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July 22, 2012 Your Neighborhood — Your News®
Court orders school closings Mayor, Sanders clash on frisking be put on hold Southeast Queens councilman calls for gun buy-backs as city defends policy
BY RICH BOCKMANN BY RICH BOCKMANN
The city was dealt another GETTING MUCH CLOSER TO NATURE Critics and supporters of the blow last week to its plan to NYPD’s controversial stop-and- restructure seven struggling frisk program are looking at a re- Queens high schools, leaving it cent wave of gun violence, includ- unclear which staff will be at ing a deadly assault in southeast those schools — and even what Queens with an AK-47, and com- they will be named — come Sep- ing up with differing interpreta- tember. tions. In April, the city Panel for Ed- In the early morning hours ucational Policy voted to approve of July 7, three men were gunned Mayor Michael Bloomberg’s plan down near Springfield Gardens to close 24 low-achieving schools High School in a barrage of more across the city, replace more than than 50 shots fired from an as- half the teachers and reopen sault rifle, police said. The follow- them under new names in the fall ing day, a 3-year-old boy was shot under the model known as turn- in his leg in Brooklyn, bringing around. the number of the city’s gunshot Seven borough high schools victims that week to 77. — Newtown High School in Mayor Michael Bloomberg Elmhurst, Flushing HS, August and Police Commissioner Ray Martin HS in Jamaica, Richmond Kelly recently pointed to these in- Hill HS, John Adams HS in Ozone cidents to justify stop-and-frisk, Park, William Cullen Bryant HS but City Councilman James Sand- in Astoria and Long Island City ers (D-Laurelton) said they serve HS — were given the axe, and the as an example of a failed policy. city Department of Education be- Sanders levied his criti- gan the process of reshaping the Victoria Rodriguez makes a new friend while learning about the environment with the Green Girls, an intensive sum- cism in response to remarks schools, including introducing mer-program operated in city parks. See story on Page 9. Photo by Steve Mosco Kelly made July 10, two days after Continued on Page 16 Continued on Page 16 Civics cringe as city OKs Pols want higher e-bike fi nes oversized Mormon church BY REBECCA HENELY laws on electric bikes. with Community Board 2 BY JOE ANUTA “We need to take ac- members and other resi- City Councilman tion now before someone dents. Garodnick’s bill The city approved an application Tuesday Jimmy Van Bramer (D- gets seriously injured,” does not refer to scooters that will allow the Mormon Church to build a Sunnyside) invited fellow Van Bramer said. but to bicycles with a motor chapel that exceeds zoning regulations on 33rd Councilman Dan Garod- Van Bramer affirmed attached, which are illegal Avenue in Flushing, much to the dismay of civ- CB 2 Chairman Joseph Conley (c.) calls nick (D-Manhattan) to his his support for Garodnick’s to drive within the city. ic organizations and Community Board 7. for greater fees on traffic violations com- district last Thursday to recently introduced bill Despite the restric- The city Board of Standards and Appeals mited by riders of electric bikes, joined by promote Garodnick’s bill, at a news conference held tion, the councilmen said voted unanimously to approve the application, Councilmen Dan Garodnick (l.) and Jimmy which would increase fines at 46th Street and Queens the electric bikes have be- Continued on Page 16 Van Bramer. Photo by Rebecca Henely for those who violate traffic Boulevard in Sunnyside Continued on Page 16
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Donations accumulate along with attention from Queens DA WEEKLY BY JOE ANUTA The National Rifle As- sociation and other gun- A Queens lawmaker advocacy groups are fierce , J ULY
called out state Senate Ma- opponents of the plan, call- 2012 22, • jority Leader Dean Skelos ing it ineffective and an as- (R-Rockville Centre) and sault on the federal right to his party Monday, urging bear arms. the Republican leader to A video on the NRA TIMESLEDGER bring a controversial gun website contends that the control measure to a vote firing pins could be altered during a special session in too easily, while other ar- . Albany. guments against the pro- COM Sen. Jose Peralta (D- cess question how often the East Elmhurst) asked Ske- stamps would be legible. los and his colleagues to The NRA and other visit the five boroughs, es- gun groups have poured pecially in light of a recent money into election coffers spike in gun violence, in in the Empire State, accord- order to see why the city’s ing to Peralta. lawmakers, along with Peralta, the sponsor of Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the bill in the Senate, was support microstamping. speaking in front of Queens “Come in from the sub- Borough Hall, at 120-55 urbs and upstate,” Peralta Queens Blvd., alongside the said. other sponsor, Assembly- “Bring your members woman Michelle Schimel along with you. Instead of (D-Great Neck) and Assem- keeping each other compa- blywoman Grace Meng (D- ny at a fancy hotel, get out Flushing). Candidates Ethel Chen (clockwise from top, l.), Yen Chou, Phil Gim, Sunny Hahn, Ron Kim, Myungsuk Lee, John Scandalios and Martha Flores- and talk to people,” he said. Meng is running for Vazquez hope to remain on the ballot after a round of legal challenges. Photos by Joe Anuta, Christina Santucci and courtesy Scandalios Microstamping is the Congress and vowed to process of engraving the push for microstamping on BY JOE ANUTA accepted by my paper and able to place ads that were more than $27,500, which end of every firing pin in a federal level, along with by my staff, the individuals ultimately offering illegal leaves her with about semi-automatic handguns several other gun-control Candidates for the purported them to be legal services, I am happy this $100,000. But Chou, along with a unique, microscopic initiatives, including re- Flushing state Assembly in nature. Had my staff has been brought to the with other candidates, was code. When the firing pin quiring employees of arms seat will challenge each known these individuals paper’s attention and it boosted by large loans to hits the back of a shell cas- dealers and gunsmiths to other in court before butt- were, in fact, using these will be corrected going for- the campaign. In her case, ing, creating a small explo- submit to a criminal back- ing heads on the campaign ads and services as a front ward,” Lee said. “It is just Bo Hsiang Chen loaned the sion and ejecting a bullet, ground check, requiring a trail, although a contro- for illegal activities, they a reminder of how Flush- campaign $60,000, about that code is stamped onto background check for the versy surrounding one would never have been ing’s quality of life is under half of her total war chest. the shell, in theory allow- sale of every firearm and candidate has attracted the accepted,” Lee said in re- attack and how we always Chen raised about ing any law enforcement allowing a judge to take eye of the Queens district sponse to a report in need to stay vigilant $17,500 through individu- officials who might happen away guns from someone attorney. the New York Post against those who al contributions but was to find it at a crime scene deemed mentally ill. There will be prima- that ads for massage will lie and deceive loaned $90,000 by Thomas to trace where the gun was The push for micro- ries on both sides of the parlors in the back for personal gain.” Wu, which made up the bulk made and to whom it was stamping comes when Al- aisle Sept. 13, though the of the Korean Amer- District Attor- of the $112,500 she raised. first sold. bany may convene for an Democratic field is more ican Times were allegedly ney Richard Brown will be Chen still has $89,000. The bill has already emergency session to deal crowded than the GOP linked to prostitution. conferring with the NYPD’s Financial disclosure passed the Democratic- with tax issues affecting race. Ads designed to re- Vice Squad on the matter of statements from Kim and controlled state Assembly condominium and co-op The Queens Demo- cruit sex workers allegedly the allegedly illegal mas- Flores-Vazquez were not several times, but has not owners in the city, but Per- cratic Party-backed can- led back to the same build- sage parlors, according to a available by press time, yet been brought to a vote alta wants the microstamp- didate Ron Kim collected ing where Lee’s campaign spokesman for the DA. and Scandalios pledged not in the Senate, which is con- ing bill heard as well. enough signatures to ob- and newspaper are head- Lee, along with every to take campaign donations trolled by Republicans. tain a place on the ballot, as quartered, according to the other candidate, had the at all and calls himself the But