Club Hopper``xtrib``xIt’s hard to imagine an 18-year-old is a pro at anything, but it’s a safe title to give Rochelle Aikens. The Howard Beach native has been modeling since she was 12, and has learned the pitfalls and highs of the job.

“It’s my kind of thing. I was born for it. It’s always been something I wanted,” she said.
The avid club-hopper has seen her fair share of shifty characters.

“I don’t do nude photography, art photography or any of that. There have been a couple of times where someone will say, ‘Okay, just your top off,’ but the answer is always no.”

When she isn’t having her picture taken, Aikens admits to loving food, having already eaten three servings of large McDonald’s fries by 3 p.m.

She also guiltily revealed a little secret: She practices her dance moves and sings.

“A lot of people don’t know anything about that,” Aikens said. “I put together moves. It’s something I started ’cause I was embarrassed of it.”

Aikens plans on having an educational parachute as she starts studying towards a psychology degree at the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

Rochelle Aikens
Howard Beach
Age: 18
Height: 5’ 8"
Weight: 115 lbs
Stats: 32-26-32``xEkuuZulZlpvUuVZjYu``x1244748780``xQconf``xconf061109_model1.jpg``x``x``xConf061109_clintonFran.gif``xYou gotta hand it to Bill Clinton (above) with Flushing's Fran Drescher.``x58881066339339``x``xClinton & The Nanny's Fanny``xHandsy Bill Clinton got very friendly with Fran Drescher at the Life Ball charity event in Vienna last month. The former president embraced the nasal Flushing native and TV-nanny in a tight squeeze that planted her head on his shoulder.

Clinton was also seen with his hand resting squarely on the Nanny’s fanny. Drescher said in 2008 that she wanted to replace Hillary Clinton in the U.S. Senate. Maybe she’s turned her sights elsewhere in Hillary’s domain.
``xNow Playing Center Field…``xThe Mets have been feeling pretty low lately and playing something awful. If they can just hold on till July, Sir Paul McCartney, Beatle extraordinaire, can lift their spirits.

McCartney will host the first concert at Citi Field on July 17 and 18. McCartney, a stalwart friend of the Mets since the Beatles took the place by storm in 1965, helped close out Shea Stadium, the old Mets home.

Let’s see if he can bring the magic back to Flushing.
``xSchoolyard To NBA Finals``xThe stakes in the Lamar Odom - Rafer Alston rivalry have never been higher. The Jamaica ballers have been playing hoops together since they started dribbling, and now their journey has led to opposite sides in this year’s NBA finals.
Odom, 29, will be starting at forward for the Los Angeles Lakers while Alston, 32, plays point guard for the Orlando Magic.

“No matter who wins, the borough of Queens is going to be happy,” Odom told the Los Angeles Times.

The two faced off as far back as their playground era, when Alston earned the name “Skip To My Lou” for skipping while bring the ball up the court.

No matter who wins, it will be the first championship ring for Queens since Kenny Smith won two rings with the Houston Rockets in 1994 and 1995.``x'You’re A Disgrace' – Dot Com``xMayor Mike Bloomberg’s sharp words for former Trib reporter Azi Paybarah have become the rallying cry for his term limits critics.

First there was his Facebook Fan page.

Now a group opposed to the mayor’s power grab has launched a new Web site, youreadisgrace.com.

The site has gathered various quotes by Bloomberg when he opposed changes to term limits – before he changed them himself. It also includes a brief history of term limits in New York City and links to various critics of the mayor’s efforts to seek a third term.

Bloomberg’s told Paybarah, “you’re a disgrace,” after the New York Observer newsman tripped him up with a pointed question during a press conference in Queens two weeks ago.``xOscar Bound?``xJason Patric, the Queens-born actor who “wowed” in a handful of cinematic middling adventures such as “Speed 2” and “Roger Corman’s Frankenstein Unbound” is returning to the big screen this summer in a picture that has Oscar written all over it.

Patric plays the father of two girls in “My Sister’s Keeper,” based on the best-selling book about a family’s pre-engineered genetic match of a daughter who was “created” to be a bone marrow donor for her older sister stricken with Leukemia.

Early buzz already is talking about a second Oscar nod for Abigail Breslin, who was nominated a couple of years back for her work in “Little Miss Sunshine.”

We hope that Jason’s involvement in what is likely to be a critical tear-jerker will be a boost for his career which seems to have skidded since he hit the ground running in 1987’s “The Lost Boys.” ``xPedodefiled``xThe Attorney General isn’t necessarily a popular guy with certain people. But Andrew Cuomo has gathered the unique interest of the North American Man/Boy Love Association -- an organization that has the word “love” in its name, but not in its heart.

The Post reported that the perv-group placed a $10,000 bounty on the Queens native’s head via online message board.
The “reward” was offered under the title: “$10,000 to shoot Andrew Cuomo in the face!”

The Attorney General’s office and law enforcement officials are looking into an imprisoned NAMBLA-ite, one that Cuomo is trying to keep locked up.

The “pedophile community” has been incensed about the AG after he demanded internet service providers police the Web for child pornography.``xConf061109_McCartney.gif``xConf061109_odom_alston.gif``xConf061109_azi.gif``xConf061109_jason.gif``x``x``xLamar Odom and Rafer Alston``xAzi Paybarah``xJason Patric``x``x``x``x``xConf061109_model_front.gif``x``xConf061109_cartoon.gif``x``x Providing Equality For All New York Citizens``xtrib``xThat knock on your door could be the official start of the New York City 2009 campaign season.

This week, petitioning begins as part of the antiquated process of candidates getting their name on the ballot. The process remains antiquated and reform only comes by court mandate since the guys in control – the party structure and incumbents – benefit from a system requiring many signatures and open to accosting opponents with an intricate and expensive legal process.

Nevertheless, New York City’s pioneering public funding campaign and the effect of term limits – even though overturned by a self-serving Council and Mayor – has brought a large number of candidates to the process.

While not close to the 65 Queens candidates who ran for Council when the entire delegation was term limited, we see real races shaping up in a handful of seats where no incumbent is standing for election and one challenge to an incumbent that is certainly worth focus and ink.

Following the candidates by staff interviews, press release, online campaign, financial filings and insider buzz, we share with you the races we think that will be competitive and interesting – and the stuff which keeps political junkies awake at night.

In the 19th to replace Tony Avella who is on a Quixotic quest for the Mayoralty, six viable candidates are beginning the petitioning process for the Democratic line with Dan Halloran, working and waiting in one of only three Queens districts in which the GOP can play.

The front running Dem, Jerry Iannece, has received Dem organization backing and as of the last filing, had the most cash on hand. Paul Vallone, like Iannece and most of the others, is expected to “max out financially – meaning that in 2009, as part of the CFB matching program, they will be able to spend a total of $161,000 on the campaign. In this race with longtime City worker Debbie Markell, Avella’s pick Steve Behar, disabled activist Tom Cooke and an Asian candidate, Ackerman staffer Kevin Kim, all are expected to raise and spend enough funds to keep them all in the game. With Iannece and Vallone splitting the Italian vote, Markell and Behar focused on the Jewish vote, any of the six could conceivably win this changing community. Then they face the Republican. This is one of the two races in the county which will see a competitive effort among at least five candidates.

The other large -field competitive race is in the 20th Council District presently held by Comptroller candidate John Liu. Any advantage gained by John Choe having the backing of the Queens Dem and incumbent Liu has been eroded by the fact that he is one of two Korean candidates in a District which mathematically favors a Chinese candidate. Additionally, Choe has been damaged by accusations of close ties to North Korea. With two Korean candidates and Working Families’ S.J. Jung dividing the Korean base, the race is anyone’s. Chinese candidate Yen Chou, the only female in the race, leads the field by far in fund raising. It is likely she may opt out of the campaign finance system and blow the cap. That would make her the likely frontrunner. James Wu, a longtime political operative was instrumental in throwing the Dem support to Choe and therefore his seriousness as a candidate must be questioned. Rumor has the Dem organization trying to keep him in the race to siphon Chinese votes from Yen Chou. With the five Asian candidates, one cannot dismiss the candidacy of Isaac Sasson out of the still real Julia Harrison organization. A young newcomer Constantine Kavadas is also petitioning for a ballot spot. On the GOP side sits a skilled, serious candidate with experience and money, Peter Koo. The District is in no way Republican but a divisive Democratic Primary with a non-Chinese winner could make Koo competitive in the General.

An interesting three-way race in the 26th to replace Public Advocate candidate Eric Gioia pits Dem District Leader Dierdre Feerick with organization backing against longtime civic activist James Van Bramer and corporate lawyer Brent O’Leary. All three should be expected to max-out financially and presumably get through the petitioning process.

A large field of candidates seeks to replace Melinda Katz in the 29th. Former Councilmember Karen Koslowitz with Dem organization and name recognition should be viewed as the frontrunner. However, her base is eroded by her former co-District Leader, former Assemblymember Mike Cohen. Will the former elected officials competing for “regulars” leave the way open for long-time activists Heidi Chain or Lynn Shulman. Joseph J.R. Nocerino has dropped out of this race and Mel Gargarin trails the field in name recognition and funding.

The one incumbent facing a serious challenge is Helen Sears in the 25th. With Alfonso Quiroz dropping out of the race, the candidacy of gay activist and Dem District Leader Danny Dromm with the backing of the Working Families Party, must be considered as a threat to the Councilwoman who voted to overturn the people’s will and extend her own term in this rapidly changing District. The candidacy of businessman Stanley Kalathara should not impact the Sears-Dromm race significantly. Look for Dromm to try to build a coalition of Latinos – he’s fluent in Spanish – gays and disenchanted voters to be the only Queens candidate to knock off an incumbent in this year’s Council races.

