Southeast Queens Press Epaper

Volume 14 Issue No. 18 May 3-9, 2013

A NEW GOAL?

With a soccer stadium already in the works for Queens, the New York Cosmos have proposed building one as well, this time on an empty parking lot at Belmont Park.

By Steven J. Ferrari ‌ Page 8.

Online at www.QueensPress.com

Page 2 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

News Briefs Eugene Evans Forms Exploratory Committee For D28 Run

This week, long-time Jamaica resident, Eugene “Nu Nu” Evans, revealed that he has formulated an exploratory committee to investigate the feasibility of participating in the upcoming election for the 28th District Council seat, currently held by Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica).

Evans is the son of Rochdale Village resident, business owner and vice president of the board of directors, Joe Evans. He is also the younger brother of Community Wellness Centers of America president, Dr. Robert Evans. According to a statement, the potential candidate has an eccentric background of his own – in business ownership, community activism, and even professional sports.

Evans is well known in the South Jamaica community and has served several terms as a distinguished Board Member of Rochdale Village Inc. and was the youngest in the history of the Village to hold that seat.

Despite announcing the formation of this committee in an email blast, Evans made it clear that he is not officially announcing his candidacy for the seat just yet.

“Formulation of this exploratory committee is not to announce my candidacy but to explore whether or not the mission and responsibilities of the City Council seat has been carried out to its fullest potential, its impact on the community as a whole and whether the community calls for a change,” he said in a statement.

According to the press release, Evans’ older brother, Ray Evans, said that he has gotten overwhelmingly positive feedback from the community.

“The response and support by the community stake holders, and faith-based organizations has been amazing. This response is not a reflection on the job Mr. Wills is doing but mostly support from people who know the dedication and integrity of Eugene Evans,” said Ray.

Former Advertising Manager Of Punjabi News Charged With Theft

On Wednesday, May 1, Queens District Attorney Richard Brown announced that an advertising executive, formerly employed at Jus Punjabi LLC, a Long Island City-based cable news station that broadcasts across North America, has been indicted on charges that he stole more than $3,000 from the television station.

According to the statement, Amit Khurana, 34, of Jamaica, worked for Jus Punjabi until he was fired in November of last year.

According to the statement, the alleged fraud was discovered in December 2012 by an internal audit conducted by Jus Punjabi LLC, which referred the results of their findings to the Queens County District Attorney’s office the following month.

Thereafter, the District Attorney’s Investigations Division conducted an extensive review of the documentary evidence by its own forensic accountants, including the interviewing of witnesses.

According to the criminal charges, Khurana obtained access to company funds in his position as an ad executive and stole more than $3,000 between November 1, 2009, and November 2012.

“The defendant is accused of not only abusing his position in order to unjustly enrich himself but of knowingly betraying the trust of his employer who had arranged for the defendant’s work visa so that he could work in the United States,” Brown said in the statement.

Khurana was arraigned on May 1 on a 44-count indictment charging him with one count each of thirdand fourth degree grand larceny and twenty-one counts each of first- and second-degree falsifying business records.

Khurana, who faces up to seven years in prison if convicted, was released on his own recognizance and ordered to return to court on July 31, 2013.

Jamaica Center Hosts Fashion Showcase

The Jamaica Center Business Improvement District will hold its second fashion showcase from 6 to 9 p.m. June 1 at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, 153-10 Jamaica Ave., Jamaica.

For information, call (718) 5262422, email info@jamaicacenter.org or visit www.jamaicacenterfashion. com.

Correction

In an item in the April 26 issue of the Press of Southeast Queens, we incorrectly reported that the boy struck by a car at the intersection of 232nd Street and 147th Avenue was killed. For more information, see the story on page 3. We apologize for the error.

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 3

Presstime

Former Aide To White Challenges Wills Again When he first came to the United States as a missionary more than 35 years ago, Rev. David Kayode sought to help those in need. Today, the Nigerian immigrant is looking to help a community in need by running for City Council.

Kayode, a minister at Maranatha Baptist Church in Brooklyn and resident of South Jamaica, officially announced his plans to run for the 28th District council seat at the Community Board 12 meeting on April 24.

This run marks the second time the reverend is challenging Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica). He also ran for the seat in 2011, joining four other candidates vying for the spot.

“What brought me into politics [was understanding] if you want reform, you have to be fully informed,” Kayode said. “When I moved to Queens, I was involved with what was going on in church communities and I see what is going on in the area politically. I didn’t like it much.”

Armed with two master’s degrees, the missionary combined his compassion for others and his knowledge to work as an unpaid aide for the late City Councilman Thomas White during his final term in office before he passed away from cancer. “[White] was telling me I’d be a good leader,” Kayode said. “I definitely want to do something to con-

Photo by Natalia Kozikowska

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Rev. David Kayode in his South Jamaica home office, surrounded by his many awards and achievements. tinue his good work so I decided to run.”

Outside of the political landscape, the reverend has worked as a union delegate for nearly 20 years. Kayode also works as a staff member for the Dept. of Homeless Services and as an addiction treatment counselor in Brooklyn. In 2007 and 2008, Kayode was recognized by the State as Drug Addiction Counselor of the Year.

If elected, Kayode said that the youth in his community would be his first priority.

“What I have a passion for is the youth, because I know our youth are headed to nowhere,” he said. “I see them around all the time on the corner doing nothing – it’s a revolving

door, a drug program or jail and I would like to make some changes in this type of living.”

The father of five is confident that his experiencing raising his children will serve as a tool to help the young adults in District 28.

“Experience is the best teacher and I raised my children in this community, South Jamaica,” he said.

“Three of them now have a master’s degree and the fourth one will be graduating in June. My youngest also just got admission to Howard University to study medicine. I know the value of raising kids.”

He hopes to help the youth by giving them opportunities to learn a trade, giving them an alternative to a life of crime or drugs.

“What I would do when I become a City Councilmember, I will be sure I will have something for these young ones,” Kayode said. “Not everybody is good for college, but once you have a skill … you will be able to focus on what you’re doing. That will reduce the aggravation and frustration that brings the bad out.”

Kayode also hopes to tackle other quality of life issues like the incredibly large number of foreclosures in southeast Queens and a high rate of unemployment.

“The quality of life – I see a lot of foreclosures and if I take out my map now, it will show you we have the highest foreclosure in South Jamaica in the country.”

The reverend also has his eyes set

on reforming education in District 28 by implementing smaller class sizes and securing a budget for more teachers.

When asked about his now second-time-opponent Wills, Kayode refrained from comment. His campaign manager, Dr. Ayo Johnson, however, interjected himself into the interview to speak of the Councilman’s ongoing investigations.

“My thought normally is if you love somebody – the voters in this instance, and you see somebody who is supposed to be helping them and you know they are doing something to destroy you and you keep quiet – than I’m equally guilty of that crime,” Johnson said. “I’m going to say it – I’m so surprised this guy is not disguising his head in disgrace.”

As for the recent arrests of State Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-Jamaica) and Councilman Dan Halloran (RWhitestone), the reverend made it clear that his heart is really in the right place.

“My name is Kayode – I’m not a crook and I will retain that,” he asserted. “Kayode means to bring joy and I want to bring joy to the community and if I want to bring joy, I have to be honest and work with transparency and accountability.

That’s what politics are supposed to be.”

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

Richards To The DOT: ‘You’ve Struck Out’ It is a mother’s worst nightmare.

“I was devastated, because his face was covered in blood,” said Janet Grant. “I was just shocked, weak. To see him in that condition…my baby.”

Years before he was even elected, Councilman Donovan Richards (DLaurelton) and other elected officials had been fighting for traffic signal or road sign at the intersection of 147th Avenue and Brookville Boulevard in Rosedale.

Despite more than 20 requests and a dozen studies done at the intersection, the DOT has declined to put a sign, a slow zone or yellow light in area, citing federal guidelines prohibit their placement.

This lack of action, Richards said, is the reason seven-year-old Rosedale Little League player Alec McFarlane was struck by a car on April 22, re-

Photo by Ira Cohen

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

lines that don’t make sense because they don’t equate and they don’t take into necessarily account on children like him crossing the street,” Richards said.

“We don’t need any more studies. The studies did not help this young man when he was crossing the street.”

Richards, accompanied

by Alec’s mother, Janet, Councilman Donovan Richards called on the spoke out against the DOT, Dept. of Transportation to put a traffic signal urging them to take action at 147th Avenue and Brookville Boulevard in before a life is taken.

“The Dept. of TransporRosedale. He stood with (from left) Janet Grant, tation – you have struck her son, Alec McFarlane, who was hit by a vehicle at the intersection, and Bernie Brown, president out on this issue more than three times. We are of the Rosedale Little League. now in the ninth inning sulting in four staples on his head and we can’t afford to find out what and a scraped-up face. the next inning is going to hold. Right “The Dept. of Transportation is now, we are demanding that you hit a going by some sort of federal guide- home run for this community,” Rich-

ards asserted. “Our children deserve to be able to cross the street.”

