Homeless Vets Head to Hollis
• JAMAICA TIMES • ASTORIA TIMES • FOREST HILLS LEDGER • LAURELTON TIMES LARGEST AUDITED • QUEENS VILLAGE TIMES COMMUNITY • RIDGEWOOD LEDGER NEWSPAPER • HOWARD BEACH TIMES IN QUEENS • RICHMOND HILL TIMES Dec. 4–10, 2015 Your Neighborhood — Your News® FREE ALSO COVERING ELMHURST, JACKSON HEIGHTS, LONG ISLAND CITY, MASPETH, MIDDLE VILLAGE, REGO PARK, SUNNYSIDE
Baby found Homeless vets head to Hollis inside church Rita Stark’s buildings to be permanent housing for service members: City brings joy TEN-HUT BY SADEF ALI KULLY BY GABRIEL ROM Less than a month after southeast Queens residents When the staff of a Rich- testified at a City Council mond Hill church discovered hearing against bringing ad- a newborn baby inside their ditional shelters or supportive Nativity scene, they were first housing into their neighbor- shocked, then grateful. hoods, the Hollis residential The story has struck a buildings on Hollis Avenue, chord with the public, and The the site of protests almost ev- Holy Child Jesus Church, at ery Saturday since May, have 111-11 86th Ave. has received become a permanent residence dozens of offers from around for homeless veterans, the city the country to adopt the child. said On Nov. 25, church janitor Elected officials and com- Jose Morán found the infant, munity members have gath- still covered in blood and with ered outside the six buildings his umbilical cord attached, in at 202-02 to 202-24 Hollis Av- the newly assembled crèche. enuefor more than six months He quickly alerted the parish on weekends to rally against office. more shelters coming to their Paul Cerni, the parish of- part of the borough. fice secretary, immediately In February President Ba- called the police and his pas- rack Obama laid down a na- tor, Father Christopher Ryan tional mayoral challenge to Heanue. end veteran homelessness in “My first reaction was American cities, Mayor Bill di shock,” Cerni recalled this Blasio signed up for the ambi- week. “But that quickly gave tious challenge and created a way to the realization that this Veteran Affairs unit to solve child had been put in a good the problem of homeless veter- location.” ans in the city by Dec. 31. Cerni and another parish- According to city data from ioner cleaned the baby and 2014, there are almost 2,000 swaddled him with towels. homeless veterans either in “He was small, maybe the shelter system or living in about five pounds and whim- That's no bearskin hat. It's Rian Smith's big-time bun. The St. John's University freshman lines up the streets across the city. pering softly, but he had color with the Singing Toy Soldiers, who appeared on campus this week to open the school’s weeklong Asked about plans for the and seemed to be doing well,” Winter Festival. Photo by Michael Shain Hollis buildings owned by Continued on Page 54 Continued on Page 54 Police: Forest Hills arsonist left note
BY GABRIEL ROM under construction continues “Decode this message to and the search for the suspect find out the person who caused For residents of Forest ramps up, police may have this fire,”the letter said, ac- Hills and Rego Park, the sight made a break in the case. cording to police. of detectives and fire mar- Police said the suspect left Police said the suspect shals milling around their a note at the scene of the most also left a riddle that had to residential blocks is becom- recent fire on 67th Drive near be solved in order to decode a In front of the latest, suspected arson scene in Forest Hills, a fire mar- ing increasingly common. But 108th Street taunting law en- separate note left at the scene. as a spate of arsons at homes forcement officials. Continued on Page 3 shal looks for evidence. Photo by Michael Shain A CNG Publication Vol. 3 No. 49 60 total pages Hindu fl ags burn on Thanksgiving Woodhaven residence targeted in what police have labeled a suspected hate crime
BY GABRIEL ROM ing act and we’d like the police are a common sight around to find and question this man,” Hindu homes. The Queens Hindu com- the civic group said. “Crimes which target re- munity is on edge as police “The burning of these Hin- ligious expression are hate look for a possible hate-crime du flags near someone’s home crimes and should be treated suspect who allegedly torched is an unacceptable act of ha- as such,” said Councilman dozens of Hindu flags set up in tred that our community will Eric Ulrich (D-Ozone Park). the front yard of a Woodhaven not tolerate,” said state Sen. “We simply cannot tolerate early Thanksgiving morning. Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. (D-How- any form of religious persecu- Lawmakers, civic leaders and ard Beach). “Queens is one of tion.” a national Hindu group strong- the most diverse places in the National Hindu communi- ly condemned the crime. world, and we as a borough ty leader Rajan Zed released a According to a security should be extremely proud of statement urging Gov. Andrew video released by the police, that. My support is with the M. Cuomo and Mayor Bill de the suspect entered the front family whose culture and be- Blasio to contact the Queens- yard of a house on 80th Street liefs were targeted by this in- area Hindu community to re- and 89th Avenue around 1:20 The charred remnants of the burnt Jhandi flags which are often hung explicable crime and I thank assure them. According to Zed, a.m. and set fire to around 40 the NYPD for not only naming who is president of Universal upon bamboo poles. Photo by Michael Shain Jhandi flags before fleeing this a hate crime, but for work- Society of Hinduism, Hindus south on 80th Street. There and baseball cap and pulling a first reported the crime, said ing diligently to ensure those across the country have faced were no injuries. medium-size travel bag, police on its Facebook page that the responsible for this act are an uptick in hate crimes in re- The suspect is described said. FDNY quickly extinguished brought to justice.” cent months. as an adult male, wearing a The Woodhaven Residents the blaze. Jhandi flags bear the pic- three-quarter-length jacket Block Association, which “Clearly this is a disturb- tures of different deities and Planned Parenthood says its new LIC facility is secure
BY BILL PARRY measures. enthood Advocates of New York state. “Friday’s shooting at a Planned The gunman in the Colorado shoot- In the aftermath of last week’s Parenthood clinic was a senseless act ing mentioned “no more baby parts” in Planned Parenthood shooting in Colo- of violence that has left us shocked and a statement taken by law enforcement rado, administrators at the Diane L. heartbroken,” Cuomo said. “While we after he was taken into custody, a pos- Max Health Center in Long Island City are still learning more about what led sible reference to the Center for Medi- are reviewing their safety protocols to this horrendous attack in Colorado, cal Progress’ series of videos released and security measures. we are taking appropriate precau- earlier this year that show Planned The state-of-the-art Planned Parent- tions and doing everything possible to Parenthood staff supposedly discuss- hood facility, the only one in the bor- prevent similar tragedies from taking ing the sale of fetal-tissue parts. While ough, opened in September with plenty place in our state.” the videos were widely debunked, sev- of security built into the location at Robert Lewis Dear is alleged to eral GOP presidential candidates cited 21-41 45th Road in the Court Square have shot and killed a police officer them in an effort to defund Planned neighborhood, according to Christina and two civilians during the attack. Parenthood. Chang, vice president of public affairs Nine others were wounded, according “The toxic rhetoric is very bad for for Planned Parenthood NYC. Planned Parenthood NYC trusts the security to the Colorado Springs Police Depart- this country,” Mayor Bill de Blasio “We haven’t done anything extra features at its Long Island City health cen- ment. said. “I think (it) is unfair and doesn’t since the tragedy because we’re con- ter following a deadly shooting in Colorado. “Unfortunately, there is a history represent the reality of Planned Par- fident that our security system is as Photo courtesy of PPNYC of people bringing violence to health enthood, which is an extraordinary strong as possible to ensure the safety Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced centers in the past and so an incident organization that this administration of our patients and our staff,” Chang Monday that the state is launching new such as this underscores the need for supports fully. I think we need to ad- said. “We have spoken with local law security measures. The State Police vigilance to ensure that patients and dress the toxic environment because of enforcement and they’ve been very began increased patrols at more than the staff that provide services are safe what it means for policy, not because of supportive. They posted a squad car in 60 Planned Parenthood clinics and lo- at all health centers,” said Lauren an individual who did something hor- front of the health center on Monday cations throughout New York to assist Tobias, president and CEO of Family rendous.” and they’ve increased their patrols.” with security and emergency planning Planning Advocates and Planned Par- IN THIS ISSUE HOW TO REACH US Police Blotter...... 10 Boro Beat...... 32 MAIL: 41-02 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, NY 11361 Editorials and Letters...... 12-13 Elder Care...... 37-39 PHONE: Display Advertising: (718) 260-4521 — Editorial: (718) 260-4545 Rhymes with Crazy...... 14 QGuide...... 41-48 FAX: Advertising: (718) 224-5821 — Classified: (718) 260-2549 New Voices...... 14 Sports...... 51-53 Editorial (718) 224-2934 E-MAIL: Editorial: [email protected] On Point...... 15 Classifieds...... 55-59 Display Advertising: [email protected] The Civic Scene...... 15 Classified: [email protected] TO SUBSCRIBE: Call (718) 260-4521 Copyright©2015 Queens Publishing Corp. TIMESLEDGER is published weekly by News Community Newspaper Holdings Inc., 41-02 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, NY. 11361, (718) 229-0300. The entire contents of this publication are copyright 2015. All rights reserved. The newspaper will not be liable for errors appearing in any advertising beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Periodicals postage paid at Flushing, N.Y.. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the TimesLedger C/O News Community Newspaper Holdings Inc. 41-02 Bell Boulevard, Bayside, N.Y. 11361. 2 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM FDNY. That fire was the fourth Nov. 8 possible arson case over the 68-60 past month, the FDNY said. 112th St. Police said that in all four instances, the suspect entered the sites and “ignited flamma- ble combustibles before flee- ing on foot.” No injuries were reported in any of the incidents, al- though two of the fires spread to nearby homes. NYPD and fire officials re- Nov. 17 leased surveillance video of 108-49 the suspect last Friday. 66th Ave. A video captured a hooded man 20 minutes before the seventh fire In the video, an individual broke out in Forest Hills in the past month. Police say the man is wanted in a hoodie was seen casually in connection with the rash of arsons. Photo by NYPD walking around the two-story home minutes before the fire When you’re a lunatic, you began, according to police of- can start deviating from your ficials. Fires plan.” The other fires took place Continued from Page 1 Police have remained mum Nov. 8 on 112th Street, Nov. 15 on the suspect’s motivations. on 69th Road, and Nov. 17 on The New York Post report- “He is either a maniac who 66th Avenue, according to po- ed police officials have de- gets vicarious pleasure by lice. Nov. 25 coded the letter and now have reading about his acts or he All the recent suspicious 108-47 67th Dr. the first and last name of the belongs to some crime syndi- fires broke out at vacant build- suspect. cate,” Alperstein speculated. ings that were being renovated Louis Alperstein a For- “Only can only guess, but this or under construction. est Hills resident described a whole story is rather bizarre Police have also offered a community that is becoming and so unusual for this com- cash reward of up to $2,500 for increasingly anxious. munity.” information leading to any ar- “People gather in little The latest of the suspected rests. groups throughout the day, arsons took place the evening looking worriedly at the build- before Thanksgiving, when a Reach reporter Gabriel Rom ing and whispering. That’s fire tore through a two-story by e-mail at grom@cnglocal. how nervous this community home under construction at com or by phone at (718) 260– is. Who knows if he won’t set 67th Drive near 108th Street in 4564. Photos by fire to an occupied house next. Forest Hills, according to the Michael Shain
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TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 3 Iraq War vets fi nd new careers in LIC Steamfi tters Local 638 proud of its role in the national Helmets to Hardhats program
BY BILL PARRY worth pursuing.” Gonzalez graduated from Two Iraq War veterans in St. Francis Prep in Fresh western Queens have found Meadows and spent two years post-military careers as studying at St. John’s Univer- steamfitters. sity. Louis Gonzalez, 32, who “I upped in the Marine was born and raised in As- Corps just after 9/11,” he said. toria and Matthew Bargel- “After eight years in the Corps lini, 28, who recently moved to ,I took courses on transition- Sunnyside, both served in the ing back into civilian life. Af- Marine Corps before gaining ter I got a degree in finance entry to the apprenticeship from Brooklyn College, I re- program at Steamfitters Local membered mention of Helmets 638 in Long Island City. to Hardhats during transition Gonzalez and Bargellini training. That’s when it was came through Helmets to Hard- brought to my attention the hats, a national, non-profit pro- different unions and trades in gram that connects returning New York City.” U.S. military veterans with Helmets to Hardhats ad- good-paying, quality careers vocated for both during a se- and training in the construc- lection process that is always tion trade. As apprentices, the competitive. The appren- two will undergo an extensive ticeship program, in which five-year, union-paid training Steamfitters 638 invests near- program to learn the steamfit- Astoria's Louis Gonzalez learns a new trade as part of the Steamfitters Local 638's apprenticeship program ly $100,000 per each enrollee, ting trade of designing, build- after serving in the Iraq War. Photo courtesy of Helmets to Hardhats leads to occupations with a ing, installing, maintaining living wage that allow steam- and repairing gas, steam and out the five boroughs. countability,” Bargellini said. father figure growing up,” fitters to raise their families water piping; fire sprinklers; “There are certain paral- After he returned to civilian Bargellini said. “He was a comfortably with health-care and heating, ventilation and lels between the Marine Corps life, his grandfather told him steamfitter for more than 40 coverage, disability protec- air conditioning systems in and the steamfitters appren- about the Helmets to Hardhats years and I saw how he was tions and pensions at the end of commercial, residential and ticeship as far as camaraderie, program. able to provide for his extend- their labor intensive careers. industrial buildings through- chain of command and ac- “My grandfather was my ed family, so I figured it was Continued on Page 54 New Moda Grill restaurant De Blasio stands behind expected to replace CityRib Willets Pt. housing plan BY MADINA TOURE a different way and the city BY SADEF ALI KULLY restaurant with new owner- will work with the developer ship. The city said it will con- to reshape the megamall. Moda Grill, a new restau- Moda Grill is set to serve tinue to push for affordable But if the developer de- rant in downtown Jamaica, a traditional American menu, housing at Willets Point re- cides the project cannot pro- is slated to replace CityRib, but it’s one with a slight twist. gardless of the outcome of an ceed without the megamall, which was open for almost A restaurant source said the appeal by the developer of a the city would have to find three years at the Parsons immediate menu will be sim- megamall that is part of the another development team to Boulevard location. ple but the future menu will be $3 billion project. move forward on the housing For weeks, there has been a determined by diner recom- The Court of Appeals portion of the project. sign on the window of CityRib, mendations. “It will cater to recently announced that it “We are determining “Closed Until Further Notice,” the neighborhood,” the source would hear an appeal by the next steps,” Wiley Norvell, a and the once bustling eatery said. developer, the Queens Devel- spokesman for Mayor Bill de now seems dark and empty. The restaurant is part of opment Group, in the mega- Blasio, said in a statement. But according to a Greater Moda Upgraded Living, a mall case after an appellate “The city will continue to Jamaica Developent Corp. The empty, dark facade of the now mixed-use development which court ruled in July that the work with all parties to expe- spokesman, a new restaurant closed down CityRib on the cor- i n c lu d e s 3 4 6 r e nt a l u n it s , 2 0 , 0 0 0 proposal could not proceed dite the new affordable hous- opening at 89-04 Parsons Bou- ner of 89th Avenue and Parsons square feet of vacant commu- without state legislative ap- ing at Willets Point East.” levard is on the horizon. Boulevard will be replaced with nity space and 50,000 square proval because it would be The Willets West mall is “We understand they are a new restaurant, Moda Grill, feet of retail space including a built on parkland. part of the redevelopment reopening within the next in the coming weeks. supermarket, stretching from The city said that if the of Willets Point into a new week or so with new owner- Photo by Sadef Kully Parsons Boulevard to 153rd developer wins the appeal, neighborhood with commer- ship, a new menu and new Street on 89th Avenue. it will have the project it in- cial, retail and residential name—Moda Grill. We are ex- he said. The Dermot Company, tended to implement all along. space. cited they will still be offering The GJDC said Jamaica which was behind the upscale But if the developer loses the The megamall would be a quality sit-down dining expe- residents, shoppers and diners appeal, the group may choose built on the Willets West site rience in downtown Jamaica,” could look forward to a new Continued on Page 54 to pursue the project but in Continued on Page 27 4 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM DOT: SBS bus service Attacks vex Jax Hts. coming to Woodhaven NYPD Hate Crimes Unit investigating two LGBT assaults BY GABRIEL ROM rent traffic conditions along Woodhaven Boulevard and BY BILL PARRY It’s not a matter of whether the neighboring side streets. Select Bus Service will come “Chaos is already hap- The Jackson Heights LGBT to Woodhaven Boulevard but pening in the neighborhood community is reeling and be- rather when and how. without SBS,” he said. ginning to mobilize following That much was made Under the current plan two separate and vicious at- clear at a standing-room- bus riders would board buses tacks this week. . only meeting between DOT at a median in the center of Just after midnight Mon- Queens Commissioner Ni- the Boulevard. day morning,, a 23-year-old cole Garcia and Woodhaven Paul Capocasale, co-pres- gay man was chased, kicked residents, civic leaders and ident of the task force point- and beaten with a pipe, sexu- politicians, including state ed to an elderly man in the ally assaulted and robbed by Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. (D- crowd. three men yelling anti-gay Howard Beach) and Assem- “That man has a walker. slurs near 83rd Street and 37th blyman Michael Miller (D- I don’t want him walking Avenue, according to police. Woodhaven). But questions halfway across the road for The suspects fled and the vic- over how much community a bus.” tim was hospitalized. input the DOT will take into “This plan is crazy. Pe- Early Sunday morning, a consideration remained un- riod,” he said, staring at Gar- 35-year-old transgender wom- clear. cia. an was viciously beaten on The special town hall For most of the meeting 93rd Street near 37th Place, meeting was organized by Garcia sat quietly, nodding police said. The victim was at- the Greater Woodhaven De- occasionally, while taking tacked following an argument velopment Corporation in frequent notes as she heard with a man outside her apart- Members of Everything Transgender in NYC and Make the Road partnership with the Wood- speakers vent their frustra- ment around 4 a.m. and her New York rally against a brutal attack on a transgender woman. haven BID and Woodhaven tions. head was repeatedly slammed Photo by Bill Parry Residents Block Association. Garcia said the DOT into the sidewalk and curb, Concern over both the thought it was important to police said. The suspect fled hate crime, according to the hood at large. We will not tol- economic and safety impact “take time and have some north on 93rd Street and EMS NYPD. erate hate.” from SBS dedicated bus lanes more conversations” during took the victim to Elmhurst “I am shocked and outraged On Tuesday evening, trans- took center stage. 