While a handful of candidates have lined up to challenge South Queens incumbents Leroy Comrie (27), Thomas White (28) and James Sanders (31), only Clyde Vanel against Comrie and Lynn Nunez against White have shown us they may have the stuff to mount a challenge to an incumbent – but not be a serious threat.

Other incumbents have challengers seeking a spot on the ballot, but they’ll have to get through the petition and challenge process before we will consider their competitiveness. Mark Weprin in the 23rd faces a challenge from tenant leader Bob Friedrich and well-funded Swaranjit Singh, but Weprin should be viewed as running with all the advantages of an incumbent for his brother’s seat – County support, access to money and name recognition.

So look for petition carriers to ring your bell; give them a moment of your time. Getting on the ballot is a large part of the fight in our borough. Give a newcomer a chance.
MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com``xEkuuZulEVFDDZbXWvw``x1244748153``xNot4Pub``x``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``x``xnfp_061109_stern.gif``xHenry Stern``x49501066339351``x``xNYS Government Is Held in Low Regard``xWe have spent a lot of time – and words – describing the classically dysfunctional legislature in Albany. Yesterday, the lid blew off the pot as two Senators – Queens’ Hiram Monseratte and the Bronx’s Pedro Espada, Jr. — each with unresolved legal issues, switched control of the body from Democrats to Republicans.

BRIEF STATE SENATE HISTORY
This is far from the first conflict over which political party would organize the Senate, select the committee chairs and staff members, dole out member items, redistrict the state to keep themselves in office, and take advantage in every conceivable way as their status as the majority, including the refusal to consider bills submitted by minority members.

The Republican Party had ruled the Senate since January 1966, a period of 43 years and several lifetimes in politics.

Before that, the Democrats had been in power for just one year, 1965, which came only because of Lyndon Johnson’s landslide victory over Barry Goldwater. During the 70s and 80s, the Senate had respected moderate Republican leaders like Warren Anderson of Binghamton and Ralph Marino of Oyster Bay.

In 1994, Marino was deemed insufficiently enthusiastic about freshman senator George Pataki, the Republican candidate for governor. U.S. Senator Al D’Amato was the deus ex machina of the Pataki candidacy. Pataki and D’Amato both wanted Marino out, and the Republican conference, following their wishes, elected Senator Joseph Bruno of Saratoga as Majority Leader of the Senate in 1995. Bruno stayed for 14 years, resigning in the summer of 2008, while being pursued by Federal authorities who subsequently indicted him for fraud. The Republicans selected Dean Skelos of southern Nassau County to succeed Bruno, and Skelos became majority leader yesterday as two Democrats switched sides to support him.

The year ending in 1 is the most important year to control either house of the legislature. That is because it is the year that follows the decennial United States Census, on the basis of which district lines are supposed to be redrawn to maintain equality of population between districts. How the lines are drawn is a matter of political artistry, with each party seeking to adopt lines most favorable to them.

That is why in the Assembly, where Democrats have consistently drawn the lines, there are 109 Democrats to 41 Republicans, a margin of about 2.6 to 1. In the Senate, where Republicans have drawn the lines since the 1930s, they controlled the body except for the Democratic sweeps of 1964 and 2008.

MERITS OF THE DISPUTE
There is little in the way of merit that divides the contestants in this quarrel over spoils. In order to win the votes of the so-called four amigos, Malcolm Smith and the Democrats made a series of commitments, some of which they did not keep. Two of the amigos, who have legal problems of their own doing, conspired for two months to turn back control to the Republicans, who they believe are more likely to keep their word.

Certain Democrats do not keep their word, 1) because they do not remember what they have said; 2) because it has become inconvenient; 3) because their promises are illegal and therefore unenforceable; and 4) because they believe that anyone foolish enough to trust them deserves the lesson he will receive from having done so.

Some newspapers and naïve TV reporters have called the amigos “turncoats.” We don’t believe that is justified by the facts here – public officials rebelling because promises, probably illegal ones, were unkept. Of course, they might have gone over to the highest bidder even if every promise was kept to the letter. There is no moral high ground here.

We just don’t know enough to divide moral culpability among the conspirators. Simply because people slash the faces of women, claim false residences, misuse poverty funds and fail to file spending reports does not necessarily mean that they cannot in turn be mistreated by others.

For city residents, there is important legislation which may be jeopardized by this coup. One example is continuing mayoral control of the school system.

Interestingly, it was the Queens County Democratic organization that dumped incumbent Senator John Sabini in 2008 in favor of Monserrate. At that time the decision was not unreasonable, since Monserrate was getting closer each year and could well have won anyway. The district is primarily Latino and there is a paucity of Latino elected officials, in part because of geography; their homes are spread around the city more than they are concentrated in particular districts, as is more often the case with African-Americans. Sabini was given a fine job as head of the State Racing and Wagering Commission. Nor did anyone at Queens County (we imagine) anticipate Monserrate’s violent response when the woman (not his wife) who was visiting his apartment had something in her purse which gave him occasion for him to express his displeasure by striking her with a broken glass. She has dutifully withdrawn her complaint, but there are photographs of her injuries, and statements she made at the time she was injured.

CAN ANYTHING BE DONE?
If you want to change the system, you have to play by the rules that the incumbents have written to protect themselves. People with substantial wealth have the opportunity to challenge the system, using part of their money to buy the media recognition that defines importance in today’s culture. In past crises, and when government was corrupt, outsiders organized to combat Tammany Hall.

The formation of the City Club (1892), the Municipal Arts Society (1893), and Citizens Union (1897) were part of an age of civic participation. Today the City Club lies prostrate, its assets sequestered, its members leaderless. But the other two are alive and well. They do not, however, focus on corruption, nor do they savage incompetence. They are valuable for what they do, and deserve support.

When Commissioner Gordon (not Parks nor Davis) shines his searchlight into the night sky, who else in Gotham will come to the aid of the forces of justice?

StarQuest@NYCivic.org``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xnfp061109_cartoon.gif``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``xForm``x Amigos Strike Back: Albany In Chaos After Monday’s Coup``xtrib``xFrantic Democrats inadvertently provided an apt metaphor for the state of affairs in Albany on Monday afternoon when they cut electricity to the State Senate’s chambers – a desperate last-ditch effort to prevent an unprecedented coup.

The Senate remained in the dark and powerless two days later as both parties sparred for control behind closed doors after two dissident Democrats turned Albany upside down.

“Over these last two days I have been meeting with other reform minded Democrats in the Senate to join our new, reform coalition government. I’ve been encouraged by the response I received,” State Sen. Hiram Monserrate (D-Corona) said after emerging with Republicans from a Wednesday meeting at the capitol. “The members I have been speaking to have asked for continued meetings so that we can discuss the expansion of the coalition.”

Monserrate and State Sen. Pedro Espada (D-Bronx) unexpectedly joined 30 Republican senators in Monday’s surprise leadership vote, electing State Sen. Dean Skelos (R-Long Island) as majority leader and Espada as president pro-tempore under the banner of bi-partisan reform.

“For too long, residents have called for reform with nothing more than lip service as a reward. At a time when technology and communications are allowing for more transparency and citizen involvement, we have created an environment of cynicism that has moved the work of governing this state farther and farther behind closed doors,” Monserrate said in a statement on Tuesday.

Immediately after the vote, the new coalition enacted a series of rules reforms that included an equal distribution of member items (pork projects) regardless of party and equal distribution of staff and printing resources.

But Democrats balked at Republican attempts to label themselves as reformers – citing Espada’s sordid history and the nefarious negotiations with billionaire Tom Golisano, who left the state for Florida in an uproar over new taxes for high earners inserted in April’s budget.

“The Senate Republicans have tried to stall the entire session, now they’ve effectively hijacked the session. They’re looking to do what they weren’t able to do at the ballot box and that’s gain control of the majority through an illegal and unlawful resolution and attempt at a coup,” Austin Shafran, a spokesman for State Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans), told reporters on Tuesday.

Shafran then lambasted Golisano for his much publicized role in staging the defection.

“He belongs in Florida. That’s the last place an election was stolen from the Democrats,” Shafran said. “Any good qualities he’s had have been overrun by political opportunism. This is a billionaire that needs to have his hand in everything. He found something he can buy, the Senate Republicans.”

Democrats also fired at Espada, who they accused of setting up dummy non-profit organizations in an attempt to siphon state funding into his company, Soundview Health Care Network. Espada requested nearly $2 million in April for organizations that shared his company’s address. Smith denied the funds, which Democrats claimed helped spark the coup. Espada also faces thousands of dollars in penalties for campaign finance violations.

And while Democratic lawmakers have been vocal in their criticism of Espada and his Republican conspirators, many have remained mum on Monserrate, who was indicted on assault charges in December and accused of slashing his girlfriend with a broken glass during a dispute at his Jackson Heights home.

Queens Democratic Party Executive Secretary Mike Reich called on Democrats to support Smith on Tuesday but declined to comment on Monserrate’s standing within the party.

On Wednesday, Democratic leaders from around the City, including the Rev. Al Sharpton, met in Corona, planning to pressure Monserrate into flipping once again.

Meanwhile, Smith has been threatening to block Monday’s vote with a court injunction.

If Monserrate returns to the fold and Monday’s vote is thrown out, the Senate will be evenly divided and Democrats could presumably stall any further leadership challenges by Republicans. Should Monserrate return to the Dems and the vote holds, the split would mean Espada and Skelos stay in power.

