lean 62. Pryce, of fictional Sterling Cooper Draper Pryce 63. *Like Cruella de Vil 64. Gets the picture 67. *Princess' cause of insomnia

CROSSWORD

SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE

SUDOKU

TRIVIA 1. Chug, chug, chug, Puff, puff, puff is how what famous book begins?

2. Mickey Mouse has how many fingers on each hand?

3. Every time Pinocchio tells a lie what happens?

4. What cartoon character is always saying "what's up doc"?

Answers from Last Week: 1: Central America. 2: Earthquake.

3: Airplane. 4: Ireland.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 23

THE HAPPENINGS Thursday, Nov. 7

Forest Hills Restaurant Week

Yoga in Howard Beach

The Dancing Bells of Rekha

Howard Beach Senior Center 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

PS 268 All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend 175th Street and Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica 7:30 p.m. yoga with Charlie Roemer every Friday morning.

Runs through Nov. 9 This musical touches on the plight of the first Indian For more information, From Asian fusion to traditional Italian, Tex-Mex and immigrants on sugar plantations in Guyana. Another call the center at (718) 738-8100.

Gastro Pub, enjoy a three-course prix-fixe $15 lunch performance will be held Sunday, Nov. 10 at 5:30 p.m. and $25 or $35 dinner at spots throughout the neighborTickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children. hood. The week is hosted by the Forest Hills Chamber For more information, call (917) 846-3899. of Commerce.

For more information and to find out about particiFlushing Town Hall pating restaurants, visit www.foresthillschamber.

137-35 Northern Blvd., Flushing 8 p.m.

Theatre by the Bay org.

A jazz concert will feature some of the borough’s most 13-00 209th St., Bayside 8 p.m. accomplished musicians. Tickets are $15.

A professional-quality production by an amateur and inFor more information, tergenerational group which has a mission to present visit www.flushingtownhall.org. high-quality and family-friendly theater - the Community Theatre Group of Bay Terrace Jewish Center - will put 155-55 Crossbay Blvd. on the beloved “Guys and Dolls” on Saturday at 8 p.m.

The Howard Beach Senior Center will offer art classes and Sunday at 3 p.m. Tickets are $18 to $20. For more with a certified teacher from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., as information, visit www.theatrebythebayny.com. well as from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

All individuals age 60 and older are welcome to attend.

The center is located on Crossbay Boulevard across from Waldbaums. For more information, call (718) 738-8100.

Mt. Olivet Cemetery King Manor Museum 65-40 Grand Ave., Maspeth 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.

150-03 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica 12 p.m.

A $5 donation is suggested for this Civil War relic exhibit and memorial service, which will support the Sons of Learn about the influential King family, play historic parlor games and make a family tree at this event that is Union Veterans of the Civil War. free and open to the public.

Queens Library at Jamaica For more information, visit www.kingmanor.org.

89-11 Merrick Blvd., Jamaica 6:30 p.m.

This discussion will focus on President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation and wartime legislative developments dealing with slavery. The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended. To reserve a spot, call (718) 206-0545 ext. 13.

For more information, visit www.kingmanor.org.

Trumpeters of Queens

Guys and Dolls

Howard Beach Senior Center Art Class

Saturday, Nov. 9

Civil War Relic Exhibit Hands-on History: and Memorial Gather Around the Hearth

Discussion on Lincoln and Civil War

Mickey Coleman Live in Concert

Sunday, Nov. 10

Italian Sensation Giada Valenti at St. John’s

Friday, Nov. 8

Supermarket Sweeps at Sacred Heart Sacred Heart School 84-05 78th Ave., Glendale 7 p.m.

Tickets for the Sacred Heart School’s Supermarket Sweeps are $10, which includes two playing cards, coffee and tea, cake, and a door prize raffle ticket. This is a sellout event, so don’t miss out. For more information and to purchase tickets, contact Miriam at (347) 248-6227 or Marcia at (718) 749-6075.

Howard Beach Senior Center Bridge 155-55 Crossbay Blvd.