2016, with the final design to Hospital Center in critical by these two atrocities that oc- gender activists rallied on 90th Maria Thomson, executive be proposed late in the year. condition. curred just hours apart,” City Street and Roosevelt Avenue director of the Woodhaven Implementation would begin The NYPD Hate Crimes Councilman Daniel Dromm before marching to the scene BID, argued that SBS, which in 2017. Task Force was called in to (D-Jackson Heights) said. “The of the woman’s attack. Earlier could ban cars from turning As part of the dialogue, investigate both attacks. After survivors of these attacks may in the day they visited her and left onto Jamaica Avenue, Garcia said the DOT would determining the victim knew have been targeted because of reported some improvement. was a threat to the economic redouble its efforts to work her attacker, police say the their sexual orientation and “She was speaking for the viability of the neighborhood with BIDs, civic leaders and case is now being investigated gender identity. If true, these first time since they took her and would flood side-streets local residents. as a domestic assault. The attacks are attempts to strike off life support,” rally orga- with traffic. Alex Blenkinsopp, spokes- sexual assault of the gay man fear in the heart of the LGBT nizer Jennifer Louise Lopez “Jamaica Avenue would man for the block association, is still being investigated as a community and the neighbor- Continued on Page 54 die,” Thomson said. “It’s pushed back. our biggest property and tax “Are you going to be col- base in this area and if we lecting feedback on whether lose them, then we are really to implement SBS rather than going to lose a lot. This has how to implement it?” to be considered very, very There was a long pause. LIC rock climbing gym opens carefully.” “It’s a question of how,” Task Force Committee Garcia said, leaving no doubt BY BILL PARRY New York City. We just had to for an Informed and Safer, that SBS would be coming, in wait our turn patiently.” Better Woodhaven Co-Presi- one form or another, to Wood- They are climbing the walls In addition to the dent Jose Vasquez presented haven. at Brooklyn Boulders Queens- 20,000-square-feet of climbing photos and videos of cur- Continued on Page 54 bridge. Finally. walls, the gym will add other The new state-of-the-art amenities in stages, including rock climbing gym at the Q41 weight training and cardio Building, at 23-10 41st Ave., equipment, saunas and show- has opened with limited op- ers, and retail. erating hours during its first A Coffeed cafe will be add- few weeks. Visitors and sever- ed in the near future. al hundred members already Also on the way is an Ac- have access to the gym’s boul- Brooklyn Boulders opens its new tive Collaborative Workspace dering and top roping walls. rock climbing venue at the Q41 with free Wi-Fi for laptops, “We’re still waiting for a Building in Dutch Kills after four stand-up desks and confer- final inspection before we put years of construction. ence tables where physicality in all our fixtures and equip- Photo courtesy of Brooklyn Boulders stimulates innovation and cre- ment,” Brooklyn Boulders ativity. The co-working spaces owner Lance Pinn said. Brook- struction for nearly four years. are expected to lure young en- lyn Boulders Queensbridge We started when there was trepreneurs, especially those was expected to open in the still dirt for a floor,” Pinn said. with tech startups. Woodhaven Residents Block Association member Vance Barbour asks summer, but there were delays “The wait wasn’t a surprise “We’re aiming for the tech for the DOT to reconsider how it implements its Select Bus Service for the necessary permits. because there’s 5,000 develop- crowd because rock climbing plan for Woodhaven Boulevard. Photo by Gabriel Rom “We’ve been under con- ments under construction in Continued on Page 20 TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 5 Anger over old sewers riles up East Elmhurst
BY BILL PARRY
Rev. Lisa D. Jenkins, and several of her East Elmhurst neighbors, were in shock when they learned the city plans to invest $3.2 million to upgrade Over- look Park and build the neighborhood’s first dog run. When the project was an- nounced in October, the city Parks De- partment said it would improve green space and the quality of life for area residents. The minister said $3.2 million to renovate a park was not what the resi- dents and homeowners had asked the city for . “For decades we have asked for the sewer system and piping in our streets to be replaced,”Jenkins said. “For de- cades we have had sewer backups and water damage. Our homes have con- sistent water damage and permanent Rev. Lisa Jenkins’ basement is rendered un- mold because the problem will not go inhabitable after decades of sewer backups away.” in her East Elmhurst neighborhood. Every time it rains, the system Photo by Bill Parry that was built in the 1930s and 1950s is overwhelmed with raw sewage and Bayside are getting the new piping but stormwater run-off, she said, bubbles we’re being overlooked. up through toilet and floor drains into All three said state Sen. Jose Peral- her basement. Black mold is a fixture ta (D-East Elmhurst) had been the most on the floor and walls and the door to supportive of their elected officials. the basement is covered with plastic “It is imperative that the DEP im- sheeting. prove the sewer system in this section “Professionals who have done re- of East Elmhurst, an area which is in mediation work have told me that no dire need of infrastructure upgrade one should go down there because of because current sewer lines are obso- the mold and the mildew,” Jenkins lete,” Peralta said. “This dilapidated said. “I’ve spent over $7,000 on French system poses dangers to the neighbors drains and it does nothing to stop the and their property. These are projects raw sewage from coming in.” that the community really needs to im- Jenkins has suffered respiratory prove its health and quality of life.” problems from the mold and mildew City Councilwoman Julissa Ferre- left behind by frequent flooding. ras-Copeland (D-East Elmhurst) has Marjorie Clark, a homeowner on been writing to the DEP asking them 96th Street, and Cosby Smiley of 94th to find more creative solutions. The Street, say the same thing happens DEP, meanwhile, does not see a prob- to their basements and years of com- lem with its system. plaints have gone unheeded. “DEP engineers have reviewed the “It’s actually getting worse the more sewer system in this neighborhood and people move into the neighborhood,” confirmed that it is functioning prop- Smiley said. “The first thing they do erly,” a DEP spokesman said. “The re- is rip out the vegetation and pave it view included how this neighborhood over for driveways. The water table is fits into the drainage plan for all of already high here, but now nothing northern Queens, engineering stan- soaks up the water. The infrastructure dards, zoning requirements and 311 is just overwhelmed.” reports of sewer backups and flooding. Before LaGuardia Airport was built DEP currently has approximately 100 on the other side of the Grand Central curbside gardens, or bioswales, under Parkway, the area was known as North construction in the neighborhood. The Beach and the surrounding area was bioswales absorb stormwater natural- largely marshland. The city Depart- ly and keep it out of the sewer system. ment of Environmental Protection has Geo-technical analysis continues to studied the problem for years. determine if additional bioswales can “I was at a town hall meeting with be built in the neighborhood.” the DEP at the First Baptist Church last Jenkins, Clark and Smiley shook year,” Clark said. “They said in order to their heads at the notion that bioswales put in bigger piping they would have to are the answer, even though each can go through the Grand Central and they absorb up to 3,000 gallons of water that didn’t have that kind of money. Other would otherwise flow into the sewer communities like Jackson Heights and Continued on Page 20 6 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM 1
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ScoreCard Rewards points available on Visa Federally Insured by NCUA Classic Rewards (12.9% APR) and Visa Platinum Rewards (9.9% APR) cards. 8 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM Small Biz Saturday Shopping comes early gets mixed reviews Queens stores slow down after big Thanksgiving rush BY GABRIEL ROM ibly busy today and I think it shows that people in the area BY TOM MOMBERG Sandwiched between are really excited to support Black Friday and Cyber local shops.” Black Friday is no more in Monday, Small Business Panettieri had organized Queens—or at least it is not Saturday was created to en- a small business retail crawl, what it used to be. courage shoppers across the enlisting ten other Astoria Big-box stores have pushed country to support mom-and- stores to participate. If cus- door-buster deals and holiday pop shops in their neighbor- tomers shopped at six or more shopping hours earlier every hoods. In in eastern Queens, of the participating business- year, now bringing in lines eager buyers were scant, but es, they were entered to win a of people as they open at 5 or shoppers turned out in great- package of merchandise. 6 p.m. Thanksgiving Day, or er numbers in the western For Astoria Bookshop, even get things started the part of the borough. which also participated in weekend before. On a damp Saturday morn- the retail crawl, the day was At shopping centers around ing Richard Valenti, owner of one of its busiest of the year. Queens last Friday, it looked B & B Beverage Distributors “Today was not a typical more like a regular weekend in Bayside, stood outside his Saturday,” said a tired but than the start of any holiday empty store and sipped his satisfied Lexi Beach, who co- purchasing frenzy. coffee. owns the bookstore. “It was But people were out in num- “Bayside wakes up kind of a very good day. It was way ber Thanksgiving evening. late on a Saturday,” Valenti above our average weekend. Queens Center Mall coordi- said. “I haven’t seen much It’s my favorite day of the nated its 6 p.m. opening time traffic, but later, we’ll prob- year. It’s just fun.” on the national holiday with Sales were fairly quiet at the Queens Center Mall Friday morn- ably have a nice day.” Shoppers said they appre- its bigger stores that planned ing for the beginning of the holiday shopping season. According to a Small ciated the store’s calmness. early door-buster deals, ac- Photo by Sadef Ali Kully Business Saturday spokes- “It’s an enthusiastic type cording to the mall’s senior sweaters and jeans at Aero- “Many of our stores are up man from American Express, of shopping day here, but not property manager, Jeff Owen. postale, boots at Aldo’s and a double digits in sales this holi- which runs the event, the necessarily people crawling Queens Center security book at Barnes & Noble. She day weekend over last year,” promotional day has grown on top of each other,” said guards told the TimesLedger said most of her purchases Owen said. “Listening to na- every year, with 88 million shopper Molly Templeton. the biggest shopping rushes were not intended for gifts. tional news, that doesn’t seem shoppers spending money at “It’s just pleasant.” took place at 6 p.m. on Thanks- “Everything’s on sale so it’s to be the case across the board, independent businesses dur- “Black Friday has become giving and again between 10 pretty nice to take advantage so we are very encouraged by ing last year’s event. such a monster,” she added. p.m. and midnight that eve- of it,” Reyes said. What has this.” But those figures meant “So doing something like ning. And while they expected traditionally been the biggest One Queens resident said little to Diana Someck, coming out to a local book- a rush early Friday morning, holiday shopping weekend of she likes the fact that door owner of Yvette Lingerie on store helps balance it out. ” they said things were pretty the year has been undergoing busters and shopping frenzies Bell Boulevard in Bayside. According to Beach and calm. some rapid changes. Consum- are over with after Thanksgiv- For her, the Saturday after Panettieri, the retail crawl Three young teenagers, ers have been split on which ing evening. Thanksgiving was just like was a grassroots initiative Ahmad Fauster, Gustavo Tla- days to head to stores, accord- Cheryl Bingham, 38, was any other. organized by the businesses huizo and Brandon Costas, ing to the National Retail Fed- shopping with her two sisters “Where is everybody?” themselves. were expecting a huge crowd eration, the trade organization at Atlas Park Friday morn- Someck wondered. “It’s noth- “This is a neighborhood at Queens Center. for the industry. ing, where she said she was ing spectacular,” she said that is eager to support small “We have been here since 8 The NRF’s preliminary an- relieved to see fewer people shaking her head. “Just like business,” Beach said. “It’s a.m. and I am surprised,” said nual survey found that about congesting the stores. any other Saturday.” something that I’ve seen Tlahuizo, who bought sneak- 74.2 million people were out “We usually shop the day But in parts of the bor- right from the beginning, ers and clothing. “I really shopping on Black Friday, and after Thanksgiving every ough closer to Manhattan, and a day like today just con- thought it was gonna be busy.” as many as 34.6 million Amer- year—it’s always been a fun business owners found cre- firms it.” Fauster said he would not icans shopped on Thanksgiv- thing to do while my family is ative ways to lure shoppers. have come at midnight to do ing Day. still in town,” Bingham said. “It has been great,” said Reach reporter Gabriel shopping at the mall.“My food These initial figures were “I really don’t like crowds and Nicole Panettieri, owner of Rom by e-mail at grom@cn- gotta settle - I was not going to down from the federation’s never understood waiting in The Brass Owl in Astoria. glocal.com or by phone at (718) leave my house.” 2014 survey, which estimated a huge line overnight just to “We have been incred- 260–4564. Most of the people out at the about 86.9 million Americans save a few bucks. It’s kind of College Point Shopping Center had gone out to shop on Black nice there aren’t a lot of people seemed to flock to Target and Friday, and an additional 43.1 here—it makes our day more TJ Maxx, grabbing deals on million shoppers were out on relaxing.” perfume and apparel. Thanksgiving Day. Several stores, including Austin Street in Forest This comes as Google and Target and the electronics and Hills was slow Friday morn- IBM have reported a gradual appliance store P.C. Richards, ing, with just a few custom- increase in online shopping started putting up door buster ers looking for markdowns at traffic each year since 2012. deals a week before Thanks- some of the neighborhood’s NRF said about 103 million giving in an attempt to pick up bigger stores like Eddie Bauer, Americans shopped online on an early spending rush. Men’s Warehouse and Banana over the holiday weekend this Other big-box stores like TJ Republic. year, even before Cyber Mon- Maxx, Burlington Coat Fac- Bay Terrace Shopping Cen- day, a large online retail dis- tory, Babies’R’Us, GameStop ter was also slow and the only count day. and Bed Bath and Beyond were crowd was pretty young. Owen said Queens Center closed on Thanksgiving Day, Isabella Reyes, 12, of Whit- Mall made out very well from so their staggered open times Lexi Beach is the co-owner of Astoria Bookshop. estone, went shopping at its holiday weekend push, con- made a noticeable impact on Photo by Gabriel Rom Aeropostale, Barnes & Noble sidering changing national foot traffic in many commer- and Aldo’s. She spent $400 on trends. cial areas. TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 9 New Year’s Eve POLICE AT THE Blotter DOUGLASTON MANOR Cats caught in fire safe and sound: Vet Thursday, December 31st, GLENDALE — Two cats rescued by authorities from a house fire in Queens 2015 7:30pm – 1:30am last week are in good health and have been reunited with their owner, offi- cials at a BluePearl Veterinary hospi- tal said. The cats, Kit Kat and Jinx, were dis- charged from the hospital after being treated for severe smoke inhalation from a two-story fire in Glendale Firefighters were able to resuscitate the cats with small breathing units on the sidewalk after they passed out from smoke. The cats were both put in a spe- One of the injured cats attached to a resipi- cial oxygen chamber after they were rator outside the Glendale fire last week. rushed to the veterinary hospital. Photo by Ellis Kaplan Dead man found on E train: NYPD JAMAICA — A man was found dead emergency responders arrived at the Wednesday morning inside a car of the scene, police said. E train at Parsons Boulevard and Ar- Police said the identification of the cher Avenue. deceased was pending family notifica- NEW YEAR’S EVE MENU Police said transit police responded tion. to a call around 5 a.m. about a man in- The investigation was ongoing and s 3#25-04)/53 #/#+4!), (/52 side the train and found a unconscious Medical Examiner will determine the and unresponsive 66-year-old man. cause of death, according to police of- s (/4 "5&&%4 #/,$ $)30,!9 He was pronounced dead after ficials. s &%!452).' /52 &!-/53 453#!. 4!",% s &/,,/7%$ "9 !. %815)3)4% &/52 #/523% $)..%2 Jax Hgts Dunkin’ Donuts robbed: Cops $125 Per Person All Inclusive JACKSON HEIGHTS — A man claiming to have a gun robbed the Dunkin’ Donuts on 95th Street in Jack- s +IDS YRS YOUNGER son Heights earlier last month, police V.I.P Private Room Is Available: said. Minimum 75 Person Guarantee On Nov. 6, the unidentified suspect entered the fast-food restaurant while simulating a firearm in his jacket s &)234 #/523% s 3%#/.$ #/523% pocket, police said. He handed a note stating he had a gun and demanded Absolute Penne A La Vodka Pear & Gorgonzola Salad Video surveillance captured the robbery money, according to police officials. s %.42% s $%33%24 Police said the victim handed him suspect entering the Jackson Heights Filet Mignon & Succulent Chocolate “Symphony” $160 from the register and then he fled Dunkin’ Donuts. NYPD Photo Prawn Shrimp on foot. He was wearing a blue jacket, blue Police described the suspect as a jeans, white sneakers and a black s /0%. "!2 s $* 4/ 02/6)$% -53)# male Hispanic, 5-feet-9 and 160 pounds. skullcap. s #(!-0!'.% 4/!34 s "!,,//. $2/0 !4 -)$.)'(4 s 7!4#( #/5.4 $/7. ,)6% &2/- 4)-% 315!2% Phone stolen from sleeping man: Police FLUSHING — Police were search- man and took a Samsung S6 cell phone, ing for a man they say snuck into the police said. 63-20 Commonwealth Blvd. & bedroom of a Flushing home while the The suspect fled on foot when the resident was sleeping and allegedly victim woke up and was last seen go- stole a cell phone from the top of the ing westbound on 33rd Avenue, offi- Marathon Pkwy., Douglaston, NY 11363 dresser. cials said. thedouglastonmanor.com At about 2:20 a.m. on Nov. 25, an un- The victim was not injured, police known suspect entered a private house said. in the vicinity of Union Street and 33rd On the surveillance video, the sus- Call for reservations: 718-224-87877 Avenue, according to the police. pect can be seen crawling on the floor Once inside, he made his way into of the bedroom with a knife in between BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY WITH US a bedroom occupied by a 42-year-old his teeth. He then takes the phone care- 10 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM “War Room will strengthen your faith and ignite your passion for pr ayer!” A/D3C>B= — Mark and Susan Merrill 6=:72/G Founders of Family First, All Pro Dad, and iMOM “War Room not only is A compelling D/:C3>@713A% =44 and entertaining story, it truly has A/:3 the potential to change your life. it’s 8CC=8DFLJ; JN<8K K?