But despite statements of unity, Smith’s leadership role has been quietly questioned by many Democratic lawmakers, according to published reports.

It’s not the first time Smith’s leadership has been challenged. Espada, Monserrate and two other senators, Ruben Diaz (D-Bronx) and Carl Kruger (D-Brooklyn), challenged Smith’s ascension last year after Democrats gained the senate majority for the first time in 43 years. Monserrate quickly backed down, but the remaining “Three Amigos” continued to jeopardize Smith’s leadership until the last minute, finally caving in January in exchange for favored committee appointments and promises of reform.

The first insurgency was painted in hues of racism and bigotry as the gang’s statements circulated through the press during the stalemate.

Espada had told reporters that he was concerned about the prospect of a black president, black governor and black senate majority leader – and that Hispanics were under represented in the legislature’s leadership.

Kruger and Diaz are staunch opponents of same-sex marriage and said Smith’s openness to introducing a bill on the issue made him unacceptable.

Democrats gathered for a rally in St. Albans on Tuesday, where they resurrected the specter of race in the ongoing efforts to dethrone Smith.

“This is one of the worst of all of the political kind of shenanigans that I have ever seen in all of my 64 years of living,” the Rev. Floyd H. Flake, a former U.S. Rep. for Southeast Queens, said. “I don’t believe that if Malcolm Smith and Gov. [David] Paterson were not men of color – it’s an effort not only to remove Malcolm Smith from leadership, but it also designed to weaken Gov. David Paterson.”

Smith has refused to acknowledge Monday’s vote and is withholding the keys to the Senate floor until court challenges are filed. Republicans, joined by Espada and Monserrate, said they would resume legislative sessions on Thursday despite Smith’s defiance.``xEkuuZuZVluieIhRxLz``x1244747584``xDeadline``xPage3_061109_smithhiram.jpg``xMichael Lanza``xThe endless political sewage flowing through the state capital reached new depths this week as Queens Sen. Hiram Monserrate (l.) cut a deal to remove fellow boro Sen. Malcolm Smith (r.) from control, grinding state business to a halt and initiating a bitter battle over party control – all in the name of reform.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Boro Loses A Soldier Serving In Afghanistan``xtrib``xThe borough lost another brave son when Spc. Roberto A. Hernandez II, Far Rockaway, died on June 2.

The 21-year-old died of wounds sustained when his mounted patrol was attacked with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire in Paktya, Afghanistan.

Hernandez was assigned to the 549th Military Police Company, 385th Military Police Battalion, 16th Military Police Brigade (Airborne), Fort Stewart, GA.

Borough President Helen Marshall extended her condolences to friends, family and colleagues, saying his death “brings the war home to Queens and reminds us all of the dangers faced every day by all the members of our Armed Forces.”

In an unusual circumstance, the soldier’s Facebook profile remains online and open to the public, and is rife with insights into the young man’s life. (The social networking website only allows users to erase profiles themselves).

Hernandez’s profile wall, a pseudo bulletin board, is filled with friends and acquaintances leaving messages of grieving and memories, like Krystal Julis post:

“Omg [sic] Roberto I can’t believe you are gone. I remember us hanging out in [high school] like it was yesterday. You will truellllly [sic] be missed. I send my condolences to your family and i am seriously praying for you guys. Love you Roberto say Hi to my mom for me.”

Hernandez’s profile itself reveals a young man strongly tied to his friends and proud to be in the armed services.

Among the photos is a tattoo on Hernandez’s forearm, a verse from the book of Psalms reading, “I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about” followed by “No Fear” inked onto his wrist.``xEkuuZuyAZVpaMrcmVv``x1244746975``xDeadline``xPage3_061109.jpg``xJoseph Orovic``xSpc. Roberto Hernandez took pride in his military service.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Maloney Poll Shows Edge Over Gillibrand``xtrib``xThe political turmoil in Albany has highlighted the troubles facing Gov. David Paterson. His 17 percent approval rating is dramatically low, and some have linked the coup in the Senate to Paterson’s inability to maintain order among the leaders in both parties.

Paterson’s numbers have dropped steadily, and one of the most caustic and costly blunders has been the appointment of U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand. Paterson has been torn apart in the press over his treatment of contender Caroline Kennedy, and with Gillibrand, Paterson, Sen. Chuck Schumer and appointed Comptroller Tom DiNapoli all up for election in 2010, polls indicate that only Schumer may survive.

Democrats, reportedly as high up as President Barack Obama, have put pressure on potential Democratic challengers to Gillibrand, trying to save her the struggle of a primary given the likelihood that she will face an intense Republican challenge.

That has not slowed down one potential Democratic challenger – U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney, who represents Astoria and Manhattan’s East Side.

Maloney has hired political consultant Hank Sheinkopf to discuss a recent poll showing 27 percent of respondents saying Gillibrand has done her job well enough to warrant re-election, while 29 percent say that it is already time she be replaced.

“She is certainly considering it,” Sheinkopf said of Maloney’s potential challenge to Gillibrand. “She’s within striking distance. For a congresswoman from downstate she certainly does well. Sen. Gillibrand is not known by a significant portion of the population.”

Sheinkopf said the distance between Maloney and Gillibrand “is not significant,” though he did note that Schumer’s support for the incumbent definitely “has value.”

The poll of 600 likely Democratic primary voters showed Maloney leading Gillibrand 34 to 32 percent. ``xEkuuZuylyysvjlfhgE``x1244746866``xDeadline``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Jamaica High School On the Rebound``xtrib``xA slow parade of students ambled up the concrete stairs winding up the expanse of a grassy knoll. The students chatter rose to a low murmur. Midway through their ascent a voice bellows: "We are continuing with period three."

Walter Acham, Jamaica High School's principal, is standing on the steps overlooking his brood of more than 1,000 at the end of a fire drill.

Once inside, Acham gives a few stragglers who've yet to make it to class encouragement.

"Let's go, let's go; back to class," he said. "No walking around."

Acham has held the reigns for almost two years and in that time Jamaica has undergone a transformation. The school was on the persistently dangerous schools and impact schools lists.

The rumors regarding the violence and its ineffectiveness swirled. According to Acham, the school was being watched and dissecting Jamaica was an option.

"Nobody wanted to see Jamaica fail," Acham said. "Nobody wanted to see Jamaica cut up."

He didn't come to Jamaica unprepared. Acham was the safety administrator for Region Three, which includes the high school.

"I knew the concerns here very, very well" he said "There were no surprises in the needs of the school."

Acham was installed in the 2007-2008 school term and the changes took shape. With him, he brought Fran Russo, an assistant principal of security.

He said the plan was to have clear consistent expectation of students, to enforce the discipline code and student regulation; staff was proactive in promoting better citizenship in schools. Also, Acham implemented a policy of "my door is always open."

According to Russo, detention and in-house suspension were added to give students a consequence for negative behavior.

"Because of the consistency of the rules students abide by the rules," Russo said.

Judy Reuben, coordinator of pupil personnel services, said programs and community based organizations were invited into the building to help foster change and increase student success.

She said the school provides a credit recovery program-students recover credit for classes they are failing or have failed in the past, for classes they've failed, there are extended day programs.

"We revamped everything," Reuben said. Since implementing the programs graduation rates have increased and anticipates 100 more graduates this year.

"We do everything we can to keep kids in and graduate with their cohort," Reuben said.

Complaints of violent crimes at the school decreased from 27in 2007 to just 5 in 2008. Also, superintendent suspensions of students dwindled 39 percent in a two-year span, to 40 last year from 66 in 2006.

Russo, a 26-year veteran of the New York public schools as a teacher and assistant principal, said it took her one year to get it together

"There was a struggle with students and staff, but as the days went by we were being effective," Russo said. "The tone [of the building] is quiet. Kids are going to class."

To echo Russo, Acham said the staff didn't immediately "trust the new mission."

"Basically the school changed when we got out new principal," said senior Tracy Ganga. "Our principal made a huge difference in our lives."

Consistently the tone is the same from administration to students touting the improvements.

Evonna Azim, 17, said the new administration gave education a purpose.

"The change in administration gave me a reason to be here," Azim said. "Everybody has a reason to go to class."

Dookumarie Persuad, 17, said something as simple as going through the metal detectors changed. Persuad, a senior, said instead of a line that wrapped around the school as kids waited to be scanned the process was simplified, with a system where a card is swiped and attendance is taking through the same process.

"The halls are clean," Persaud said. "Nobody roams the halls. Our principal is very up on that." I don't think there is any school like Jamaica."

Although no one refutes Jamaica High School had issues, they contend the school didn't
deserve its hard lined reputation.

"We never deserved the reputation that we had," Gerri Calandro, the school's librarian said. "Jamaica was never a dangerous school."

"The public image of the school has changed," Acham said. "You don't feel that edge like the building is under siege." ``xEkuuZuyZuufYfUgZqn``x1244746744``x(default)``xPage5_061109.jpg``xSASHA AUSTRIE ``xJamaica High School is working toward a return to its former glory.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Hearings Set For Waste Transfer Station``xtrib``xWaste Management of New York will hold public hearings on plans to construct a rail-based waste transfer station in Long Island City, where solid waste would be loaded into sealed containers, trucked to the Maspeth Railyard and eventually hauled out of the City by train.

The plan would take 51 to 58 tractor trailers off the City’s roads every day, the company said.

The first public hearing will be held on Monday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Sunnyside Community Services, located at 43-31 39th St. Another hearing is scheduled on Wednesday from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Martin Luther High School in Maspeth.