“Save another parent the nightmare I went through,” Grant pleaded to the DOT. “Another child may not be as lucky as he was.”

While the community is still awaiting action from the DOT, Bernie Brown, president of the little league for more than eight years, has decided to take matters into her own hands.

“We are now forced to be on the street in orange vests to cross our children,” Brown said. “Those little babies – I want to make sure they cross the street safe.”

The DOT has not responded for comment as of press time.

As for Alec, he said he is feeling “better” and well enough to play with his teammates at their next game.

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

Page 4 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Thompson Discusses Mayoral Candidacy

By luiS GronDa

Photo by luis Gronda

In the first of a series of sit-downs with City and Queens officials running for elected office, mayoral candidate Bill Thompson discussed a number of different topics with the PRESS of Southeast Queens’ editorial staff.

Thompson is one of several Democratic candidates vying to be the next mayor of New York City. He is most known for his time as New York City Comptroller from 2002 to 2009, but he has also worked for the City’s Board of Education in the past as well. This is the second time Thompson has run for mayor following his unsuccessful run for the seat in 2009.

Among the subjects discussed during his talk with the PRESS include Citywide such as Stop and Frisk, mayoral control of public schools and Borough issues such as possibly building a soccer stadium at Flushing-Meadows Corona Park.

Regarding Stop and Frisk, Thompson said that, while he supports using the measure as a way to fight crime, he believes it needs to be reformed because it is being used more now to meet quotas rather than

its original purpose of stopping people that may be doing suspicious activity.

“You can have a commissioner who is tough on crime, a mayor who is tough on crime, who isn’t going to take steps back, but at the same point, you don’t wind up throwing people’s rights out the window,” Thompson said.

He also recalled a conversation he had with a police officer who told him that Stop and Frisk is being misused.

“What he said is ‘look, there’s an art to being a police officer, I know who I should stop and who Former Comptroller Bill Thompson speaks I shouldn’t stop. They’re remov- with the PRESS editorial board. ing the discretion away from me City’s focus away from standardized in telling me, you have to do five testing and support a moratorium or six today,’” the candidate said.

On the issue of mayoral control on school closings and co-locations, of the City’s schools, Thompson and instead work on improving the said that he supports keeping may- schools that need help.

Thompson was noncommittal oral control, with some tweaks to how it is organized. Specifically, when asked whether or not he would he said that he would decrease the support Major League Soccer buildnumber of Panel For Educational ing a stadium for the league’s 20th Policy members to about five mem- team at Flushing Meadows Corona bers and give them a one or two year Park, only saying that there are still term because it would make them questions left to be answered, includmore accountable for what they vote ing what MLS will do for the Borfor. He also said he would shift the ough and the City in return for using

that space to build the stadium.

“I still think that there’s a ways to go. You’re really looking at what’s the land swap on that,” he said. “You do have parkland that isn’t exactly up-to-grade. What are they going to do in return for that space?”

When asked about how the City has done recovering from Superstorm Sandy, Thompson said that the City’s initial response after the storm was poor because many people in the affected areas were left wondering when they were going to get the help they needed in such a difficult time. He added that, moving forward, measures need to be taken to lessen the damage the coastal areas take from flooding and to be better prepared for a storm of Sandy’s magnitude. Building your house higher off the ground and constructing a sea wall near the water are two ideas Thompson mentioned as possible remedies.

“It’s a combination of things to make sure that the next extreme weather system that hits us, that we’re in a very different place,” he said.

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

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 5

Smoking age increase raises eyebrows

By Joe Marvilli While the City Council is considering raising the purchase age for tobacco products, some business owners feel the regulations will hurt their bottom line.

On April 22, Council Speaker Christine Quinn (D-Manhattan), Councilman James Gennaro (DFresh Meadows), Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley and various health advocacy organizations announced that the City Council will be taking up legislation to increase the minimum smoking age from 18 to 21 in New York City.

According to the press release, 80 percent of smokers in New York start before they turn 21. By raising the purchase age to 21, the chances of young people buying tobacco products themselves or having an older friend buy them greatly decreases. It also states that there is evidence that those who smoke at an earlier age are more likely to develop a strong addiction to nicotine than those who start at an older age.

The legislation would also make enforcement of the age restriction easier as many New York State drivers’ licenses already indicate when its

owner is younger than 21 years old.

While business owners and leaders agree with the idea of decreasing the smoking rate, they feel that the Council is going about it in the wrong way.

“Raising the cigarettes smoking age from 18 to 21 does nothing in terms of consumption. The problem is when you raise it to 21; you’re fueling the black market even more.

The black market for cigarettes is tremendous already,” Brad Gerstman, spokesperson for the New York Association of Grocery Stores, said.

Gerstman added that the legislation would hurt sales not due to a decrease in tobacco products sold, but due to a decrease in sales for other products when customers do not come by to buy cigarettes.

“Cigarettes don’t make retailers any money. When people come for cigarettes, they buy other items,” he said.

Raj Sawlani of Bayside Smoke Shop also felt the restrictions would hurt businesses, especially those close to Long Island, using the banned flavored tobacco products as an example.

“A lot of the people that smoke flavored cigars, all they have to do is drive five minutes away to Long Island,” he said.

Many feel the potential health benefits make the legislation a must.

“It’s a great idea,” Phil Konigsberg, Community Board 7 member, said.

“One thing I’ve certainly noticed is that the only way to keep the tobacco industry going is to get a replacement smoker. The main focus of that is the teenage smoker.”

“Our economy can only grow with healthy citizens, so we support the legislation,” Queens Economic Development Corpora- Businesses are split on a City proposal to raise the tion Executive Director legal smoking age to 21.

Seth Bornstein said.

“By delaying our city’s children them a lifetime,” Gennaro said. and young adults access to lethal toDr. Jack Mann, a pulmonologist bacco products, we’re decreasing the at New York Hospital Queens, felt likelihood they ever start smoking,” education would be more helpful to said Quinn in a statement. stop smoking than more laws.

“By raising the legal purchase “I’m skeptical that raising the age to 21, we will prevent a genera- limit to 21 is really going to be effection of New Yorkers from becoming tive,” he said. “We need less laws and addicted to smoking and ultimately more education. Education is the key save thousands of lives,” said Far- to everything.” ley.

If the bill passes, New York would “This proposal would take ciga- be the first major city in the United rettes and other tobacco products States to have a smoking age above out of the equation for high school 19 years. and younger college students during Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at a time when they should be cultivat- (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, or at jmaring the healthy habits that will last villi@queenstribune.com.

Page 6 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Editorial Not For Sale OF SOUTHEAST QUEENS 150-50 14th Road Whitestone, NY 11357 (voice) (718) 357-7400 fax (718) 357-9417 email news@queenspress.com The PRESS of Southeast Queens Editor-in-Chief:

Steven J. Ferrari Contributing Editor:

Marcia Moxam Comrie Production Manager:

Shiek Mohamed Queens Today Editor

Regina Vogel Photo Editor: Ira Cohen

Reporters: Harley Benson Natalia Kozikowska Joe Marvilli Luis Gronda Trisha Sakhuja Art Dept:

Rhonda Leefoon Lianne Procanyn Barbara Townsend Alan Goldsher Director of Marketing Maureen Coppola Advertising Administrator Advertising Executives Merlene Carnegie Nicole Douglas Shari Strongin

A Queens Tribune Publication © Copyright 2013 Tribco, LLC

Michael Nussbaum Publisher Ria McPherson Comptroller

The people of Queens have suffered indignities at the hands of our City officials for too long, and the latest slap in our faces is the proposed plan to develop a soccer stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park.

We’ve been told many times that the parkland that Mayor Michael Bloomberg has offered up to Major League Soccer is the best place for a soccer stadium - no other site will do. There was no public hearing, no open proposal period. The land has been given away for a pittance, forcing those who use the land to pay the price.

As we reported this week, there have always been alternative sites available, but for reasons that have never been explained, those sites were never looked at. The Mayor offered up our parkland without giving the people of Queens a say in the matter. Transparency has been a dirty word in this deal.

We should not take this indignity lying down. We should unite with one voice to speak out against these crimes against our communities. Flushing Meadows Corona Park should not be put up for sale, and our City government should open its doors and let us in on the process. Our elected officials should also stand with their constituents and defend this historic piece of land in the heart of Queens. Let the City know that the park is without question not for sale.

We invite our readers to speak their minds. Visit our Facebook page and take part in the poll featured on that page and leave a comment. Let our elected officials know that their actions here are unacceptable and we will no longer suffer these indignities they seemed so determined to commit.

Letters Promises To Keep

To The Editor: Permit me to remind the Metropolitan Transit Authority about their public commitment, promise and obligation to build the promised elevator at the heart of transportation in the Richmond Hill community - the Lefferts Boulevard and Liberty Avenue subway stop, on behalf of your many readers living and working here. MTA representatives had announced that six subway stations in the Richmond Hill/Ozone Park area will get renovations that were expected to start since December last year. They made that commitment at several public meetings with Community Boards, community leaders and others, but the project has not yet begun.