a spokesman for did District Leader Martha Post. signatures he collected $999 candidate, referring to Skelos countered that a Flores-Vazquez, Flushing A reporter who showed challenged in court. If the fact that he is using his microstamping bill was activist Ethel Chen, former up at the address and asked enough are thrown, out own money. already brought to a vote City Council candidate Yen for a massage was given a some candidates could be On the Republican in the Senate when it was Chou, comic book store price list of a wide range taken off the ballot. Party side, Flushing ac- Democratically controlled owner John Scandalios and of illegal sexual activities Lee raised more than tivist Sunny Hahn raised several years ago, and that Korean Newspaper owner that could be purchased, $80,000 for the race, accord- $950 from individual con- it could not even pass then. Myungsuk Lee, who has according to the Post. ing to the state Board of tributions, but received a “We did not take up been embroiled in a scan- “Although I am disap- Elections, although he has substantial loan of $25,000 the microstamping bill this dal involving ads in his pa- pointed that individuals about $25,000 left. from Yanghee Hahn. year,” said Scott Reif. “It’s Retired Police Officer per allegedly being linked misrepresented themselves Chou raised about She will face GOP- an unproven technology, Bob Nobile spoke in fa- to prostitutes. successfully to the Korean $128,000, putting her in the backed candidate Phil Gim and we will continue to vor of microstamping. “When these ads were American Times and were lead thus far. She has spent in the primary. look at the issue.” Photo by Christina Santucci 4 **** PUBLIC NOTICE **** ATTENTION: ALL TENANTS AND FIRST TIME HOME BUYERS Jamaica hero honored ThisThis is Is your Your Chance Chance to COM . becomeTo Become a Homeowner!!!! 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AvailabilityAvailability is is on on a a first first come come firstfirst serve basis so City Councilman Ruben Wills hands the new street sign to Juanita Grate, the wife of Henry Grate Sr. schedule anan appointment appointment now no forfor thethe best selection: 718-291-1800 Photo by Phil Corso
vvÀ`>LiÊ£ÃÌÊiÃÊ£{ΣÎÊÃ`iÊÛiÊ>>V>]Ê 9Ê££{Îx BY PHIL CORSO Neighbors spoke fondly the line for the community. of how he quickly became His door was literally al- He was everyone’s the unofficial community ways open.” hero. barber, never charging for In the 1970s, Grate was That explains why so a single haircut. He was a member of the Remington many people gathered at also a skilled carpenter Street Block Association the intersection of 104th who acted as a mentor and and was a sponsor to sev- Avenue and Remington provided training lessons eral block association cel- Street in Jamaica Saturday for children in his neigh- ebrations. His well-known to celebrate the street’s co- borhood. community involvement naming in honor of former He died in 2008 at the helped make him and his lifelong resident Henry age of 86 after a lengthy ill- family a revered aspect of Grate Sr. ness. the Jamaica community. With help from City Grate also built a “He always made sure Councilman Ruben Wills home recording studio in the youth had something (D-Jamaica) and other city his basement to provide the positive to turn to,” said officials, members of the area’s youth with a posi- daughter-in-law Lisa Grate. OPEN HOURS South Jamaica community, tive outlet to express them- “This community embod- including Grate’s family, selves. ies the spirit of Henry. To- MON~SATURDAY neighbors, and hip-hop icon “So much music came day is a culmination of all Larry Smith, were able to out of his house,” Feurtado his hard work.” 10 ~ 7PM forever display the name said. “He was not only a fa- Henry’s son and Lisa SUNDAY 12 ~ 5PM of a man they so dearly ad- ther to his kids, he was also Grate’s husband Harold mired. a father to the entire com- Grate said it was a long time “He catered to every- munity.” coming for his late father, one’s needs,” said Todd Feurtado was instru- and he was moved to see his Feurtado, co-founder of the mental in helping move community come together nonprofit group King of along the process to co- years after his death. Kings Foundation. “After name Remington Street The new street sign growing up so close to him “Henry Grate Sr. Place” in was unveiled in the compa- and his dynamic family, it honor of Grate, according ny of state Assemblywoman was my sole duty to allow to Wills. The councilman Vivian Cook (D-Jamaica), the community to mark his said Feurtado showed up who said she was honored name down in a way that to his office determined to to be part of the ceremony. can never be erased.” honor his late hero, ready “This community is Henry Grate Sr. was a with petitions and all. full of people we can all 253-16 Northern Blvd Little Neck, NY 11363 lifelong resident of south- “Today encapsulates look up to,” Wills said. “We east Queens and was well- what our community is are going to continue work- WWW.BIFUSA.COM 718-225-3100 known for keeping his really about,” Wills said. ing to show everyone what front door open — literally. “Henry put everything on we have to offer.” Meng accepts Halloran challenge to TV debates 5 Q
BY JOE ANUTA Meng will gladly debate Halloran $250. The Middle spent about $1.13 million, UEENS Dan Halloran and his sup- Village Republican Club including loans taken out,
The race for the port for the radical, ultra- also chipped in $250. according to campaign fi- WEEKLY Queens congressional seat conservative, Republican Most of the addresses nance data from the Fed- centered in Flushing is agenda, including his plans listed to donors were out- eral Election Commission , J ULY
gearing up for its second to privatize Social Secu- side the district. Halloran kept until June 30. 2012 22, • stage, with the Republican rity, pass the Ryan budget also incurred a significant Meng still has a little Party candidate seeking and continue the failed eco- amount of debt compared more than $180,000 in cash televised debates and the nomic policies focused on to the amount of money he on hand, according to the two hopefuls starting off supporting the wealthiest took in. FEC, which is about 16 TIMESLEDGER with modest war chests. 1 percent of Americans,” Halloran owed $15,500 percent of the total money “I have a plan to create said campaign spokesman in debt to various campaign spent so far. jobs, cut taxes and spending Austin Finan. services, including $4,000 to Meng only outspent . and get our country back Meng’s camp also a man named Dave Sieling, her nearest rival, Assem- COM on track from Day 1,” City hoped to have civic associa- who founded the Rochester blyman Rory Lancman Councilman Dan Halloran tions in the district sponsor chapter of Tea New York, a (D-Fresh Meadows) by a (R-Whitestone) said in a the televised debates. statewide group associated little more than $220,000, statement. “My opponent, Meng initially ad- with the Tea Party. according to the FEC data best as I can tell, has recy- dressed her challenger Halloran also owed through June 30, yet Meng cled statements from liber- during a speech declar- a man named Paul Gullo won more than 50 percent al special interest groups. ing victory in the June 26 $8,500 for campaign man- of the June 26 vote. City By debating me, she can fill Democratic Party primary, agement. Gullo is a GOP po- Councilwoman Elizabeth us in on what she’d actually when she said she hoped to State Assemblywoman Grace Meng (l.) and City Councilman Dan litical operative associated Crowley (D-Middle Village) do if she were elected. ” run a campaign not focused Halloran attend a rally in April. with the Monroe County spent $320,000, which also State Assemblywoman on race nor religion, two Young Republicans. Hal- included debt. Grace Meng (D-Flushing) factors that played promi- cash on hand as of June donors. loran paid Gullo $2,000 for accepted Halloran’s chal- nently into a 2009 Council 30, according to the FEC, Robert Beltrani, a moving expenses, accord- Reach reporter Joe lenge and fired back, draw- race between a victorious which is about 5 percent of conservative Queens judge ing to the FEC, and gave Anuta by e-mail at januta@ ing a stark contrast be- Halloran and Kevin Kim. Meng’s coffers. who unsuccessfully ran for Sieling $1,000 for the same cnglocal.com or by phone at tween the two platforms. The Republican cur- Halloran raised about a spot on the Queens Su- thing. 718-260-4566. “Assemblywoman rently has about $9,000 in $19,000 through individual preme Court last year, gave Meng had already
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ST !VE s *ACKSON (EIGHTS .9 s WWWROCCOSBRICKOVENPIZZERIACOM 6 Glen Oaks heroes honored Qns Theatre, Grange COM . hailed for giving back Councilman Weprin thanks Royal Ranch do-gooders with citations BY REBECCA HENELY Walsh.