The Howard Beach Senior Center offers a variety of bridge playing experiences. There is supervised bridge New York Irish Center on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and duplicate 10-40 Jackson Ave., Long Island City 7:30 p.m. bridge is offered on Fridays from 12:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m. The latest sensation on the Irish folk scene, singerThe Howard Beach Senior Center is now located across songwriter Mickey Coleman will entertain music lovers from Waldbaums on Cross Bay Boulevard and is open Saturday night. Tickets are $11 to $22. to anyone 60 or older.

For more information, For more information, call (718) 738-8100. visit www.newyorkirishcenter.org.

24 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

Little Theater at St. John’s University 8000 Utopia Pkwy. 5 p.m.

Renowned singer Giada Valenti will be accompanied by her own six-piece band for a performance that will take her audience on a romantic journey performing her own renditons of American and Italian hits from the 1960s, 70s and 80s, as well as contemporary songs.

The show, entitled “From Venice With Love,” will later this year be filmed as a television special for PBS. Tickets vary in price from $25 to $45. To purchase tickets, visit http://giadavalenti.brownpapertickets.com.

Crafts Fair and Flea Market Transfiguration Parish Hall 64-14 Clinton Ave., Maspeth 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Numerous vendors will be featured at this crafts fair and flea market. Vendors interested in participating should call (347) 339-1362. Tables are $30.

Photojournalist Speaks About Traveling War-Torn Planet Kingsland Homestead 143-35 37th Ave., Flushing 2:30 p.m.

We'll show you how to have a good time...

Enjoy your community.

Photographer and au- All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend the thor Blair Seitz will distai chi classes, taught by Elaine Fleischman. cuss his memoir, “Turn For more information, the World Around: A call the center at (718) 738-8100.

Photojournalist Discovers Paths to Peace Traveling a War-Torn Planet.”

As part of the discussion, Seitz will describe the transforming experiencHoward Beach Senior Center es he underwent while 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. traveling in more than All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend 20 countries throughout chair aerobics with Charlie Roemer.

Africa and Asia.

For more information, The event is free, but those who want to attend must call the center at (718) 738-8100.

RSVP by calling (718) 939-0647.

For more information, visit www.queenshistoricalsociety.org.

Sunday, Nov. 17

Toys 4 Tots Run

Forest Park, Woodhaven 12:30 p.m.

The East Coast Car Association will hold its annual Toys 4 Tots Run to benefit St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside.

The run, begun by ECCA’s founder, Eddie Walter, is held each November and typically averages about 100 cars and motorcycles filled with toys for the patients of St. Mary’s Hospital for Children in Bayside. During the ceremony at the hospital that concludes the run, ECCA presents St. Mary’s with its annual donation.

The run begins at the Forest Park bandshell parking lot and makes its way through Queens with a police escort to St. Mary’s.

Every car, truck or motorcycle involved in the run is asked to bring one unwrapped education gift; please do not bring stuffed animals. If a club or organization would like to present a check as a donation on the day of the run, please make it out to St. Mary’s Healthcare The Windjammer The Astoria Bookshop System.

552 Grandview Ave., Ridgewood 31-28 31st St., Astoria 11 a.m.

For more information, 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

This workshop is open to writers of all experience levels visit http://www.eccatoysfortots.org/toyrun.html.

Crafty residents attending this party are asked to bring and will focus on memoir-writing. The instructor, Emcraft materials and supplies to share. There will be pizily Herzlin, has taught at Columbia University and The za and drinks, the party is family-friendly, and there is New School.A $5 to $10 contribution is suggested. free entry. Supplies will be donated by area businesses For more information, and those who attend will receive a free cigar box to visit www.astoriabookshop.com. decorate.

Howard Beach Chair Aerobics

Creative Writing Workshop

Tuesday, Nov. 12

Ridgewood Craft Party

Sunday, Nov. 24

Free Turkey Giveaway

Monday, Nov. 11

Pre-war Jewish Life in Europe

Wednesday, Nov. 13

QueensWay Meeting

Emanuel United Church of Christ Woodhaven Boulevard and 91st Avenue 7:30 p.m.