The new facility will replace a truck-based transfer station located at 38-22 Review Ave and would operate six days per week. The plan also includes a request to increase capacity at the site to handle 2,100 tons of waste per day, up from 958. Trucks would be barred from idling outside or in the facility, where they will be required to tip their loads after entering and then leave. The facility will be designed to process 35 incoming and six outgoing garbage trucks per hour.

Outgoing trucks will access the Maspeth rails via Maspeth Avenue, where operations are limited to two eight-hour shifts per day.

Each train will hold 15 to 17 containers to be hauled to disposal sites outside the City.

The plan comes as the City works to shift its waste-transportation network from truck-based operations to railroads and barges in an effort to reduce vehicle emissions and ease congestion.

The proposed facility will receive waste from throughout Western Queens. The public hearings will include a presentation of the plan followed by a question and answer session with attendees. ``xEkuuZuyyyytbcBZjrP``x1244746666``x(default)``x``xMichael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Sanitation Commish Defending Trash Plan``xtrib``xThe Department of Sanitation maintains that its proposed Marine Transfer Station poses no threat to air traffic around LaGuardia Airport.

The agency’s commissioner John Doherty defended the MTS in response to growing discussion of the project, as well as pressure from U.S. Reps. Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside) and Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights).

“Opponents of the project would have the public believe the project is unsafe, when in fact it has been designed not to attract birds and has completed an exhaustive review process,” Doherty said in a statement.

He also asserted both the Federal Aviation Authority and United States Department of Agriculture have no objections to the facility, and that it would not fall within the Runway Protection Zone at its proposed location 2,200 feet from the airport east runway.

The $125 million facility would be located at 31st Avenue and 122nd Street. Closed Sanitation trucks filled with garbage would line up as much as 17 deep to enter the facility. Once inside, the trucks would tip their load into chutes where compactors would then press the waste into containers. The containers, each holding about 22 tons of waste, would then be loaded onto barges capable of carrying as many as 48 containers – or more than a million pounds of containerized garbage.``xEkuuZuyyFyJkoJlgAI``x1244746636``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Vantage Response System Earns Praise``xtrib``xWhen Vantage Properties bought two portfolios of residential real estate in Queens, they hoped to bring a new approach to managing apartment buildings long-neglected by their previous owners. By operating nearly 5,000 units, most of which are rent-regulated and therefore previously seen as undesirable investments, Vantage says it hopes to provide better service for less money because of its scale – something akin to Wal-mart or IKEA, but in the realm of building management.

The offices of Vantage appear to function like a centralized command zone. The company operates a 24-hour, seven-day call center that handles repairs and maintenance. The system was designed by the architect of 311, the City’s own complaint line, and has been praised by the Department of Housing Preservation and Development for meeting its standard for an acceptable alternatives to superintendents.

In a letter to Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Sunnyside), the HPD Commissioner Rafael Cestero wrote that the plan, “by providing accountability through central oversight, could improve the triaging of requests and more efficiently track the response to complaints.”

All 87 buildings in the company’s Queens portfolio have been outfitted with video surveillance that feeds into a central, round the clock security center that monitors the facilities for any suspicious behavior. Each building also includes a call button that residents can hit to automatically point the camera to their position and get the attention of the security personnel.

Vantage says it is in the process of updating this system to combine motion detecting capabilities, so that unusual activity would automatically attract a camera’s attention.

“The hundreds of men and women who work in Vantage buildings are an absolutely critical component of our determination to provide the highest quality service to our residents, and along with our unique 24/7 phone hotline and precedent-setting 24/7 security headquarters, they ensure our residents our safe and comfortable,” said Neil Rubler, the president and founder of Vantage.

Vantage has only been operating for three years, but it says it has already cleared 9,244 of the 10,842 citywide housing violations that it inherited from the previous owners. According to the same letter from Cestero, Vantage has 4,626 total violations currently open in its entire 136 building portfolio. The letter also said “the properties overall were well maintained.”

Rubler said the company’s business model is to “dramatically rehabilitate buildings that were once shining examples of affordable housing but under previous owners fell into disrepair – and we’re committed to them for the long-term, as are our investors.” The financing for the purchase came in the form of long-term, fixed rate loans, so the company’s strategy has not been upended by the credit crunch.

Vantage has drawn criticism and legal action from housing advocates, and an ad hoc tenants group formed throughout the Vantage properties, fostering accusations of harassment and unjustified efforts to kick out rent-controlled tenants so the values on the apartments could be raised to market rates.

Rubler strenuously denied the allegations and said that the higher turnover rates are a result of illegal subletting and other violations that the previous landlords did not bother enforcing. After the accusations were raised, Rubler instituted a moratorium on legal action against tenants to review the process and ensure it was functioning properly.

The case brought on by housing advocates is still pending in the New York County Supreme Court.``xEkuuZuyVlZXzEVuLuH``x1244746587``x(default)``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Avella’s Existence Doubles Thompson’s $$``xtrib``xCouncilman Tony Avella (D-Bayside) is doing widely-favored Democratic candidate Comptroller Bill Thompson a big favor: staying in the race.

The existence in the race of Avella, who lags behind Thompson exponentially in fund-raising, means the victor in the primary will be able to spend twice the maximum he would if he did not have a primary.

As of the May 15 filing, Avella has raised $248,270 and has spent $116,664. Thompson has raised $5,122,673, and spent $1,753,321. If both stay in the race, their privately raised funds will be matched by the taxpayer up to a total cap of $6.158 million apiece. The winner would then be entitled to spend that same amount again – not as much as the $18 million Mayor Mike Bloomberg has already spent, but a considerable boost, nonetheless.

Without a primary, and if he accepts matching funds, Thompson would have to rein in his spending at just $6 million instead of $12 million total.

Asked if it would be more fiscally prudent for the city not to have a primary, since as of now Thompson is widely perceived as the Bloomberg’s greater threat, Avella said:

“That’s what [Thompson] is saying. In other words, Bill Thompson doesn’t believe in democracy. In my opinion…Bill Thompson is not the best candidate. He’s running a very low key campaign thus far.”

“We believe we’ll raise enough money to raise matching funds,” Avella said. We’ll be competitive. Even if we weren’t it shouldn’t come down to money. If it comes down to money, then where’s the democracy in this country anymore? Raise money, no votes – you just win? Democracy is in serious trouble if that’s the case.”

Asked if anyone from the Thompson campaign had contacted him to encourage him to stick in the race, Avella said; “Not to my knowledge. If that communication was made from the Thompson campaign I would send out a press release. That would be collusion.”

“I would consider such a request to be illegal,” Avella added.

The matched financial padding will help get Thompson’s name out among the public ahead of the race against the mayor. Thompson said this week he is more focused on the race against the mayor than the primary, and will probably not spend the full $6 million in his fight against Avella.``xEkuuZuyVukQMLOlflM``x1244746542``x(default)``x``xLori Gross``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens School Ready For The Bronx``xtrib``xQueens school Little League has a new borough champ. IS 61, the Da Vinci School in Corona, won their game against the IS 235 Academy for New Americans in Astoria to claim the title on Monday, cementing a perfect 8-0 record for the season.

Coaches Jose Guzman and Joe DiDominico led their team to the top of the Queens division in its first year of participation in the NYC Middle School Baseball league, the only free program of its kind in the city. The game was called at the top of the fifth inning with a final score of 8-1.

Both teams put in a solid performance, with the New Americans up 1-0 in the first inning. The New Americans had an insatiable hunger for stealing bases and the players tried to build momentum after the Da Vinci school broke ahead with a triple by Wilvin Laguar. A steady series of hits from Gevaldo Santana, Noel Hernandez, Juniel Urbaez and Albert Rodriguez in the third inning putting them ahead 6-1.

"The secret is singles. Don't think about home runs, just hit the ball" said Carlos Correia, 14, from IS 235.

With bases loaded, the New Americans got the fatal third out and were not able to rally. They came into the game as the underdog, with a 2-4 record that still put them in second place because they were in a three way tie with the other two schools in the division: IS 204 and the Renaissance Charter School.

"A lot of these kids never heard of baseball, or didn't play it in their home countries," said New Americans coach and math teacher Jeff Cohen. Of the 19 players originally on the team, the New Americans had recent immigrants from 10 countries represented, including Colombia, Puerto Rico, Bangladesh, Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezuela, Pakistan, Mexico and Ecuador.

"Some of these kids we had to teach to drop the bat," said Cohen, referring the cricket that still flows in the blood of the south Asian players.

The unstoppable Da Vinci team was armed with a talented young pitcher named Albert Rodriguez, who his coaches called "the ace of the staff." He had given up only one run in the season before this game and at one point had a streak of seven strike outs to ensure the Da Vinci fielders had some breathing room.

The Da Vinci MVP of the game was Gevaldo Santana, the first baseman. Both coaches also commended their catchers, who according to DiDominico, "is the most underappreciated, get beat up position" in the game.

"We did our best - this is the first time playing baseball for most of these kids. We came in second and lost to a better team. Nothing to hang your head about," said Cohen as the teams lined up to shake hands.

Da Vinci goes on to play the Bronx champions next week, hoping to go all the way and reach the top of the 29 teams in Manhattan, Queens and the Bronx.