TIMESLEDGER BY PHIL CORSO Russo, who was steps Brooklyn Grange, a away, heard someone yell- The city Department commercial organic farm, Lifeguard and life sav- ing to call the police when of Small Business Services won the Queens Small Busi- er Emily Harms said she he jumped in to help. He honored the Long Island ness of the Year Award. It is
22, 2012 • 22, 2012 returns to Glen Oaks every said he helped hold the boy City business Brooklyn on a rooftop at 37-18 North-
ULY year so she can watch over in position while Harms Grange Farm and Flushing ern Blvd. in Long Island , J the Royal Ranch pool, but performed CPR. Meadows Corona Park’s City. Despite the name, never in her six summers “That is something Queens Theatre at its an- which the company picked WEEKLY working there has she been you are always prepared nual awards ceremony last before its original planned
UEENS tested with such urgency. for,” Harms said. “It came week. Brooklyn location did not Q Harms helped save an as second nature when it The 2012 New York City work out, the farm opened 11-year-old boy while work- was time to help someone.” Neighborhood Achieve- in Queens in 2010 to a posi- ing the community pool on Harms said the boy ment Awards, which rec- tive reception. Independence Day after he started to throw up, so she ognized 15 other organiza- The farm sells a vari- was pulled out of the 3-foot- and Russo held him on his tions from across the city, ety of vegetables to restau- deep water by his mother, side until they could con- spotlight businesses and rants in Queens and Brook- unable to breathe after suf- tinue watching over him cultural entities that create lyn, as well as residents of fering a seizure. With some until authorities arrived. economic development and both boroughs. help from retired NYPD Russo, 53, who retired jobs but also strengthen the Weber said Brooklyn Sgt. Chris Russo, Harms from the NYPD nine years neighborhoods in which Grange was chosen not helped save the boy’s life by ago, said his experience they are located. only for growing products performing CPR until he as a sergeant helped him “They’re really giv- locally but connecting and could breathe on his own. spring into action. ing back to the city and the educating city residents The boy was taken to “Instincts just took Queens community,” said about the experience of nearby Long Island Jewish over,” Russo said. “I’ve been Meredith Weber, spokes- farming. Medical Center and made a in similar situations before woman for Small Business “They expanded to full recovery. so I knew I had to help.” Services. Brooklyn a few months ago, City Councilman Mark As Harms and Russo The organizations re- and they’re just really doing Weprin (D-Oakland Gar- were honored, a group ceived their awards at Gra- great things with the roof- dens) honored both Harms of pool visitors gathered cie Mansion July 10 from top farming,” Weber said, and Russo last Thursday outside the water to snap Deputy Mayor Robert Steel “which is really becoming with Council citations, rec- pictures and show thanks and Small Business Servic- a popular effort these days, ognizing them for their he- to the local heroes, cheer- es Commissioner Robert Continued on Page 16 roic performance in saving Lifeguard Emily Harms scans the water at the Royal Ranch pool. ing for their efforts. Before the boy’s life. Photo by Christina Santucci her next shift, Harms was “I applaud Emily followed to her lifeguard Harms and Sgt. Chris Rus- she heard a commotion Harms, who lives in watchtower by a crowd of so for their quick thinking punctuated by the blow of Bellerose and studies el- young swimmers, anxious and for ultimately saving a lifeguard’s whistle. When ementary and special edu- to chat before jumping into a young boy’s life,” Weprin she looked up, she said she cation at Providence Col- the water. said. “These are the local saw the boy being pulled lege in Rhode Island, said “For once, it is safe to heroes who help keep our out of the water. it was the first time she had be in Harms’ way,” Weprin community safe.” “He was completely to perform such a major said after presenting both Harms, 21, said she was blue,” Harms said. “I ran rescue aside from the more Harms and Russo with the working pool side on paper- over there and did CPR un- common bumps, bruises citations. Queens Theatre in Flushing Meadows Corona Park won the Cultural work around 1:15 p.m. when til the EMTs arrived.” and scrapes. Award from the city Department of Small Business Services. Photo by Christina Santucci
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BY STEVE MOSCO and I truly wonder what Departing NYC/Queens their endgame is.” Other BIG V Tours Include: The state Department Report showed In a peculiar twist, Golf, Outlets, Casinos, Wineries/Breweries of Health issued its final re- Consumer Reports maga- port on the shuttered Pen- hospital had zine named Peninsula insula Hospital last week, more than Hospital one of the safest and local lawmakers are facilities in the city in a not satisfied. $47 million report released last week. The four-page report The hospital earned a 52 documents and attempts to in debt and out of 100 rating, giving it :@KP;IPN8CC explain the Rockaway facil- lower patient the second-best rating in ity’s collapse in April and the entire city. follows a May public hear- admissions. But U.S. News & World :FEKI8:K@E> ing in which Health Com- Report conducted its own missioner Nirav Shah was tients in the community. survey of the best hospitals E\n:fejkilZk`fe# UEENS Please contact the synagogue for details. ers from the children’s sec- Q from 10:00am to 5:00pm. tion of public libraries. Vendor space is still available for the July, “This problem is real, August,UPCOMING and ADULTSeptember EDUCATION dates. CLASS: Please HEBREW and it’s happening where contactThursdays, the synagogueAugust 9 through for details. October 4 – 7:30 pm parents trust their kids will be safe,” de Blasio said in a As part of his annual series of education at Free Synagogue, Cantor Steven statement. “A children’s Pearlson invites you to come and learn Hebrew. No knowledge whatsoever reading room should be off of Hebrew is required for the limits for a sexual predator Wednesday,course. Thursday June evenings 20 at 6:00 pm — just like a playground.” RUSHstarting HOUR on CONCERT August 9 Vallone said a reso- lution he is planning to Whenthrough work October ends, 4 experience a different from 7:30 pm to 8:30 pm. introduce calls upon the kind of rush hour on Wednesday, June state Legislature to ban sex Registration required. The cost is $5.00 per session for non-members 20 at 6:00pm by heading over to the offenders from going into or prepayment for all classes is $40. For more information, please email a children’s section. The [email protected] to hear a free or call classical (718) 961-0030. hoped-for legislative mea- musical concert. sure would be an extension COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR of similar bans on offenders entering schools or school Sunday, August 19 – 10 am to 4:00 pm playgrounds. Wednesday,We will be hosting June a Community 27 at 12:00 Health Noon and “The law already ex- LUNCHWellness & LEARN Fair WITHon August RABBI 19 from 10:00 am to 4:00 ists, we’re just making it broader,” he said. Police released this surveillance image of a suspect, who alleged- pm. There will be a host of free services offered. ly touched two girls in the Flushing branch of the Queens Library. More details to come. Vallone said he and de Blasio had been searching Image courtesy NYPD for ways to keep children in sider their proposal. inal.” WeeklyONGOING in JuneEVENTS IN JULY libraries safe after two girls Previous attempts to Queens Library Presi- — one 6 years old, the other create laws barring sex dent and CEO Thomas Gal- Tuesday - Rabbi Michael’s Meditation Class 7:30 pm Tuesdays: Mindfulness Meditation at 7:30 PM 9 — were inappropriately offenders entirely from ante released a statement in Fridays: Friday Shabbat- Shabbat Evening Service Service 8 pm at 8 PM touched — in the Flush- libraries have not been support of the legislation. Saturday - Torah Study 10:30 am ing branch of the Queens struck down by the courts, “It is essential that our Saturdays: Informal Worship & Torah Study at 10:30 AM Library, at 41-17 Main St., like an Albuquerque, N.M., children feel comfortable in last month. Police charged ban that was rejected by visiting public libraries for Brooklyn resident Joel the U.S. Circuit Court of assistance with schoolwork Grubert, 48, a registered Appeals earlier this year and lifelong learning,” he Looking for a beautiful, spacious hall for your next event? sex offender, with sexual as an infringement on the said. “We thank our legisla- Our Social Hall is the perfect location. abuse and endangering the offenders’ First Amend- tors for doing all they can It accommodates 250 people plus stage space. welfare of a child in the in- ment rights. Vallone said to preserve a secure envi- cident. he expected this ban to be ronment for them.” Convenient to LIRR and 7 subway line A 7-year-old girl also narrow enough to be ac- Vallone said he and Free on-site parking reported being inappropri- ceptable. de Blasio are also working ately touched by a man at “I think specifically on finding state legislators the Queens Library’s Stein- including children’s areas who will sponsor a bill. Call 718-961-0030 way branch, at 21-45 31st of libraries should pass The councilman allo- St. in Astoria, last year. constitutional muster,” he cated money to have securi- or email [email protected] There have been no arrests said. ty cameras installed in the in that incident as of the Vallone said while no Steinway Library and the TimesLedger’s Tuesday af- law will completely stop Astoria Library, at 14-01 ternoon press time. offenders who prey on chil- Astoria Blvd., in response Free Synagogue of Flushing The officials wrote dren, it will give police of- to the incident last year. 41-60 Kissena Blvd. Flushing a letter to state Assembly fers another tool to protect Speaker Sheldon Silver (D- them. Reach reporter Re- FRES-058444 New York State and the National Register of Historic Places Manhattan) and state Sen- “It’s very hard to deter becca Henely by e-mail at www.freesynagogue.org • 718-961-0030 • [email protected] ate Majority Leader Dean pedophiles,” he said. “They [email protected] or by Skelos (R-Rockville Centre) have the worst recidivism phone at 718-260-4564. Free on-site parking • Two blocks from Subway/7 train & the LIRR Main St. • Flushing Station July 9 urging them to con- rate out of every type crim- City girls fi nd being green is easy in natural setting 9 Q BY STEVE MOSCO program — it is an adven- exposing the participants wildlife to see and we hope UEENS ture into a world rarely to career opportunities they grow an appreciation In this city of concrete, viewed by city dwellers. that are available in the sci- for what’s here and under- WEEKLY there are still natural set- The group’s latest adven- ences. stand the human impact on tings hidden just off the ture had the girls with One girl who took her nature,” said Susan Stan- , J ULY beaten — and paved — nets in the air, screaming experience with the Green ley, a research ecologist 2012 22, • path. in amusement while they Girls seriously came back with the Natural Resources One such setting tried to catch dragonflies to start an internship Group, a team of scientists goes about its organic and for study at Strack Pond with City Parks. Angelica that helps research and biological business while last week. Chery, 15, of Brooklyn, said maintain the resources of TIMESLEDGER traffic whizzes by on busy “This is so much fun,” the program opened her the city’s parks. Woodhaven Boulevard. As said Emonie Faulkner, an mind to new challenges As the frenzy subsided distracted drivers honk and 11-year-old from Jamaica and showed her the other and activities winded down, . curse on their way to work, who also goes by the name side of a city she thought one Green Girl could not COM an ecosystem of birds, in- Peanut. “I love being out she knew. shake a dragonfly friend sects and marine life exist here and feeling that I’m The Green Girls, a program within the City Parks Foundation, “The Green Girls gave that landed on her shoulder around Strack Pond in For- a part of something. I was teaches young women about the wonders of nature. me the chance to experi- and refused to leave. est Park, a world away from scared of dragonflies at Photo by Steve Mosco ence nature and gave me ac- “Can I take him humans’ modern worries. first, but now I love them. grass and water. care for the earth in these cess to places I didn’t know home?” asked Victoria Ro- The mission to seek I didn’t know a place like “A lot of people possess girls at a young age. The I had access to,” said Chery. driguez, of Brooklyn. “I out and explore those hid- this was in Queens.” an innate attraction to be- three-week program edu- “I learned that I am part of like him. I have mosquitoes den spots is one taken on Peanut’s surprise and ing in the natural world,” cates as it entertains and the environment. I want to at my home he could eat.” by the Green Girls, an in- wonder at the pond’s exis- said Danielle Rolli, a Green promotes leadership skills help these girls realize that For more information tensive summer program tence is the most common Girls coordinator. “Once while teaching about the they can’t take the environ- on City Parks Foundation operated by the City Parks reaction to city nature, ac- they are out here, they re- city’s vast natural and cul- ment for granted.” and how to join the Green Foundation, an indepen- cording to program orga- vert back to an instinctive tural resources. During the dragonfly Girls, visit cityparksfoun- dent, nonprofit offering nizers. They said many of enjoyment for being in na- The curriculum ad- free-for-all, a research ecol- dation.org. park programs throughout the girls who join the pro- ture.” dresses a variety of sci- ogist was on hand to guide the five boroughs. gram have a narrow view Rolli said beyond mere- ence subjects, including the girls and help them un- Reach reporter Steve But to the young wom- of what the city is — they ly enjoying the outdoors, environmental education, derstand the deeper mean- Mosco by e-mail at smosco@ en involved, Green Girls tend to only know the brick the program aims to instill ecology, biology, geology, ing of the day’s events. cnglocal.com or by phone at is more than a learning and mortar and rarely the a sense of stewardship and zoology and botany while “There is so much 718-260-4546. 124-19 101st Avenue, Richmond Hill & 61-88 Dry Harbor Road, Middle Village 10 Food truck to bring free meals to Queens Farm BY RICH BOCKMANN mer meals even more ac- nonprofit that focuses on COM . cessible and convenient, we eliminating childhood Those who frequent will be operating three re- hunger, which provided certain western Queens frigerated food trucks that a text messaging service TIMESLEDGER neighborhoods where a fe- will serve meals to young- so parents can text “ny- dora is the preferred fash- sters.” cmeals” to 877877 to find ion know that food trucks The department’s third schools, parks, pools, soup are all the rage with the truck will offer free meals kitchens and city Housing 22, 2012 • 22, 2012 youth crowd these days, at Orchard Beach in the Authority locations across ULY and the city Department of Bronx through the DOE’s the borough where meals , J Education is taking notice, annual summer meals pro- are available. too. gram, which is available to “The summer meals WEEKLY Donning his own haute youth 18 and under through program is a great way to UEENS hipster headwear, a dapper Aug. 31. make sure that kids who Q Dennis Walcott dished out The newest truck get free lunch during the free meals last week in the will begin serving meals school year can also get the Bronx, where he announced at Queens Farm