The Friends of the QueensWay will hold an open public meeting and presentation at the Emanuel United Church of Christ. The QueensWay is a proposal to turn 3.5 miles of abandoned rail line into a park, similar to Manhattan’s High Line.

Saturday, Nov. 16

Woodhaven Fall Fair

Central Queens Y 67-09 108th St., Forest Hills 1:30 p.m.

David Fishman, a professor of Modern Jewish History at the Jewish Theological Seminary, will give a talk focusing on Jewish life in Eastern Europe before World War II. The event is open to the public, and there is a $7 suggested donation.

For more information, visit www.cqy.org.

Tai Chi in Howard Beach Howard Beach Senior Center 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Emanuel United Church of Christ Woodhaven Boulevard and 91st Avenue 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Emanuel United Church of Christ’s annual fall fair will include numerous vendors, a giant auction table, a raffle to win three $100 prizes, a 50/50 raffle, used books, breakfast, lunch, supper, and refreshments.

Admission is free.

For more information, call (718) 849-1153.

Queens Tabernacle 86-03 96 St., Woodhaven Queens Tabernacle is giving away free turkeys at two services - one at 8 a.m. and one at 11 a.m. Residents must attend one of the services to be eligible for the free turkey.

For more information, call (718) 846-7575.

Sunday, Nov. 24

Flea Market at Nativity Church

Nativity Church Hall 101-41 91st St., Ozone Park 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

A giant indoor flea market will be held, rain or shine, at Nativity Church Hall. There will be a wide variety of items for sale, including records, books, games, coins, leather goods, antiques, jewelry, toys, crafts, magaBegins at Fresh Pond Rd., ends at Wyckoff Ave. zines, household items, VCR tapes and DVDs, crafts, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and more.

Tour the best thrift and resale shops in Ridgewood and find affordable and fashionable shopping right before There will be a snack bar, and there will be raffle tickets to win a $25 Pathmark gift certificate. the holidays. People who join the tour at 1 p.m. will get To rent a table at the event, a free list and addresses of all the shops. call Marge Colace at (718) 843-4680.

Ridgewood’s Secret Frock Shop Tour

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 25

Staying physically active as you age can prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease.

If you are, like so many thousands of children now caring for elderly, or not so elderly, parents with Alzheimer’s Disease, then you are undoubtedly taunted and frustrated by the effects of the disease—not only on the patient—but on the lives of every family member involved.

It is also common that these patients, no matter how many children they have—have only one that bears the brunt of the responsibility in caring for that parent.

While support groups and friendly ears remain one of the most valuable resources that are available to caregivers, researchers and ex-

perts are convinced that we must also focus on reducing the incidence of this disease is by taking several, pro-active steps..

In the U.S. alone the Alzheimer’s Association estimates that one in eight older men and women has the disease. It is the sixth leading cause of death in this country. This week The Forum looks at ways we may be able to reduce the risk of the threat to the golden years.

Researchers and medical experts agree that the following steps could possibly lead to reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s and at the same time, develop some very healthy lifestyle choices.

Reducing the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease • Exercise regularly. Studies, including one done among 700 70-year-olds who were asked to submit data on their physical activity. Three years into the study, each of them received an MRI. Participants who performed more physical activity showed less brain shrinkage and fewer white matter lesions—both of which are signs of Alzheimer’s. In fact, physical exercise reduces a person’s risk of contracting the disease by 50 %. There is a huge amount of supportive evidence that physical activity is an essential and successful component in the fight against Alzheimer’s.

• Eat healthy. Plainly and simply, the brain operates better when fueled by a healthy diet that includes fresh fruit and vegetables, healthy fats and lean protein.

Researchers have also proven beyond a doubt that there is a direct correlation between hearthealthy and brain-healthy eating and evidence to suggest that heart disease may be a forerunner to Alzheimer’s. Eating a heart healthy diet now may prove to be of great benefit in fending off Alzheimer’s n future years.