I make this public appeal on behalf of the many seniors, kids, the disabled, students, workers and everyone in our community who would benefit greatly from an elevator which makes mobility and

travel easier, and would love to see this project completed.

The plan was to implement subway renovation projects in Ozone Park and Richmond Hill, with the Ozone ParkLefferts Boulevard A Train subway station receiving an elevator, from street level up to the station. Several of the platforms along the Leffertsbound A Train, including the Rockaway Boulevard station, were also slated to receive repairs including a new paint job.

Ac c o rd i n g to J o s e p h Raskin, Assistant Director of Government and Community Relations at the MTA, the addition of the elevator and platform renovations are, in part, to make access easier for a person with a disability and so that it’s compatible under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). As a matter of customer obligation and due compliance with federal law, this project is long overdue.

Albert Baldeo, District Leader

A Wise Decision From Dan Halloran A Personal Perspective

By MARCIA MOXAM COMRIE Indicted Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) has announced he will not seek re-election. It is a wise decision that the voters of the 19th Council District must be celebrating.

Halloran was caught in the net of deceit that also entrapped several other political figures across Queens, the Bronx and Spring Valley.

But more than that, since his arrest on April 2, there have been reports that the randy Councilman has had love affairs with at least one member of his staff and an unpaid intern with whom the affair allegedly continues.

With regards his indictment, the Councilman is innocent until proven guilty, so we reserve judgment and wait for him to have his day in court.

Reports are that the first affair, which allegedly started during his first campaign, led to the breakup of his marriage. He hired the young

woman, a college student at the time, as deputy chief of staff.

Witnesses have told the media that the Councilman carried on a torrid affair with the young staffer, while others complained that there were other members of the staff more qualified to have been deputy chief of staff than she was. In the legal case, which involves an alleged bribery scheme to get State Sen. Malcolm Smith on the Republican ballot for mayor, Halloran, an attorney, will fight for his life in court. But the married father also knew that aside from any moral implications, there is also an ethical issue with having affairs with subordinates.

The affairs with the staffers rendered the City vulnerable to lawsuits. At any time during the affairs one or both of those women could have cried “sexual harassment” and brought a lawsuit. That is why Brooklyn Assemblyman Vito Lopez is accused of paying staffers he allegedly harassed in a sexual manner. That mess

has even ensnared Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, who allegedly approved or made the payments to the accusers.

Halloran’s harem could have cost the City money.

And whose money is City money? Taxpayers’ money!

Yes, my money and yours.

By announcing his decision not to seek reelection, Halloran finally made a wise move. That means that unless the Council’s Ethics Committee can find a way to expel him before the end of the year, or someone can talk him into resigning soon, he’ll be out of office no later than Dec. 31 of this year.

In light of the twin scandals, Halloran’s constituents should probably have “acome-to-Jesus-meeting” with him and demand that he steps down now. It’s the only way they will get the representation they deserve. The Councilman says in his press release that he’s not seeking re-election because he wants to focus on clearing his name.

I hope he succeeds.

Ironically, it was the alleged

affairs that led to the alleged bribery, which led to his arrest and indictment. His wife supposedly left him over the reported affair with the deputy chief of staff, which led to a financial crisis in his personal life, which led to his vulnerability to the bribery situation.

The saying, “two wrongs don’t make a right” would be understated in this case.

How could a guy smart enough to pass the Bar Exam have been so stupid in so many other ways? In one fell swoop, he’s losing everything: his marriage, his burgeoning political career; and if convicted, his law license and possibly, his freedom.

A conviction would render him incapable of making a living practicing his profession whether or not he is sentenced to jail time.

It is always very sad to see a family suffer these misfortunes. There are children involved here so for their sakes I hope their knuckle-headed father is exonerated.

There are no winners here.

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 7

Page 8 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Second Stadium May Cause Soccer Showdown For months, Queens activists have debated the merits of a proposed soccer stadium within Flushing Meadows Corona Park. With each discussion about the proposal, one question has been repeated: “Does the stadium have to be built in the middle of a park?”

Not everyone believes that it does.

Just over the border into Nassau County, the Belmont Park in Elmont is the home to one of the elite tracks in horse racing. It is also home to a large parking lot that sits empty most of the time. The Empire State Development Corp. is looking to change that. The ESDC last year put out a Request For Proposals for the site, with the hopes of generating some economic activity on the land.

One of the proposals submitted may put the claims of some soccer stadium advocates – that Flushing Meadows Corona Park is the best place for a soccer stadium – to the test.

The Proposal The New York Cosmos, in conjunction with the Queens-based Mattone Group, has submitted a proposal to the ESDC to build a new soccer stadium at Belmont Park. The proposal would create a sports complex at the race track, along with retail space.

The Cosmos, members of the North American Soccer League, will field its first team in more than 30 years this summer, kicking off their return season in August. The team will play at Hofstra University in Hempstead. But the team is looking at a long-term strategy and is seeking a stadium of its own to play home games.

When the RFP for the site at Belmont came out, the team jumped at the chance.

“We chose Belmont Park after extensive due diligence on other locations,” Cosmos COO Erik Stover said. “There were numerous factors that made the site perfect for us.”

The proposal submitted by the Cosmos and Mattone Group calls for a 25,000-seat stadium, a 175-room hotel, about 300,000 square feet of retail and restaurant space and a 4.3acre community park. Construction for the proposal is expected to cost around $374 million, which will be funded privately.

Michael Mattone, chief financial officer of the Mattone Group, said the stadium and retail complex would create more than 2,000 jobs through ongoing operation of the complex in

Renderings provided by the Mattone Group

BY STEVEN J. FERRARI

Renderings of the proposed soccer stadium at Belmont Park and the proposed retail and hotel at the site. addition to about 1,000 construction jobs.

Mattone noted that the stadium proposal – the only proposal to be publicly announced – has received positive response during informal discussions in Elmont. He said he believed the stadium proposal would be beneficial for the race track.

“Creating a sports complex [at the Belmont Race Track], long term, will do more to help the track,” he said.

“Big box retail alone won’t do that.”

The Cosmos echoed that sentiment.

“We also believe the stadium and multi-use complex will be extremely beneficial in helping to support the state’s vision to re-energize the Belmont Race Track and its surrounding community,” Stover said.

According to the Cosmos, if the State accepts the proposal, the stadium would be completed by the end of 2015, and would open in spring 2016. Retail shops would be open in the fall of 2015.

Comparisons Potentially located less than 10 miles from each other, the two soccer stadium proposals would undoubtedly draw comparisons. While Major League Soccer has played much of its plan close to its vest – negotiations continue for a team owner, expected to be announced next month – Mattone and the Cosmos say they have been open with their proposal.

The proposal set forth by Major League Soccer calls for a 25,000-seat stadium on up to 13 acres of land in what is now the closed-off Fountain of Planets. MLS announced in October that the organization expects the $300 million stadium to generate up to 2,300 construction jobs, 160

full-time positions and 750 part-time jobs.

Both the Cosmos and the Mattones have touted the plans to place their new stadium in the middle of an empty parking lot as a benefit to their proposal.

“We’re looking to build a stadium on an asphalt wasteland,” Mattone said. “In fact, we’d be adding parkland to that area.”

Other questions that have been raised by the MLS stadium proposal include potential zoning issues at the park and the need for access roads to the stadium. MLS has stated that they plan to use the existing infrastructure around the park – including parking at the adjacent Citi Field – for the new stadium, but without a set plan, questions still remain.

The MLS proposal also has not gone through a Uniform Land Use Review Procedure, where applications affecting the land use of the City would be placed under review.

Both Mattone and the Cosmos said that because they were responding to a call for proposals, they have had a clear, transparent path for the Belmont stadium proposal.

“It’s important to note that we’re responding directly to a state request for RFP,” Stover said. “Furthermore, we’re not taking away any public park land, but developing on land that is already zoned for stadium and sports use and in addition to that, we’re building a brand new 4.5-acre public

park as part of the development.”

“We’ve been pretty open with all of our plans and what we want to do,” Mattone said.

MLS and Mayor Michael Bloomberg have come under fire from some community groups for the MLS stadium in Flushing Meadows Corona Park. While MLS has gained the support of several labor unions in Queens for the project, many elected officials in Queens have reserved comment on the stadium until more information has been provided on the replacement of 13 acres of parkland that would be lost to the construction.

During recent Borough President debates, many of the candidates took a cautious approach to the stadium proposal.

Most of the candidates wanted more information from the organization before they took a stance. Only three candidates came out squarely against the stadium.

“I have opposed from day one the stadium,” Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria) said.

Vallone was joined by State Sen. Tony Avella (D-Bayside), who has proposed making Flushing Meadows Corona Park an historic landmark to prevent future development. Councilman Leroy Comrie (D-St. Albans) has also cited the proposed stadium.