Park, on nutrition they need when the department had added Little Neck Pkwy. between school is out,” said Bill a second food truck to its 73 Road and 74 Avenue in Shore, founder and CEO of Queens fleet, which will Floral Park, July 23. Share Our Strength. “We distribute free breakfasts Last year, the depart- are thrilled to be partner- and lunches to youngsters ment said, more than 7 ing with the NYC Depart- at Queens Farm and Flush- million meals were served ment of Education to ensure ing Meadows Corona parks throughout the summer, in- that every child in New this summer. cluding 67,000 meals served York who needs something “We want all families by the trendy trucks. to eat can get something to with children, no matter And because every eat.” their residency, to have one successful foodie knows Locations can also be of our nutritious meals free that having a hip market- found online at nyc.gov/ of charge,” Walcott, the city ing campaign is key, the nycfood. City Schools Chancellor Dennis Walcott (c.) distributes pasteurized milk from one of the city schools chancellor said. “In city partnered with Share Department of Education’s food trucks. Photo courtesy DOE an effort to make the sum- Our Strength, a national PROVIDING ALL OF YOUR MEDICAL 3ERVING .EW 9ORK #ITY AND NEEDS FOR OVER 30 YEARS ,ONG )SLAND 3INCE &REE $ELIVERY 3ETUP s ,ET 5S %VALUATE 9OUR .EEDS s (OSPITAL "EDS s $IABETIC 3HOES s 0OWER 7HEELCHAIRS s $IAPERS #HUX ,INERS s 3COOTERS s -EDICAL 'LOVES s 2ESPIRATORY %QUIPMENT s ,IFT #HAIRS s .EBULIZERS s &ITTED "RACES s 7HEELCHAIRS s 0HYSICIAN 3UPPLIES %QUIPMENT s .UTRITIONALS s #OMPLETE $IABETIC s %NSURE 0EDIASURE %4# 3ICK 2OOM 3UPPLIES s /STOMY 3UPPLIES s #USTOM &ITTED /RTHOTICS s 7OUND #ARE s 3URGICAL 3TOCKINGS WE ACCEPT MEDICARE, MEDICAID, MEDICAID HMO’S & PRIVATE INSURANCES ,/7 02)#%3 s &2%% $%,)6%29 ALERNO CARDS 3% (!",! %30!/, s 3) 0!2,! )4!,)!./ URGICAL (OUR ^ s -^& .ATIONALLY !CCREDITED BY *#!(/ UPPLIES INC. TEL: s FAX: Haggerty link asserted 11 Q UEENS in GOP primary fi ght WEEKLY COME BY BOAT OR BY CAR! , J ULY BY STEVE MOSCO critical roles in his cam- spokeswoman Jessica 2012 22, • paign for state Senate,” said Proud. “We were extremely Republican candidates Reyes. “[Ulrich must] ex- pleased to file over 3,000 looking to unseat state plain his ongoing ties with signatures to get on the bal- Sen. Joseph Addabbo are this convicted felon and ex- lot, in addition to report- TIMESLEDGER OUR OUTDOOR DECK ratcheting up their efforts plain why he continues to ing that we’ve raised over as they each vie to wrestle allow him a leadership role $400,000 this period and away their party’s nomina- in his campaign for state we’re entirely focused on . IS NOW OPEN! tion. Senate.” the groundswell of support COM Forest Hills law- Haggerty was con- we’re receiving, rather yer Juan Reyes and City victed on six felony counts than baseless attacks that Councilman Eric Ulrich in stealing $750,000 from try to distract from our (R-Ozone Park) exchanged Bloomberg’s campaign in campaign’s successes.” barbs last week as both 2009. He was sentenced in The Republican law- camps continued gearing December to 1 1/3 to four yer’s criticism of Hagger- up for the Republican Party years in prison and re- ty’s involvement with Ul- primary set for this Sep- mains free pending appeal. rich comes on the heels of tember. His brother Bart recently a complaint filed by Reyes The winner of the pri- left his post as Ulrich’s June 13 with the 112th Pre- mary will face Sen. Joseph Council chief of staff. cinct. Reyes reported to Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) “Part of the district officers that vandals had in November. attorney’s investigation of targeted his home on the The GOP-endorsed Haggerty and his convic- night of his first campaign Reyes issued a statement tion related to Haggerty fund-raiser. A welcome mat questioning Ulrich’s judg- producing fraudulent cam- was stolen and a box of plas- ment for associating with paign instruments,” said tic forks was dumped on the John Haggerty, a political Reyes. “What does it say front lawn, according to the consultant convicted last about Eric Ulrich’s judg- complaint. October of stealing money ment that he would have a Reyes also recently from the re-election cam- convict handle important charged that Haggerty was paign of Mayor Michael campaign-related legal doc- tasked with personally col- Bloomberg. uments?” lecting donor checks at Ul- Reyes charged that Ulrich’s campaign rich’s latest political fund- Haggerty showed up at the chose a different method to raiser. city Board of Elections to fire back, stating the coun- Ulrich’s campaign de- submit petition signatures cilman’s team prefers to clined to comment specifi- on behalf of Ulrich. focus on the support it has cally on Haggerty’s involve- “It is profoundly dis- garnered rather than com- ment with the campaign. OUR OUTDOOR DECK turbing that Councilman ment on Haggerty’s alleged Eric Ulrich not only con- involvement with the peti- Reach reporter Steve IS NOW OPEN! tinues to associate with a tion signatures. Mosco by e-mail at smosco@ known felon, but continues “This past week has cnglocal.com or by phone at to allow convicted criminal been a great one for our 718-260-4546. Thursday & Friday Night John Haggerty to serve in campaign,” said Ulrich LOBSTER FESTIVAL Saturday & Sunday •2 - 6OZ. LOBSTER TAILS SALAD, POTATO & VEGETABLES COFFEE & DESSERT $1.00 7 Days A Week RAW CLAMS Mimosas $6 DOZEN From 10am- Parties Starting State Senate candidate Juan Reyes (l.) is accusing City Councilman Eric Ulrich’s campaign of involve- ment with convicted money launderer John Haggerty . At $20 Per Person! 4pm 12 Conservationists put new shine on Jamaica art BY RICH BOCKMANN COM . About four decades after it was installed in an TIMESLEDGER unassuming little park on Hillside Avenue, a unique example of abstract sculp- ture in Jamaica was re- 22, 2012 • 22, 2012 stored to its original condi- ULY tion last week. , J A team of restora- tionists with the Citywide WEEKLY Monuments Conservation UEENS Program, a division of the Q city Parks Department, spent last Thursday restor- ing Wingdale, a 12-foot-tall steel piece of contemporary art created by Roger Bolom- Interns Chad Shores (above), David Trayte and Molly Moser restore Wingdale, an abstract sculpture in ey in 1971. The piece was origi- Jamaica. Photo by Yinghao Luo nally commissioned by The sculpture was de- bags. ric said, so that it reflected the Association for a Bet- signed to stand on its own “It was a very uncom- Bolomey’s aesthetic of thin ter New York, and after it steel base, but when it was mon way of securing a sheets of steel intertwined was exhibited across from installed the bottom was sculpture that weighs al- with one another as they Lincoln Center, it was per- enclosed in an aluminum most a ton,” said project ascend. manently installed at the base that came up about a conservator Christine Dju- A few months ago, northwest end of Major foot high, and when work- ric. workers poured a concrete John Mark Park on the cor- ers opened it last week they The piece was origi- base and, with equipment ner of Hillside Avenue and were surprised to find it nally designed to be dis- on loan from the Queens 173rd Street in 1973. weighted down with sand- played on its own base, Dju- Forestry Service, they Molly Moser removes old paint and rust on the sculpture, moved the sculpture to its Wingdale. Photo by Christina Santucci new permanent home last week. recently touched up the five boroughs with the help “We’re excited because bronze Civil War statue in of private sponsors. The As- exposing the integral base the middle of the park. sociation for a Better New of the piece is how his work “You have this one York provided the $15,000 was intended to be inter- sculpture from the 1890s for the Wingdale restora- preted,” Djuric said. and this piece of contem- tion, Kuhn said. Workers then stripped porary art in this one little “We’ve been able to off several