The more than 600 player league is a partnership between the City Department of Education, the City Parks Department and the Pinnacle Group, a real estate management company that sponsored the entire cost of the program.
``xEkuuZuyulkVGCJptlc``x1244746482``x(default)``xPage14_061109.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xPlayers from Da Vinci (l.) and New Americans (r) fought for borough dominance and a chance for citywide glory.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Remembering Dad, And Days Gone By``xtrib``xIf he had had a personality, he would have been considered a Pillar of the Community. When he walked past, people would have nodded and greeted him – “Good day, Mr. Minori.” Instead, he walked to work every day almost unnoticed. He was too quiet and reserved, even for my brother and me, his sons.

Those were the days when everyone had very little. We hung out on street corners, playing cards on the sidewalk sitting next to the small apartment building, which was surrounded by empty lots. We played our Italian game of bocce – with rocks. When we got older, it was stick-ball in the street, for Bronxwood Avenue was a wide one. But hanging around was mostly our thing.

One day a spaceship must have landed. Jogging down the avenue, probably from somewhere in Mt. Vernon (for we were already on 217th Street and that began at 241st Street), came four African-American gentlemen, at a casual pace, all dressed in proper white tennis clothing with shorts and sneakers. We had never seen the likes of it. They slowed down, stopped at our corner and looked over at an empty lot across the street. They spoke a few words softly to each other, nodded and jogged back to their spaceship up in Mt. Vernon.

Next thing we know a bulldozer, or earth-mover, showed up and began leveling the empty lot, the width of which could accommodate two tennis courts. They used half of the property; they installed the net standards, put in the court lines, built a high chicken-wire fence around it all, with a gate to enter and leave, which they kept locked.

Well, to cut this part short, it didn’t last long. We had too many manly types just hanging around, with nothing better to do. So in the evenings, after the games were over, they vandalized the fence and did so night after night.

The tennis players finally gave it up, had a wrecking crew finish the job and left us a flat field, bereft of all tennis paraphernalia.

This is where my father comes in. he was a taciturn man, all into himself. He was like the captain of our family, my mother and us two brothers, and he never fraternized with the troops. He hardly ever spoke to us in a friendly manner and we learned to pay him ‘no mind,’ except for his harsh discipline.

One day he came home from work, which was as a cleaner at Evander Childs High School, with a cover-torn softball. In those days ‘softball’ meant soft, a cloth cover. I saw him with needle and thread, sewing the ball cover back together. He did not return it to the school. He said we could have it. The next day he brought home a bat – in terrible shape. But a few days after that, one that was much better.

Then it started, all summer, the calling up to our windows – “Eugene, are you coming down? Throw down the ball and bat.” I’d holler back – “I’ll be down in 10 minutes.” It turned out that the abandoned tennis courts were a perfect square for a game of softball. Home plate to first base to second and third. Then not only our age group, 13-17 years, but some of the older guys got in on the games. They brought with them arguments galore, and some expertise about how to play. Very few players used a glove – like I said, this was softball.

So my father saw it before we did, if memory serves. I guess he saw us playing cards, pitching pennies, playing kick the can, and generally wasting time. Then he saw the field and became a petty thief. Remembering it all now, I guess he changed the character of our neighborhood. Even after the War, we played on that field year after year, whenever weather permitted.

But my father, still quietly, with dignity and that military air, walked to work every day, and I cannot guess if other neighbors appreciated or not what he had accomplished. My brother and I certainly did not even think of it. All we knew was that when someone out of nowhere leaves you an infield, it’s time to play ball.``xEkuuZuyFAkbcUnldsQ``x1244746392``x50plus``xPage16_061109.jpg``xEUGENE R. MINORI``xLouis Minori - from what was clearly another era.``x``x``x99891066339300``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Atria KG Celebrates 10th``xtrib``xA lively gathering of community leaders, local officials and distinguished guests joined an enthusiastic crowd of Atria residents and family members as a local landmark institution celebrated a milestone at Atria Kew Gardens’ 10th Anniversary Gala.

Atria Executive Director Shira Brazil welcomed guest speakers, including Scott Wolff, from Assemblywoman Nettie Mayersohn; Rabbi Daniel Pollack of Queens Community Board 9; Capt. Charles McAvoy of the 102 Precinct; and Rabbi Binyamin Mittel of Kew Gardens. Queens Borough President Helen Marshall sent warm congratulations, and U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman offered, “My very best wishes for a wonderful evening, and another decade’s worth of success.”

A group of original Atria residents participated in a moving rededication ceremony, followed by a toast presented by Atria Regional Vice President John Hartmayer: “To 10 years of life with in a warm, wonderful and supportive community…[and the] many memorable events, moving celebrations and treasured memories that truly make this community a home.”

During the past 10 years, Atria Kew Gardens has established itself as one of the New York area’s leading retirement communities, and a model of excellence in the overall quality of life that older adults can enjoy. Atria recently presented its first Community Art Exhibition, featuring an impressive display of original works of art created by residents and family members.

Atria is home to a variety of accomplished individuals, and is committed to providing residents with an exceptional senior living experience every day. Within the past year alone Atria has hosted a tribute by the NYPD to a decorated former police officer and current resident; honored a variety of active residents for their contributions to the community at “Atria Thanks You;” and held heart-warming celebrations of unforgettable events, from a 60th wedding anniversary to a 102nd birthday.

Atria Kew Gardens is located at 117-01 84 Ave., Kew Gardens, New York, 11418, and at atriaseniorliving.com, and is Kosher under the Vaad Harabonim of Queens.

For any additional information, call (718) 441-0300.``xEkuuZuyFkAzdJfsEIT``x1244746329``x50plus``xPage18_061109.jpg``x``xPamela Navon, Community Sales Dir., Atria Forest Hills (l. to r.); Steve Nichols, Exec. Dir., Atria Forest Hills; Atria Senior Living Reg. VP John Hartmayer; Atria Kew Gardens Exec. Dir. Shira Brazil; Crystal Harrison, asst. exec. dir., Atria 86th Street; Donna Herbst, Atria Engage Life Spec.``x``x``x99891066339300``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Converting Her 65th Into A Present``xtrib``xWhen Mattye Gandel realized her 65th birthday was inching closer, she didn’t want presents or a party. “I didn’t want it to be focused on me,” Gandel said. “I wanted to see what I could do for somebody else.”

So for Gandel, her birthday gift came in the form of raising more than $25,000 for the New York Child Learning Institute, a school for children with autism in College Point that her great nephew currently attends.

Gandel also has another strong connection to those with autism. “I have an autistic cousin in his 40s, and now he does nothing,” she said. “Things like [schools for autism] didn’t happen back then [when he was a child].”

Inspired by a friend who recently raised money for a charity by biking hundreds of miles, Gandel decided to dust off her walking shoes and set out on a two-day, 40-mile walk to raise money for NYCLI.

But, she knew she didn’t have to walk alone. Gandel reached out to three friends with whom she’d done the Avon Breast Cancer walk in 2001:Bambi Granovsky, Frema Sobel and Linda Beckerman, all of whom are in their late 50s to early 60s, as well as the boy’s grandmother, Toby Cobrin.

“They all have grandchildren and know the importance of helping their kids and giving other children good starts,” Gandel remarked.

The five women spent three months training and fundraising. Starting with four-mile walks they increased the distance every week until they reached their ultimate goal. During this training period, the women were able to generate donations from nearly 200 family, friends and businesses.

In early May they set out on their two-day walk, “We walked on country roads, so it was quiet, people would stop us and talk… they were amazed.” Gandel said. “We all felt really great about what we had accomplished.”

For more information about NYCLI and its parent company AABR, or to donate, visit nycli.org or aabr.org.``xEkuuZuykyZDYstaFVT``x1244746267``x50plus``xPage19_061109.jpg``x``xMattye Gandel and her friends walked to raise autism money.``x``x``x99891066339300``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x CONVICTION IN 2004 MURDER: ``xtrib``xA Jamaica man was convicted for the second time of murder in the 2002 shooting death of 27-year-old Josiah Salley.

Oliver Berry, 29, was convicted last Wednesday of second-degree murder, second-degree attempted murder, and second- and third-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

According to trial testimony, Berry approached Salley with a handgun after a traffic dispute in July 2002 and fired seven times at the vehicle, fatally striking him in the arm and chest. Korin Bush, 30, Salley’s passenger, was not harmed. Berry then fled.

The case was profiled on the television show “America’s Most Wanted” in March 2004. The following month a woman told police that she recognized Berry from the show and provided an address where Berry was living in Brooklyn. Police raided the home and found Berry hiding in a closet.

Berry was originally convicted in April 2005 and sentenced to 40 years to life in prison. But a retrial was granted in March 2008 after a portion of an investigating detective’s testimony was ruled inadmissible by an appellate court.

“For a second time, a jury has found the defendant guilty of a violent and senseless slaying committed with an illegal gun. Though justice had to wait, justice has now been served. The actions of the defendant, who was a fugitive for nearly two years after the shooting, warrant imposition of a lengthy prison sentence to punish him and protect society,” Queens DA Richard Brown said.

Berry faces up to 40 years to life in prison when he is sentenced.``xEkuuZuyEAAmsnZHbVH``x1244746199``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``xFrom The DA``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MISSING TEEN: ``xtrib``xPolice are looking for a Cambria Heights teen reported missing on Tuesday.

Stephen King, 16, was last seen leaving home Tuesday morning, walking to a nearby school bus stop. King is described as approximately 5-foot-8, weighing 170 pounds and has brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing a black and white hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans.

Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.``xEkuuZuyEuZKtgxRehU``x1244746147``xBlotter``xblotter061109_missing.jpg``x``xStephen King has been missing since Tuesday.``x``x``x99941066339274``x105th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x BANK ROBBER: ``xtrib``xPolice are trying to identify a suspect wanted in connection to multiple bank robberies in Queens.