Playing It Close News this week has circulated that MLS is close to securing a financial backer for the new team that would play in the stadium. The New York Times reported earlier this week that Shiekh Mansour bin Zayed, the deputy prime minister of the United Arab Emirates who also owns English soccer club Manchester City, has entered final negotiations to purchase MLS’s newest franchise.

MLS Commissioner Don Garber said he hoped to make an announcement regarding plans for the stadium within the next six weeks. The organization, however, would not confirm the negotiations with any potential owners.

“While we are making progress on the New York expansion team, we have not finalized the ownership agreement,” MLS spokeswoman Risa Heller said. “Our discussions with potential ownership groups remain private.”

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

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 9

Police Blotter 112th Precinct

105th Precinct

Robbery

Murder Arrest

Police arrested Dunasha Payne, 21, of Cambria Heights and charged her with second-degree murder and criminal possession of a weapon in regards to an incident of a struck pedestrian.

Police responded to a 911 call at 11:52 p.m. April 16 where they observed the victim, Kaman Brummond, 26, with severe trauma to the body and head. EMS responded and transported the victim to a local hospital where he was later pronounced dead.

Payne was taken into custody at the scene of the accident.

109th Precinct

Robbery

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance in locating the following suspects wanted in connection with a robbery that occurred within the confines of the 109th Precinct.

At 3:30 a.m. on April 25, the suspects entered the victims’ residence, located within Whitestone, displayed firearms and ordered the victims into a bedroom before tying their hands.

The suspects then removed an un-

This suspect is wanted in connection with a robbery in the 112th Precinct. known amount of cash and jewelry before fleeing the location. The victims did not sustain any injuries during this incident.

The suspects are described as four men in the 20s. One of the suspects was wearing red sneakers with a black Nike swoosh.

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

All calls are strictly confidential.

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance identifying the following suspect wanted for a robbery that took place on April 16 at approximately 1 p.m. in the vicinity of Wetherole Street. The suspect followed the victim, a 25-year-old female, punched her in the face and removed her wallet. The victim was treated and released at a local hospital.

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

All calls are strictly confidential.

115th Precinct

Robbery

The NYPD is asking the public’s assistance locating the following individuals who are wanted in connection with a robbery that occurred within the confines of the 115th Precinct.

At 5 a.m. on April 13, the victim, a 28-year-old male, was walking in front of 35-02 103rd St. when the sus-

pects approached him and assaulted him before removing his chain and wallet. The suspects then fled. The victim sustained injuries to his face and was taken to Elmhurst Hospital

by EMS. All four suspects are described as Hispanic males.

The first suspect was last seen wearing a dark blue jacket, gray pants and gray sneakers.

The second suspect was last seen wearing a black winter hat, black hooded sweatshirt, black bubble vest, blue jeans and black sneakers. The suspect also has dark facial hair.

The third suspect was wearing a black leather coat, black jeans with a chain on his left pocket and black sneakers. The suspect has short dark hair.

The fourth suspect was wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt, dark pants and black sneakers. The suspect was carrying a white plastic shopping bag.

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

All calls are strictly confidential.

Page 10 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

pix

Trees and Sidewalk

Photo by Ira Cohen

Going Green

On April 29, Councilman Ruben Wills was joined by Queens Parks Commissioner Dorothy Lewandowski and NYC Parks Director of Tree Preservation Matthew Wells to watch the progress of the first sidewalk being repaired from the Trees and Sidewalk Program at 122nd Place in South Ozone Park.

As part of the MillionTreesNYC initiative, volunteers planted more than 7,000 trees and close to 2,000 shrubs at Alley Pond Park on April 27 (above). More than 2,000 volunteers took part in the spring’s largest City-wide planting day, putting more than 20,000 plants in the ground in parks in all five Boroughs.

Office Opening

Meeting Dr. K

Photo by Ira Cohen

Ridgewood Savings Bank’s Grand Avenue branch in Elmhurst, Queens hosted baseball legend, pitcher Dwight “Dr. K” Gooden, who greeted fans and signed autographs. Pictured with Doc Gooden is Kathy Kratzer, a Queens resident and life-long Mets fan, who was one of the hundreds of lucky fans to meet the 1985 National League Cy Young winner.

Mayoral Candidate John Catsimatidis (pictured with his wife, Margo) celebrated the opening of his Queens campaign office on Francis Lewis Boulevard on April 28 with a barbecue for supporters.

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 11

Page 12 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Profile

Springfield Gardens Author Wears Many Hats

BY NATALIA KOZIKOWSKA

Photo courtesy of Jo’rell Whitfield

lem in a 24-hour span and it just all these different outlooks of how When he is not on stage perHarlem was back then. forming his poetry, Springfield ‘A Dream Deferred’ Gardens resident Jo’rell Whitfield really stood out to me enjoys spreading his passion for because I felt like it the literary arts through writing. encapsulates so many Whether he is working on a peoples’ experience.” novel, a poem or a short story, During the time in Whitfield simply describes himwhich Whitfield was self as a writer. working on perfecting “A lot of poets I know, they see his poetry book, he themselves as poets,” Whitfield was also working on a said. “A lot of novelists I know see novel with a closely rethemselves as novelists but I just lated theme. His poetwant to do everything.”

Springfield Gardens resident, Jo’rell Whitfield, a.k.a ry book, The Deferred Whitfield, 30, began to harvest Lyrical the Lyricist, performs some of his poetry.

Dream even serves as his skills when he went to cola prelude to his novel, lege at Morgan State University in Baltimore. It was there he learned The book, The Deferred Dream, was The Chronicles of Hope: A Dream Deto spread his wings as an author and self-published in February 2012 and ferred, which he hopes to publish this dabble in all forms of literature. its title, he said, was inspired by summer.

The novel follows the life of four During his senior year at Morgan one of his favorite poets – Langston friends all of whom are graduating State University, Whitfield was as- Hughes. signed a project in which he had to “I’m a fan of a lot of the older lit- from college and transitioning into write a book. Upon graduating, he erary geniuses – Langston Hughes, the real world and uses many of sought out to publish the book and Paul Laurence Dunbar, George Mo- Whitfield’s own expierences.

“What I wanted to do was take the spent the next three years tweaking it ses Horton,” he said. “That poem [A until it was ready to be published.

Dream Deferred] came from a mon- perspective of the many characters Whitfield’s first published book tage collection, ‘Harlem,’ and in these and talk about his trials and tribulawas a series of poems and prose. collections of poems he depicts Har- tions as an African American man

coming into adulthood,” he said. “I know there are a lot of stories that are coming-of-age and I thought about it and realized there were not a lot of stories about that age group, and what they deal with – the realty they have to deal.”

But Whitfield does not want to stop at publishing the novel. The multi-talented writer is also working on a one-man play for the poetry book and a screenplay for his novel which he hopes to one day transform into a movie.

For more information about Jo’rell Whitfield or to purchase his book, The Deferred Dream, visit www. chroniclesofhope.com.

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

Tell The PRESS

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

Borough Beat

Halloran Out, Saffran Gets GOP Nod

By JOE MARvILLI Embattled Councilman Dan Halloran (R-Whitestone) has decided against seeking re-election for his seat in the 19th City Council district.

The news came around the same time that the Queens GOP chose to endorse Dennis Saffran, a Republican candidate vying for the position.

While the screening committee voted unanimously to back him last week, the decision was made official by the executive committee on April 30.

Halloran’s decision was released about one month after he was arrested in an FBI sting operation.

Although he will not seek reelection, Halloran has no plans to resign.

“Regrettably, I must now focus my attention on clearing my name and restoring my reputation, while I continue to discharge my sworn duties as a member of the New York City Council,” Halloran said in a press release. “I have concluded that it is impossible for me to prop-

GOP, said. “We feel very confident that this is going to be a strong candidate.”

Saffran said he plans to run on the platform of four major issues that he feels are important to the residents of Northeast Queens. The first one is good government, a major topic for him after last month’s arrests.

Councilman Dennis Saffran “I’ve always had a Dan Halloran reputation for honor and integrity,” he said. “We erly do these things and take on the have to restore that after what’s hapenormous demands of a political pened with Halloran.”

Another issue for him is public campaign.”

The Queens GOP chose instead to safety, touting his previous support back Saffran, a candidate who came for Rudy Giuliani’s crime initiatives very close to beating the previous when he was mayor and giving credit councilman, now State Sen. Tony to Mayor Michael Bloomberg for Avella (D-Bayside) in 2001. Saffran keeping the crime rate down. He supports Stop and Frisk, which he called lost by only about 400 votes.

“He’s got a really good public the most effective gun program in the policy background,” Robert Hornak, country, though he is for reasonable the executive director of the Queens changes that make encounters more

respectful. The other two issues he is running on are maintaining high educational standards and stopping overdevelopment.