<C8I> TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 11 EDITORIALS SILVER’S SAD LEGACY The guilty verdict that ended Sheldon Silver’s 40- year tenure as an assemblyman this week brought back memories of the iron clad grip the all-powerful speaker had on his Democratic members in Queens. Years before Silver was found guilty of federal corruption charges and extorting $4 million in ex- change for using his position to promote cancer research and real estate projects, he was the most feared man in Albany. Members of the Queens del- egation complained about waiting outside his office to see him only to watch several lobbyists ushered into the inner sanctum before the elected officials. Frustration over the Brooklyn assemblyman’s se- cretive leadership style and his reluctance to share power boiled over in May 2000 when the Queens Dem- ocratic Party boss pledged 14 of the borough’s 16 As- sembly members would back a coup to unseat Silver. A political brawl erupted on the Assembly floor as Silver’s allies beat back the insurrection, which wounded three of the Queens members. The shaken speaker was intent on retribution. At the last minute U.S. Rep. Tom Manton, head of the Queens Dems, made a backroom deal with Silver to stand down and side with the devil. But three members of the borough delegation re- OTHER VOICES fused to buckle—Anthony Seminerio of Richmond Hill, Barbara Clark of Queens Village and Nettie May- ersohn of Fresh Meadows—earning Silver’s wrath. Seminerio was dismissed as assistant majority leader, while Clark and Mayersohn were removed Making your Christmas tree safer as committee chairwomen. All lost sizable stipends. Seminerio told this newspaper he wore the rebellion As people begin to decorate ficult time maintaining them inquisitive—especially cats, “as a badge of courage” because Silver refused to lis- their homes and apartments for until Christmas or beyond, be- who like shiny objects, which ten to his membership and “showed no respect.” the holidays, it is important to cause they most likely will have Christmas ornaments are. You But in 2009 Seminerio pleaded guilty to setting up be very careful when selecting a dried out significantly, which may have to anchor the tree with a consulting firm to sell his influence as a legislator real tree for Christmas. could then cause a potential fire twine and tie it to some strong ob- and died in jail two years later. First of all, select a tree that hazard. ject where you set it up to prevent Clark remains in office as a strong education ad- is very full, with thick branches. When setting up your tree, re- it from toppling should your cat vocate and Mayersohn, the author of the Baby AIDS Always shake the tree to see if a member to place it in areas away or dog decide to investigate it. bill, retired in 2011. lot of needles fall off. If that does from radiators or fireplaces, and Follow these steps, and you’re In the scramble for position after the failed coup, happen, then do not buy it. When use only UL approved lights and certain to have a wonderful holi- Flushing Assemblyman Brian McLaughlin and his you find a really good tree, and extension cords to decorate it— day season. After Christmas, you St. Albans colleague, Bill Scarborough, were each bring it home, put it in the garage and never, never use real candles. can bring your tree to one of sev- named head of a committee. in a huge bucket of water, so it Also, it is very important to moni- eral city parks throughout the But McLaughlin, who helped bring down Semin- will be moist and suck up a lot of tor the water level at the bottom five boroughs, where the Depart- erio by wearing a wire, pleaded guilty to racketeer- water to keep it turgid. It is best of the tree stand, which must ment of Parks will cut it and use ing in 2009 and served six years in the federal pen. to wait until five to seven days be- constantly be filled to keep the it for mulch for flower beds and to Scarborough has just begun a 13-month jail term for fore Christmas to select and put tree alive and moist. That must be spread around trees and shrubs falsifying his travel expenses. up your tree, so that it will last at done every single day. to retain moisture during the Silver’s conviction will not change the landscape in least through Jan. 1. When going out, always turn spring and summer months. Albany until Gov. Cuomo puts tougher brakes on out- Many people who select and off the tree lights to avoid over- side income and demands a new definition of what is put up their trees right after heating and possible fire. Finally, John Amato illegal in the nation’s most dysfunctional legislature. Thanksgiving will have a dif- if you have pets, they can be very Fresh Meadows BRIAN RICE EDITORIAL STAFF ART & PRODUCTION ADVERTISING CEO: Publisher Reporters: Bill Parry, Art Director: Leah Mitch Senior Account Executive: Les Goodstein Madina Toure, Sadef Kully, Kathy Wenk ROZ LISTON Layout Manager: PRESIDENT Tom Momberg, Gabriel Rom Yvonne Farley Account Executives: Jennifer Goodstein ASTORIA TIMES ■ BAYSIDE TIMES Editor Photographers: Nat Valentine, David Strauss FLUSHING TIMES ■ FOREST HILLS LEDGER Designer: Earl Ferrer KEVIN ZIMMERMAN Ellis Kaplan, Norm Harris, Sherri Rossi CLASSIFIED FRESH MEADOWS TIMES Layout: Rod Ivey Suzanne Green News Editor Maria Lopez, Ken Maldonado, Classified Director: JACKSON HEIGHTS TIMES ■ JAMAICA TIMES Yinghao Luo, Caroll Alvarado, Cartoonist: Tip Sempliner Lebert McBean ■ Amanda Tarley LAURELTON TIMES LITTLE NECK LEDGER MICHAEL SHAIN William Thomas, Robert Cole Enid Rodriguez QUEENS VILLAGE TIMES ■ RIDGEWOOD LEDGER Classified Sales Photo Editor Copy/Production Editor: WHITESTONE TIMES OFFICE MANAGER Manager: JOSEPH STASZEWSKI Steven Barnes Linda Lindenauer Eugena Pechenaya Sports Editor Contributing Writers/Columnists: 41-02 Bell Boulevard Bob Harris, Kenneth Kowald, CIRCULATION Bayside, New York 11361 RALPH D’ONOFRIO Suzanne Parker, Ronald B. Roberto Palacios Main: (718) 260-4545 V.P. of Advertising Hellman, William Lewis, Prem Sales: (718) 260-4521 Calvin Prashad www.TimesLedger.com PROUD MEMBER OF NEW YORK PRESS ASSOCIATION 12 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM READERS WRITE Block Syrian refugees Provide them shelter Our Queens representatives op- men and women arrested in the United Throughout the year 2015 close to questioned Jesus, “And who is my pose the refugee bill, aka the America States for suspicion of ISIS involve- one million Syrians have migrated neighbor?” So, Jesus told the parable SAFE Act, which puts additional safe- ment, including 12 refugees in the past from the horrors of an internecine of the ritually impure Samaritan who guards into place for screening Syrian year who were vetted and allowed into war in Syria into the continent of Eu- was the true neighbor, treating the refugees in order to prevent the threat the country. rope. Germany has maintained open mugging victim with mercy. And, of terrorist attacks from ISIS infiltra- The FBI, counterterrorism and borders to accommodate these suf- “You shall love... your neighbor as tors. Homeland Security Departments have fering men, women and children and yourself” (Luke 10: 27). But the latest polls show that the vast told us they cannot adequately vet the give them a new home. So, despite the fact that some peo- majority of Americans oppose Obama’s Syrian refugees coming into the Unit- Although most of these migrants ple are not Christians, we are called plan to allow 10,000 Syrian refugees ed States. FBI director James Comey are Muslims, to date only one Syrian to love our neighbors. These Syrian into the United States. If the views of said that there are no databases, no re- passport was found near the body of refugees are our neighbors. And, fur- Queens residents are anywhere near cords in Syria. We have no intelligence a suspected Islamic jihadist in the ther, “When the Samaritans came to the national figures of 53 percent in op- to identify them and we know that ISIS recent terror attacks in Paris. Some him... many more began to believe position and 28 percent for the refugee does intend to smuggle in terrorists European nations have been closing in him because of his word . . . for plan, then six out of the seven Queens with the refugees. their borders even before this recent we have heard for ourselves, and we lawmakers, including U.S. Reps. Crow- The government’s No. 1 job is to pro- terrorism, and now many states in the know that this is truly the savior of ley, Meng, Meeks and the others, who tect the American people. While Meeks United States are opposing Syrian im- the world” (John 4: 40-42). Today is the voted against the measure, are out of and the other Queens elected officials migrants. This is un-American, inhu- time to comfort our suffering neigh- touch with their constituents. are outspoken on granting asylum to mane and un-Christian to discrimi- bors, especially the totally innocent The reason we strongly oppose the the Syrian refugees, they are putting nate against people because of their children. president’s refugee plan is because we us at great risk. Our Queens represen- Syrian national origin, Arab ethnic- The perpetrators of the heinous cannot be sure that our safety is part tatives are disingenuous and disgrace- ity and Islamic religion. murders in Paris must indeed be of the equation, even with the brazen ful. While there was a recent genocide The perpetrators of this Parisian brought to justice, but the majority assurances from Rep. Gregory Meeks of Iraq’s Yazidi population and their terrorism included an Algerian Mus- of Syrians must not be punished for that we “have the strongest refugee applications for asylum in the United lim jihadist who was French-born, not these crimes. And the Quran itself vetting program in the world,” refer- States were rejected, they were all si- 999,999 Syrian Muslim (and Christian) says, “Glory be to him who has do- ring to the 13-step program touted by lent. But now they are grandstanding, migrants, who fled the Islamic State minion over all things. To him you the White House. The refugee plan up on their high horses, bucking public and their fundamentalist distortions shall all return” (al-Quran 36). They was hatched shortly after President safety. of al-Quran. will know we are Christians by our Obama said that ISIS is contained—on For Christians, the scenario is love. the same day that Paris was attacked. Phil Orenstein reminiscent of the story of the Good According to Sen. Jeff Sessions (R- President, Queens Village Samaritan in the Gospel of Luke, in Joseph N. Manago Alabama), there have been dozens of Republican Club which a Jewish scholar of the law Flushing Consider our seniors A fi tting tribute to the Latin Mass I think it would be a good den apartments into afford- The Times Ledger published one of the idea to turn the former Bay- able senior housing? Right finest articles on the Traditional Latin side Jewish Center into a now there is a three- to five- Mass (“In Queens cemetery, Latin mass LGBT senior center. year waiting list for senior lives again,” Oct. 23). Photo editor Michael And while we’re on the housing! Shain covered very meticulously and suc- subject of seniors, wouldn’t it cinctly in his writing not only the mass be a great idea to allocate 10 Kathleen Ledda itself, but the background behind it. His percent of the numerous gar- Glen Oaks photographs convey exactly what is hap- pening. I have not seen in any of our local news- papers this quality in an article so well written. It is always a pleasure to read and see something as thorough and accurate as this piece. Mr. Shain shows competence and fairness. As we used to say in Green- point, Brooklyn, “The kid done good.” Joseph R. Klonowski Middle Village Contact the newsroom: Photo by Michael Shain 718-260-4545 • [email protected] CORRECTION In a story that ran in the Nov. 27 edition of the TimesLedger Newspapers, “Chamber head has plans for boro,” Thomas Grech was erroneously quoted as saying there are about 700,000 higher education students in Queens. He said 70,000. We regret the error. TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 13 COLUMNS Introducing the terrible toys of 2015 Lenore Spider Farm: Just like an that will not let any toys from tions, you’ve launched your ant farm, but with eight legs. Syria into the playpen. own personal attack drone. Skenazy Bryan Cranston Chemis- From ‘Barbie’s Ouija Bored: Slightly testy Watch it sail beyond your ■ try Set: “Hey, kids. Clean up tool for communicating with neighborhood, over the ocean that meth you made!” Over-Mortgaged the dead, often spelling out, and into the Middle East where Rhymes Tickle Me and I’ll See You “He’s fine. Quit asking.” Or, who-knows-what mischief it with Crazy In Court, Elmo: A chastened Dream House’ to “She’s busy … for eternity.” may cause? Time to get out Elmo neither tickles nor ac- Power-Hungry Rangers: your Nerf Grenade Launcher! cepts tickling. He always has ‘Tickle Me and I’ll These Rangers roam the Inter- Rubik’s Cubicle: Twist another adult Muppet present See You in Court, state issuing exorbitant traf- this super-sized toy into a ith the holiday season and wears a body camera. fic tickets for cracked brake cramped and lonely workspace upon us and tots with Mr. Pot-Head and his Elmo,’ our list of lights and failing to signal a devoid of hope and cheer. Add their eyes all gosh- wife, Mrs. Pot-Head: Put lane change. a family photo! (But it won’t do Wdarn aglow, it is time eyes all over them! Add an up- toys sure to not Payola Crayons: Crayons any good.) to buy toys. This year, some side-down mustache, and how that will draw anything for Barrel of Monks: Now are moving faster than others. about a hat for a nose? Sooooo be moving off you, for a price. quite as much fun as its prede- And then there are the ones funny! Oh my God, like, seri- the shelves this Chutes and Bladders: Get cessor, and a very quiet toy. not moving at all: ously, that is the funniest thing to the bathroom at the top of Mobbed-Up Chatty Cathy: Arm-Os: Just like Legos, ever, ever, ever. holiday season the board as fast as you can! Cathy isn’t so chatty anymore. except shaped like arms. Kind Easy Break Oven: Half the Hurry! In fact, she didn’t see nothin’ of hard to snap together—and price of the Hasbro models. Bernie Babies: Bernie Ba- and she’s not sayin’ nothin’. disturbing once you do. Barbie’s Over-Mortgaged Patch Kids, because you can bies don’t smile much, but they See ’n’ Swear: Pull the Grown-Up Mutant Ninja Dream House: Of course, boil these or serve stuffed with are earnest, they are angry, string and see someone steal Turtles: Still living in a sew- Barbie’s got a job! She’s got ground meat and rice. and they come with a plush dad’s parking space! What er, but now plagued by back three: Astronaut, pop singer, Skinky: Wrap these long copy of Das Kapital. Bernies does daddy say now? problems, wheezing and “shell veterinarian. And she’s still metal coils around a friend’s are not available for sale— bunions.” (Don’t ask!) under water. (Ken is AWOL wrists. Voila! Homemade “Unlike our government!” as Lenore Skenazy is a keynote Coolidge Logs: Modern- with some Bratz doll.) handcuffs. Have fun! the Bernie motto goes. speaker and author and found- ized Lincoln Logs. But not that Cabbage Patch Cabbage: Trumby: Bombastic, gin- Stomp Drones: One, two, er of the book and blog Free- modernized. Better than the old Cabbage ger-haired rubber figurine three—stomp! Congratula- Range Kids. Vandals strike at a symbol of Hindu pride is the co-founder of the advo- as jhandi flags, displayed in Gi\d cacy group Sadhana: Coali- front of one’s home, are the :Xcm`e tion of Progressive Hindus, most visible symbol of their Community leaders have tied the based in Richmond Hill. Sad- faith, comparable to Nativity GiXj_X[ hana released a statement on scenes, or mezuzah in front incident to growing intolerance and N the incident and will plan a of Jewish homes. Though suspicion against the Muslim commnity. New Voices community event to address uncommon in modern India, the vandalism. the tradition of jhandi flags ‘The hate is now also trickling into the Jhandi flags are typically was carried by indentured vandalism incident in colorful pieces of cloth, usu- servants to Guyana, Trinidad Hindu community,’ one said. ‘We need Woodhaven has left ally adorned with a Hindu de- and South Africa where the community leaders ity, attached to a bamboo pole. flags came to symbolize pride to stand in solidarity and uplift peace in A concerned about safety They are typically made at in one’s affinity with Sana- spite of all these distirbuing incidents.’ and rising intolerance against the conclusion of a puja cere- tana Dharma and shared cul- communities of color in the mony, which, according to the tural roots. borough. Early Thanksgiv- Sanatana Dharama (eternal Noting that jhandi flags ing morning, an unidentified order) denomination of Hin- were among the most “visible mischief in recent years, in- the wake of charged political perpetrator set fire to prayer duism, is a ceremony to give and identifiable Indo-Carib- cluding the destruction of rhetoric and terrorist attacks flags, known as jhandi, in thanks and create a sankalp bean cultural symbols,” Ken- a wreath at a neighborhood in France. Ross condemned front of a residence near 80th (convent) with a deity for the rick Ross, the executive di- World War II memorial in the “dangerous rhetoric” that Street and 89th Avenue. Ac- upcoming year, be it a prom- rector of the Indo-Caribbean November 2014. Richard Da- has become part of the night- cording to surveillance foot- ise to provide for one’s family Alliance, expressed the need vid, a member of Community ly news. “Attacks against im- age, the vandal waited until or pursue an education. Most for tolerance, restraint, and Board 9, which encompasses migrants and communities of he could be unobserved and families use the occasion to respect. “When one family or the area, noted that to “deter color are commonplace,” he then watched the fire from a give thanks and share their group in our community and any further acts of hate and asserted. distance before fleeing. prosperity with friends and country feel unsafe, none of intolerance, the perpetrator “The hate is now also This desecration, accord- relatives. Whether the vandal us feel safe,” he said. should be found and receive trickling into the Hindu com- ing to community leader recognized the irony in burn- “Jhandi flags are to Hindu the maximum punishment munity. We need to stand in Aminta Kilawan, has led to ing a symbol of giving thanks Indo-Caribbeans what saint immediately.” solidarity and uplift peace the involvement of the NYPD on the eve of Thanksgiving is figurines are to Catholics,” Ross and Kilawan tied the in spite of all these disturb- Hate Crimes Unit, which will not known. Kilawan added. incident to growing intoler- ing incidents,” Kilawan con- be investigating the vandal- The incident is particular- Woodhaven has struggled ance and suspicion against cluded. ism as a hate crime. Kilawan ly disturbing to area Hindus, with graffiti and criminal the Muslim community in 14 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM COLUMNS Silver’s conviction was a long time coming my On Point column “Queens have called for him to step mediate action to address the date back to 2001, when the Bob Civic Associations Speak Out down or be removed from his egregious abuse of power and speaker’s chief counsel, Mi- Against Actions of Silver” was speakership. misappropriation of taxpayer chael Boxley, was accused of Friedrich published in the TimesLedger The Assembly speaker funds by Silver to cover up the date-raping a young legislative n Newspapers. I think it is as rel- wields enormous power, which Vito Lopez scandal. aide. Two years later, a second On Point evant today as it was 2½ years intimidates even the most These civic leaders said, young woman was assaulted ago. seemingly independent legis- “While civic and community by Boxley, to which he pleaded * * * lators. On the other hand, civ- groups beg for library funds, guilty to sexual misconduct Eight months ago, six civic ic leaders who are on the front sidewalk repairs, desperately and $500,000 of taxpayer funds heldon Silver’s convic- association leaders under the lines of many battles stand un- needed curbs and other com- authorized by Silver was paid tion on all counts of umbrella of Queens Civics afraid of such intimidating tac- munity resources, Assembly to settle the lawsuit. corruption and malfea- United took a bold step on be- tics. These locally responsive Speaker Silver secretly spends The speaker’s actions have Ssance was stunning. He half of the communities they powerhouses often serve as a more than $100,000 of tax dol- clearly nurtured a political now faces more than 20 years represent. They issued a press moral compass tracking the lars to help political pal Lopez culture that is more concerned in prison. The cesspool that is release to the media calling actions of our elected leaders, keep his sordid affair under with protecting its members Albany and City Hall come as for state Assembly Speaker exerting fundamental checks wraps and out of the public than victimized women. no surprise to many civic lead- Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan) and balances when these offi- eye. We are outraged by these The speaker must be held ers that battle daily for their to be relieved of his role. cials veer off-course and begin actions.” to the highest standard. When community. As they begged These civic leaders, who to lose touch with the commu- At that time, not a single will our elected officials stand for money and cans of paint are keyed into the daily con- nities they represent. elected Assembly Democrat tall with the communities they to cover graffiti, Sheldon Sil- cerns of their communities Queens Civics United—a was willing to stand up to the represent instead of sinking ver was doling out hundreds and fierce advocates for their coalition of civic Presidents speaker. As if the known de- low with the leadership they of thousands of dollars of tax- neighborhoods, knew Silver Robert Holden (Juniper Park tails of this scandal were not support? Is it any wonder that payer funds as hush money had long tolerated and exacer- Civic Association), Jerry enough, we now learn from Albany and New York City and protection for his cronies, bated a culture of sleazy and Wind (Bellerose Hillside Civic Staten Island District Attor- have the distinction of leading while collecting millions from corrupt politics that perme- Association), Frank Toner ney Dan Donovan, who was the nation in political turnover law firms for no-show jobs. ates the state capitol. (Rocky Hill Civic Associa- selected as special prosecutor due to arrest or indictment? Back in June 2013, a num- This past week, the main- tion), Lourdes Hartrick (Bel- to investigate this matter, that In fact, in the past decade, ber of well-known civic lead- stream media finally caught lerose Commonwealth Civic this