layers of paint in park in Jamaica within increase our stewardship preparation to repaint it its 50 feet of each other,” said of outdoor monuments so original color, a deep red. Arts & Antiquities Director that small problems don’t The Conservation Pro- Jonathan Kuhn. “It’s sort become big ones,” he added. gram fills in the gaps where of intriguing, but that gives “In the case of Wingdale, Parks cannot, maintaining you an idea of the range of we’ve moved away from sculptures all over the city work we do.” emergency response to and, when needed, perform- Each summer, the pro- maintenance and preserva- ing major renovations. gram’s staff and its interns tion mode.” In fact, the program restore public art in the www.divorcefast.com OBTAIN A FAST DIVORCE in as little as THE PROCESS Serving IS QUICK, 24 HOURS the EASY, community LEGAL AND WE ARE HERE TO HELP!! for over Visit us online or AFFORDABLE 50 years CALL NOW! 978-443-8387 13 Featured on the Food Network: Q The Best UEENS Thing I WEEKLY Ever Ate , J Serving Fine German & Bavarian Cuisine for Over 40 Years ULY 22, 2012 2012 22, • 69-46 Myrtle Avenue, Glendale • (718) 386-3014 • Find out more at www.zumstammtisch.com We pride our TIMESLEDGER . reputation on COM authentic, quality recipes, straight from Germany. 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The TIMESLEDGER BY RICH BOCKMANN multi-purpose docks, which Plans to build an eco- cost around $700,000, will Clients at the Neighbor- friendly dock at Fort Tot- also have a human-powered hood Opportunity Network ten Park will have to wait boating platform so kayak- 22, 2012 • 22, 2012 center in Jamaica still see a another year due to a lack ers and rowers can visit, ULY probation officer when they of funding in the city’s capi- Lewis said. , J visit the building on the tal budget, according to the What makes them eco- corner of Jamaica Avenue Metropolitan Waterfront friendly, Lewis said, is the WEEKLY and Guy R. Brewer Boule- Alliance. small footprint left behind UEENS vard, but that is about the While the MWA contin- in the water. Q only way the new program ues working to build com- The MWA has been resembles a traditional pro- munity eco docks in every working closely with Bor- bation office. borough, appropriate for ough President Helen NeON is part of Mayor different vessels, commu- Marshall and City Coun- Michael Bloomberg’s Young nity events and educational cilman Dan Halloran (R- Men’s Initiative, a public/ opportunities, President Whitestone), whose district private partnership aimed and CEO Roland Lewis said includes where the dock at advancing opportunities the Bayside project will not is being proposed. Lewis for young black and Latino move forward until at least said the group has held ex- men. next year due to budget tensive talks with several A major component constraints. borough lawmakers as well of that initiative, which “We think Fort Totten as the city Parks Depart- Bloomberg announced last is a great spot for this sort ment and received support summer, was an overhaul City Councilman Ruben Wills (c.) helps city Department of Probation employees and community mem- of project and we hope to across the board. of the city Department of bers cut the ribbon on the Jamaica Neighborhood Opportunity Network. Photo by Yinghao Luo build it soon,” Lewis said. “Unfortunately, the Probation, which supervis- “I think Queens definitely cards just did not align in es about 100 clients in Com- different about the office idea that probation is not tion Pathways to Success deserves it.” Queens this budget cycle,” munity Board 12. is what was once called the some chore one is required program — which helps Lewis said the MWA Lews said. “But I am hope- The initiative’s part- waiting room, now known to check into regularly, but young adults get a GED and was working to finalize ful the same crew will get ners laid out $30 million as the resource room. a place to better oneself. pursue higher education — an eco dock in Bay Ridge, it over the finish line next to develop NeONs in five Designed by profes- Probation Officer Ray at its Jamaica branch just Brooklyn, which should be year.” neighborhoods across the sional architects and Napier said that in his 24 up the block from the NeON finished by the fall, and a The work comes via city, Jamaica’s being the graphic designers to be in- years working for the de- center. Manhattan project at the the MWA’s Open Waters third to open when officials viting, the room is splashed partment, he learned what Probationee Sam Vita, Dyckman Marina, which Initiative, which aims to and community members with colorful walls and fur- makes a successful proba- 21, said the center was help- should be complete in about transform the shorelines of held its grand opening niture, and staffed with an tionee. ing him get his GED and a year. New York and New Jersey Tuesday. improvement team — all “What works is treat- enroll in a BMW training Another project is also into more accessible hubs The first thing that is aimed at reinforcing the ing them with respect, program so that he could being scouted at Barretto from both land and water. treating them with dignity become a mechanic. Point Park in the Bronx. According to the MWA, the and instilling hope,” he Most importantly, he “As for Queens, ev- group has started build- said. said, it was helping him be eryone has been quite en- ing, siting and program- What does not work, a good role model for his couraging about that site,” ming community eco docks Napier said, is “constant- 1-year-old daughter. Lewis said. while also creating a new ly reminding them that Probation Commis- Eco docks are wooden database of historic, educa- they’re on probation, and if sioner Vincent Schiraldi barges that rise and fall tional and commercial ves- you mess up, you’ll be vio- likened NeON to the old ad- with the tides and can ac- sels that use the waters. lated.” age of it taking a village to commodate different kinds The second way in raise a child — in this case, which NeON differs from Jamaica Village. a traditional probation of- “It’s this neighbor- fice is that it partners with hood helping people in this about 25 community organi- neighborhood change their zations, many within walk- lives around,” he said. ing distance of the center, Some things, he joked, that provide services such never change. Schiraldi as job training, drug treat- pointed out the window to ment and GED assistance. note how probation officers The NeON center even could see the library, and has space in its building could tell whether clients so organizations can visit were going to their CEPS with probation clients on class or not. site. Probation Officer Ray Napier talks about how the Neighborhood One of the partners, Reach reporter Rich A rendering of a potential eco dock shows how the Metropolitan the Queens Library, offers Bockmann by e-mail at Opportunity Network gives probation clients a leg up. Waterfront Alliance plans on making water more accessible while Photo by Yinghao Luo the Young Men’s Initia- [email protected] leaving a small footprint. Rendering courtesy Guardia Architects tive’s Community Educa- or by phone at 718-260-4574. Wounded Warriors treated to day of water sports 15 Q BY PHIL CORSO ing waterskiing, surfing tivity over the weekend. UEENS and other water sports. Flip Mullen, of the Cpl. Jason Wheeler Wheeler, who lost the Legends in Valor, said the WEEKLY smiled and laughed as he use of his legs from the Rockaway community has strapped on his goggles knees down, said he never become known for its gen- , J ULY while he was poolside in felt an interest in scuba erosity towards the Wound- 2012 22, • Breezy Point Saturday. diving before starting last ed Warrior Project, open- Before continuing his ef- weekend at the beadiver. ing homes for the nearly 50 forts to become a master com pool, but with his new veterans and their families scuba diver, Wheeler took a interest came a newfound throughout the weekend. TIMESLEDGER breather