Several Democratic candidates released statements on Halloran’s decision to not seek re-election.

“Councilman Halloran’s decision to not seek re-election is the right one for the people of our district,” Austin Shafran said.

“Councilman Halloran’s decision to not seek re-election is an appropriate end to an inappropriate career in politics,” Paul Graziano said.

“This is the right decision for those of us who live in the district,” John Duane said. “It’s good that this sad chapter for Northeast Queens is coming to a close.”

“The residents of northeast Queens deserve representation they can be proud of and a principled City Council member who is accountable to the will of the people,” Paul Vallone said.

Reach Reporter Joe Marvilli at (718) 357-7400, Ext. 125, or at jmar-

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 13

A&E

‘Kinky Boots’ – The shoes steal The show

By ElysE TrEvErs Singer-songwriter Cyndi Lauper grew up in Ozone Park listening to her mother’s albums of “South Pacific” and “West Side Story.” Despite her notable rock career, Lauper was influenced by what she heard and it is obvious in the music in the new Broadway musical “Kinky Boots.”

“Kinky Boots” is the story of Charlie Price (Stark Sands), the son of a shoe manufacturer who inherits his father’s failing business after his father’s death. Rather than let the business die and have all the employees lose their jobs, he tries to find a niche market. A chance encounter with Lola (Billy Porter), a flamboyant drag queen, leads him to totally revamp the factory to make outrageous high-heeled women’s boots for men, touting “A range of shoes for men for a range of men.” Charlie convinces Lola to give up his stage job to join him as designer. Along

the way, with Lauper’s hybrid rockBroadway music and director Jerry Mitchell’s wonderful choreography, there are lessons to be learned.

Like “La Cage Aux Folles” (also written by Harvey Fierstein), the young straight guy is taught “to walk in someone else’s shoes.” Lola makes a wager, and the local bully must “learn to accept someone else.” Both also feature a group of extremely athletic male dancers in drag.

Sands and Porter share the story as two young men trying to find their way and acceptance from their fathers. Naturally, Porter is the more vivacious, especially when he is performing with his backup queens. Annaleigh Ashford as Lauren, a worker in the show plant, steals the show with her song “The History of Wrong Guys.” She is pretty and feisty and can belt out a song.

I must admit that I feared that “Kinky Boots” would be another “Priscilla, Queen of the Desert,” a

a Great view With Great Food Marino’s on the Bay 45 Orchard Beach Blvd., Port Washington (516) 883-5600 www.marinosonthebay.com Hours: sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Fri.-sat. 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cuisine: italian/seafood Credit Card: yes, all major reservations: yes Delivery/Takeout: Takeout, no delivery

If you have an establishment by the water, you have the opportunity to create a scenic display that is as impressive as the food being served.

Marino’s on the Bay succeeds on all counts, offering customers a wonderful view to go along with exquisite food. The venue just opened last year and it looks to become a neighborhood favorite.

The Long Island restaurant is right on Manhasset Bay, giving patrons a stunning view from several angles, including outdoor seating.

Watching the sun go down over the water is one of the loveliest and most romantic sites you can see while enjoying a meal. And what a meal it is!

My girlfriend and I started with some excellent seafood appetizers.

We ordered Marino’s hot antipasto for two, which came with baked

clams, shrimps scampi style, eggplant rollatini, stuffed mushrooms and fried calamari. The dish was a feast for two. Throw in an order of savory crab cakes and you have a great way to kick off dinner.

The main course was where Marino’s really excelled. I ordered the veal sorrentino, which I knew was the right choice as soon as it arrived. Smothered in a plum tomato sauce and covered with fresh mozzarella, the veal was very juicy, exploding with delightful zest in every bite.

My girlfriend went with Marino’s spring lobster special, which is available on Mondays and Tuesdays. In addition to the 1.25-pound lobster, the deal includes clams, potatoes, corn, a salad, dessert and a complimentary bottle of wine, red or white. All of that food is offered for less than $30. Quite a deal! The lobster was delicious with a perfect amount of flavor that was complimented by all the wonderful side dishes. We both absolutely loved it; trying our hardest to make sure we got every bit of lobster.

Marino’s on the Bay is sure to be a favorite for a long time. It is easily one of the best meals we’ve had in months.

-Joe Marvilli

“Kinky Boots” is on stage at the Hirschfeld Theatre. play about three drag queens that, despite its familiar 80s music, was too vitriolic for the average theatergoer.

In contrast, “Kinky Boots” is more family-friendly theater with the bully learning his lesson.

Needless to say, there is a happy ending and the audience has a good

time, leaving the theater feeling upbeat. Lauper’s ability to combine pop and Broadway music satisfies all. She has legions of fans that love her quirky look and sometimes offbeat music.

For information or to buy tickets, visit www.kinkybootsthemusical.com.

Basketball Coming To laGuardia Comm. College

By DaviD russEll Brian Goldstein just had to convince the student government at LaGuardia Community College. For a decade, hopes of sports coming to the school had been halted.

Goldstein understood what it took to get the job done.

“We can’t do this without funding.

The funding that was available was to get it through student activities fees,” he said.

After years of not being able to get an athletic program off the ground, LaGuardia Community College will have men’s and women’s basketball teams in the fall. Goldstein was chosen as athletic director after years as the Director of Student Life and the Director of Recreation at the school.

After interviewing 80 candidates for each spot, he hired Ben Chobhaphand and Anthony Alfaro to lead the men’s and women’s teams, respectively.

“I asked my committee for a 30second synopsis of each coach. Ben and Anthony were energized, motivated,” Goldstein said. “Ben came from the CUNY system. He got in that seat and said he’s someone who did it, you can do it.”

Chobhaphand played at Queensborough Community College, before becoming head coach at Forest Hills High School. After missing out on the QCC coaching job last year, he became an assistant at Nassau Community College.

“Being a former CUNY athlete and team captain helped me,” Chobhaphand said. “They can see a little bit of me in them.”

Alfaro said he is feeling confident about his team because of the support from the top.

“I definitely expect us to be competitive right off the bat,” he said. “I think we’re developing because the administration is very behind the program.”

Goldstein said he puts academics first, sports second.

“Winning is great, but the bottom line is getting a degree and moving on to a four year school. That is success for us,” he said.

The role of athletic director is one Goldstein is enjoying tremendously.

“If the college came out and filled the stands, that would thrill me,” he said. “I’m so recharged. If you love what you do, you never have to work a day in your life.”

Page 14 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Faith

Church Spreads The Word With Song, Dance

BY NATAliA KoZiKoWSKA

God is – that’s what our job is. That’s why we get excited to do events like this because it is our sole purpose,” she said. “We expect the show will make the audience walk away with a deeper relationship with God or a craving to know who God is.”

The concert will feature a number of vocal performances, all Christianthemed. The event, however, is more popular for its use of dance to bring God into people’s lives.

“Obviously, we’re dancing, so people look at it as a dance performance but when we dance, we don’t dance to perform – we dance to minister,” Hall said. “There is a difference.

That’s what separates us from dancing schools.”

A number of diverse dancing groups will be performing at the show and audiences can expect to see styles ranging from stepping to modern dance, to hip-hop and even a dance tribute to Alvin Ailey, an African American choreographer and activist who founded the Alvin Ailey

On Friday, May 17, Mount Moriah A.M.E Church and the AbunDance Liturgical Dance Ministry of Cambria Heights will present the annual day celebration, “The S.T.A.N.D.A.R.D.,” to help locals connect with God through dance and song.

“Because we’re a ministry, we don’t necessarily put on recitals,” said Gia Hall, director at the church. “This year, our theme is ‘The S.T.A.N.D.A.R.D.,’ – which stands for striving to attain new direction and renewed dedication. It’s a purpose for us and even when putting the concert together, we want to change somebody’s heart.”

The concert and dance performances, Hall said, serves as a way to encourage the community, especially residents of southeast Queens, to become closer to God. “This event will allow people to have a better understanding of who

Dance Theater in New York City.

According to Hall, the use of dance and song to reel in new congregants and worshipers has worked exceptionally well at Mount Moriah A.M.E Church.

“I think it works well because everyone is attracted to the arts,” she said. “Whether it’s singing, whether it’s dancing. I don’t think that people are restricted to beliefs because of the arts so everybody is going to be attracted to the arts.”

In the past, Mount Moriah A.M.E Church has held their annual day presentation at the church in Cambria Heights. Since then, the event has become so popular that there was a need to hold it at a different venue – Queensborough Community College.

“It’s expanded a lot,” said Hall.

“We used to do it at the church and its grown so much that two years ago, our pastor allowed us to venture out to Queensborough Community Col-

lege and we did our program there and more than 450 people came out.”

‘The S.T.A.N.D.A.R.D.’ event will be held at the Queensborough Community College Performing Arts Center from 8 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $25.

You may buy tickets at the church or at the door.

Queensborough Community College is located at 222-05 56th Ave., Bayside. For more information about the event, you may reach the church office at (718) 276-1908.