The suspect struck the Capitol One Bank at 83-24 Woodhaven Blvd. last Tuesday at approximately 9 a.m. after he approached the teller and demanded cash.

The suspect then fled with an undetermined amount of cash.

He struck again last Friday shortly before 10 a.m., attempting to rob the Chase Bank at 96-19-101st Ave.

He is described as a black man, approximately 6-feet, with a light complexion, black hair and wearing black baseball cap, blue jeans and a black sports jacket.

Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.``xEkuuZuyEpuJttuilRM``x1244746104``xBlotter``xblotter061109_bank_robber.jpg``x``xPolice are seeking this bank robber.``x``x``x99941066339274``x106th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x HOMICIDE: ``xtrib``xTwo teens were arrested on Tuesday, accused of robbing and killing 49-year-old David Kao of Woodhaven.

Chris Levy, 17, and Cory Azor, 16, were charged with murder, robbery and criminal possession of stolen property after they were linked to the Saturday attack in Flushing.

Kao was declared dead on arrival by medical technicians after police found him unconscious near Barclay Avenue and 147th Street at approximately 2:15 p.m.``xEkuuZuypulKWvytNLO``x1244746048``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x109th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Thompson Meets Queens: A Walk Through The Streets Of The Boro With The Democratic Mayoral Hopeful``xtrib``xOne part of campaigning is shaking hands; another is keeping your stump speech fresh. Then you need a resume stocked with relevant experience, a litany of issues and a winning smile – and apparently a guy with a bullhorn.

On a sunny boisterous Saturday, mayoral hopeful and City Comptroller Bill Thompson rolled up his sleeves and shook dozens of hands as he and his campaign entourage – which included a fired up Assemblyman Jose Peralta (D-Jackson Heights), various democratic staffers, a group of little leaguers holding Thompson signs (“our coach really supports him,” said one of the kids), and a man walking along the street side of the parked cars bellowing “Say hello to the next mayor, Bill Thompson!” on loop over his bullhorn.

An Uphill Road
Residents from all walks of life greeted Thompson and many wished him the best in his run. “I support you – but you don’t have enough money. Good luck against Bloomberg’s machine,” said one elderly woman. “I think I’m gonna vote for you cause Bloomberg’s getting on my nerves,” said another.

Even the encouraging remarks highlight the need for Thompson to walk the streets and stump in all the restaurants, cafes, and beauty salons he can find. Bloomberg has much more money, eight years of political muscle to flex and everyone knows his name. Thompson has a solid record, a pleasant style and an enduring work ethic.

Thompson campaigns after work and on weekends. “I don’t miss having free time; I haven’t had any for years,” he said. “We’re taking this campaign day by day.” On this particular day, he began with a Hispanic-centric meet and greet at local eatery Loc Barzola on 37th Avenue and 92nd Street. Then he drove to 74th Street to walk through the heart of Jackson Heights. Then he was off to East Elmhurst and Corona Community Day at the PS 127 schoolyard.

In that whirlwind tour of Queens he was flanked by a half dozen local politicians and generated hundreds of photographs. He also gave speeches and listened to local concerns, even as the campaign caravan kept its brisk pace through the borough. The next day, he planned to return to Queens for the Annual LGBT Parade in Jackson Heights.

There was no doubt that he found many sympathetic ears: “I’d vote for a dog if he ran against Bloomberg,” said Evelyn Felix, a retired social worker. “He has no concept what poor or middle class people go through.”

“I don’t know much about Thompson, but I’m gonna vote for him cause its time for a change,” said Vermell Wesley, a day care worker from Woodside.

Such comments explain the steadily increasing number of Thompson’s public appearances and press conferences. Many people are angry with Bloomberg over a wide variety of issues, but few of them know about his potential Democratic challenger. According to a recent poll by the NY Times, NY1 and Cornell University, 51 percent of New Yorkers thought the city was on the wrong track compared to 40 percent who thought it was going in the right direction. Furthermore, of the 683 respondents, almost three quarters did not know who Thompson was.

Who Is Thompson?
Thompson sketches out his background in the speech he gave that morning: he is the son of New York City public school teacher and a New York State Supreme Court Judge. He served in various political offices, as an aide to a Congressman, as the youngest Deputy Borough President for Brooklyn, and as President of the Board of Education. He also has also worked in the private sector for an investment banking firm. He was elected City Comptroller in 2001.

He highlights some of the successes his office has accomplished in the last eight years, including uncovering the MTA’s second set of books, audits that have uncovered more than $248 million in savings for the City, and a long list of innovations and improvements that can be found at the City Comptroller’s website at comptroller.nyc.gov.``xEkuuZuVAyuskqqRkVE``x1244745964``xFeature``xfeat061109C.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xThe bullhorn was present throughout Bill Thompson’s tour, telling residents to “say hello to the next mayor.”``xfeat061109B.jpg``xA supporter issues Bill Thompson a challenge.``x84971066339260``x``x``xBill On Mike
Then comes the meat of his speech: “The mayor is trying to balance this budget on the backs of New Yorkers.” Thompson tends to be soft spoken and unflappably optimistic, but this relaxed style changes when he steps up to attack the current mayor.

“Four more years of no affordable housing,” he says as the crowd begins to cheer him along. “The newspapers are saying [our schools] are getting better, but our children are doing worse.” He is accusing the mayor of charging homeless families to stay at shelters, alleging $400 million in cuts to public schools, pointing to reduced childcare slots, and repeatedly painting Bloomberg as an out-of-touch billionaire who only cares about creating jobs “that pay $500,000 and up.” He also rallied against the proposed one-half-percent sales tax increase to plug the City budget.

He reminded the audience that Bloomberg flirted with running for president and vice-president and said his opponent considers “being mayor the consolation prize.”

He argues he can take the City down a different path from what he characterized as Bloomberg’s policies: “tolls on the bridges, taxes on our back.”

To end his speech, Thompson looked out over his riled up audience, slowed his pace and made a ubiquitous political reference: “How do you beat the richest person in the city? We saw that last November.”

He said he would not co-opt the slogan ‘yes, we can,’ – “I’m not going to say ‘si, se puede.’” Instead, a bit sheepishly, Thompson delivered his own version: “together we can.”

Differing Perspectives
During a brief interview with Thompson, he discussed his past successes and offered himself as a better mayor because “people are turned off by [Bloomberg’s] style.”

Of all the voters interviewed that day, style seemed to be main turnoff for Bloomberg. “Even though [Bloomberg] wants to do good, he can’t relate. He’s a billionaire,” said Daryl Fredrerick, a student at Borough of Manhattan Community College and an East Elmhurst native.

What about all the positive crime and school numbers? What about his plans to revitalize New York’s green economy? “We all know numbers can be played,” said Fredrerick.

Thompson is trying to tap into this sentiment and it may be working. But there is a risk people who are not already against Bloomberg may not respond the same way to the billionaire bogeyman rhetoric.

After hours of handshakes and greetings, Thompson was asked what the word populism meant to him. “It means you listen to people about what they care about,” he said. “I don’t think there’s anything wrong with populism… if it’s honest, as opposed to pandering.”``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xfeat061109front.jpg``xBill Thompson listens to a constituent at Loc Barzola.``x``x``x``x``x Poetry Lovers To Meet In Jackson Heights``xtrib``xQueens poetry lovers wanted to bring an experience like the biennial Dodge Poetry Festival to the neighborhood. So Marina Yoffe and others, in a cyber office hosted by Google Docs, organized the Jackson Heights Poetry Festival, which will have its second run June 18-20.

“The idea of having people enjoying life and enjoying poetry,” said Yoffe, “and having poetry be kind of lucrative and out there is nice. Even on a small scale. Poets should get paid.”

And indeed they will be. Sponsors like Starbucks and Dime fund the organization. State Sen. Hiram Monserrate (D-Corona) secured a 2008-2009 Legislative Grant for the poetry-loving collective. Yoffe says he was taken by the group’s mission, and did so without prompt or request.

Most of the poets leading workshops – including 2007 Queens Poet Laureate Julio Marzan – are receiving a $200 fee for their participation. Marzan is a Puerto Rican-born Queens poet with several books of poetry, including one titled “Utopia Parkway,” which reflects on …“that life always dreamed from New York.”

“In Jackson Heights,” said Marzan “you have a convergence of several immigrations. Russian immigration, Cuban immigration, a lot of cultures, a lot of middle class immigrants. And the immigration has brought with it a lot of cultural life.” Thus came the demand for a poetry festival.

“Well it’s a strange thing to say,” explained Yoffe, “but there’s actually a need for a cultural organization. There’s nothing quite so open to the public. There was no poetry organization. No open mics.”

A full day of workshops will be held on June 18 by poets at the Garden School, and will be on the theme of Poetry and Memory. June 19 will feature open readings at Terraza Cafe near the 7 train line. The Terraza Café also hosts their weekly open readings on Tuesdays, during which any community member can share their work. Yoffe said they even have a comedian who comes to gain exposure at their open readings.

The last day of the festival will be outdoors like the Dodge Festival, on the Garden School lawn.

Participating poets include Nicole Cooley, Roger Sedarat, Richard Jeffrey Newman, and Marzan. There will also be independent book publishers present for participants to meet and shmooze with. People interested in participating can go to www.jhpfest.org.``xEkuuZuVZFFzaTFhGaV``x1244745733``xLeisure``xLei061109A.gif``xLori Gross``xQueens Poet Laureate Julio Marzon will take part in the second Jackson Heights Poetry Festival.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x From Maya To Today; Chocolate Rules``xtrib``xPlanting Fields Arboretum and State Park is hosting a delicious exhibit now through the end of September that is sure to please your sweet tooth.