• Stimulate yourself mentally.

Wrap yourself around activities that involve interaction with others and find as much time to stimulate your brain when you are alone as possible. Study a foreign language, do puzzles, read. Work out your brain and gain the same

type of mental improvements experienced by those who improve their physical bodies through regular exercise.

• Remain socially active. You may have been a couch potato or someone that has not always been interested in the get up and go lifestyle enjoyed by so many.

And while we’re not suggesting a conversion to the party animal personality—what we are saying is that both memory and cognition are stronger when people retain connections to others with similar interests—or even not so similar.

A little disagreement goes a long way in firing up those brain cells.

Staying socially active into older adulthood is important for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that research has indicated the brain functions better when men and women are not isolated from others. Memory and cognition are stronger when people remain socially active and engaged in their society, so retirees should look for ways to revive their social lives as a means to protecting their brains from the onset of Alzheimer's or dementia.

Alzheimer's disease remains an enigma in many ways. But ongoing research continues to show that men and women can take measures to actively prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer's disease and improve their quality of life as a result.

Psoriatic Arthritis Affects Many People

Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin condition in which the skin reproduces cells at an accelerated rate.

This causes patches of flaky, irritated skin, also known as plaques.

Psoriatic arthritis can develop at any time, but it is common between the ages of 30 and 50. Environmental factors, genes and immune system responses play a role in the onset of the disease.

Patients with psoriatic arthritis can develop inflammation of their tendons, cartilage, eyes, lung lining, and sometimes aorta.

People who suffer from psoriasis or have a family history of this skin condition may be at risk for psoriatic arthritis, a serious disease that causes extensive swelling and joint pain.

Experts say that up to 30 percent of people with psoriasis also develop psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis do not nec-

essarily occur at the same time.

Psoriasis generally comes first and then is followed by the joint disease. The skin ailment precedes the arthritis in nearly 80 percent of patients.

Psoriatic arthritis is a rheumatic disease that can affect body tissues as well as joints. Psoriatic arthritis shares many features with several other arthritic conditions, such as ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis and arthritis associated with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

The rate of onset of psoriatic arthritis varies among people. For some it can develop slowly with mild symptoms. Others find it comes on quickly and is severe.

Symptoms of the disease also vary, but may include the following; • generalized fatigue • swollen fingers and toes

26 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

• stiffness, pain, throbbing, swelling, and tenderness in joints • reduced range of motion • changes in fingernails • redness and pain of the eyes In many cases, psoriatic arthritis affects the joints closest to the nail in fingers and toes. The lower back, knees, ankles, and wrists also are affected.

It is important to talk to a dermatologist if you suffer from psoriasis and also experience stiffness or pain in joints. This may be indicative that psoriatic arthritis is present.

Treatments usually include a combination of medications and therapeutic exercises to reduce pain and swelling. NSAID pain relievers help but may be

combined with stronger medications, such as corticosteroids, as well as medications that suppress the immune system.

ent d u t s CA M ive A e y c r e e r v l E wil s d n e ! tt that a e NUT card a fre

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– DJ • RAFFLES • PRIZES – Contact Margaret Cvecic 718.757.6286 or Michelle Bascetta 917.716.2950 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 27

2013 ELECTION

Bill de Blasio Elected Mayor ing of a few doing very well, while so many slip further behind – that is the defining challenge of our time. Because inequality in New York is not something that only threatens those who are struggling.”

The theme of two different cities resonated well with the diverse crowd listening intently to de Blasio’s victory speech, and he echoed their concerns, repeatedly saying that by tackling these differences, “that’s how we all rise together”.

“The best and the brightest are born in every neighborhood,” he said. ”We all have a shared responsibility - and a shared stake - in making sure their destiny is defined by how hard they work and how big they dream, not by their zip code.”

“I will never forget that as mayor, I work for Kate Bubacz/The Forum Newsgroup you.”

Continued from page 15 beginning,” said Jagajit Singh of Richmond Hill.