to share his story sense of freedom, he said. “The people of this on what brought the New “In the water, there community open their Hampshire native to New is no handicap,” Wheeler houses and hearts to these . York. said. “Nothing can hold veterans and sometimes COM “The Wounded War- you back.” form lifelong relationships riors Project is doing things The weekend kicked off because of it,” Mullen said. for all of us that gives our with a parade last Thurs- “We are trying to give these lives back,” Wheeler said. day when the veterans Scuba diving instructor Robin Wertheiner (l.) assists Cpl. Bobby Loria in a scuba diving tank during guys the best homecoming “Here, you are the same as were escorted along streets they had never gotten.” the Wounded Warrior Project’s Weekend of Adaptive Skiing, Surfing and Sailing held in Rockaway. anyone else.” lined with supporters from Mullen, a retired city Loria lost his left hand and part of his left leg while serving in Iraq. Photo by Ken Maldonado The Wounded Warrior Rescue 5 Fire Station in firefighter from Belle Har- Project, established to hon- Staten Island and over provide a wonderful week- cal health and wellness, touted heavy support from bor, also works as a ski in- or and empower injured the Verrazano-Narrows end for these warriors,” said he helped strive to wounded veterans support structor and said working veterans, visited Rockaway Bridge, before concluding said Al Giordano, deputy provide the best of the best group Legends in Valor, the with the war veterans was last weekend with nearly 50 at a private event hosted executive director of the in water instructors for the Fire Department of New as rewarding as it was in- participants for its eighth by the Belle Harbor Yacht Wounded Warrior Project. wounded veterans. York, the Graybeards, the spiring. annual adaptive water Club in Queens. “The entire community has “It really is incredi- New York Police Depart- “It is just one small act sports festival. Veterans “We are honored to a great history of honoring ble,” Stieglitz said. “It takes ment and the city Parks and for us to say thank you and spent the weekend with return to Rockaway for servicemen and women.” our breath away to serve Sanitation departments, show our appreciation,” friends and family learning an event that is one of the Rich Stieglitz, execu- our wounded warriors.” turned Breezy Point into a Mullen said. different activities, includ- highlights of the year to tive vice president of physi- The event, which haven of celebration and ac- LaGuardia College passes rigorous education review BY REBECCA HENELY educational goals. Its Com- college has tracked this mission on Higher Educa- in part through an anony- Long Island City’s La- tion accredits colleges and mous database that allows Guardia Community Col- universities. faculty to compare thou- lege celebrated a successful LaGuardia, at 31-10 sands of examples of stu- re-accreditation with Mid- Thomson Ave., has now re- dent work from the begin- dle States recently. Using ceived its fourth re-accred- ning to the end of their time a set of distinct standards, itation with Middle States at LaGuardia to see how the nonprofit review asso- since it opened in 1971. Be- they have progressed. ciation named the borough fore receiving re-accredita- Tapper said the self- institution exceptional for tion, the college needed to study has the dual function its innovative programs go through a two-year self- of proving the college is in and tracking of how much survey, which was headed compliance and with see- students are learning. by English professor Gor- ing where the college needs “LaGuardia received don Tapper. improvement. He said the high marks during our “It was a great learn- college is making a major critically important ac- ing experience for me as a effort to improve its aca- creditation process, one professor,” Tapper said. “It The innovative methods LaGuardia Community College uses to track how their students are learning demic advising department more sign of LaGuardia’s made me see how all the from their first to final assignments helped it get reaccredited with the Middle States Association. in light of the study. well-deserved reputation as different parts of the col- planning, to how well the program — in the last five for a mutual curriculum “So it does help set a national leader in higher lege fit together.” students learn. The self- years the college has dou- and coordinating English some of the agenda for the education,” LaGuardia Tapper said the self- study also incorporated bled its honors courses and classes with general educa- next five years,” he said. President Dr. Gail Mellow review process included 14 input from about 150 ad- the students participating tion classes for non-native More information said in a statement. separate committees dedi- ministrators, faculty and have more than doubled speakers. about LaGuardia’s re-ac- The Middle States As- cated to analyzing a dif- students. — and its adult education “We have a lot of evi- creditation can be found sociation judges whether ferent standard the college “You want it to be very program, which is the larg- dence that really increases at lagcc.cuny.edu/mid- schools in New York, New is expected to meet. These inclusive and broad and est in the City University of success with the students,” dlestates. Jersey, Pennsylvania, Dela- standards include every- people from all over the col- New York system. Tapper said. ware, Maryland, the Dis- thing from the college’s lege,” Tapper said. It has also excelled for Middle States also Reach reporter Re- trict of Columbia, Puerto mission, to its curriculum, The professor said having its professors de- commended the college for becca Henely by e-mail at Rico and the U.S. Virgin to the college’s everyday Middle States recognized veloping separate courses its assessment of students’ [email protected] or by Islands are meeting their operations, to its strategic LaGuardia for its honors together, creating themes learning. Tapper said the phone at 718-260-4564. 16 my neighbors to decry the proach to cutting crime pervisors and Administra- the arbitrator was wrong.” Frisk violence on our streets.” and taking guns off the Schools tors. The DOE would not Sanders said a gun street than any other city. Lobis told the city to sit elaborate on what staffing Continued from Page 1 buy-back he hosted in 2009 But the fact remains, as I Continued from Page 1 tight and scheduled a hear- changes have already tak- took about 900 guns off the said before, there still are ing for July 24. en place, but sources said young Isaiah Gonzalez was streets in a matter of hours, 3-year-olds getting shot,” he new principals, removing The city stands behind the transitions were well COM . shot in Brooklyn. more than the approxi- said. “There still are AK- teachers and announcing the turnaround plan, insist- under way. Kelly criticized com- mately 770 firearms stop- 47s on the street. Just a few new school names. ing that in the end it ben- Alison Gozzi-Lewis, a munity leaders who he said and-frisk netted last year miles down the road from Last week, though, efits students the most and Long Island City HS teach- TIMESLEDGER are too willing to speak out citywide. this church, an AK-47 was state Supreme Court Judge will be upheld in court. er with six years under her against stop-and-frisk, “but “Commissioner Kelly used to kill three people Joan Lobis denied the city’s “Our goal is to turn belt, said she received word are really, I think, shock- seems to be speaking out last week — in a hail of 63 request to continue making around these failing she would be accepted at ingly silent when it comes of both sides of his mouth bullets.” changes while the court de- schools and help our stu- the new school in the fall 22, 2012 • 22, 2012 to the level of violence right — asking why there is no “And so if we want to cides on an arbitrator’s rul- dents succeed. We appre- June 29, the day of the arbi- ULY in