Mount Moriah A.M.E Church is located at 116-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Cambria Heights.

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

The PRESS wants to hear about the special programs in your faith community. Send your thoughts, stories, prayers and photos to: The PRESS at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357. All stories will be considered.

Photos cannot be returned.

Notebook PS 244

Queens School’s Menu Goes All Vegetarian While being healthier has been a longtime goal of the Dept. of Education and the City government, one school in Flushing is leading by example.

PS 244, the Active Learning Elementary School, is now the first New York City public school to serve an all-vegetarian menu. According to a press release, it is one of the first public schools in the country to do so as well.

Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott was on hand in the school’s cafeteria on April 30 to celebrate the achievement with PS 244’s faculty, staff and a third grade class.

“When we see that instilled in our students, that’s to me the greatest thing because it values everything that we’re about as far as healthy eating, high learning taking place in our classrooms and making sure our students succeed and do well,” he said.

The school, located at 137-20 Franklin Ave., has been working towards this goal since it opened in

Photo by Joe Marvilli

By Joe MArVilli

While the vegetarian menu was initially only three days a week, it slowly expanded to four days a week and then switched over to an allvegetarian cuisine early this year.

“I hope that today’s events inspire other schools to work towards making the changes that we have,” Groff said.

Also on hand to celebrate the achievement was Eric GoldChancellor Dennis Walcott sits with students at stein, CEO of School PS 244 to discuss the school’s new all-vegetarian Support Services, and menu.

Amie Hamlin, executive 2008, said principal Robert Groff. director of New York Coalition for “About six years ago, a small group Healthy School Food. of us laid out a vision for a school “It’s been a revolution in school that would focus not only on educat- food. We can remember back in the ing students academically but also day when we went to school, the on how to live healthy lives,” he said. concept of an all-vegetarian public “We believed that if we taught kids school was something unheard of,” how to make healthy choices, that it Goldstein said. “Thank you for alwould help them grow as students as lowing us to serve you guys.” well as well-rounded children, educat“PS 244 is indeed special,” Haming their mind, body and character.” lin added. “This school is willing to

take a chance and try out a vegetarian menu and we are so pleased that it’s been so well received by the students and their families.”

Walcott praised the school and its staff for taking the initiative on creating the all-vegetarian menu, mentioning that one of the students’ parents is a cook at the school as well. Two of her recipes are being used in other schools in addition to PS 244.

“The beauty of today’s announcement is it is not driven by all of us in tweed,” Walcott said. “This is really coming from the school directly; from the parents, from the students, from the staff, working with our notfor-profit partner to make sure they came up with menus that provide healthy options for our students.”

After the press conference ended, Walcott joined the 3rd grade for lunch, looking at a menu that included a black bean and cheddar quesadilla, red roasted potatoes, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, cheese sandwiches and fresh fruit.

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

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 15

Queens Today SECTION EDITOR: REGINA VOGEL

Send announcements for your club or organization’s events at least TWO weeks in advance to “Queens Today” Editor, Queens Tribune, 150-50 14 Road, Whitestone NY 11357. Send faxes to 357-9417, c/o Regina or email to queenstoday@ queenstribune.com Yearly schedules and advanced notices welcome!

THEATER MARISOL May 3-11 “Marisol” is an apocalyptic urban fantasy which urges societ y to ‘wake up.’ Queensborough Communit y College. 631-6311.

TALKS AUTHOR TALK Saturday, May 4 Sabine Heinlein discusses her book at the Sunnyside library at 3.

URBAN BOOK Sunday, May 5 Urban Book Club meets at the Central library at 2:30.

FAHRENHEIT 451 Monday, May 6 Windsor Park library at 2. Thursday, May 9 Windsor Park library at 5:30 and Glendale library at 6. Saturday, May 11 Ridgewood library at 2:30. Monday, May 13 Steinway library at 6:30. Tuesday, May 14 Whitestone library at 2 and Kew Gardens Hills at 2:15 and Broadway library at 2:30 and Mitchell-Linden library at 3.

STEINWAY MANSION Monday, May 6 “The Steinway Mansion: Communit y Visioning” at 7.

Free. Greater Astoria Historical Societ y. 2780700.

RELIGIOUS MULTIMEDIA CONCERT Saturday, May 4 at 8 multimedia concert extravaganza featuring Cantor Guy Bonne to c e l e b r a t e I s r a e l ’ s 6 5 th birthday in song. $25 advance, $30 at the door.

Te m p ke T i k v a h , 3 3 1 5 Hillside Avenue, New Hyde Park. 516-4375746.

YOUTH

TEENS CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays, May 6, 13 Douglaston library at 4.

BIG READ VIDEO Mondays, May 6, 13 teens film their own version of the “book people” scene from Fahrenheit 451 at the Flushing library at 4.

SOLAR ONE WEEK Monday through Thursday, May 6-9 Far Rockaway library at 3:30.

Build your own mini solar powered race cars.

ZUMBA Monday, May 6 Queens Village library at 4.

LAPTOPS Mondays-Thursdays Hollis library at 3.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays, May 7, 14 at the East Elmhurst library at 4.

SISTER TO SISTER Tu e s d a y, May 7 Pomonok library at 4:30.

READING CIRCLE Tu e s d a y s , M a y 7 , 1 4 Arverne library at 5.

KNIT & CROCHET Tu e s d a y s , M a y 7 , 1 4 Rochdale Village library at 5.

SCRABBLE Tuesdays, May 7, 14 East Flushing library at 3:30.

FAHRENHEIT BRACELET Tuesday, May 7 Fahrenheit 451 bracelet project at the Lefrak Cit y library at .

MOMS DAY CRAFT Tuesday, May 7 through age 14 at the Hillcrest library at 4:30.

CHESS CLUB Wednesdays, May 8, 15 Poppenhusen library at 4:30.

COMPUTER CLASS Wednesdays, May 8, 15 Woodside library at 5:45.

ONLINE TEST PREP Wednesday, May 8 LIC library. 752-3700.

BOOK RECYLING BIN Wednesday, May 8 Flushing library at 4.

Monday, May 13 Windsor Park library at 4.

Spare the life of discarded picture books by turning them into useful, attractive recycling bins.

GAME DAY Wednesdays Howard Beach library at 4.

CHESS Wednesdays at 3:30 Queens Village library.

COLLEGE RESEARCH Thursday, May 9 College Research Club at the Cambria Heights library at5:30.

ANIME CLUB Thursday, May 9 Flush-

ing library at 4.

MANGA DRAWING Thursdays South Ozone Park library at 4.

CHESS CLUB Thursdays Rochdale Village library 4:30.

HAPPY HOUR F r i d a y, M a y 1 0 Te e n Happy Hour at the Flushing library at 4.

CHESS CLUB Friday, May 10 Woodside library at 4.

MOVIE AFTERNOON Fridays Central library at 3:30.

WII FRIDAYS Fridays at the Hollis library at 3:30.

GAME DAY Fridays at 4 at the Sunnyside librar y.

LESSEN ANGER Lessen anger through creating art at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

CREATE WEALTH Learn How to Create Wealth at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

WRITE SCRIPT Write a Book or Movie Script at the Communit y Learning Center in Jamaica. 291-1094.

BUKHARIAN LOUNGE Central Queens Y in Forest Hills. 268-5011, ext.

202.

ACQC SUPPORT Wednesdays Teen Peer Support Group for those touched by HIV/AIDS. Ages 14-16. 896-2500.

COUNSELING Call 592-5757 free counseling at the Forest Hills Communit y House.

VAC YOUTH SQUAD The Glen Oaks Volunteer Ambulance Corps is looking for new members 1418. 347-1637.

PARENTS NEW MOMS Thursdays, May 9, 23 Support Group for New Moms in Flushing. 6702920 12-1.

SCRAPBOOKING Fridays, May 10, 17, 4, 31 scrapbooking for preemie parents in Flushing.

670-2920.

CHILDCARE WORK. Wednesday, May 15 Professional Development Workshop for Childcare Providers at the Central library at 6:30.

PSYCHOLOGICAL CTR Family and child therapy, parent management training and more. 5700500 sliding scale.

QUEENS LIBRARIES Many branches of the Queensborough Library offer toddler and preschool programs and more. Contact local branches.

MOUSE IN CITY Saturday, May 4 puppet musical at the Central library at 1. Tickets given out starting at noon.

WHAT’S THE SOUND? Saturdays, May 4, 18 explores orchestral instruments at the Ridgewood library at 2.

CHESS CLUB Saturdays at the Flushing library at 2.

MATH HELP Saturdays for grades 48 Flushing library at 10.

SCIENCE LAB Saturdays Central library at 11.

CHESS CLUB Saturdays Flushing library at 2.

S TORY T I M E Mondays, May 6, 13 Hollis library at 11:30.

CRAFT KIDS Mondays Flushing library at 3:30.

S TORY T I M E Mondays at 3:30 at the Peninsula library.