was only the tip of the ice- aside from term limits, most ers in Queens publicly called up with the Queens civics and Association), Angela Augug- berg. political turnover has come for his removal as speaker. followed suit. The New York liaro (Queens Colony Civic As- This cover-up and secret not from the voting booth but That didn’t happen until U.S. Times, the Daily News and sociation) and Bob Friedrich silencing of victims through from the courthouse. Voters Attorney Preet Bharara’s the New York Post, among oth- (Glen Oaks Village)—put their the payment of “hush money” must send a strong message office indicted him on cor- ers, have highlighted Silver’s names and reputations on the allowed Lopez to continue to to these morally challenged ruption charges more than ethical lapses on their edito- line eight months ago when victimize more female staff politicians that the tarnished a year later. On June 7, 2013 rial pages. The Times and Post they publicly called for im- members. Silver’s cover-ups Silver must be cleaned up. Queens and the rest of city battle zoning changes Landmark West has worked scaled city. To see the petition in buildings that are built by plus the units must be placed Bob to create historic districts and or add your group to the peti- developers. Community Board throughout the building and Harris contextual zoning, but if these tion e-mail coordinator@hu- 8 voted almost unanimously upgrades made to infrastruc- zoning texts are passed, build- manscalednyc.net. against both plans, with only ture throughout rezoned area. n ing could rise 20 feet among One after another, the one person voting for the af- Community Board 7 voted The Civic blocks of landmarked mid- Queens community boards fordable housing proposal. similarly. Scene block brownstones while in have voted against both of Community Board 9 voted The voting about these new other areas buildings could these zoning changes. Com- against both proposals, while zoning proposals by the 14 rise 40 feet. The result could munity Board 13 voted against making comments that se- Queens Community Boards he same concerns which be higher, bulkier buildings the proposals after criticizing niors do drive and that park- is only advisory. The boards civic leaders in Queens and out-of-character new the lessening or elimination ing is terrible in Kew Gardens, then meet with Queens Bor- have about the two new buildings. Community Board of parking requirements, the Richmond Hill, Ozone Park ough President Melinda Katz Tzoning changes pro- 7 in Manhattan is slated to increased height of buildings and Woodhaven. The board also in an advisory capacity posed by City Hall to provide vote on this issue while CB 1 and the greater density which was concerned that develop- as the Queens Borough Board. affordable housing can be and CB 2 in Lower Manhattan would result. Community ers would seek out vulnerable The Borough Board met last found in Manhattan. have voted against it. Board 5 voted 36-1 with one property to construct profit- month and voted against the Manhattan groups, such The Historic Districts abstention against the Man- able housing and only provide proposals. as Landmark West and the Council, a citywide coalition datory Inclusionary Housing a few affordable apartments. After all the boroughs Greenwich Village Society for of 50 organizations as of last and tabled the proposal for af- Community Board 4 voted have voted the proposals will Historic Preservation, have September, is circulating a fordable housing. against the proposals with go back to the Department of spoken out against these pro- petition against overdevelop- Community Board 12 fol- three board members voting City Planning who drew up posed zoning changes. Land- ment. It speaks of over-scaled lowed the recommendation of for them. these proposals. Any final mark West has written that the buildings, which ignore our its Land Use Committee and Community Board 1 voted proposals will then go to the Upper West Side of Manhattan skylines, parks and public voted down the two zoning for the proposals with the City Council where your coun- could be destroyed as a nice areas, as well as the historic text amendments. Opposition stipulation that parking must cilmembers will make the fi- place to live if these zoning context of our city. It calls for centered on the proposed elim- be provided for no less than 20 nal binding vote on whatever plans are passed. For decades planning to realize a human- ination of parking for seniors percent of the affordable units, plan emerges. TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 15 Iraq War vets fi nd home with Steamfi tters BY BILL PARRY out the five boroughs. including some that traveled “There are certain paral- from as far away as Texas and Two Iraq War veterans in lels between the Marine Corps Florida, applied for just 500 po- western Queens have found and the steamfitters appren- sitions that would be offered post-military careers as ticeship as far as camaraderie, over a three-year-period. steamfitters. chain of command and ac- “I knew it was an oppor- Louis Gonzalez, 32, who countability,” Bargellini said. tunity that people pursue,” was born and raised in As- After he returned to civilian Gonzalez said. “It’s a profes- toria and Matthew Bargel- life, his grandfather told him sion that takes care of you fi- lini, 28, who recently moved to about the Helmets to Hardhats nancially, but it’s also about Sunnyside, both served in the program. being a part of the process Marine Corps before gaining “My grandfather was my of construction, putting up entry to the apprenticeship father figure growing up,” buildings and schools. There’s program at Steamfitters Local Bargellini said. “He was a a certain pride in knowing 638 in Long Island City. steamfitter for more than 40 you’re building the infrastruc- Gonzalez and Bargellini years and I saw how he was ture of this city.” came through Helmets to Hard- able to provide for his extend- Bargellini didn’t have to hats, a national, non-profit pro- ed family, so I figured it was stand on that line in 2012, but gram that connects returning worth pursuing.” Astoria's Louis Gonzalez learns a new trade as part of the Steamfitters he saw it on the TV news. U.S. military veterans with Gonzalez graduated from Local 638's apprenticeship program after serving in the Iraq War. “It tells you how sought af- good-paying, quality careers St. Francis Prep in Fresh Photo courtesy of Helmets to Hardhats ter the position is as far as job and training in the construc- Meadows and spent two years security and benefits,” Bargel- tion trade. As apprentices, the studying at St. John’s Univer- brought to my attention the fitters to raise their families lini said. “I’m two years into two will undergo an extensive sity. different unions and trades in comfortably with health-care the apprenticeship and it’s five-year, union-paid training “I upped in the Marine New York City.” coverage, disability protec- going very smoothly and the program to learn the steamfit- Corps just after 9/11,” he said. Helmets to Hardhats ad- tions and pensions at the end of healthcare gave me the confi- ting trade of designing, build- “After eight years in the Corps vocated for both during a se- their labor intensive careers. dence to get engaged to my fi- ing, installing, maintaining ,I took courses on transition- lection process that is always In 2012, Gonzalez joined a ancée Cecilia in April. The job and repairing gas, steam and ing back into civilian life. Af- competitive. The appren- line that stretched for blocks does take its toll on the body, water piping; fire sprinklers; ter I got a degree in finance ticeship program, in which outside the Steamfitters Indus- but you get that piece of mind and heating, ventilation and from Brooklyn College, I re- Steamfitters 638 invests near- try Training Center in Long that I’ll be able to retire com- air conditioning systems in membered mention of Helmets ly $100,000 per each enrollee, Island City just for an applica- fortably one day and enjoy my commercial, residential and to Hardhats during transition leads to occupations with a tion to the apprenticeship pro- life with Cecelia.” industrial buildings through- training. That’s when it was living wage that allow steam- gram. More than 5,000 people, “When it came to the end of my mother’s life, we had prayed for death with dignity. Thanks to Calvary’s unparalleled care, our prayers were answered.” “How does one cure an incurable disease? Physically, you can’t. 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The Planning’s two zoning text breadth of neighborhoods in amendments come up for City a city like New York requires Council review in the coming far more nuanced and strate- months, Borough President gically planned rezonings in- Melinda Katz has announced stead of a wholesale ‘one size her recommendation to disap- fits all’ approach.” prove them, independently but Katz’s evaluation of the in consideration of the bor- proposed amendments has ough board’s overwhelming concluded the first phase of 12-2 vote against each of the the six-month public review proposals last month. process that will now move The amendments, Zoning through the City Planning for Quality and Affordability, Commission before the third as well as Mandatory Inclu- and final phase of City Council sionary Housing, are intended review, and ultimately a vote. to encourage developers to pro- In her recommendation, duce more senior housing and Katz said changing height re- affordable housing by altering strictions in low-density neigh- some guidelines in various borhoods to accommodate residential zoning classifica- elevators in senior housing, Borough President Melinda Katz (c.) recommends the city vote down two zoning text amendments intended to tions. potential impacts to contextual create more senior and affordable housing as they are currently proposed. Photo by Tom Momberg “This is not about whether rezoning that has taken place in one is for or against affordable various Queens neighborhoods the two proposals, with one ough Board voted 20-2 against Queens Council members housing,” Katz noted in her for the last decade, as well as abstention, in mid Novem- each proposal Tuesday night voluntarily abstained from recommendation. “Everyone lowering parking requirements ber. The Manhattan Borough with two abstentions. Seven voting on the Borough Board shares the goals and recog- were her greatest concerns. Board voted 12-0 against both of Brooklyn’s 16 Council mem- last month, because they will nizes the need to aggressively The Bronx Borough Board proposals Monday, with four bers were there to cast votes have to vote with the full expand affordable housing voted unanimously against abstentions. The Brooklyn Bor- against the amendments. Council early next year. 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The collection of more than 15 boxes of food along with a monetary donation of $250 went to the St. Matthias Food Pantry. The Community News Group is Christ the King’s Annual Food Drive is sponsored by the CK Campus Minis- proud to introduce BROOKLYN try, under the supervision of Sister Elizabeth Graham. PAPER RADIO. Join Brooklyn Paper Editor-in-Chief Vince DiMiceli and the New York Daily News’ Gersh Kuntzman every Monday at 4 pm for an hour of talk on topics Brooklynites hold dear. Each show will feature in-studio guests and call-out segments, and can be listened to live or played WITH anytime at your convenience. SPONSORED BY Laser of New York VINCE DIMICELI GERSH KUNTZMAN About Christ the King Regional High School Christ the King Regional High School is a private, co-educational Catholic High School with a 4-year college preparatory curriculum. Located in Middle Village, Queens, Christ the King Regional High School draws students from all areas. The school is accredited by The Board of Regents of the State of New York and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools. Christ the King’s current enrollment is approximately 900 students. The LOOK FOR IT MONDAY, DEC. 7 AT faculty numbers 45. Christ the King High School is governed by its Board of Trustees: Serphin R. Maltese, Chairman; Thomas V. Ognibene, Vice Chairman; Robert A. BrooklynPaper.com/radio Normandia, Vice Chairman; Bernard G. Helldorfer, Counsel/Trustee; Anthony Como, Esq., Treasurer; Brenda Evans, Trustee; Dolores St. Louis, Trustee; Peter J. Mannarino, Principal; Michael W. Michel, President; Arthur Spanarkel, Financial Advisor; and Veronica Cokley, Executive Assistant. More information is available http://www.ctkny.org/. Find Christ the King on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CKCampus. TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 19 Santas in Sunnyside Wishing everybody BY BILL PARRY a wonderful holiday season Sunnyside will be seeing red Satur- day when a charity organization com- Happy Hanukkah prised of nine neighborhood restau- rants and pubs will present its fourth Merry Christmas annual Santathon. Sunnyside’s Boulevard Bars is expecting nearly 600 participants to dress up as Santa Claus and purchase a $10 wristband which will entitle them to drink specials beginning at 3 p.m. In the past three years, the event has raised over $20,000 for children’s toys for the holidays. “It keeps getting bigger and bigger,” Bar 43 co-owner Nick Murphy said. “It’s not like the Santathon in Manhat- tan that gets out of hand every year. Everyone knows it’s for kids so no one gets out of line.” Revelers pack the Courtyard Ale Courtyard Ale House, Maggie House during last year's Santathon Mae’s, Arriba Arriba, McGuinness’s fund-raising event in Sunnyside. Saloon, Molly Blooms, Sidetracks and Photo courtesy of Boulevard Bars The Gaslight are all taking part. So is Jack’s Fire Dept., which unlike the In addition to the Santathon fund- others is not on or near Queens Boule- raiser, the McGowans are also run- vard. ning a 50/50 raffle and are contribut- Congresswoman Jack’s Fire Dept., located at 39-46 ing a portion of their sales from the Skillman Ave., is owned two brothers, Thanksgiving to Dec. 19 span to raise Grace Meng Brian and Jim McGowan, both fire- money for a wounded warrior. He is a fighters in the FDNY. Marine who lost his legs in Iraq. Paid for and authorized by Grace for New York “It’s a pretty big deal for us because “We want to send him and his fam- it brings a bunch of new faces down ily on a vacation to Aruba,” McGowan from the boulevard each year,” Brian said. “It’s the least we can do.” McGowan said. THE PORT AUTHORITY OF NY & NJ blocks, we’ll be getting visitors from NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY Climbing all over,” he said. Continued from Page 5 The facility is Brooklyn Boulder’s Technical Report For Design Revisions to the fourth location, joining its original Central Terminal Building Redevelopment Program, is such a cerebral sport that involves gym in Gowanus and others in Boston LaGuardia Airport, Flushing New York solving problems,” Pinn said. He is and Chicago. also involved in brokering the Q41’s 99 “We’re at four but planning more Notice is hereby given that copies of the Port Authority's Technical Report of apartments and 9 condos. opportunities,” Pinn said. “This is still design revisions to the Central Terminal Building Redevelopment Program at “You can imagine the amount of just the beginning.” LaGuardia Airport, examining design changes since issuance of the December people that are interested in living Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge is here,” Pinn said. “The building is cur- planning a grand opening for Thurs- 2014 Federal Aviation Administration Finding of No Significant Impact/Record rently full but as units become vacant day, Dec. 10, with shows, displays, ac- of Decision (FONSI/ROD), DOT Section 4(f) Evaluation, which included we’ll fill the units with our members. robatics and live music. Prior to the documentation of compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic We ll have waiting lists for people to grand opening a discounted annual Preservation Act and Federal Executive Order 11988: Floodplain Management replace them. It just makes sense for us membership rate of $95 is available, are available. The report provides additional planning and environmental to broker units.” day passes cost $28. analysis for the design revisions to the Central Terminal Building Redevelopment BKB Queensbridge is unique in Pinn looks forward to the day when Program. Copies are available for public review at the following locations: that it is the most accessible facil- all the elements come together. The Port Authority of NY &NJ The Port Authority of NY & NJ ity of its type in the city, according to “If you live in this particular build- Aviation Department CTB Redevelopment Program Pinn. “We’ve got eight subways in 5 1/2 ing, you may not ever want to leave,” 4WTC LaGuardia Airport, Hangar 7, 150 Greenwich Street, 18th Floor 3rd Floor (Marine Air Terminal area) wrap your head around,” she said. “My New York, NY 10006 Flushing, NY 11371 E. Elmhurst parents made that basement my own Attn: Edward Knoesel Attn: Rosie Pabon when I was growing up and now I can’t Hours: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Hours: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm Continued from Page 6 even go down there without a breath- Queens Borough Public Library Queens Borough Public Library system. ing apparatus. I’ve got no more money 35-51 81st Street 41-17 Main Street “Look, don’t get us wrong,” Smiley to make repairs. As a single mother Jackson Heights, NY 11372 Flushing, NY 11355 said. “It’s not like we think the $3.2 with a kid in college, I can’t even get million for the park and dog run would insurance anymore. What happens if Hours: Check with library branch Hours: Check with library branch fix our sewer infrastructure problem. there’s a fire? I’ll be homeless. We’re The technical report document for this project will be available at these locations It just seems like there’s some kind of told they don’t have the money to re- until December 14, 2015. In addition, a copy of this document may be viewed disconnect.” place the pipes in our streets, but they online at: http://www.panynj.gov/about/studies-reports.html Jenkins, the senior pastor at St. have $3.2 million for a dog run? Our Matthew’s Baptist Church of Harlem, houses are deteriorating and nobody is Any questions can be sent to [email protected] got right to the point. concerned. Who will hear us?” “It’s bananas, it’s really hard to 20 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM (" $# )(0&0(%0!!0%&'"0'&( 0%')) '%0)($) )$#&' The Essential Plan Offered by Fidelis Care and available through NY State of Health: The Official Health Plan Marketplace • Monthly premiums are either $0 or $20 a month based on income • Low out-of-pocket costs with no deductible - the plan starts paying for your health care right away • Free preventive care like checkups and screenings Enroll ALL YEAR LONG starting November 1, 2015! Comprehensive Coverage: ! " # $ Doctors and Hospitals Close to Home: %" ! &# ' % ( ) *+ *"" ! " & $ How do I Qualify? % ' % # , Questions? 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BY SADEF ALI KULLY The investigation, conduct- ed by detectives from the 113th The city medical examiner Precinct Detective Squad and determined that the story of the Queens South Homicide a New Jersey man, charged Squad, contended Williams Nov. 24 with the death of his had inflicted abusive head girlfriend’s 4-month old son trauma on the infant, accord- in Rochdale Village, was in- ing to the criminal complaint. consistent with the injuries, abusive head trauma, also according to the criminal known as shaken baby syn- complaint filed by the Queens drome. refers to any deliber- District Attorney’s office. ately inflicted injury to the Jhalil Williams, 29, from head,. The injuries seen in Orange, N.J., was arraigned infants and toddlers with abu- Nov. 24 before Queens Crimi- sive head trauma may include nal Court Judge Bruna Dibi- bleeding over the surface of ase on charges of murder and the brain and other brain- assault in the death of his related injuries, according to Rochdale resident girlfriend’s the American Academy of Pe- son in January, according to diatrics. the Queens DA. The criminal complaint “This is a truly horrific said Williams was solely re- and disturbing case where a sponsible for the care of his In January, 113th Precinct police officers found a dead baby at the residence near 144th Avenue and arrested helpless 4-month-old infant girlfriend’s 4-month-old son, Jhalil Williams Nov. 23 almost one year later, police said. Google Earth was left in the care of the de- Javion Durett, at her Jamaica fendant who was the mother’s home, Sometime between 10 unconscious and tried CPR be- Police arrested Williams Road in Rochdale. Emergency boyfriend. The alleged actions p.m. Jan. 24 and 3 a.m Jan. 25, fore calling the police. Nov. 23 almost one year after responders took the baby to of the defendant are totally in- he is accused of injuring the In the complaint, the city the death of the baby, police Jamaica Hospital, where he comprehensible. He now faces baby’s head, which , caused medical examiner’s report said. was pronounced dead. serious charges that could his death, Queens DA said. said the autopsy revealed the According to the January Dibiase held Williams with- lead to his spending the rest of Williams told police detec- baby had numerous head trau- police report, NYPD officers out bail and ordered him to his life behind bars if convict- tives the baby was coughing ma-related injuries, which found Javion unconscious and return to court Friday. If con- ed,” Queens District Attorney and he did pick him up to help. were inconsistent with Wil- unresponsive at 3 a.m. at the victed, he faces up to 25 years Richard Brown said. Later, he saw the baby was liams’s story. girlfriend’s home near 144th to life in prison. BUSINESS, QUEENS STYLE Timeless, the Play 9PD@:?8 22 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM gREAT CARE DOESN’T JUST COME IN ONE LANGUAGE. New York Hospital Queens is now NewYork-Presbyterian/Queens. It seems only natural that this hospital in the city’s most diverse borough become a part of the #1 ranked hospital in New York. Learn more at nyp.org/queens. TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 23 Former Queens jail plays host to job fair Photos by Michael Shain More than 800 people registered for the Department of Correction’s daylong Jobs Fair, which included an unusual, inside look at the Queens Detention Complex. The heavy weapons and shields are the tools of the trade for the department's Emergency Service Unit. The department is looking for 1,800 new officers and 400 non-uniform personnel. This isn't your usual job fair. Curious job seekers got a close look at the working life of a city Corrections Officer on a tour, conducted by Capt. David Marrero, of a cell block at the now-closed Queens house of detention. The cells at the Queens Detention Complex have been closed since 2001, so the facility is The transportation unit moves prisoners between jail and court, hence the cuffs and now used to train new officers—and by TV shows in need of a prison backdrop. shackels. 