their own communi- outrage over existing gun save more lives, we have to ing that the plan violates ciate the judge setting an trator’s ruling. , J ties.” violence and then cham- do more,” the mayor contin- union contracts. expedited schedule to hear She estimated about Sanders had actually pioning a policy that has ued. “And that’s why, in ad- In June, arbitrator our challenge to the arbi- half the staff have already WEEKLY held a press conference the failed to prevent it,” he dition to everything else we Scott Buchheit ruled that trator’s decision so that either found another job or UEENS day before in Springfield said. “Put simply, if stop- are doing, police officers the city’s plan to restaff we can meet that goal,” were told they would not be Q Gardens, decrying the vio- and-frisk was working, stop and question those the schools and open them said Michael Cardozo, the coming back, and it is un- lence and advocating for gun violence would be go- who are suspected of crimi- under new names in the corporation counsel at the clear at this point who will other policies — such as ing down, not up. Our com- nal activity — and frisk fall did not actually consti- city Law Department. “The be working at the school in stricter gun laws and gun munities would be safer, those who are suspected of tute opening new ones, and judge also made it clear September. buy-backs — as effective not more dangerous. And carrying a weapon.” therefore violated the city’s that she wants to consider “None of us are totally alternatives to stop-and- people would feel more About 86 percent of contracts with the United the case fully. We believe sure what’s going to hap- frisk. willing to engage their lo- those stopped last year Federation of Teachers and that, after she reviews our pen,” she said. “I’m puzzled by the cal precincts in community were either black or Latino, the Council of School Su- papers, she’ll conclude that commissioner’s bizarre action against violent crim- and Bloomberg said effec- statements today and can- inals, not afraid for their tive policing should not not help but wonder if he own civil liberties when ap- equate to racial profiling, course,” said David Duffy, said. is paying attention to what proached by police.” adding Kelly had re-issued Church head of 11 Church of Jesus But Kelty and the people are actually say- Speaking at the Great- an order banning it. Continued from Page 1 Christ of Latter-day Saints board also expressed con- ing about stop-and-frisk,” er Allen AME Church Sanders, though, said a congregations in Queens. cern about what they called Sanders said. “Even as the Sunday, Bloomberg said recent meeting with a local which would allow the cha- “There has been some ad- changing requirements the commissioner was making stop-and-frisk was part of precinct commander left pel to have a larger floor justments and responses to church stated as reasons this unfortunate, one-size- a larger approach to reduc- him with the impression area than what is allowed the neighbors’ concerns.” why it needed extra space. fits-all statement, I was in ing crime, one that includes that the NYPD was continu- in the zoning code, accord- The process of apply- “They played games Springfield Gardens at the advocating for stricter gun ing to go “full steam ahead” ing to the BSA. ing for the variances be- with the numbers,” Kelty site of a tragic shooting laws and focusing on youth with stop-and-frisk. “The civic world is dis- gan early this year, when said. over the weekend, calling development in lieu of in- “Much of this is be- appointed by the BSA’s de- the church’s requests were In a June 26 letter to for greater community in- carceration. ing done with a wink and a cision, and we will wait for recommended for denial by the BSA sent ahead of the volvement and cooperation “Now, it’s fair to say nod,” he said. the report to decide what Community Board 7 and ruling, Kelty and the board in policing and standing that the city has taken a our next move will be,” said Borough President Helen called into question several shoulder to shoulder with more comprehensive ap- Paul Graziano, a zoning Marshall, who said the justifications the church expert who has called into large size of the building used in public hearings and question the church’s claim would be out of character applications to the board. bers have co-sponsored at higher speeds can be even it requires more space than with the neighborhood and “I’m disappointed be- E-bikes the bill, said Van Bramer more dangerous. Sunnyside would be allowed by law to set a precedent in conflict cause we gave BSA the op- spokesman Jason Banrey. resident Leonore Lanzolotti effectively operate. with a 2009 rezoning of the portunity to go in and ques- Continued from Page 1 Van Bramer said he said she had nearly been hit Graziano worked with area designed to promote tion the numbers,” Kelty commonly sees the elec- when an electric bike made several civics in the Flush- detached, single-family said. come a common sight in tric bicycles on Queens a lefthand turn down the ing area that were opposed homes. But Duffy countered Sunnyside and throughout Boulevard, 46th Street and street even though she had to the church’s plan. CB 7 Chairman Gene that the church was as flex- the city. Greenpoint and Skillman the right-of-way. Representatives from Kelty was also disappointed ible as it could have been in “The need for better avenues, but the numbers “You don’t expect the church, however, were at the resolution, although accommodating the com- enforcement is clear,” Ga- are increasing. He said what’s coming and the re- pleased with the board’s he applauded the church munity. rodnick said. many of the electric cyclists sults can be tragic,” Garod- decision, but did not have for coming in to talk with “I think it’s a win- The Manhattan coun- are delivering takeout food nick said. a timetable for breaking board members. win,” he said. cilman’s bill, Intro 596, for restaurants, although Van Bramer said the ground on the project. “I’m glad they kept would double the fines for they are not all of the of- 108th Precinct — which “We are very happy, of up the relationship,” Kelty electric bicyclists if they fenders. covers Sunnyside, Long Is- commit traffic violations, “I’ve seen them in vir- land City and Woodside — some of which are running tually every neighborhood is aware of the problem and year and is dedicated to ent communities with their a red light, riding on the I represent, and I’m seeing is working hard to increase Hailed providing arts entertain- performances and what sidewalk or riding against more of them,” he said. enforcement. ment that is economically they offer.” Continued from Page 6 traffic. Garodnick said al- Van Bramer’s district “They are very respon- and geographically acces- The department sent though riding the electric includes Sunnyside, Long sive,” he said. “They work especially for local farming sible to Queens’ unique out a call for nominations bikes themselves is ille- Island City, Woodside and very hard.” and eating local products.” population. in January, Weber said. gal, the Council wanted to parts of Elmhurst and As- Queens Theatre, situ- “They work really About 86 nominations for strengthen the rules and toria. Reach reporter Re- ated in the 1964 World’s hard to have a diversity of various organizations and enforcement. The councilmen said becca Henely by e-mail at Fair Pavilion in Flushing cultural events they have to small businesses came in “We are taking the ac- people can get hurt when [email protected] or by Meadows Corona Park, offer,” Weber said. “Since and the 17 that were recog- tion that is in our jurisdic- regular cyclists break the phone at 718-260-4564. won the department’s Cul- Queens is such a diverse nized were selected from tion,” he said. law, but electric cyclists tural Award. The theatre borough they really want that pool. Eight Council mem- breaking the law and going holds 300 performances a to reach out to all differ-