The exhibition “Chocolate: A Dip Into History” is based on the book “The True History of Chocolate” by the late Sophie D. Coe and her husband Dr. Michael D. Coe, Emeritus Professor, Yale University, and grandson of William Robertson Coe, the creator of Planting Fields Arboretum. Dr. Coe is also Chairman of Planting Fields Foundation.

The book is a remarkable and scholarly account of the genesis of chocolate made from cacao beans, its place and value in Maya civilization – where it was used 1,500 years ago – to the luxury, high quality chocolate of today.

In the exhibition, compare how Meso-American cultures used chocolate in everyday life up to modern day societies. Ceramic vessels used for chocolate consumption will be featured. Investigate how chocolate was featured in art from the ages and how the cacao bean was used as currency.

Learn how European nobles were introduced to the wonders of chocolate and transformed cacao into a confection, and how the Industrial Revolution changed the production of chocolate at companies such as Cadbury and Hershey. See how chocolate has affected pop culture, its importance to the rain forest and its esteem in today’s society.

Come and enjoy M&M math for children; discover how seeds are extracted from the cacao pod; examine the symbols on ancient vessels or try your hand at spelling words using ancient Maya hieroglyphs, and maybe try a piece of chocolate or two.

The exhibit is on view through Wednesday, Sept. 30, daily at Coe Hall at Planting Fields Arboretum, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The cost of entry is $3.50, members and children under 12 are free. The exhibition fee also includes children’s activities and a self-guided tour of Coe Hall.

For more information go to plantingfields.org or call (516) 922-8678. ``xEkuuZuVyVyzPToXRmo``x1244745656``xLeisure``xLei061109B.gif``x``xA Maya ceramic vessel, painted with the hieroglyph for cacao (chocolate), about 750AD, is part of the exhibit. It is kindly lent by Justin and Barbara Kerr.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Art Students Sought For Summer Skill Prep``xtrib``xThe Queens Council on the Arts invites high school juniors and seniors to apply to its summer session of the High School to Art School Portfolio Development Program.

HS2AS equips students with intensive arts skills training, visual arts portfolio development, mentorship opportunities, networking, and college application and financial aid planning. QCA prepares its students to aggressively compete for admission to distinguished art programs in colleges, universities, and art schools.

HS2AS seniors from fall 2008 and spring 2009 sessions were accepted into schools of their choice including: Cooper Union School of Art, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Cornell University, Carnegie Mellon University, Fashion Institute of Technology, Maryland Institute College of Art, Pratt Institute, New York University, Syracuse University, SUNY Purchase College, CUNY Hunter College, Tulane University, Skidmore College, University of St. Louis, School of Visual Arts, New York Institute of Technology, Boston University, and Boston Architectural College.

“HS2AS is an opportunity for NYC high school students to gain the experience necessary for the admission to the top art school in the country,” said Lisa M. Gutting, Arts Education Director, Queens Council on the Arts.

HS2AS trains students in fundamental techniques and concepts that provide the students with an understanding of artworks as well as the ability to create artworks of their own. Class and individual critiques prepare students to verbally express their ideas to others. The students visit artists’ studios, museums, and galleries to visually experience ideas learned in the classroom.

NYC artists conduct workshops and expose students to different career paths and experiences. The HS2AS instructors and financial aid advisor guide the students through portfolio preparation and the college/art school application process. The instructors develop a lasting mentor relationship that provides the students with a support network upon entering art school.

HS2AS is FREE to all students who are selected.

Interested applicants must make an appointment and attend the application interviews. Students must bring a completed application and five drawings created from direct observation (no drawings from photographs). HS2AS applications are available at queenscouncilarts.org, by calling (347)-505-3012 or by e-mailing qcaeducation@gmail.com to schedule an appointment.

HS2AS interviews will be held Saturday, June 20, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Queens Museum of Art in Flushing Meadows Park. The session will run Monday through Thursday, June 29 through Aug. 6, 10 a.m. to 4 pm. At the Rockaway Center for the Arts, Building T7, Fort Tilden, Gateway National Recreation Area.``xEkuuZuVVluwXuXWySL``x1244745584``xLeisure``x``x``x``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Italian Delight``xtrib``xSapori D’ischia
55-15 37th Ave., Woodside
(718) 446-1500
Cuisine: Italian
Hours: Tue-Sat. 5:30-11:30 pm; Sun. 3-10 pm; retail store opens at 9:30 am
Parking: Street

Just off Northern Boulevard in the warehouse section of Woodside sits what could possibly be Queens’ best hidden treasure of a restaurant.

By day an Italian specialty market, at night Sapori D’ischia transforms itself into one of Queens’ finest dining establishments. Just in time for dinner, the lights are dimmed and candles are lit on the shelves where many of Manhattan’s best Italian restaurants order their canned tomatoes and seasonings. Tables are arranged next to the deli counter, the meat refrigerator and where lines of people usually stand to pay for the groceries. The wait staff and musicians for the night enter, clad in black, preparing for diners in the mood for exciting versions of old Italian favorites.

Seated in the darkened, intimate room, it’s hard not to feel like you’re about to sample the family secrets passed down for generations – and that seems to be the case. The menu, all three pages, is a greatest hits of Italy, combining only the finest of what the country has to offer – meaning lots of prosciutto and Parmigiano.

It’s the type of restaurant you go for an experience and not one you go to when you have a particular craving. Resign yourself and your wallet to the care of Sapori D’ischia and let them control your senses.

The bowl of olives dripping in oil and the Italian bread are served with a choice of sparkling or flat water. Tap water, like in Europe, is not an option. The wine list is extensive and focuses on Italy’s best. The waiters are all able help with a selection to complement your dining experience.

The pastas are hard to pass up and many are prepared tableside. A large wheel of Parmesan is carted to your table and the hot pasta is rolled and tossed in its melting bowl, like fettuccine al’Antonio. The pasta is then doused with white truffle oil. It’s hard for diners at neighboring tables not to turn their heads to watch the preparation.

The gnocchi is made with lobster and spinach and served in a white sauce exciting taste buds from start to finish.

A group of four next to us shared a brick-oven pizza, of which the restaurant offers many incarnations. The thin crispy crust is just like the Italians serve on the coasts of Tuscany.

Finishing up the meal, as the Italians do, can go either way – a full coffee bar offers a soothing way to wind down. The dessert menu also has several enticing offerings like homemade gelato and sorbet. I had the mango sorbet and it melted in my mouth putting a sweet end to one of the best dining experiences I’ve ever had – anywhere.``xEkuuZuVVFyBeHdmNPw``x1244745536``xReviews``x``xBrad Groznik``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x The Time Has Come``xtrib``xAlbany is a sewer, and the people we send up there every year feed off the excrement that surrounds them, making deals to sell their souls in exchange for a promise of more staff, perks and other payoffs.

The action this week just shows that government is for sale to the highest bidder. The fact that Hiram Monserrate is considered despicable for his prior alleged criminal action makes him an easy target; but the performance of the state Legislature makes them all easy targets.

Lucrative deals, money for special interests, promises of power are all up for grabs on any given day in Albany. The most dysfunctional legislature in the U.S. proved again this week that instead of taking the high road for which so many had hoped, both parties chose to dwell in the sewer.

The problem in Albany is not one party or another - it is the psychology of a playground and the culture of self-aggrandizement. The needs of the members come far before the people, and elections, coups and the like have failed to slightly improve a situation that is destroying our state.

Not a single one of these greedy bastards should be sent back. Sadly these jokers - all of them in the Legislature - are not up for re-election until 2010. W e will remind you then, it is time to clean house. But until that opportunity comes, call your State Senators, call your Assembly members, and tell them "Shame on you."

Pray for the state. ``xEkuuZuVuyuryPGMZBA``x1244745464``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x She Wants It All``xtrib``xTo take up modeling requires a certain degree of ambition. But to have as much as Sheila Johnson, that could make you superhuman.

The Howard Beach newbie is trying her best to make it through the industry, but has gotten off to a bumpy start.

“I’ve been told a lot by modeling agencies that I’m not what they’re looking for,” she said. “But that won’t stop me.”

The multi-talented Johnson acts, sings, dances, plays the piano and writes her own songs keeping all avenues open. She hopes to one day get a double masters in creative writing and business, the ultimate goal being her own modeling conglomerate, with international renown and zillions in revenue.

But not all of her ambitions are monetary. Some involve greater causes, namely the environment. An environmental science class led her to dream of clothing made of reusable materials.

“Things like paper and aluminum foil, instead of using up our resources on the production of clothes,” Sheila said.

In her spare time, she admits to being a closet geek, with a taste for her SUNY Purchase textbooks.

“I finished the entire psychology textbook for class before anyone else,” she said.``xEkuukEZZAubQbIsaNw``x1244217794``xQconf``xconfmodelA060509.jpg``x``x``x``x``x58881066339339``x``xBloomberg’s Sharp Words``x“You are a disgrace.”

Those were Mayor Mike Bloomberg’s words for former Trib reporter Azi Paybarah after the New York Observer newsman tried to trip him up with a pointed question during a press conference in Queens last Thursday.

The mayor told reporters that New York City may be turning the corner on its economic woes during the press conference – to which Paybarah responded by asking if a recovery would undermine his logic for seeking a third term.