24 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM udent St s of D SPONSORED BY istinction Shawn Ali there are accountants, managers, and a CEO. December 2015 As CEO, Shawn manages the fi rm’s internal and external affairs, creates a business plan, makes Hillcrest High School purchases for the fi rm and markets its product. Jamaica, New York Michele Gensler, Coordinator, Virtual Enter- prises, selected Shawn for the role of CEO due Shawn Ali is a proud member of the Nation- to many fi ne qualities he possesses. al Honors Society and a senior at Hillcrest High “Shawn is dependable, self-motivated, School. Hillcrest is composed of several small and willing to learn new things,” Ms Gensler community schools, each catering to a specifi c explains. “He possesses tremendous focus and course of study. Initially Shawn entered Hillcrest perseverance on an individual level while also as a student in Newcomers, a community of being a committed team player. In our Virtual English Language Learners. As the students gain Enterprise, he is quick to offer assistance to skill in their new language, they transition into other departments and directs his VE staff in a other communities within Hillcrest High School. positive, confi dent manner.” According to Mr. Rico, Guidance Counselor, This year, the class elected to operate a Shawn adapted quickly to the new environment. business called MEOW – Making Every One “Shawn is special in that he earned placement Winners. MEOW is a cat adoption service fi rm. on the school’s Honor Roll during his fi rst year Its mission is to connect people who want a pet even though he entered the school without Eng- with cats that need good homes. MEOW has lish profi ciency. In fact, Shawn will be earning Shawn Ali gone a step beyond the virtual world. It has an advanced diploma,.” partnered with North Shore Animal League, the With a 4.0 GPA, it is easy to under- Department at the New York City Department largest American no-kill shelter, and LeCats on stand Shawn’s placement on the Honor Roll. of Education (DOE). While there he worked on the Water, a non-profi t organization that utilizes Always attempting to gain knowledge and 2,500 resumes for applicants. Also, he called the trap-neuter-replace method of controlling further himself, Shawn has taken fi ve College teacher candidates, inviting them to enroll in Queens’ feral cat population. MEOW acts as Now courses. The courses are either taught DOE job seminars. the adoption agency for these organizations that after school at Hillcrest or at York College and In addition to volunteering for the Red Cross provide cats and kittens. provide high school students with a double he also joined Building Leadership Across Additionally, MEOW will incorporate North advantage when entering college. First, students Cultures (BLAC). For BLAC, Shawn serves as a Shore Animal Shelter’s Mutt-i-grees program. have proven their capability on a college level. mentor for the ESL community within Hillcrest. The program provides education on the care Second, College Now participants gain up to He also designed presentations and seminars and nurturing of former shelter animals. 12 college credits free of onerous college tuition to increase awareness about bullying, cheating This is the second year that Shawn has fees. Shawn successfully completed all fi ve and racism within the ESL community. participated in the program. Ms Gensler says, courses: Critical Thinking, Psychology, IC Core, Regarding Shawn’s participation in BLAC, “This year Shawn will complete the Entrepre- Genetics, and Global History. Cubero explains, “He is a positive ambassador neurship Program, which consists of computer Pedro Cubero, AP History, is a supporter for the ESL community and hosts seminars for the applications, Entrepreneurship, and Virtual of all Shawn has accomplished through the freshmen and sophomores about the US educa- Enterprise. In addition, he has taken and passed College Now History 100 class. Mr. Cubero tional system and requirements for high school the industry-approved assessment exam (NOCTI) enthuses, “He demonstrated superior written, graduation.” that allows him to get a diploma endorsement argumentative, reasoning and logic skills. His The greatest area of focus commanding for the CTE program.” presence in the class changed the dynamic of Shawn’s interest, attention, and energy is Virtual Clearly Shawn is dedicated to making a what was being taught through his thoughtful Enterprise – Build Your Future Institute. Virtual positive impact in a leadership role in the real comments and responses. “ Enterprise operates as a virtual business wherein world. He hopes to continue using the skills Last summer he was selected as a paid students are responsible for running the business learned at Hillcrest as he studies either corpo- intern with the Teachers Recruitment and Quality as they would a real business. For example, rate law or fi nance on the college level. My Over is 35 Convenient branch locations throughout 877-786-6560 • myNYCB.com Queens Bank Anywhere You See NYCB! ©2015 New York Community Bank - Member FDIC TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 25 Did You Know? 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Ridgewood, NY 11385 • Experienced instructors Ridgewood, NY 11385 • Job assistance provided 718-307-7141 718-307-7141 26 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM what the city or the developer will do if Megamall the developer loses the appeal, noting that it is “up to them.” Continued from Page 4 But he said that he and the other while the housing would go on the Wil- plaintiffs stand on strong legal ground lets East site. and that the appellate court agreed. In August, the city refused to join “I think we stand on very good THE the developer’s appeal because the ground, considering the lower court, housing component of the project the appellate ourt, approved our suit would not happen in a reasonable time unanimously,” he said.Richard Hel- LOWEST frame. Work on the affordable housing lenbrecht, vice president of the Queens component is now scheduled to start in Civic Congress, said he is concerned 2025. that the developer will win the appeal In February 2014, state Sen. Tony after the decision appeared to be final. COST Avella (D-Bayside), along with the City He thinks the megamall was added Club of New York, Queens Civic Con- to the project to cover the additional gress, Willets Point United and nearby costs of remediation of toxic soil and Health residents and business owners, filed a the overall expense of the project. lawsuit challenging the transfer of 47 “Even with the megamall, the de- acres of Queens parkland worth about velopers were putting off the afford- $1 billion for the megamall adjacent to able housing components for another PLAN Citi Field. 20 years,” Hellenbrecht said. “That Elected officials and community just tells you that there’s not sufficient leaders said they were disappointed by funding in there to go ahead with the ONLINE? the higher court’s decision to hear the project.” appeal. Avella, one of two City Council Reach reporter Madina Toure by members who voted against the plan e-mail at [email protected] or by in 2008, said he could not comment on phone at (718) 260–4566. P.C. Richards, started putting up door Black Friday buster deals a week before Thanksgiv- ing in an attempt to pick up on an early Continued from Page 9 spending rush. she likes the fact that door busters and Other big-box stores like TJ Maxx, shopping frenzies are over with after Burlington Coat Factory, Babies’R’Us, Thanksgiving evening. GameStop and Bed Bath and Beyond Cheryl Bingham, 38, was shopping were closed on Thanksgiving Day, so with her two sisters at Atlas Park Fri- their staggered open times made a no- day morning, where she said she was ticeable impact on foot traffic in many relieved to see fewer people congesting commercial areas. the stores. “I think the way (stores) did it this “We usually shop the day after year was different from years past,” Co- WHERE Thanksgiving every year—it’s always rona resident Kim Blackman, 50, said been a fun thing to do while my family while browsing stores at the College is still in town,” Bingham said. “I re- Point Shopping Center Friday. “Before ally don’t like crowds and never under- they used to open at one set time. It was DO I stood waiting in a huge line overnight a little better (this year) as far as not just to save a few bucks. It’s kind of being as crowded or chaotic.” nice there aren’t a lot of people here— CLICK? it makes our day more relaxing.” Reporters Sadef Kully and Madina Several stores, including Target Toure contributed to this report. and the electronics and appliance store HEALTH PLANS FOR $0 OR $20 PER MONTH For more hyper-local Queens news on your computer, smartphone, or iPad, visit TimesLedger.com. MKT 15.71v1 TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 27 Get from $1000 Do you know a Student of Distinction? to $1 Million Today! TimesLedger Newspapers and Community Newspaper Group invite your school to participate in our feature highlighting young people who are excellent students as well as We fund role models for their younger peers. companies Nomination requirements are: that need A) That the student excel in academics in addition to cash for participation in extra-curricular school activities. their business B) A nominating letter from your school’s guidance NOW! counselor and instructors describing the student’s abilities and why they would be worthy of this recognition. ▲▲▲ Cash in 24 Hours C) Please make sure that the student’s bio and a recent No Middleman photo are included with the nomination. Apply Directly D) Categories are: 1) Middle School 2) High School 3) College Please send nominations and information to: [email protected], or mail to: S. Rossi – 41-02 Bell Blvd., 2nd Floor, Bayside, NY 11361 If you have any questions, you may contact me at: Call Now | 866-88GETCASH KAHN You build it. 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Neil Alacha (l) of Rockaway Thanksgiving meals for over 100 women living at Pamela's Queens Botanical Garden, National Grid Foundation and and a Harvard student, is one of only 32 students in the na- Settlement shelter in Long Island City are served by Council Peninsula Preparatory Academy Charter School teamed up tion selected for the famous scholarship to study at Oxford. Member Jimmy Van Bramer (c); Thea Romano, president of to plant a Kwanzan cherry tree in Far Rockaway. Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder presents him with a citation the Dutch Kills Civic Association (to his left); and members Courtesy of QBG for his achievement. Courtesy of Assemblyman Goldfeder of the Girl Scouts. Courtesy of Council Member Van Bramer U.S. Rep Grace Meng accepts the Queens Jewish Community Students in the Visual Enterprise Class at Hillcrest High Fred Bedell of the St. Anastasia Knights of Columbus Council Council's Woman of Valor Award for her support of the Jewish School take part in a planning session for MEOW (Making #5911 in Little Neck shows off the prestigious Columbian community and Israel. (l-r) Public Advocate Letitia James, Every One Winners), a cat adoption service they are run- Award given by the national organization to the chapter Meng, QJCC Executive Director Cynthia Zalisky and QJCC ning in partnership with the North Shore Animal League. this month for extraordinary charitable work. President Rabbi David Keehn join her. Photo by Bob Harris Photo by Bob Harris Courtesy of Knights of Columbus The NYC Veterans Advisory Board holds its first-ever meeting in Queens with Borough President Melinda Katz The six Students of the Year selected by You Can Go To College (c) hosting. The VAB is made up of (l-r ) Vice Chairman Samuel Innocent, Chairman Todd Haskins, Commissioner Committee are honored at the the longtime educational- Loree Sutton, Katz, John Rowan, Secretary Joe Bello, Charles Hernandez, Jules Martin and Deputy Commissioner booster group's annual lunch at Terrace on the Park. Catherine LaPorte. Courtesy of Borough President Melinda Katz Photo by Nat Valentine 32 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM One fact is simple: poor planning or no planning will hurt your loved ones. Connors and Sullivan invites you to one of our FREE seminars to learn about elder law, trusts and estates law, and estate planning. MON. DEC. 7th TUES. DEC. 8th THUR. DEC. 10th FRI. 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ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT: Connors and Sullivan Attorneys-At-Law PLLC: 7408 5th Avenue Ste. 2 Brooklyn NY 11209 TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 33 Donovan Richards welcomes SPECIAL a new 7- pound constituent 20 Month CD % APY* BY SADEF ALI KULLY A spokesman for Richards said 1.25 Mayor Bill di Blasio called to congrat- City Councilman Donovan Rich- ulate the new parents but was more in- ards (D-Laurelton)’s wife gave birth terested in speaking with the baby. Minimum opening deposit is $500 to a baby boy — their first child — on Richards is the councilman for the Nov. 29 at North Shore LIJ Hospital. 31st District, which encompasses the The baby and mother are in good neighborhoods of Laurelton, Rosedale, health. The 7-pound, 12-ounce baby parts of Springfield Springfield Gar- was named Donovan Noah Richards dens, Bayswater, Hammels, Arverne, III and already has been nicknamed Edgemere and Far Rockaway. “D3.” He chairs the Subcommittee on 30 Month CD “He wakes up at 3 a.m. every morn- Zoning and Franchises and has been a ing to eat and he sleeps, eats and cries strong advocate for homeowners fight- every 30 minutes,” Richards said “It’s ing foreclosures and survivors of Hur- a wonderful experience and I feel so ricane Sandy. blessed.” % PUBLIC NOTICE APY* PLATINUM U DIAMONDS U GOLD & SILVER COINS 1.50 We Pay the Highest Price Cash in a Flash Minimum opening deposit is $500 Visit your local branch or open online today! www.ridgewoodbank.com Don’t Let Your Money Sit Idle Sell While The Market Is High! (O1LDE *Annual Percentage Yield (APY) is as of November 14, 2015, and is subject to G N N §2 change without notice. Maximum deposit is $250,000. FDIC regulations apply. The UGGE bank is not responsible for typographical errors. Substantial penalties for early T withdrawal. Fees could reduce earnings. Member FDIC Ç£n°Óä{°ÇÎÓ{ÊUÊÎäq£{Ê-/ 79Ê-/°]Ê-/",]Ê 9Ê£££äÎ 34 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM HOLIDAY HOURS NOVEMBER SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 6pm - 2am Friday 8am -10pm Thanksgiving 11am - 8pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm Day Black Friday 9am - 10pm DECEMBER SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY NOV 29 NOV 30 1 2 3 4 5 11am - 8pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 9am - 11pm 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 11am - 9pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 9:30pm 10am - 10pm 9am - 11pm 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 10am - 10pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 10pm 9am - 11pm 8am - Midnight 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 Closed 8am - 7pm Christmas 10am - 11pm 9am - 11pm 9am - 11pm 9am - Midnight Christmas Eve Day 9am - 10pm 27 28 29 30 31 JAN 1 10am - 7pm 10am - 7pm 11am - 9pm 10am - 10pm 10am - 10pm 10am - 10pm New Year’s Eve New Year’s Day Department Store & Restaurant Hours May Vary. VISIT SHOPQUEENSCENTER.COM FOR HOLIDAY SALES AND EVENTS QUEENS CENTER | QUEENS & WOODHAVEN BOULEVARDS | 718.592.3900 | ShopQueensCenter.com QUESTIONS? WE HAVE ANSWERS. TEXT CONCIERGE 718.690.3222 | Download our FREE App TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 35 ! " # !" #$ % & ' ( ')%* *+,, , - % . . . // ) & 0 36 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM GIFT IDEAS for the special seniors in your life ith lifetimes of experiences and seemingly ev- erything they could ever want or need in life W already at their disposal, seniors can be diffi - cult to shop for come the holiday season. Many even insist that their family members save their money and not buy them anything for the holidays. But if the thought of Grandma or Grandpa not having something to open come the holidays is sim- ply unacceptable, consider the following gift ideas. Activity assistance devices The realities of getting older often mean the body slows down and activities may not be as easy as they used to be. Many active seniors are not ready to live sedentary lives, nor should they be forced to do so. Plenty of products exist that can make life easier and more comfortable for older adults. Television-amplifying headphones are one prod- uct that can be a great fi t for seniors, particularly those having diffi culty hearing their televisions. The headphones amplify the sound of the program- ming without disturbing others in the room, and many such headphones even allow users to mute their televisions. This feature is perfect for someone who likes to watch TV while a spouse is sleeping or reading in the same room. Other devices that can make life easier for se- niors include magnifying products or bookholders. In addition, gel seat cushions can take pressure off of the spine in the car or at home. Food Food is always a handy gift because it doesn’t take up much room and can be enjoyed at a recipi- ent’s leisure. Perhaps there is something the senior in your life used to enjoy as a child but now fi nds hard to come by. A search of the Internet may un- cover that special treat. You may be able to ship a specialty soft drink or favorite cookie that is not available in a nearby store. Otherwise, ask a store manager if a particu- lar item that’s not in stock in the store can be a spe- cial order. Continued on page 39 TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 37 ELDERCARE TODAY Criminals who run fraudulent charity scams target specifi c groups of people, most notably the elderly. Precautions seniors can take when solicited for donations harities often target certain rapport with potential victims, so such groups of people when soliciting claims should be verifi ed before mak- C donations. Those groups may in- ing any donations. clude past donors and people who have recently attended charitable fund-rais- Don’t feel obligated to ers. Such an approach can be very effec- reciprocate a gift with a tive. It should come as no surprise that donation criminals posing as legitimate organi- Many charities send gifts, be it mail- zations tend to target specifi c groups of ing labels or holiday cards, to prospec- people as well. tive donors as a token of appreciation Anyone can be fooled by a fraudulent for past donations and as a way of en- charity, but such criminals tend to tar- couraging future donations. Con artists * get seniors more than others. According are fully aware of this tactic and may to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, try to imitate it in an attempt to defraud seniors often make attractive targets potential victims. No matter if the peo- Are Like Family. to con artists because seniors are most ple behind those mailing labels or holi- likely to have substantial savings, own day ornaments are legitimate charities their homes, and have excellent credit. or con artists, you should not feel com- In addition, the FBI notes that elderly pelled to reciprocate a free gift with a fi - victims of fraud and other crimes are nancial donation. less likely to report those crimes out of fear that their families may feel they are Beware of pressure to no longer able to take care of themselves donate or manage their own fi nances. Reputable charities should not be on These factors make seniors espe- the verge of shut down if you fail to make cially attractive and vulnerable to con a donation, so such organizations never artists, particularly those who prey on pressure prospective donors into mak- well-intentioned men and women by ing donations. If a solicitor is pressur- posing as fake charities. But there are ing you into making a donation over the steps seniors can take to protect them- phone or in person, chances are strong selves from fraud. that this person is not representing a reputable charity. In such instances, * Be skeptical of solicitors hang up the phone or, if the solicitor is Many con artists will indicate that on your property, politely close the door, ! persons have given to the charity in the ask the solicitor to leave your property *" past, hoping that prospective victims and contact the local authorities. simply won’t remember if that claim is valid or not. If a solicitor or appeal let- Send donations directly to PEOPLE NEED TO HELP YOU TRUST ter claims that you donated in the past, the charity don’t simply take it at face value, espe- When making charitable donations, From mobility Senior Helpers’ Senior Helpers cially if you don’t recall making such a those donations should never be given assistance to meal leading Senior is locally owned donation. Get specifi c information about directly to solicitors. Donations should ® preparation, Senior Gems program and operated, and alleged past donations, checking that only be made after you have indepen- Helpers is ready to for Alzheimer’s and works with families information against your own bank re- dently confi rmed the charity’s address help your loved one dementia can help right in your own cords and receipts. Many donors claim and mailed straight to the organiza- live independently. your family. neighborhood. donations as deductions on their tax re- tion. Never make a cash donation, as turns, which also can be used to verify cash provides no paper trail should you or debunk solicitors’ claims. Though want to deduct your donation or should Visit us at SeniorHelpers.com/newyorkny, e-mail us at not all solicitors claiming a past history you learn that you were victimized by a [email protected] or call us at 646-214-2086. of donations are dishonest, this is one con artist posing as a representative of a way that criminals attempt to create a reputable charity. 