BEGIN CHESS Mondays at 3:30 Windsor Park library.

KNIT & CROCHET Mondays Douglaston library at 4.

HOMEWORK HELP Daily McGoldrick library at 3. Monday through Thursday at the Fresh Meadows library at 4 and at the Rosedale library at 3:30.

CRAFT Y TUESDAYS Tuesday, May 7 Forest Hills library at 3:30.

ORIGAMI MATH Tu e s d a y s , M ay 7 , 1 4 Bellerose library. Register.

MOM’S CRAFT Tuesday, May 7 Hillcrest library at 4:30.

KNIT & CROCHET Tu e s d a y, M ay 7 Rochdale Village library at 5.

BOOK BUDDIES Tuesdays, May 7, 14 East Elmhurst library at 4 and at the Windsor Park library. Register.

NATURE KIDS Tuesday s Sunnyside library at 3:15.

KNIT & CROCHET Tuesdays at 5 Rochdale Village library.

CRAFT TUESDAYS Tu e s d a y s Cambria Heights library at 4.

READING FOR FUN Wednesdays at the Laurelton library at 3:30.

CRAFTIVITIES Wednesdays East Flush-

ing library. Register.

CHESS Wednesdays at 3:30 Queens Village library and 4:30 Poppenhusen library.

GAME DAY Wednesdays Howard Beach library at 5.

ARTS & CRAFTS Wednesdays at the Auburndale library at 4.

CRAFTERNOONS Wednesdays at the Ridgewood library. Register.

YOUNG LEADERS Wednesdays and Fridays Young Leaders Institute of Laurelton at the Laurelton library at 3:30.

TUNEY TOTS Thursday, May 9 South Ozone Park library at 11.

S TORY T I M E Thursday, May 9 East Elmhurst library at 11:30.

S TORY T I M E Thursday, May 9 Hollis library at 11:30.

STUFF YOUR TEDDY Thursday, May 9 Arverne library at 3.

PICTURE BOOK TIME Thursday, May 9 Auburndale library at 4.

REPTILE EDVENTURE Thursday, May 9 Corona library at 4.

KIDS CLUB Thursday, May 9 Hillcrest library at 4:30.

MANGA DRAWING Thursdays South Ozone Park library at 4.

GAME ON Thursdays at the Central library at 3:30.

CHESS CLUB Thursdays Rochdale Village library at 4:30.

CHESS CLUB Friday, May 10 Auburndale library at 3:30.

GAME DAY Friday, May 10 Queens Village library at 3:30.

BOARD GAMES Friday, May 10 Windsor Park library at 4.

CHESS CLUB Friday, May 10 Woodside library at 4.

VIDEO/BOARD GAMES Friday, May 10 Rochdale Village library at 4:30.

CRAFT CLUB Fridays Peninsula library at 3.

GAME DAY Fridays at 3:30 Queens Village library.

ARTS & CRAFTS Fridays Briarwood library at 4. East Flushing Register. Ozone Park at 3.

GAME DAY Fridays Windsor Park at 4.

CHESS CLUB Fridays Auburndale li-

brary at 3:30 and W i n d s o r Pa r k l i b ra r y.

Register.

PICTURE BOOK TIME Saturday, May 11 Ridgewood library at 10:30.

SENIORS VISION & AGING Saturday, May 4 Broadway library at 3. Monday, May 6 Steinway library at 10.

SENIOR COMPUTERS Tuesdays, May 7, 14 at the South Ozone Park library at 11.

AARP29 Thursdays, May 9, June 13 AARP29 meets at Grace Houses Communit y Room, 155-02 90 t h Avenue, Jamaica at noon.

FLEA MARKETS THRIFT SHOP Saturdays 12-4 at the Queens Baptist Church, 9 3 - 2 3 2 1 7 th S t r e e t , Queens Village. 4652504.

SPRING FLEA Saturday, May 4 Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Kew Gardens Spring Flea Market 9-5.

LIRR north parking lot at 82-50 Austin Street.

CARNIVAL & FLEA Saturday, May 4 Redeemer Lutheran School, 69 th Street and Cooper Avenue 11-4. Street Carnival and Flea market.

FLEA & CAR SHOW Sunday, May 5 PS177, 188 th Street and 58 th Avenue, Fresh Meadows 93. Indoor flea, outdoor car show to support autism, blood drive, food, PLANT SALE Friday, May 10 the Douglaston Garden Club will hold a fundraiser Plant Sale at the home of Michael Gannan, 132 Park Lane 10-4 on the front lawn. 570-4469 info and to place orders.

SPRING RUMMAGE Tu e s d a y, May 14 Bellerose Jewish Center’s Spring Rummage Sale 9-4. 254-04 Union Turnpike.

NEIGHBORHOOD FLEA Sunday, May 19 Maspeth Federal Parking Lot, 101-09 Metropolitan Avenue, Forest Hills 103.

RUMMAGE/BAKE SALE Saturday, May 25 11-4 and Sunday, May 26 9-3 St. Josaphat’s, 35 th Ave n u e a n d 2 1 0 th S t r e e t , Bayside.

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Page 16 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

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People Binghamton University student Thomas Huzij of Woodhaven was inducted to Phi Kappa Phi, the nation’s oldest, largest and most selective honor society.

Dana Cubillan of Woodhaven was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international honor society at Quinnipiac University.

Local students received degrees during December 2012 commencement ceremonies at University at Albany. They include: South Richmond Hill: Ronald Minondo, Bachelor of Arts in economics.

Upcoming events at the Kew Gardens Community Center include: Shall We Dance, 11 a.m. May 8 and May 22.

Comedy Workshop, 9:30 to 10:45 a.m. Mondays.

Computer Classes for Beginners, noon to 1 p.m. Mondays.

The Kew Gardens Community Center is located at 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202.

Church of the Resurrection will host a spring fair from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. May 11 at the church, 85-

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Alexander Ribner of Rockaway Beach will receive a Bachelor of Science degree in business management with a minor in economics during spring 2013 commencement ceremonies at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford in Pennsylvania.

Cultural Historian Alanna Cooper will discuss her new book on Bukharan Jews at 1:30 p.m. May 6 at the Central Queens YM&YWHA. The talk is open to the public with a $6 suggested donation.

For information, call (718) 2685011, Ext. 151, visit www.cqy.org or email pkurtz@cqy.org.

Local students were initiated into The Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi, They include: Astoria: John Ketcham, Sarah Ko, Christopher McGrath.

Corona: Madonna Paras.

Flushing: Alexa Voskerichian, Lin Peng, Jihyun Lee. Middle Village: Nicholas Kleinbub, Kimberly Seoane.

Queens Village: Aimee Abraham.

The Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery held a Build A Bot Workshop with more than 40 children and parents in the community room. Participants built remote control robots from a box of cereal and TV remote control buttons.

Rego Park: Wan Xu. Rockaway Beach: Lukasz Stanczyk.

Woodhaven: Loren De Leon.

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Page 18 PRESS of Southeast Queens May 3-9, 2013

Musicians Of Queens Cavelle-Nell Romeo

While there are many talented singers, few can boast that they have a fiveoctave range. Cavelle-Nell Romeo though combines her vocal gift with a skilled hand at piano and guitar as well as strong fashion sense.

Romeo was strongly influenced by her mother, who was also a singer, to pursue a musical career, something that she has been doing since she was five years old. By the time she was six, Romeo was already playing guitar and piano. By the age of seven, she was able to sew and design clothing.

Romeo was trained by her mother until she lost her at the age of 12.

participated in a realitybased TV show called “Popstars: The One.” She finished among the top 12 finalists.

From there, she hit the world of musical theatre, taking part in “Generation Motown” from 2004 to 2007.

The musical paid tribute to the Motown era.

The singer has had success on the concert stage as well, having performed at the Apollo Theater, CBS News, B.E.T 106 and Park and Harlem Day. She also sang the National Anthem at Madison Square Garden.

Her first single, “Your Time to Shine,” is now available on iTunes.

“I sing because I am pas“I wanted to continue her legacy by sharing the gift that sionate about it and want God gave me with others,” to share my talent with the world,” Romeo said. she said.

While the artist was born in the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, she is currently based in St. Albans. The neighborhood and Queens as a whole inspired her due to its amassment of different cultures. The influence of Queens’ melting pot can be seen through Romeo’s music, which draws from gospel, R&B, jazz, soul and afro-Caribbean genres.

“The Borough has had an impact on me both personally and musically due to its diverse cultural background and history,” Romeo said.

Romeo’s career started growing in 2003, when she

Cemetery Celebrates Victorian Style If you have never been to a morbid, Victorian-style party, you have missed out.

This year, The Friends of Maple Grove Cemetery celebrated Victoriana Day on Saturday, April 27.

Victorian Day brings you back to the 1800s, when Victorian music, clothes – black dress, black gloves, umbrellas – jewelry and veils were all in style.