“We want to see Bill cross the threshold and see him become mayor.”

Alison Sesso of Forest Hills, volunteered for the campaign in Queens and showed up to watch the results come in.

“I’m looking forward to the future,” she said.

“There are a lot of issues in the city, and I think that he’s got the right vision to get us out.”

The mood in the room was patient, quiet even for a victory party for a campaign that had been far from certain as recently as August and has promised a sweeping change of pace in a city that some saw as turning into a playground for the well-off and well-connected.

Joel Giambra, a lobbyist from Buffalo, New York and a friend of Bill de Blasio’s who helped on his campaign said, “I think he’s going to shock a lot of people when he begins to govern from the middle.”

“There was Republican rule for a long time, and the people of New York City are ready for something different,” Giambra says.

Kevin Mckessey of East Flatbush, Brooklyn, said he was ready for that change to be made.

McKessey had volunteered for de Blasio’s campaign when he has running for public advocate, but volunteered for Comptroller and former Democratic mayoral candidate John Liu during the primary campaign. He supports de Blasio, but said, “I hope that he can keep his promises with the minority populations, getting them better access to education and jobs and community-

The de Blasio family walks onstage at the victory party in Brooklyn. De Blasio was joined by his son, Dante, wife Chirlane, and daughter Chiara at the soiree.

based programs.”

As Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” blared from the sound speakers for Lhota’s introduction at his campaign party, supporters conceded that their candidate’s defeat could stem from an anti-Bloomberg sentiment.

“It might be anti-Bloomberg, I don’t know,” Lhota supporter Jason Lerman said. “It’s tough for one party to win six terms in a row.”

Tania Gartenberg attended the event wearing a black shirt emblazoned with “Team Lhota” in bright pink under her left shoulder. The Manhattan resident was not surprised by the final result, but she was still upset, a little bitter.

“He’s going to be a one-term mayor,” Gartenberg said of de Blasio. “I remember what the

28 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

city was like 20 years ago. I remember when my friend’s dad was shot. I liked everything (Lhota) stood for.”

Crime was also on fellow Manhattan resident Lerman’s mind.

“De Blasio represents a turn back from all the progress we made,” he said. “We’re a safe city by design, by the policies put in place.”

Shortly after 10:30 p.m., the new mayor joined his wife, Chirlane, and childen, Ciara and Dante, on stage. After thanking the crowd, he acknowledged that the changes sought in the campaign will be slow in coming - but promised it would arrive.

“I’ve spoken often about a tale of two cities,” de Blasio said. “That inequality – that feel-

File Photo

Joe Lhota landed just 24.3 percent of the vote, though the Republican candidate had a large number of supporters in places like Maspeth, where he is pictured here meeting supporters at O'Neill's.

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Legal Notices Notice of Formation of AB 32ND STREET CORNER, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/24/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 34-55 32nd St., Astoria, NY 11106. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Arcfe Group 3, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 4/11/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 136-18 39th Ave Ste 704, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: General.

Notice of Formation of CAPOEIRA TRAINING CENTER, LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/18/2013. 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 30-06 29th Street, Astoria, NY 11102. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

NO CAP LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 10/23/13.

Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: P Samant 2323 33rd Avenue, Long Island City, NY 11106. General Purposes.

Notice of Formation of MWB PROPERTIES, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/30/05. Office location: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 32-75 Steinway St., Ste. 212, Astoria, NY 11103.

Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of NY SKYLINE ASSOCIATES LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/11/2013. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Kamil Grabowski 110-31 73 Road, Ste 2H, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

161 COLUMBIA STREET LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 8/8/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 33-01 Vernon Blvd., Long Island City, NY 11106.

General Purposes.

DATE WRITE LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 8/28/13.

Office location: Queens County.

SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: James Swierczewski, 79-17 Pitkin Ave., Ozone Park, NY 11417. General Purposes.