38 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM ELDERCARE TODAY the images so they are preserved dig- GIFTS itally and then print out the images Continued from page 37 in a book that includes the family his- Stay healthy when Photos tory. What grandparent does not enjoy Time looking at his or her family members? Seniors who truly do not want or sick season arrives Computer-savvy men and women can need anything probably will likely use photo software to design personal- he cold weather brings with it a and invisible invaders. ized photo books, calendars, mugs, and jump at the opportunity to spend time season of smiles, the fi rst snow- Skip antibacterial products. Be- other photo-related gifts. Just about with loved ones. Treat a friend or family T falls and, unfortunately, cold and cause colds and the fl u are the result anything can be emblazoned with a member to a meal out or simply spend a fl u outbreaks. While everyone else is of viruses, which are different in be- photo, including tote bags and pillows. few hours chatting at his or her home. suffering, there are ways you can make havior and structure from bacteria, Another idea is to collect old pho- Sometimes the company of a new face it through the season unscathed. they will not be killed off with the use tos and compile a memory book. Scan and good conversation is the ideal gift. It is estimated that a billion people of antibacterial products. What you across North America will succumb to may succeed in doing is killing off any the cold virus this year, says Medline. benefi cial bacteria on your hands as Considering there is no cure for cold well as creating resistant bacteria that and fl u viruses, prevention remains a form with over-use of antibiotics and person’s best option at fending off cold antibacterial products. and fl u, especially for seniors. There Get the fl u shot. There is no vac- are different precautions to take that cination to prevent the common cold, can help protect you against getting but there are immunizations that can sick or at least reduce the frequency help reduce your risk of getting the fl u and severity with which cold and fl u or help minimize its severity. Doctors’ strikes. offi ces, clinics and even pharmacies Although there is no magic pill to all offer annual fl u shots. take that will prevent you from catch- Use sanitizer on items around ing a cold or the fl u, there are ways to the house. Surfaces that are fre- improve your odds. quently touched should be wiped down Wash your hands the right way. with a disinfectant product. A bleach- Washing your hands frequently re- and-water solution is an effective san- mains the single-best way to keep vi- itizer. Surfaces to sanitize include S ruses and bacteria that can make you phones, doorknobs, light switches, re- sick from infi ltrating the body. Wash- mote controls, computer keyboards, ing your hands for at least 20 seconds faucets, toys, and countertops. can effectively remove any dirt, grime Avoid sick people. Thank you GuildNet. Mom feels better, and our family does too. A chronic condition can take its toll on more than just patients. Lost hours at work, worry over doctor visits, helping with meals – the list is long, especially if they are visually impaired. With GuildNet’s Long Term Care Plans, your loved ones get the help they need to stay safe at home. Please call us – we speak your language. Call 888-722-4040 TTY 800-662-1220 TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 39 40 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM Sudoku 42 TimesLedger, Dec. 4–10, 2015 Arts & Entertainment 44 Crossword Puzzle 44 StepTHIS Out SEASON Holiday-themed crafts, similar to these, will be on sale at Jamaica’s outdoor Winter Craft Market, located where the Queens International Market set up shop earlier this year, during the next three weekends. The Winter Craft Market debuts in downtown With his new holiday mar- Jamaica is poised to dem- with the right demographic ket endeavor, Queens Interna- onstrate its potential as a ma- parameters, and that makes tional Night Market founder jor hub of commercial and eco- sense,” Wang said. “Jamaica Jamaica for alfresco holiday shopping John Wang said he hopes to nomic activity, according to has been the perfect stage to play a small part in the renais- Wang, who has again teamed test the idea that a quality BY TAMMY SCILEPPI holiday sales events beginning sance of Jamaica, while draw- up with the Greater Jamaica market can help stimulate the Saturday. ing visitors from around the Development Corp. to sponsor local economy and bolster lo- After making a successful The Winter Craft Market borough and across the city to the events. cal entrepreneurs and artists, splash earlier this year with will boast about 40 vendors — an incredibly diverse location. “I know a lot of markets try as well as positively affect the their outdoor shopping venue, many from Queens — showcas- “This is something we hope to go where it makes the most outside perception of a neigh- organizers of the Jamaica ing arts, crafts and a variety of to capitalize on, as well as add economic sense, where they borhood.” Market return for a series of artisanal food for sale. value to,” Wang said. are catering to an audience Continued on Page 46 TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 41 Let Us Cater Your Next Party Delicious Homemade Italian Food !LL SERVED WITH YOUR CHOICE OF !NTIPASTO Your Party Catered 'ARDEN 3ALAD OR #AESAR 3ALAD 0LUS )TALIAN BREAD At Our Restaurant The Usual Rejects and their movie parody PRODUCTIONS and a new version of last year’s live radio s 3TUFFED 3HELLS $ DELIVERED BUFFET 28.95 production of “It’s a Wonderful Life.” s 4ORTELLINI W -EAT 3AUCE (min 25 people) (Choose 5) “A Christmas Carol” — Titan Theatre Co. TO YOUR s 2AVIOLI s "AKED :ITI When: Dec. 4 - Dec. 18 Any 5 Items presents a new production, with music, of HOME/OFFICE s %GGPLANT 0ARMIGIANA Where: The Chain Theatre, 21-28 45th Road, the Charles Dickens’ holiday classic tale of $19.95 pp s 3AUSAGE 0EPPERS ▪Stuffed Shells ▪Veal Marsala Long Island City s "ROILED #HICKEN ▪Tortellini w/ ▪Pasta with redemption. (min 15 people) Cost: $15 s 3MALL -EATBALLS Meat Sauce Broccoli (any 5 items) ▪Cheese Ravioli ▪Chicken When: Dec. 4 - Dec. 20 s ,INGUINI W 2ED OR Contact: (866) 811-4111 ▪Baked Ziti Pizzaiola, Where: Queens Theatre, 14 United Nations Website: www.variationstheatregroup.com 7HITE #LAM SAUCE ▪Eggplant Parmigiana, Ave. South, Flushing Meadows Corona Park s 0ASTA W "ROCCOLI 'ARLIC /IL Parmigiana Francaise or PLUS PARTY DECOR s #HICKEN 0ARMIGIANA ▪Sausage & Marsala Cost: $18 Peppers ▪Veal Broiled “Mooseltoe” — This family show tells the s #HICKEN &RANCAISE Contact: (718) 760-0064 FOR HOME OR OFFICE! ▪Broiled Chicken or Marsala story of a moose who wants to fl y with s "ALLOONS PIECE s #HICKEN -ARSALA ▪Small ▪Tortellini Website: www.titantheatrecompany.com Santa’s reindeer. On his journey to the North table weight) s #HICKEN 0IZZAIOLA Meatballs Alfredo s 3PECIALTY PAPER GOODS ▪Linguini, w/ ▪Penne Pole, he meets many characters and learns s #UTLERY s 6EAL #UTLET 0ARMIGIANA “All in the Timing” — First String Players s 0ENNE 6ODKA Clam Sauce Broccoli some valuable lessons. s4RAY SUPPORTS STANDS presents this collection of one-act, and stereo s 4ORTELLINI !LFREDO ASK ABOUT OUR INDIVIDUAL TRAYS When: Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 pm PRIVATE PARTY ROOM mostly comic, plays by writer David Ives, Where: LaGuardia Performing Arts Center, SIT DOWN DINNER $32.95 which focus on language and wordplay, 31-10 Thomson Ave., Long Island City complications with romantic relationships Cost: $20 VEAL CUTLET and the meaning of life. Contact: (718) 482-5151 Picatta s Parmigiana When: Friday, Jan. 8 and Saturday, Jan. 9, at ITALIAN RESTAURANT CHICKEN Website: www.lpac.nyc 7 pm; Sunday, Jan. 10, at 3 pm Good Food At A Price You Can Afford Marsala s Parmigiana s Francaise FISH Where: Our Lady of Mercy, 70-01 Kessel St., /PEN $AYS .OON TO PM Filet of Sole s Broiled s Parmigiana “The Pajama Game” — Parkside Players 718-225-4700 Tilapia Oreganata Forest Hills www.AuntBellasRestaurant.com present the classic Broadway musical about PASTA COURSE Cost: $10 4OMATO s -ARINARA s Vodka Sauce a group of workers at the Sleep Tite Pajama 46-19 Marathon Pkwy., Little Neck Contact: (718) 268-6143 2 blocks South of Northern Boulevard Factory and their fi ght for a 7 1/2 cents raise. Minimum of 25 People Website: www.sites.google.com/site/ Above served with either Antipasto, Garden Salad When: Through Dec. 5 or Caesar Salad, Unlimited Wine, Beer, with Soda, fi rststringplayers/ 10% OFF DINNER Coffee & Tea (Premium Wines $2.50 extra) Where: Grace Lutheran Church, Union $%33%24 s #HOCOLATE ,AYER #AKE s #ANNOLI Turnpike and 71st Road, Forest Hills Valid only for 5 or less people per table, Not Good on Holidays. or whipped cream Napoleon “First Frost Festival” — For its fi nal Not to be combined with any other offer. Cappucino or Espresso $2.50 Cost: $20, $18/seniors festival at the Chain Theatre, Variations Contact: (516) 520-9474 Theatre Group presents a series of comedy Website: www.parksideplayers.com performances, one-act plays, a visit from Answers in Sports 42 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM Take a trip down the shore in LIC Astoria Seafood offers diners the freshest catch grilled or fried in sparse surroundings BY SUZANNE PARKER ing list if there isn’t. Once you’ve secured a table, Astoria Seafood can only be you’ll probably start thinking described as one of those good about drinks. news bad news places. A liberal BYOB policy al- The good news — which is lows you to bring in your own very, very good — is that they wine or beer, and a stack of serve first-rate fish and sea- flimsy plastic cups is kept on food at amazingly affordable the counter for just this pur- prices. The bad news is that pose. The waitress will serve you have to have a fairly high you soft drinks. We made tolerance for bedlam to get it. the mistake of asking for wa- ter. “Bottled?” the waitress inquired. “Tap is fine,” we DINING OUT responded. The waitress ges- tured, with her head, toward Business always seems the hand washing sink outside to be brisk, and during peak the restroom. We amended hours, often chaos. our order to bottled water. Astoria Seafood is essen- The first part of our order tially a seafood market with to arrive was a freshly made, a few tables, and a haphazard wildly abundant Greek salad nod toward a nautical decor. that could have fed three or The clientele could have been four diners as a first course. sent by Central Casting to por- Definitely order the salad, not tray the crowd at a UN mixer. Astoria Seafood offers a variety of fresh fish for sale. Photo by Suzanne Parker only because it’s great, but also The drill is that you ap- because you could be waiting proach the open display of fish a long time for your fish. Ask and seafood, take some plastic then take your catch to the you want it prepared — grilled the waitress, who will assign the waitress for some bread bags, and help yourself to as counter to be weighed, and or fried — and what sides you you a table if there is one, or when it comes. We didn’t much of it as you please. You you tell the counterman how would like. You then approach take your name for the wait- Continued on Page 48 TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 43 Contact: (718) 359-5996 presents highlights When: Friday, Dec. 4, and 24th St., Long Island City Website: www.facebook. from “Swan Lake,” “The Saturday, Dec. 5, at 7 pm Cost: $14 THE ARTS ENTERTAINMENT com/queensboro Nutcracker” and “Sleeping Where: Green Space, 37-24 Contact: (718) 956-3037 symphonyorchestra Beauty.” 24th St., Long Island City Website: www. For the most up-to-date listing of events happening When: Saturday, Dec. 5, at Cost: $17 greenspacestudio.org Chamber Music Live! — 8 pm Contact: (718) 956-3037 in Queens, check TimesLedger’s website at This concert series brings Where: Colden Auditorium, Website: www. Ronald K. Brown/Evidence, www.timesledger.com/sections/calendar performances by string, brass Kupferberg Center for the greenspacestudio.org A Dance Company — This and pianist to Queens College. Arts, 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Brooklyn-based company Contact: (718) 206-0545 When: Friday, Dec. 11, at 10 am Flushing Fertile Ground — Green combines traditional African EVENTS Website: www.kingmanor.org Where: LeFrak Concert Hall, Cost: $20 - $42 Space’s monthly program dance with contemporary 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing Contact: (718) 793-8080 highlights emerging and choreography and spoken The Great Northeast Queens Symphonic Band Cost: $30/single tickets, Website: www. established artists. In word. Cheese Fest — More than 30 - QCC Band —The group Free/Queens College kupferbergcenter.org December, the show includes When: Saturday, Dec. 12 and artisanal cheese makers will comprised of Queensborough students, faculty and staff Gabriella Carmichael, Harlem Sunday, Dec. 13 provide guests with samples Community College students with ID Take Root— The Dance Club, Kimberleigh Where: Queens Theatre, 14 of their wares. Tastings will and members of the community Contact: (718) 997-3800 monthly series provides Costanzo, Muliebris, NYC United Nations Ave. South, include pairings with wine, performs its winter family Website: www.queens.cuny.edu choreographers the chance Dance Arts Professional Flushing Meadows Corona beer, ciders and cocktails. concert. to present a paired evening Dance Co. and Ydheica Perez Park When: Saturday, Dec. 5, from When: Sunday, Dec. 6, at 3 pm Queens College Choral of work. The December Dance. Cost: $25 - $42 6 pm - 9pm Where: Queensborough Society’s Winter Concert performance features Aaron When: Sunday, Dec. 6, at Contact: (718) 760-0064 Where: Flushing Town Hall, Community College — The group performs Bach’s McGloin Dance and Katy 7 pm Website: www. 137-35 Northern Blvd. Performing Arts Center, 222- “Magnifi cat” and Vivaldi’s Orthwein Dance Projects. Where: Green Space, 37-24 queenstheatre.org Cost: $60, $48/members 05 56th Ave., Bayside “Gloria.” Contact: (718) 463-7700 Cost: $8/adults, $5/seniors When: Saturday, Dec. 12, at E-XTRA CROSSWORD PUZZLE OPAL DEMO SHAG Website: www. and students 8 pm RAVE ERUPT LADE BROADCASTE INON fl ushingtownhall.org Contact: (718) 631-6311 Where: Colden Audiotorium, SANDAL TIE PORT TimesLedger Newspapers EL I A MUDP I ES Website: www.qcc.cuny.edu 65-30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing LAST RUNN I NGLAPSE Dec. 4-10, 2015 APE SERE TR I ED WEEK'S COED SITED YOGA Cost: $20, $5/Queens ENDOF IDES WON MUSIC By Pete Canty ANSWERS GUI LTYPLEASE Queensboro Symphony College students with valid PALERMO SO I L AS I A ACT SCENES Orchestra — Under the QCard USER MAI NEEVENT Diderot String Quartet — This All Levels of Enforcement SAGE STEER ER I E direction of Dong-hyun Contact: (718) 793-8080 EYED EROS NODS four-piece string ensemble will Kim, the group will perform Website: www. perform Haydn and Mozart on Beethoven’s “Seventh kupferbergcenter.org Across 1234 5678 9101112 period instruments. Symphony” and “Violin 1. Peter the Great, e.g. 13 14 15 16 When: Friday, Dec. 4, at 6 pm Concerto” by Sibelius. 5. Start from scratch 17 18 19 Where: King Manor Museum, When: Sunday, Dec. 6, at 7 pm DANCE Rufus King Park, Jamaica Where: Mary’s Nativity 9. Comes before 20 21 22 Avenue and 153rd Street, Church, 46-02 Parsons Blvd., The Tchaikovsky rain or rock 23 24 25 26 27 Jamaica Flushing Spectacular — The State 13. City near Lake Cost: $25 Cost: Free-will offering Ballet Theatre of Russia 28 29 30 31 32 33 Tahoe 34 35 14. City on the 36 37 38 39 40 Mohawk At Bay Terrace 16. Alone 41 42 43 44 45 Shopping Center 17. "___ Karenina" 46 47 48 49 50 18. Moisten, as a 51 52 53 54 55 turkey 56 57 58 59 Serving Lunch & Dinner 19. Signs, as a 60 61 62 63 contract 64 65 66 20. Hazzard's Rosco 67 68 69 “Enhance Your Steak Experience” P. Coltrane, e.g. with our 23. Blackboard 56. One of NY's 8. Four duos 42. Modify SIGNATURE STEAKS accessory Finest, e.g. 9. "Yeah, right!" 43. Skater Harding 24. Campbell's metal 60. Hefty 10. Trusted, with "in" and others $ 25. An end to sex? 12.99 & UP competitor 11. Sort 44. Sentence enders 28. Erie Canal mule s 3ERVED 3EASONED TO LOCK IN THE JUICE s (AND CUT AND PREPARED UPON ORDER 62. ___-Detoo 12. Tres - uno 29. Departed 45. Majestic s &RESHLY -ADE 0OTATOES 3LIDES s &RESH &ISH $AILY 3TRAIGHT FROM THE SEA 63. Cherry centers 15. Like some 32. Maine national 48. Look up to s 3OUP 3ALADS s 3NACKS )RRESISTIBLE $ESSERTS 64. Famous fiddler photographs park 65. Full 21. Marketing prefix 49. Candidate lists 34. United States 66. Family follower 22. Ancient 50. Smell and sight, Marshal, e.g. 67. Spa treatment Peruvian e.g. 36. Court grp. 68. AAA offerings 26. Half a prison? 53. Jack of rhyme 39. Feel sick 69. Shell alternative 27. Buddy 55. Pool 40. Barely beat 30. Dread measurement 41. Highway Down 31. Green Day and 57. "American ___" patrolman, often 1. Outlines others, e.g. Perfect for sharing OFF 58. "The Simpsons" TAKET 15% 46. Get by 2. Madrid madame 33. Teen chaser? BLOOMIN’ ONION bus driver (AND CARVED COOKED UNTIL 'OLDEN "ROWN 9/52 %.4)2% #(%#+9 47. Dance bit 3. Once a year 34. Destiny %XCLUDE ALCOHOLIC DRINKS 59. MGM founder $IPPED INTO OUR SPICY BLOOM SAUCE #OUPON #OUPON VALID AT "AYSIDE LOCATION ONLY 48. Jerk 4. Horse colors 35. Bunches Marcus Reasonably Priced Gift Certificates Available! 