It is during this time when the concept of the “wake” began, because families wanted to make sure their loved ones, who were pronounced dead mostly because of an incurable disease, would not wake from being pronounced dead.

Guests were served funeral food and tea after their walk through the Maple Grove cemetery in Kew Gardens.

Isn't It Ironic?

The irony is strong with State Sen. Malcolm Smith.

Despite his widely-reported arrest last month, Smith’s office sent out a notice announcing that he is meeting with several police precincts to discuss how to fight crime in Southeast Queens.

Smith has set aside five Wednesday evenings through June, to meet with the commanding officers of six police precincts, including the 102, 107 and 113, at his district office in Hollis. The flyer has the word “Crime” in big, capital letters with a circle and a line running through it.

According to the flyer, one of the dates was set for April 3, just one day after his arrest.

We would imagine that one was cancelled as Smith was probably occupied with other matters around that time.

The flyer sent out regarding the meetings was the second notice Smith’s staff has sent out since he was arrested. A few weeks ago, his office sent out a photo of the State Senator meeting with members of the New York State Nurses Association.

While we at QConf are sure that the residents of Southeast Queens are concerned about crime in their neighborhood, we would recommend that Smith concentrate more on his own legal troubles.

Blooper Last week, the Queens Tribune received an email from one of Assemblyman David Weprin’s media officers.

The email announced that Weprin has been appointed to serve as Chairman of the New York State Assembly Subcommittee on Banking in ‘Undeserved’ communities.

The email left this Qconf reporter with two questions – why does the New York State Assembly have a subcommittee on banking in ‘undeserved’ communities and exactly which community is undeserving?

A selection of items on display during the Maple Grove Cemetery's Victoriana Day celebration over the weekend.

QConf is looking for some talented Queens residents.

Send an email to editor@ queenstribune.com

May 3-9, 2013 PRESS of Southeast Queens Page 19

What’s Up MAY 3 Learn Arabic at Central Take a course at the Queens Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd., which will introduce you to the basic vocabulary and grammar of Modern Standard Arabic. The course will start with the Arabic alphabet and continue to phrases and complete sentences. The course will also explore many common phrases and terminologies used by Arabic speakers today. This workshop is free and will be held at 4:30 p.m.

Dreamgirls The York College Performing Arts Center will present the musical “Dreamgirls.” It is about young female singing trio from Chicago who get their big break at an amateur competition and begin singing backup vocals for James “Thunder” Early. However, things begin to spin out of control when their agent, Curtis Taylor, Jr., makes Deena and not Effie, the star of what will become known as “The Dreams.” The musical takes place at 7 p.m. and prices range between $10, $15 and $20. For additional information, visit www. york.cuny.edu/events/dreamgirls-musical. Performances will also be held on May 4 and May 5.

MAY 4 It’s My Park Day The Friends of Brookville Park and Partnerships for Parks are pleased to invite everyone to ‘It’s My Park Day ‘at Brookville Park. Please join the Friends of Brookville Park as they clean the park found on Brookville Boulevard at 143rd Avenue.

For additional information, call (516) 776-6341 or contact kangela21@yahoo.com. Register by visiting www.cityparksfoundation.org/ volunteer-registration/#search-criteria. The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Everyday Women, Everyday Voices Conversation At Thomasina’s Catering Hall at 205-35 Linden Boulevard, you can network, relax, eat a brunch buffet and listen to four women who will empower and motivate you. Toni Brown is principal of The Brown Wynn Agency. Harriette Cole is from Harriette Cole Media. Keisha Sutton James is the vice president of Inner City Broadcasting. Sabrina Lamb is the founder and CEO of WorldofMoney. org, the author of “Do I Look like An ATM? A Parent’s Guide to Raising Financially Responsible Children” and she also spearheaded the cancellation of Oxygen’s “All My Babies Mamas”

reality TV. All ticket pricing includes Cole’s new meditation book, “108 Stitches: Words We Live By.” For additional information, visit everydaywomeneverydayvoices.eventbrite.com or contact Vivian McMillian at (917) 620-6590 or ourvillagegivingcircle@ gmail.com. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Individual tickets cost either $45 and $55, a table of 10 costs either $400 or $500 and a young girl can attend for $35.

Southern Queens Park Association Awards Luncheon The Southern Queens Park Association is celebrating 37 years of service in Southern Queens. Taking place at Antun’s, found at 96-43 Springfield Blvd., the luncheon will pay tribute to Borough President Helen Marshall and to several outstanding community leaders who have made substantial contributions to Southern Queens. The luncheon costs $65 and starts at noon. For additional information, call (718) 2764630.

“The Adventures of Kid Zero” The Black Spectrum Theatre Company’s children’s acting class is pleased to present, “The Adventures of Kid Zero.” Who is “Kid Zero”?

You will have to see the play to find out. Directed by Karim Sekou with musical direction by Karim Sekou, the play will occur at 1 p.m. at the Black Spectrum Theatre at 177th Street and Baisley Boulevard. It costs $15 for adults and $7.50 for children.

For additional information, call (718) 723-1800. The show will also run on May 5.

MAY 5 18th Annual Roy Wilkins Invitational The 18th Annual Roy Wilkins Invitational will be held at Roy Wilkins Park and Merrick Boulevard and Baisley Boulevard at 9 a.m. for free.

The competition will be fierce and the food will be good. Come get into the spirit of track and field while cheering on these up and coming future NCAA student-athletes. For additional information, visit metroeagles.org.

Urban Book Club Queens Urban Book Club reviews books from various genres, both fiction and non-fiction. Many of the books reviewed are urban-themed.

Books are voted upon by club members. Supplementary activities are also incorporated into club meetings on a regular basis. The meeting takes place at the Central Library at 89-

11 Merrick Blvd. on the main floor meeting room. It is free to join. All are welcome.

Sunday Concerts: Avram Pengas and the Noga Group Greek-born musical arranger, guitarist and bouzouki virtuoso, Avram Pengas, will perform an exciting mix of Mediterrean and Middle Eastern music for free at the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 3 p.m.

MAY 6 Stay Well Learn how special exercises and relaxation techniques can make a difference in your life at the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 10 a.m. The event is free.

MAY 7 Small Business Workshop Do you have an idea for a business?

This free workshop at Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. will teach you how to develop a business plan, create a demand for a product or service, set goals and objectives, create budgets and timelines, identify resources and prepare to open your “doors.” It takes place at 7 p.m. Visit the Job Information Center or call (718) 990-8625 for more information.

MAY 8 The Earth And Me With a flowing tapestry of song, dance, puppetry and music, “The Earth And Me” inspires children with hope and empowerment. Taking place at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center at 153-10 Jamaica Ave., the children learn how they can help protect the Earth’s delicate balance through harmony, tolerance and peace. The performance has two sessions, one at 10 a.m. and one at 11:30 a.m. It costs $15 at the door and $10 in advance.

For additional information, visit www.shadowboxtheatre.org. The performance will also be held on May 9.

Sewing Circle for Women (in Bengali) Learn how to turn sewing skills into a career and earn money working for yourself at the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. at 10 a.m. The workshop is free.

ShapeUp NYC: Aerobics for Adults Keep that New Year’s resolution with free weekly fitness classes through ShapeUp NYC at the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. Aerobics for Adults provides a free, mod-

erate workout that burns calories and improves cardiac function. Instructed

by Danielle Howell, space is limited and participation is on a first-come, first-served basis. The class is at 4 p.m.

3D Design and Printing for Entrepreneurs and Artists 3D design and printing is revolutionizing product prototyping and is providing new opportunities for small business. It also permits artists to sculpt and design in a very different medium and hobbyists to create that special piece that can not be found elsewhere. Educator Yvonne Shortt of the Rego Park Green Alliance demonstrates using SketchUp at Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. Space is limited at this free 6:30 p.m. event.

Preregistration is required.

York College Observatory Open Night The York College Observatory at 94-20 Guy R. Brewer Blvd. is open to the public every second or third Wednesday of the month, rain or shine, from 8:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Gather in room 2E01 and then proceed to the 4th floor terrace off G corridor if it is clear. For additional information, contact Tim Paglione at paglione@york. cuny.edu or (718) 262-2082.

MAY 9 Mock Interviews Mock interviews let you make mistakes before they count. In this free workshop at 9 a.m., you will learn how to prepare for your interview, successfully deal with difficult questions, and follow up properly after the interview. Space is limited. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 990-8625 or visit the Job Information Center. Mock interviews are held on the Main Floor of the Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd. in the Job Information Center.

The Big Read: Film Screenings and Discussions Not everyone predicts a rosy future. Join us for a free screening and discussion of dystopian films, starting with Francois Truffaut’s “Fahrenheit 451” at 6 p.m. at Central Library at 89-11 Merrick Blvd.

What’s Up With You? Send your community events to the PRESS for a free listing at 150-50 14th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357 Call (718) 357-7400 or email editor@queenspress.com All events will be considered for publication, without a fee.

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