Notice is hereby given that an OnPremises Liquor License for beer, wine and liquor has been applied for by the undersigned to permit the sale of beer, wine and liquor at retail rates for on-premises consumption at Hooters Restaurant located at 6138 190th Street, Fresh Meadows, NY 11365 under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law. Fresh Meadows Wings LLC

ADULT DISTRIBUTIONS LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 05/30/2013. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 166-35 20th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357. Reg Agent: Guido Benanti, 166-35 20th Road, Whitestone, NY 11357. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Yiqi Properties, LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 6/8/10. Office: Queens County.

SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to: 38-21 Main St, #3D, Flushing, NY 11354.

General Purposes.

Notice of Formation of JOHN H.JOSEPH PLLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 09/19/2013. 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 7153 Nansen Street, Forest Hills, NY 11375. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

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

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We'll keep you in touch with your community!

30 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

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Holiday Fair The PTA of PS/IS 113Q ANTHONY J. PRANZO SCHOOL Invites you to attend our CRAFT & VENDOR’S HOLIDAY FAIR At PS/IS 113, 78-23 87 Street, Glendale On Saturday, November 16, 2013 10:00-4:00 pm Come and support our school!

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Legal Notices ASL CLARKSON LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/06/13. 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: 40-47 Junction Blvd, Corona, NY 11368. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Touchstone Clinical Research LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 04/22/13. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Touchstone Clinical Research LLC 203 42 27th Avenue, Bayside, NY 11360. General Purposes.

FE & MW LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/10/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Georges Wolecki, 240 Alameda Ave., Douglaston, NY 11362. General Purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: NY QUEENS DEVELOPMENT LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 04/25/13. 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, 58-32 218th Street, Oakland Gardens, New York 11364.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

BE SEEN – BE KNOWN The Forum serves a combined circulation of 45,000 a week.

We service 11 communities with more than 500,000 readers.

Legal Notices FMA CONSULTING SERVICES LLC, Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 08/26/2013. Office loc: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: Francisco Arianna, 79-15 35th Avenue, 4F, Jackson Heights, NY 11372. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Notice of formation of GREEK CONCERT STATUS, LLC. Art. Of Org. filed with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 9/5/2012. Office in Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 19664 49th Avenue Fresh Meadows, NY 11365. Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Majestic Realty Prestigious Homes And Estates LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/5/12. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served.

SSNY shall mail process to 71-27 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385.

Purpose: General.

444 MIDDLE NECK RD LLC Art. Of Org. Filed Sec. of State of NY 04/26/2013. Off. Loc.: Queens Co. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY to mail copy of process to The LLC, 4 Sands Court, Great Neck, NY 11023. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity.

90-08 Queens LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 10/8/13. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 118 Eldridge St, #8, NY, NY 10002. General Purposes.

SPANGLISH LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/11/13. 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 United State Corporation Agents, Inc. 7014 13th Avenue, Suite 202, Brooklyn, NY 11228. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

PRIORITY REALTY CAPITAL, LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 9/3/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC, 35-23 30th Ave., Astoria, NY 11103. General Purpose.

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 LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: 58th FLUSHING REALTY, LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 01/23/13.

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, 150-18 58th Avenue, Flushing, New York 11355.

Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of formation of HOM CITY LIVING LLC. Art. Of Org. filed with the Sect’y of State of NY (SSNY) on 6/13/2013. Office in Kings County.

SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC, 3258 31st St Flr 2 Queens, NY 11106. Purpose: Real Estate COOKIE MA-ME LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 08/28/13. 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: 61-88 Dry Harbor Road, Middle Village, NY 11379. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

CAZZORLA STORES LLC Articles of Org. filed NY Sec. of State (SSNY) 9/20/2013. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to 1703 210th St., Bayside, NY 11360.

Purpose: Any lawful purpose.

Notice of Qualification of Black Box Productions, LLC. Authority filed with NY Dept. of State on 10/18/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. bus. addr.: ­­­­­6464 Sunset Blvd., Ste. 800, Los Angeles, CA 90028. LLC formed in DE on 7/11/13. NY Sec. of State designated Notice of Formation of MAY agent of LLC upon whom process SQUARED REAL ESTATE LLC. Arts against it may be served and shall mail of Org. filed with NY Secy of State process to: c/o CT Corporation System, (SSNY) on 4/24/13. Office: Queens.