51. Exist 5. Grapefruit variety 36. West Point letters 52. Connections 6. Itinerary info 37. Broadway lead 60. Economic stat Sun ~ Thur: 11am 10pm 23 - 48 Bell Blvd., Bayside 54. Enigma 7. Gossip 38. "Be well" 61. Harper or Spike Fri ~ Sat: 11am - 11pm Visit our website: www.Outback.com 718-819-0908 #Z('3"TTPDJBUFTttt7JTJUPVSXFCTJUFBUXXXHGSQV[[MFTDPN 44 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM BrickHouse Ceramics celebrates handmade art BY ALLISON PLITT If you walk into BrickHouse on any giv- If you mingle among en day, there are people the artists in Long Is- creating art everywhere land City and mention – throwing clay on pot- the name Ellen Day, you ters’ wheels, hand-oper- will likely elicit at least ating slab rollers, push- one smile on somebody’s ing their clay through face. extruders to develop Day, a resident of Ja- certain shapes, firing maica, is a very popular up their artwork into figure in the Queens art kilns, or applying differ- scene and it is not just ent glazes to their pieces because she is an accom- in hopes of transforming ELLEN DAY plished artist in her own what was once a mound right. of clay into something shop when you walk in Day is single-hand- totally unexpected. the front door where you edly responsible for es- BrickHouse is not just can check out certain tablishing BrickHouse a haven for accomplished pieces for sale. Ceramic Art Center in artists. Lessons are giv- All of this is thanks Artist Ellen Day created these functional ceramic pieces, which will be part of a sale at Long Island City where en there by various in- to Day who grew up in BrickHouse Ceramics in Long Island City next week. Photo courtesy Ellen Day many people take class- structors year round for Queens. es, rent shelf space, and adults from the beginner She got her feet wet in and bowls. of BrickHouse, she has ramics in the studio. Her craft their pottery, ce- to the advanced level. the art world when she When the YWCA-NYC definitely seen changes days devoted to sculp- ramics and sculpture in The 4,000-square-foot was a student at Spring- closed in 2005, Day was in her students. ture have disappeared a creative environment. facility also has a small field Gardens High determined to find an- “We have some art- for the time being, but School, where she took other home for her and ists who started as brand her feeling of satisfac- a pottery class. One of the other students. new beginners and are tion of overseeing all her the pieces she designed “The Y was closing now out in the world sell- students compensates for ended up on exhibit at and I liked my job. I had ing their artwork at craft this loss. Lever House in Manhat- 200 ceramic students and fairs,” Day said. “We “My favorite part of tan and, as a result, she they enjoyed being at the also have sculptors who my job is watching stu- became imbued with Crafts Student League,” are doing very well sell- dents grow and learn dif- self-confidence. Day said. “We wanted ing their work. They’re ferent things and get re- Shortly afterwards, to stay together and we in different shows and ally excited when they get Day pursued a Bachelor wanted a great space.” some have won awards.” great results and enjoy of Fine Arts in ceramics Unable to find a large Every year in the be- coming to BrickHouse,” as well as a Master of Fine area in Manhattan to re- ginning of December, Day said. “They start Arts in ceramic sculp- create the studio space BrickHouse holds a holi- off thinking that making ture. She has exhibited of the Crafts Student day sale for those who ceramics is some way her sculptures nationally League, Day reached out work at the studio to sell to relax, but then they in many shows, but when to Long Island City Part- their pieces. This year start making things and she became a ceramics nership, which helped the holiday sale will be start seeing what they’ve instructor and then the her discover a place that held Dec. 11-13. Prices made. It’s really nice to ceramics director of the matched her needs. vary from $10 to upwards see people learn to grasp Crafts Student League When Day opened of hundreds of dollars. the skills to make things at the YWCA-NYC, she BrickHouse Ceramic “There are a lot of in the way they want began to focus more of Art Center in 2007, many affordable pieces,” Day them to be made.” her efforts on functional of the former members adds. ceramics. While some of of the Crafts Student Although at Brick- For more information her pieces are sculptural, League followed. House Day is often found about BrickHouse, you Ellen Day created this ceramic piece titled “Sailing Basket others are utilitarian in In the eight years in her office, she still can visit their website at III.” Photo courtesy Ellen Day the shape of cups, plates as owner and director finds time to create ce- www.brickhouseny.com. Flushing Town Hall gets holiday season underway BY MERLE EXIT evening of cheese, a tour of meet the cheese makers. ing presented by the Queens Storyteller Robin Bady historic sites decked out for The annual Holiday His- Historical Society. will share her favorite stories The holiday season kicks Christmas, a holiday market toric House Tour is set for That same day, Queens art- of miracles, menorahs and off with a bang at Flushing where artists will sell their Sunday. ists will have their works on dreidels. Aurelia Fernandez Town Hall this weekend with creations, a winter holiday Seven sites in Flushing sale at the holiday market. will create Christmas poinset- a calendar filled with activi- festival celebrating all the sea- and Corona invite you to cel- There will be jewelry, tias, which will be donated to ties to suit everyone’s tastes. son’s events. ebrate the holiday season paintings, hand crafted ceram- senior centers in Queens. And “At F lushing Tow n Ha l l, On Saturday things get and learn about their unique ics, paper goods, T-shirts and storyteller Tammy Hall will we love to get into the holiday cheesy with the Great North- histories. Each site will offer much more to get your holiday share tales from African tra- spirit each year,” Ellen Ko- east Cheese Fest. special activities and deli- shopping to a great start. ditions that are typically told dadek, executive and artistic From nutty sheep’s milk cious refreshments. A trolley In another area of build- during the Kwanzaa season. director, said. “This year is tommes and sharp Cheddars will be available to take visi- ing celebrations of Hanukkah, no exception. It’s the season to creamy triple cremes and tors from one historic house Christmas and Kwanzaa with For more information and a for friends, family, and fun in tangy goat cheeses, attendees to the next. Six of the seven an art-making workshop and complete schedule, check Flush- Flushing.” will be able to sample more are in walking distance to storytelling will be taking ing Town Hall’s website at Highlights include an than 60 different varieties and each other. This event is be- place. www.flushingtownhall.org. TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 45 Market Continued from Page 41 IF YOU GO The organizers are committed to showing Winter Craft Market that there is a demand When: Dec. 5, 12 and 19, and market for quality from 10 am - 7 pm craft and artisanal prod- Where: 159-15 Jamaica ucts in Jamaica. Ave., Jamaica Wang pointed out this Website: www. new project represents queensnightmarket. another opportunity to com demonstrate that “af- fordable and accessible Wang said. markets can serve as in- While splitting his struments of economic time between the Winter development and social Craft Market and plan- change.” ning for next year’s Inter- And, as with the night national Night Market. market, organizers are Wang said he is striving emphasizing low vendor to create events that pro- Plenty of adult beverages are available at the International Night Market’s beer garden. Photo courtesy Sarah Choi fees to broaden accessi- mote small businesses as bility. much as possible. “The feedback from “I’m certainly no ex- local communities and pert on Queens’ overall stakeholders about the economy, or the nuances Jamaica iteration of the and drivers behind it, International Night Mar- but despite the major cor- ket was so overwhelm- porations headquartered ingly positive, that we here and the industries wanted to capture the related to JFK and La- momentum and spon- Guardia, it seems to me sor another market lo- that Queens is still driv- cally during the winter en by small business,” he months,” Mary Reda, said. “It’s a borough de- director of real estate fined by its diversity, and operations for Greater I think that wouldn’t be Jamaica, said. true if it weren’t defined Wang said his Greater by a culture of small Jamaica partners have business and entrepre- been incredibly support- neurs.” ive and helpful since he With several im- first approached them portant projects in the with his idea about the works, Jamaica Center One of the sweet treats (l) created by Totoro Cupcakes is designed to look like a dog. And this cake, decorated night market. BID Executive Director with Queens’ iconic sites, was created to celebrate the opening of the International Night Market in Jamaica. “While they obviously Rhonda Binda has also Photos courtesy Sharon Medina-Chavez had incentive to encour- been working hard to age me to start projects revitalize the area, and gears up for the most and local talent at our local version for those “The market plays into in Jamaica, they also said she was very excited wonderful time of the very first Winter Craft looking to purchase that the winter wonderland just wanted to make sure to hear about the new year, we are excited to Market. Like Bryant very special gift for their theme we are creating my visions happened market’s debut. showcase artists’ and Park and Grand Central loved one to celebrate for our loyal shoppers on somewhere, sometime,” “As Jamaica Avenue vendors’ unique crafts Station, we now have a the holidays,” she said. the avenue.” Where: Astoria Park Lawn, Shore includes a march down Bell “Sleeping Beauty.” Whitestone Village Holiday Boulevard, Astoria Boulevard with caroling, musical When: Saturday, Dec. 5, at 8 pm Holiday Lights — The Queens Chamber Cost: Free performances and marching Where: Colden Auditorium, of Commerce, Whitestone Village Contact: (718) 728-7820 bands. Santa will come by atop a Kupferberg Center for the Arts, 65- Happenings Merchants Association and We Website: www.centralastoria.org FDNY truck. 30 Kissena Blvd., Flushing Love Whitestone will hold a When: Saturday, Dec. 5, from 3 Cost: $20 - $42 ceremony commemorating the Winter Craft Market — Greater pm - 6 pm Contact: (718) 793-8080 GingerBread Lane — Experience new lights that will illuminate the Jamaica Development Corp. and Where: Parade lineup is at Website: www.kupferbergcenter.org Jon Lovitch’s 500 square feet of business corridor this season. the Queens Night Market will hold Redeemer Lutheran Church of gingerbread houses, businesses, When: Friday, Dec. 4 at 4:30 pm weekly craft fairs with handmade Bayside, 36th Avenue and Bell Winter Solstice Celebration and parks and a boardwalk as his Where: Harpell Chemists, 12-65 gifts, artisan foods and live Boulevard. The parade works Tree Lighting — Queens Botanical creation makes a bid for its 150th St., Whitestone performances. its down to 41st Avenue and Bell Garden welcomes the season with third consecutive Guinness Cost: Free When: Saturday, Dec. 5, Dec. 12 Boulevard at the LIRR station. an afternoon of family fun and World Record for the largest Contact: (718) 898-8500 and Dec. 19, from 10 am - 7 pm Cost: Free activities, including crafts, a tree gingerbread village. Where: Jamaica Market, 159-15 Contact: (718) 423-2434 lighting and photos with Santa. When: Through Jan. 9 Astoria Holiday Tree Lighting — Jamaica Ave., Jamaica Website: www.baysidevillagebid. When: Sunday, Dec. 6, from 1 pm Where: New York Hall of Science, An all-day event offering activities Website: queensnightmarket.com com - 5 pm 47-01 111th St., Corona and entertainment for all ages, Where: Queens Botanical Garden, Cost: $15/adults, $12/seniors, including holiday songs and Bayside Children’s Holiday The Tchaikovsky Spectacular — 43-50 Main St., Flushing students and children ages 2 - 17 stories from various cultures. Parade and Lighting Ceremony The State Ballet Theatre of Russia Cost: Free, but there is a fee for Contact: (718) 699-0005 When: Saturday, Dec. 5, from 1 — The second annual children’s presents highlights from “Swan Santa photos Website: www.nysci.org pm - 5 pm parade and lighting ceremony Lake,” “The Nutcracker” and Continued on Page 48 46 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM Happy Holidays! From the Staff at Austin's! Order Dinner to Go Please Place Your Orders by Monday, December 21 Call (718) 849-3939, ask for the Manager Spiral Ham Dinner for 10 People Turkey Dinner (10-12 lbs.) for 6 People Only 170.00 *Plus Tax Only 150.00 *Plus Tax Spiral Ham Dinner for 20 People Turkey Dinner (18-20 lbs.) for 12 People Only 295.00 *Plus Tax* Only 250.00 *Plus Tax* Includes ALL the Trimmings: Stuffing, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, Mashed Potato or Sweet Potato, Creamed Spinach, Rolls, Salad, and Apple or Pumpkin Pie Austin's Ale House 82-70 Austin St., Kew Gardens IMAGINE THE EXPERIENCE WITH BOURBON STREET In our brand-new Magnolia Room! 10pm-2am Open Bar, Champagne Toast, Passed Hors d'Oeuvres, Pasta Station, Carving Station, Dessert Station, Live DJ and Dancing. Complimentary Noisemakers with Ball Drop from Times Square! $99.00 per person, inclusive. Reservations Required. In the Main Dining Room: Available for your Private New Year’s Eve Celebra on. A special New Years Eve a la Carte Menu. Reservations Required. Inquiries please call 718-224-2200 At the Downstairs Bar: $40.00 per person for an Open Bar from 10pm-2am. #PVSCPO4USFFUt#FMM#PVMFWBSEt#BZTJEF /:tCPVSCPOTUSFFUOZDPN TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 47 at door Wonderland — Learn how Contact: (718) 482-0909 the holidays were celebrated Holiday Website: www. in 19th century Queens. Make December 5 - 6 • 10 am newyorkirishcenter.org a snowfl ake and scented Continued from Page 46 ornament. Contact: (718) 886-3800 Crowley Holiday Party — When: Saturday, Dec. 12, Website: www. City Councilwoman Elizabeth from noon - 3 pm queensbotanical.org Crowley has invited the Where: King Manor Museum, whole community to join Rufus King Park, Jamaica “Mooseltoe” — This family her and her staff for a Avenue and 153rd Street, show tells the story of a celebration of the season Jamaica moose who wants to fl y with food and drinks. Cost: Free with Santa’s reindeer. On his When: Tuesday, Dec. 8, from Contact: (718) 206-0545 journey to the North Pole, 4 pm - 7 pm Website: www.kingsmanor. New York’s Premier Comic & Sci-Fi Expo he meets many characters Where: Crowley’s offi ce, org and learns some valuable 71-19 80th St., Glendale lessons. Cost: Free, but RSVP Corona Youth Music Costume contests, trailer screenings & more! When: Sunday, Dec. 6, at requested Orchestra Concert of 3 pm Contact: (718) 366-3900 Light— Around 200 young Where: LaGuardia musicians will present a Tickets via rwnewyork.com Performing Arts Center, 31-10 Holiday Centerpiece concert of holiday music, Thomson Ave., Long Island Workshop — Participants including works by Jean City will learn how to create a Sibelius and Tchaikovsky, Cost: $20 centerpiece for the holidays, along with a performance of Contact: (718) 482-5151 and take home their fi nished John Williams’ theme from Website: www.lpac.nyc designs. “Star Wars.” When: Wednesday, Dec. 9, When: Saturday, Dec. 12, at Réalta Na Nollag — An from 11 am - 1 pm 4 pm Irish Christmas musical Where: Voelker Orth Where: Queens Museum, celebration featuring Cathy Museum, 149-19 38th Ave., New York City Building, Maguire, Gabriel Donohue Flushing Flushing Meadows Corona and guests. Cost: $15/includes material, Park When: Sunday, Dec. 6, doors $12/members Cost: $8/adults suggested, open at 6 pm Contact: (718) 359-6227 $4/seniors suggested Where: New York Irish Website: www.vomuseum. Contact: (718) 592-9700 Center, 10-40 Jackson Ave., org Website: www. Long Island City queensmuseum.org Cost: $22/advance, $25/ Hands on History: Winter Seafood IF YOU GO Continued from Page 43 Astoria Seafood know to do that, and as our meal was 37-10 33rd St. just about finished, we noticed other Long Island City diners with baskets of enticing looking (718) 392-2680 garlic bread. We had ordered some raw oysters, Price Range: By the pound, but the next items to arrive were a $3.99 — $19.99 basket of French fries and a portion of spanakopita. The quality of both lived Cuisine: Grilled or fried fi sh up to our expectations, but the timing and seafood did not. Setting: Seafood market with a few We considered both items side dish- tables es, not a second course. We were torn Service: Harried between not wanting to let the fries get cold, and not ruining our appetite for Hours: Monday through the main event. Saturday, 9 a.m.— 9 p.m. The oysters never showed, but the Reservations: No other items eventually started arriv- Alcohol: BYOB ing. Fried cod, battered and crumbed, Parking: Street was a perfect marriage of crispy exte- Dress: Casual to ethnic rior and juicy interior. The rest of the seafood followed in fairly rapid suc- Children: Welcome cession. A divine lobster tail, heavily Music: Recorded. Competes studded with chopped garlic. with ambient noise. Even garlickier grilled monkfish. Takeout: Yes Gently seared grilled salmon. Grilled Credit cards: Yes sardines, not bad, but a mistake not to Noise level: Noisy to earsplitting. have ordered them fried. All manner of aquatic life here is impeccably fresh Handicap accessible: Yes and simply, but expertly prepared. WIFI: No When we returned to the counter to Over 5,000 Games. Minutes Away! settle up, the counterman said, “You never got your oysters, did you?” This The Bottom Line 110-00 Rockaway Blvd. Jamaica, NY 11420 was true. He scratched something Astoria Seafood is a great place for from his hand-written bill and an- seafood lovers not too picky about am- rwnewyork.com • 1-888-888-8801 nounced our total, without proffering biance. The seafood on display is re- anything in writing. assuringly constantly being replaced. MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER TO PLAY THE NEW YORK LOTTERY GAMES. PLEASE The total was so modest that we Nothing hangs around long enough to PLAY RESPONSIBLY. 24-HOUR PROBLEM GAMING HOTLINE: 1-877-8-HOPENY (846-7369). handed over our plastic without press- smell. Fine dining it’s not, but great ing the point. eating it definitely is. 48 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM FREE DELIVERY Place Your Holiday Catering Orders We with Patsy’s Now Have a Party Room Today! for All Your Parties and Events! THURSDAYS HALF PRICE Join us every Wednesday PIZZERIA BOTTLE for lunch or dinner 21-64 Utopia Parkway, Whitestone, NY OF and the kids eat on us! (on the corner of 22nd Avenue) 718-224-0200 WINE Free small pizza PatsysPizzeriaOfQueens.com Choose with the purchase of an entree from Kids under 12. Dine-in only. No substitutions. Open Tuesday through Saturday, Noon to 10 pm any bottle Cannot be combined with other offers. Sunday, Noon to 9 pm on our list TIMESLEDGER.COM TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 49 50 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM Sports Naclerio sets record Cardozo coach’s 723rd victory is tops in PSAL history Tareq Coburn (l) hugs a smiling coach Ron Naclerio after his 723rd win. Photo by Gina Palermo BY JOSEPH STASZEWSKI a historic one after the 58-year- orange Cardozo polo shirt and Royals guard Jose Alvarado will try to lead his team to a re- old Naclerio passed the mark of blue Judges sweat pants. There cord fourth straight CHSAA Class AA Intersectional title. Moments after officially 722 victories set by the retired were veins popping, a sprint Photo by William Thomas standing alone atop the PSAL’s Charles Granby, who coached down the bench after a bad coaching-wins list, Ron Na- at Campus Magnet (formally call and plenty of teaching. clerio got up on a chair to ad- Andrew Jackson) for 45 years. Naclerio got on star dress the standing-room only “You have to be good for a Rashond Salnave (19 points) Deep Royals lineup crowd celebrating with him at long, long time,” Naclerio said. for shooting too early to end Benjamin Cardozo. “You have to be lucky. I’ve the third quarter, leading to When he started coaching been blessed with players that a Lewis hoop. He pulled aside the Judges boys’ basketball have let me coach them up.” sophomore Dejavaughn Utley seeks historic crown team in 1981, he never imag- Tuesday night’s win also in the closing seconds to cor- ined being at his alma mater put him third on the all-time rect him and give him words BY JOSEPH STASZEWSKI game if we could go to the for 35 seasons and racking up list in New York state, behind of encouragement. Things like gym on Monday,” said Holy a league-record 723 wins. Archbishop Molloy’s Jack that are one of the reasons why It wasn’t long after miss- Cross-bound wing Tyrone Naclerio, who was a ball boy Curran (972), who died in 2013 so many former players hold ing out on being the first Cohen. “As soon as we could, for the Knicks, dreamed of one and East Hampton’s Ed Petrie him in such high regard. team to win a third straight we were back in the gym.” day coaching at St. John’s— (754), who retired in 2010. “Not many people can say state Federation Class AA Christ the King returns his other former school—or “This is big for him,” said that one man changed their basketball title that Christ as the favorite to win the even the NBA. While those Duane Causwell, his former life around when they were the King’s focus shifted to its CHSAA, despite losing its opportunities never material- player who enjoyed 11 seasons growing up,” Salnave said. second chance at rewriting best player over the last two ized, that no longer matters in the NBA. “I saw him before Prior to coaching Naclerio the history books. seasons because of eligibility to Naclerio, he told all those the game and I said, ‘Naclerio, was an All-American baseball The Royals can become issues. Senior Rawle Alkins, who watched him set the mark you are looking more nervous player at St. John’s University. the first program to win four the No. 9 ranked player in the with an 88-72 win over Francis than the first time we played He was drafted by the White consecutive CHSAA “AA” country according to Rivals, Lewis Tuesday night. Jackson.’” Sox in 1979 draft and spent two Intersectional crowns if is finishing his career at “I’ve realized in the last Not much has changed years in the minor leagues. He they hoist the trophy again Word of God, a prep school in couple of days that the break about Naclero since he began, took over the Judges’ hoops at Fordham University this North Carolina. Despite the that I probably really got was other than the fact that he’s team after one year as an as- year. The CK players wanted loss of Alkins, the Royals are the break I didn’t realize, the had just one losing season sistant to his former coach Al to get to work on that goal as chock full of veteran talent fact that I was able to coach at since he went 1-12 his first Matican, who was in atten- soon as possible. that is determined to prove Cardozo,” he said. year. He coached the mile- dance along with Stu Jackson, “We asked coach after that Continued on Page 553 That stroke of luck became stone game in his traditional Continued on Page 553 TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 51 Rebuilding Mary Louis CK focuses on will just take a little patience Federation title country in her class and is make a big impact. Joseph paired with Minnesota-bound On paper it’s easy to put Staszewski guard Jasmine Brunson. the Hilltoppers with the best “All summer everyone has of the best in CHSAA Brook- ■ been talking about it,” Patter- lyn-Queens and they should Block son said. “What’s Mary Louis be. But keep the expectations going to be like? What’s Mary realistic. Shots Louis going to be like? It’s fi- Favorites CK, Nazareth nally becoming a reality.” and Bishop Loughlin have Arbitello-Pinnock is trying played full seasons with their When JoAnn Arbitello- to keep the pressure to win and cores. Nazareth and the Royals Pinnock took over as coach win right away from becoming reached the federation tourna- at Mary Louis, she told Ath- too much for a group that isn’t ment. Yes, most of Mary Louis’ letic Director Joe Lewinger it used to it. She is preaching pa- players have been on the var- would take her five years to tience, hard work and balance. sity for two or three years, but rebuild the girls’ basketball “Just because you put a they still need to learn how to program. bunch of pieces together does play with Patterson, and she She could be a year ahead not mean that it is not going to needs to learn how to play of schedule. take time for everything to fall with them. It was a long road back to into place,” she said. It is why TMLA itself is tak- being considered a Brooklyn/ The preseason has been ing a measured approach. Queens diocesan title con- about making all of those “We don’t try to worry about Louisville-bound guard Sydney Zambrotta will try to lead Christ the tender again for the Hilltop- pieces fit together. She has in- the expectations,” Brunson King to a state Federation Class AA girls' basketball title. pers, after three straight trips stalled a new offense and has said. “We have to play and we Photo by Ken Maldonado to the championship game pulled back the reins on Pat- have to win for us.” from 2009-11. The addition of terson and Brunson to work Even so, there is plenty of BY JOSEPH STASZEWSKI give Christ the King proven three prized freshmen in 2012 on allowing everyone to grow confidence and why shouldn’t scorers, ball handlers and didn’t work out as planned. comfortable in their roles. there be? Mary Louis is loaded The Christ the King girls’ play making defenders, but They all transferred, and sea- “It is going to take a lot for with talent and experience. It basketball team was applaud- the team will need help in- sons of only seven and two us to get there,” Arbitello-Pin- can become the team people ed last season for reaching side with Kinder stuck on wins followed. nock said. believe they already are. It the state Federation final in the bench. Ashlie Howell, a But expectations around TMLA also features solid will just take some time. a year that began with plenty 6-foot-3 senior forward, came the program are high again, bigs in Queens College-bound “I really think we can get of question marks and a lack on strong during CK’s play- after the team nearly beat center Celeste Moran, senior there,” Patterson said. “We of experience. The veteran off push last season. She will Christ the King in the dioce- Jenna McCann and freshman made a lot of progress. If we club that is returning under- need to be even more consis- san semifinals last season and Taylor Holmes. It has veteran just keep pushing, when we stands that will be far from tent this season. added Medger Evers transfer shooters in junior Kayla Pod- have those big games and we the case this season, with a “Ashlie is going to have to Danielle Patterson. The 6-foot- lovits and classmate Courtney need to get over the hump, I return trip to the Federation be a factor,” Mackey said. “She 3 junior forward is considered McCool. Freshman guard Al- feel confident we will be able tournament expected. is going to have to step up and one of the best players in the lanah Holmes is also expected to do it.” “Last year it was fun just she is going to be the key to getting to that point,” said maybe the whole thing.” Virginia-bound guard Domi- The return of senior guard nique Toussaint. “This year it Gabriella Felipe in January is our job to get to that point. will be a big help, but a lot It’s not like maybe we can get will fall on Jhayliene Fisher, there. We have to get there.” Sandra Chekley and former The road back to the final junior varsity point guard hit an early bump in tryouts Jaeonna Sutton. The Royals when Virginia Tech-bound do have added depth in the forward Kaela Kinder broke paint with versatile small her ankle, leaving her side- forward Brandi Thomas. CK lined until at least January. has one of the city’s top fresh- She was supposed to be part men in Kaelynn Satterfield, of a trio of ACC commits, but Mackey is unsure if he including Louisville-bound will move her up to the var- guard Sydney Zambrotta, sity. Kinder’s injury will test that was going to power CK all of them. through a difficult earlier “It puts a lot of responsibili- season schedule. CK will ty on the younger kids to grow play nine times in 25 days up,” Zambrotta said. “She’s in December, including road out, but when she comes back games against league rivals she is going to be ten times Bishop Loughlin and Naza- stronger than she was.” reth. Instead Royals coach None of it changes the fo- Bob Mackey will have to turn cus of winning the school’s to others to step up early. first Federation title since “Everyone moves to the 2010, a feat that won’t be easy front of the class now,” he in the loaded CHSAA Brook- said. “I still don’t know what lyn/Queens Division II. The Medgar Evers transfer Danielle Patterson (l.) and Minnesota-bound guard Jasmine Brunson. my starting five is.” Royals are hungry and up to Photo by Joseph Staszewski Toussaint and Zambrotta the challenge. 52 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM St. John’s nabs victory over ranked USF BY JOSEPH STASZEWSKI of 23 from the free-throw line. Courtney Williams tallied 28 St. John’s two stars deliv- points for USF. ered its first signature win of “I was really proud of our the season. effort, as I told our team, from Guards Danaejah Grant start to finish,” St. John’s and Aliyyah Handford com- coach Joe Tartamella said. “I bined for 50 points to lead the think we had the most com- Red Storm women’s basket- plete game we’ve played all ball team to a 74-70 victory year and being able to lead al- over No. 18/17 South Florida most wire to wire.” Sunday afternoon at Car- The Bulls (3-2) twice cut the nesecca Area. It is the team’s lead to three in the final 6 min- first victory over a ranked utes. Grant responded with a opponent this season and its three-point play the first time fourth straight win. around to put St. John’s up 58- “It’s great for our pro- 52. A try by Williams cut the gram,” Grant said. “It gives us Red Storm lead to 66-63 with confidence going into future 1:12 to go in the game. A tough games. Generally we aren’t layup by Handford kept South too concerned with rankings, Florida at bay. but it does make us proud and “It all comes down to ef- says a lot to everyone watch- fort at the end of the game and ing.” who’s willing to win more,” What they saw was Grant Handford said. “I felt we out- score a team-high 27 points on willed them at the end of the 10-of-19 shooting and dish out game and it paid off with a four assists for the Red Storm win.” Senior guard Danaejah Grant scored a team-high 27 points in a win over nationally ranked USF. (4-1). Handford dropped 15 of St. John’s has defeated a Courtesy of St. John’s Athletic Communications her 23 points in the second ranked opponent in each of half and Aaliyah Lewis scored the past three seasons. Last Square Garden in 2013. The just once. Grant said. “Of course, they 12 points while playing the full year it took down No. 23 Seton Red Storm never led the Bulls “It’s all about runs and we will make shots, but we made 40 minutes. St. John’s shot 52.8 Hall at home on and bested by more than nine, but only were able to sustain those runs enough to win the game.” percent from the field and 17 No. 24 Texas A&M at Madison saw the lead change hands throughout the whole game,” Royal Ivey, Rafer Alston and ado, who saw his college stock er in the frontcourt, thanks Naclerio James Sutherland. He also Royals soar this summer. He has ma- to 6-foot-6 sophomore Malik trained others such as Joa- tured into more of a leader, im- Anderson. Classmate Tyson Continued from Page 51 kim Noah, Elton Brand and Continued from Page 51 proved his jumper and can still Walker will also be asked to the senior associate commis- Metta World Peace. they can win without him. attack the basket with ease. He contribute. sioner of the Big East. Causwell spoke about how “I feel like we are going to will have plenty of help around The constant is the drive Matican, described his as he couldn’t make a layup in be a great team still,” junior him with returning start- and expectation to win. The “Mr. Tenacity.” He remem- tryouts, but Naclerio prom- point guard Jose Alvarado ers Cohen, Jared Rivers and Royals don’t plan on stopping bers one game where the op- ised him if he put in the work said. Yashawn Bright. David Cole, that anytime soon despite St. ponent’s star guard threw the he could help get him to the CK coach Joe Arbitello, who a 6-foot-7 center and Robert Raymond, Iona Prep, Molloy ball at Naclerio out of frustra- NBA. has won four city titles in the Morris commit, will move into and Cardinal Hayes potential- tion. “He just knew how to bring last five years, isn’t expecting the starting five. Cohen, who ly standing in their way. Chist “Just the way he was on out the best in you,” Causwell one person to replace Alkins. was known for his defense last the King will settle for noth- the sidelines was the way he said. Instead he wants just a little year, said Arbitello expects ing less than making history. was on the court,” Matican Naclerio got the most out more from everyone. In early regular double-doubles from “We are trying to make his- said. of his team and Tariq Coburn scrimmages, his team has had him this year. tory and keep it going as long That passion has allowed after halftime with Dozo lead- five or six players scoring in Arbitello has plenty of im- as we can,” Cohen said. “We Naclerio to win two city titles ing just 46-35. Coburn scored double figures. pact players to choose from off want to get a fourth this year in 1999 and 2004 and Cardozo 22 of his 25 points in the sec- “I think they understand the bench. Guard Tracy Cleck- and we definitely want to get a is one of the favorites to win ond half. Alex June Araula that is the way they have to ley is a proven scorer and fifth year and win and win as this season. Naclerio coached tallied 24 points to lead Lew- score and they are willing to classmate Ronald Jefferson is long as we can until somebody four NBA players Causwell, is, which got as close as eight score like that,” he said. expect to make big contribu- is good enough to beat us.” in the fourth. Leading it all will be Alvar- tions off the bench. CK is deep- “Coach was saying I have to take more shots and I just started to take over,” Coburn said. The performance enabled Cardozo (2-0) to unveil a banner commemorating the achievement. Naclerio knows his run will eventually have to come to an end—but not anytime soon, he hopes. What other records may lie ahead are of no concern for now. Cardozo unveiled a banner com- “Eight hundred?” Naclerio memorating Ron Naclerio's historic said “Let me get to hopefully 723rd win. Photo by Gina Palermo Thursday and hopefully 724.” TIMESLEDGER.COM BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4-10, 2015 53 but each case is different. less shelter or supportive hous- Cerni said he has no idea Anthony Rivers, spokes- ing,” Rivers said. “But we have of the woman’s identity, but Shelter man of People for the Neighbor- more than our fair share.” Baby speculated that it could have Continued from Page 1 hood, a community advocacy Out of the 22 homeless shel- Continued from Page 1 been one of the church’s pa- group, said it was outrageous ters in the borough, more than rishioners. Queens landlord Rita Starks, that the city failed to alert the 10 of them are located across Cerni said. According to security the Human Resources Admin- community, even after elected southeastern Queens, accord- “I realized that he was left camera footage, the woman istration said the city planned officials and residents at the ing to data from the Depart- here and not somewhere else. walked with the baby straight to place homeless vets in the City Council hearing asked ment of Homeless Services. We see so many tragic stories into the church. apartments. the HRA commissioner to look Saying elected officials of children found dead or “We are open all day, ev- “We are working on mak- into the matter before utiliz- have not taken an aggressive hurt, but I felt confident that ery day,” Cerni said. “She ing this permanent affordable ing the properties on Hollis stand, he warned “the city the baby would be treated probably knew that, but who housing for veterans as part Avenue. is treading on some thin ice well,” he said. knows?” of the national effort to end People for the Neighbor- here.” Queens District Attor- According to police, the homelessness for veterans,” hood has been protesting Rivers equates shelters ney Richard Brown said in a baby was taken to Jamaica HRA Deputy Commissioner against the site turning into with liquor stores, which are statement that his office had Hospital, where he remained David Neustadt said. another homeless shelter with regulated in residential neigh- decided not to press charges in good condition at mid- According to HRA, home- other community members borhoods. against the woman, whom he week. less veterans have a few op- and elected officials. “You can’t have a neigh- did not name, after she was Since the discovery, Hean- tions for permanent housing: The issue at hand is six emp- borhood full of liquor stores. located and interviewed on ue has repeatedly visited the They can either sign a direct ty properties owned by Stark, Southeast Queens is saturated last week. hospital. And while the baby’s lease with the property own- who owns other properties in with shelters. The city has to “The mother followed the future lies with the city’s Ad- er or find suitable housing the borough. Stark leased the have some responsibility to spirit of New York’s ‘Safe Ha- ministration for Children’s through a nonprofit that has a Hollis properties last year to say no,” he said. ven’ Law, which allows a par- Services, a family from the master lease with a landlord. Bluestone Group, which has a He said the community was ent to leave a child not older parish has expressed interest The rent can be paid through history of reaching deals with open to idea of affordable hous- than 30 days with an appro- in adoption. either subsidized income, a nonprofit and city agencies be- ing, especially for seniors in priate person or in a suitable “God sends messages in cash assistance program or hind closed doors. the area. location where the parent these events,” Cerni said. their own personal income, “No one is against home- promptly notifies an appro- “It’s like preparation for the priate person of the child’s return of the real baby Je- location,” Brown said. “It ap- sus.” the violations did not result in which serves Mexican cuisine pears that the mother in this Cerni said that more than the closure of the restaurant. with beer and liquor pairings, case felt her newborn child 50 people from across the City Ribs The Dermot Company and and Beijing Dumpling House, would be found safely in the country from as far as Ha- Continued from Page 4 HPH Poulakakos did not com- which serves handmade church and chose to place the waii, have also asked to adopt ment on the closure of CityR- dumplings and noodles, joined baby in the manger because the child. Moda residential develop- ib. CityRib in turning the transit it was the warmest place in “We’re just a small church ment, in partnership with the CityRib was expected to hub into more than just a place the church, and further she in Queens, and we are hear- HPH Poulakakos restaurant change the atmosphere from to transfer to the next form of returned the following morn- ing from people all over the umbrella, opened City Rib in an area known as the South- transportation. ing to make certain that the world. 2013. The rib restaurant was side into downtown Jamaica— “We really want this to baby had been found.” “I’m moved,” he said. focused on Southern cuisine. where residents and visitors become a restaurant row and The reason for CityRib’s could stay, shop and enjoy a restaurants such as Don Nico’s closing remains a mystery. meal somewhere other than are a part of the process that The restaurant source said at one of the many fast-food connects those dots,” Rhonda 8 and 200 pounds and he was CityRib’s menu was somewhat joints that are clustered along Binda, executive director of Rally wearing a black hoodie and limited, although the spot had Jamaica Avenue among the the Jamaica Business Im- Continued from Page 5 dark pants, according to the widespread appeal in its first hair-supply shops. provement District, said. NYPD. year of business. The expectation was met in Binda, who joined JBID said. “The doctor said it’s a State Assemblyman According to city Health its early phase when CityRib after the opening of CityRib, very good sign, a first step to Francisco Moya (D-Jackson Department records, CityRib was often full. During Happy said it was important to con- recovery.” Heights) said he was both kitchen also had 13 violation Hour the bar buzzed with mu- tinue bringing visitors and Bianey Garcia-D la O, saddened and appalled by the points, which is still an A sic, and its corn bread appetiz- residents to the businesses in an organizer with Make the two attacks. grade. A Health Department er became famous. the major transit hub. Road New York, disputed the “There is no space for vio- spokeswoman said in an email Eateries like Don Nico’s, NYPD’s finding after talking lence in our community and with the victim,, such abhorrent behavior will “She told me she didn’t not be tolerated,” he said. “In know her attacker and that Jackson Heights, we pride over a three-year-period. “It tells you how sought af- she knows it was a hate ourselves on our culture of Steamfi tters “I knew it was an oppor- ter the position is as far as job crime,” Garcia-D la O said. diversity and acceptance, We Continued from Page 4 tunity that people pursue,” security and benefits,” Bargel- “We are demanding a stop must never let hate or vio- Gonzalez said. “It’s a profes- lini said. “I’m two years into to hate crimes against trans- lence win out over tolerance In 2012, Gonzalez joined a sion that takes care of you fi- the apprenticeship and it’s genders.” and peaceful resolution of line that stretched for blocks nancially, but it’s also about going very smoothly and the Lopez, the executive direc- differences. We must always outside the Steamfitters Indus- being a part of the process healthcare gave me the confi- tor of Everything Transgen- remain committed to main- try Training Center in Long of construction, putting up dence to get engaged to my fi- der in NYC, promised more taining the peace and culture Island City just for an applica- buildings and schools. There’s ancée Cecilia in April. The job rallies would be held “to keep of acceptance for which our tion to the apprenticeship pro- a certain pride in knowing does take its toll on the body, the pressure on the NYPD community is known.” gram. More than 5,000 people, you’re building the infrastruc- but you get that piece of mind and the DA” until an arrest State Sen. Jose Peralta including some that traveled ture of this city.” that I’ll be able to retire com- is made. The suspect was (D-East Elmhurst) said the from as far away as Texas and Bargellini didn’t have to fortably one day and enjoy my described by investigators “vicious and brutal” attacks Florida, applied for just 500 po- stand on that line in 2012, but life with Cecelia.” as a Hispanic man age 30 to have put the community on sitions that would be offered he saw it on the TV news. 35. He is described as 5-foot- alert. “You’re going to be seeing a clear that left turn bans are lar replacement to SBS. part of that conversation.” lot more of me in your neigh- opposed.” Garcia called the busway Reach reporter Gabriel Rom DOT borhood,” Garcia added. Placing a busway on the de- an “interesting idea,” and said by e-mail at grom@cnglocal. Continued from Page 5 On specifics, Garcia said funct Rockaway Line was re- there “was a discussion to be com or by phone at (718) 260– that the DOT “hears loud and peatedly mentioned as a popu- had, and we’re happy to be 4564. 54 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 TL TIMESLEDGER.COM 60 TIMESLEDGER, DEC. 4–10, 2015 BT FT TL TIMESLEDGER.COM