111 8th Ave., NY, NY 10011, regd. agent SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. upon whom process against it may be DE addr. of LLC: 1209 Orange St., served and shall mail process to The Wilmington, DE 19801. Cert. of Form.

LLC, 255-07 61st Avenue, 1st Floor, filed with DE Sec. of State, 401 Federal Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: any St., Dover, DE 19901. Purpose: all lawful activity. lawful purposes.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 31

HOWARD BEACH Hi Ranch 60x100 with 10 rooms, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 new bath, new kitchen, new heat and hot water heater. CALL NOW!

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32 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 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 • November 7, 2013 | 33

Queens Veterans Day Parade Honors Nation’s Bravest The fourth annual Queens Veterans Day Parade drew hundreds of people to Middle Village Sunday afternoon, when everyone from those who served in World War II to elementary school students marched down Metropolitan Avenue to honor the country’s bravest.

The parade’s grand marshals were Springfield Gardens resident Julius Freeman, World War II veteran and original Tuskegee Airman assigned to the 332nd Fighter Group in France and Germany, and Glendale resident Daniel Wisotsky, who retired from the U.S. Marine Corps in 2001 after 22 years of service and is a veteran of Operation Desert Storm.

Numerous area veterans’ groups, civic organizations, businesses, schools, and girl and boy scout troops, and legislators, among others, participated in the parade, which ran along Metropolitan Avenue from 80th Street to Christ the King Regional High School. A commemorative ceremony honoring the veterans was held at the high school after the parade concluded.

Photos by Anna Gustafson and Vinny O’Hare/Camerawe.com

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THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013 | 35

GNG Wine and Liquor 82-33 153rd Avenue Howard Beach, NY 11414 gngwine@gmail.com

718-843-2120

Wine & Champagne Sutter Home White Zinfandel 1.5ml.... 2 for $18.99 Gallo All Varieties 1.5ml.......................... $8.99 Barefoot All Varieties 1.5 ml................. $11.99 Woodbridge Cabernet, Merlot 1.5 ml.. $11.99 Ruffino Chianti Tan 1.5 ml...................... $21.99 Ruffino Chianti 1.5ml................................. $11.99 Santa Marina Pinot Grigio 1.5ml ....... 2 for $19.99 Cavit Pinot Grigio 1.5ml........................... 2 for $24.99 D’Vinci Chianti 750 ml............................. 2 for $19.99 Yellow Tail All Varieties 1.5ml............. $10.99 Bartenura 750 ml ......................................... 2 for $19.99 Barefoot Champagne 750 ml................ $8.99 Moet Rose Imperial 750 ml................... $49.99 Moet Imperial 750 ml ................................ $49.99 Veuve Clicquot 750 ml.............................. $44.99

Whiskey & Scotch Johnnie Walker Double Black 750 ml .. $39.99 Jack Daniel’s 750 ml ............................... $24.99 Fireball Cinnamon 750 ml ................... $17.99 Dewar’s White Label 750 ml ............. $24.99 Jack Daniel’s Honey 750 ml ............... $25.99 Johnnie Walker Black Label 750 ml....... $34.99

Vodka Rum Bacardi All Flavors 750 ml..................... $17.99 Malibu Coconut 1.75 ml ......................... $28.99 Bacardi White & Gold 1.75 ml ............. $21.99 Captain Morgan Rum 750 ml................ $22.99 36 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • November 7, 2013

Smirnoff 1.75 ml ........................................... $20.99 Svedka 1.75 ml.............................................. $20.99 Absolut 1.75 ml ............................................. $34.99 Georgi 1.75 ml................................................ $13.99 Ciroc 750 ml .................................................... $34.99 Grey Goose 750 ml ..................................... $34.99 All Sale Prices Seen Above Expire November 30, 2013