“If the economy is turning around, as you said, does that mean the rationale for changing term limits…,” Paybarah said before being cut off by an irritated mayor.

Bloomberg had argued that a term limits change was necessary because the City needed experienced lawmakers with financial acumen (i.e. Bloomberg) to navigate through an unprecedented downturn.

The mayor attempted to revise that reasoning when he responded to the question.

“The rationale for extending term limits is that the City Council passed it and the voters will have a chance on Nov. 3 to say what they want. I don’t think we have to keep coming back to it,” Bloomberg said. “If you have a serious question about the economy I will be happy to answer it.”

Bloomberg is no stranger to revising history when it comes to his own positions. In 2005 he called previous efforts to overturn term limits – drum roll – “an absolute disgrace.”``xFood Stamps``xQueens Councilman Eric Gioia declared victory last week when Costco agreed that,come this summer, they will start accepting food stamps at its Brooklyn and Queens stores.

We have a new concern for people on food stamps. Life for them is already tough, and if they think they wait on long lines now, wait until they start shopping at Costco.
Imagine the chaos. Jam-packed parking lots and checkout lines wind throughout the store.

We have one question, can you pay for the membership with the food stamps?``xWe Win This Series``xMets fans, take heart. Or actually, take a good measurement of your waist line. The New York Times reviewed the Mets’ and Yanks’ new culinary offerings at their home fields, and the Amazins won out.

Long gone are the days of greasy burgers and stale popcorn that made trips to Shea so gastronomically treacherous. Now, we’ve got tacos, sushi, and pulled pork sandwiches on a brioche bun.

The reviewer, Frank Bruni, essentially tanked Yankee Stadium’s fare and lauded Citi Field’s menu. The proof is in the burgers.

Bruni found Yankee Stadium’s “foil-wrapped, overheated, clumpy cheeseburgers that didn’t seem remotely fresh,” while Citi Field’s were “juicy, beefy and irresistible.”

Now if the good food could translate to good playing, maybe the Mets could stop making our stomachs churn.``xMeatballs``x“We were robbed!” joked Giuseppe Falco, owner of Vesta Trattoria & Wine Bar at 21st Street and 30th Avenue. Vesta, along with two other Astoria restaurants, was a meatball finalist at the 8th Annual Cuisine of Queens & Beyond 2009 Food and Wine Gala in Astoria Queens.

“Best Balls in the Boroughs,” a contest from Dish du Jour Magazine, sought to find the best meatballs and unleash a deluge of testicular puns. The winner was Bello Giardino in Manhattan, but Queens had three out of 10 finalists. Besides, everyone knows our pizza is better.``xQueens Chicks``xThe chicks in Queens are great. Falcon chicks, that is.

Happy avian couples residing at both the Throgs Neck and Gil Hodges Bridges in Queens have given birth to baby peregrine falcon chicks. The birds, which are on the state’s endangered species list, were banded by a wildlife expert last week so that they can be tracked throughout their lives.

Though the chicks born in Queens are actually dudes, maybe they might make the flight some time soon to the Verrazano Bridge, where two female chicks were also hatched this spring.

If we get more news as the family grows, we’ll be sure to chirp about it in the future.

Or maybe we’ll just post it on tweeter.``xBloomberg’s Doppelganger``xMayor Bloomberg attended the 7th Annual Sesame Workshop Benefit Gala last week, where he was presented with the “Global Leadership Award” by his look-alike, Muppet Bloomberg. ``xconffoodstamp060509.jpg``xconfmetsburger060509.jpg``xconfmeatballs060509.jpg``xconfhodgeschick060509.jpg``xconfbloomberg060509.jpg``x``xThe Mets’ burgers are fantastic – trust us, we, know.
``xWhose meatballs are the best?
``xOur new chicks must make their mommas proud.``x``x``x``x``xconfmodelfront060509.jpg``x``xconfcartoon060509.gif``x``x Boro ERs Need Booster Shot: Report``xtrib``xThe overcrowded emergency rooms in Queens are but one symptom of the borough’s latest medical crisis. The H1N1 flu is behind the latest strain on the system, but it is underlying lack of hospitals that has made this outbreak so dangerous.

City Comptroller and mayoral hopeful Bill Thompson stood outside of Jamaica Hospital on Monday alongside Borough President Helen Marshall to tell residents that the latest medical scare should be a wake up call, while his staff distributed copies of 14 page policy alert titled “Closure of St. John’s and Mary Immaculate Hospitals Are Overwhelming Remaining Emergency Room,” dated June 2009.

While Thompson stopped short of saying “I told you so,” his report begins by citing a letter his office sent to the State Health Commissioner in mid-February warning that the closures would “lead to overcrowded emergency rooms, longer wait times for patients, and longer ambulance turnaround times.”

Since then, dozens of schools have been closed, seven City residents have died from swine flu and the disease’s rapid transmission and commonplace symptoms drove scores of frightened – and often uninsured – patients into borough emergency rooms

At the start of the swine flu scare, Jamaica Hospital handled well over 500 emergency room visits daily, up from 300 to 350 a day before the flu and the hospital closures.

Marshall cited the a 2006 report from her own office that found the borough had only 1.4 hospital beds per 1,000 residents, compared to 7.1 in Manhattan. That was before the closure of the two hospitals as well as Parkway Hospital in Forest Hills, which closed in November.

Thompson’s report says there was a ten-fold increase in the number of days where the Jamaica Medical Center’s ER had at least 350 registrations from mid-February through the end of March, compared with the same period last year. Queens Hospital Center, North Shore University Hospital-Forest Hills and Elmhurst Hospitals also experienced “daunting challenges,” despite limited state aid to help them absorb the influx.

The closure of the hospitals also jeopardized a total of 28 daily ambulance tours. While the 11 tours in the St. John’s territory were picked up by New York Hospital Queens, Wyckoff Heights Medical Center and North Shore, the FDNY’s EMS had to assume Mary Immaculate’s tours when, according to an unnamed hospital official cited in the report, no other hospitals wanted them. The FDNY faces its own budget cuts, which are projected to result in the elimination of 30 ambulance tours.

The report presents short- and long-term suggestions for improving the situation and states that “first and foremost, what is needed leadership.”

The short-term solutions include setting up triage facilities that would relieve the pressure on ERs. The report calls for the City to better advertise and expand the hours of community health centers and citywide federally qualified health centers, which the report says “are in a better position to manage marginal costs associated with expanded hours.”

While there is little doubt that Queens is “under-bedded” and ill prepared for the next crisis, the medical facilities have made adjustments on their own. For example, the press conference held by Thompson was in the shadow of two mobile medical vans and Jamaica Hospital had a special line set up outside specifically for people with “flu-like symptoms.”

A third year medical student working at the hospital said that there was a large strain two weeks ago, but setting up the special line “helped significantly.”``xEkuukEuAEpTcJDTcMt``x1244214910``xDeadline``xpage3060509A1.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xBorough President Helen Marshall joined Comptroller Bill Thompson, who was announcing the ER numbers in front of Jamaica Hospital.``xpage3060509A.jpg``xA family with flu symptoms is checked at a special triage unit outside Jamaica Hospital.``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Choe Speaks Frankly On His Korea Position``xtrib``xJohn Choe would rather not talk about North Korea.

“This issue is of very little relevance to District 20,” said Choe, responding to claims made last week by District Leader Julia Harrison, who said her sources were wary of Choe’s alleged connections to North Korea.

“The main issues of working families in this district are good schools for their children, jobs, health care, police protection, the basics. […] This story is old news. It’s been covered since 2003, with accusation that somehow I am a spy or a representative of North Korea. I’ve been very clear in my answer; I have not taken sides, I don’t represent or speak on behalf of either the South or the North Korean government. I am Korean American and my focus is as a community organizer to make people’s lives better right here.”

Choe did agree to a lengthy interview to dispel the rumors and past allegations that his role in founding a group called Nodutdol (nodutdol.com) somehow branded him unpatriotic or worse. He made no secret of his advocacy for peace on the Korean peninsula and explained his positions on the issues that have gotten North Korea in headlines around the world.

Choe said he has taken several trips to South Korea and is very familiar with how the country works. He was particularly interested in “the way its health care, feminist movements, and very active workers movement” operate. He said he has “very limited information on the other half of the peninsula,” but he did take two trips there, once in 2000 and again in 2008.

“Yes, I did go there on my honeymoon,” said Choe. “We spent a few days in North Korea to learn about the society. We spent the other part of the honeymoon in Yosemite Park, enjoying the beauty of one of America’s greatest parks.”

Nodutdol sponsors trips by American Koreans to visit the country and the blog posts they write are overwhelmingly positive, describing the new found pride they feel in their heritage and the warm welcome they received. Nodutdol has been criticized for not presenting the negatives of North Korea, but Choe says that is not the purpose of the group. Instead, the group wants to foster cultural exchange and understanding, traits that Choe considers prerequisites for peace.

“I believe in productive and constructive criticism. There is also criticism that is meant to undermine a peaceful process. I believe if you’re gonna build a relationship you have to engage in constructive criticism.[…] You can’t be holier than thou, saying why aren’t you fixing this, or fixing that?[…] That part of U.S. policy is currently being reviewed by the Obama administration. The unilateralism that the U.S. has pushed around the world hasn’t been very productive,” said Choe.

When asked about the issue of missiles and nuclear weapons, Choe said “Frankly, I don’t support their test on nuclear weapons. My hope is for peaceful negotiations and the importance of non violence.” He said North Korea had the right to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-proliferation Act, just as any country can withdraw or not sign a treaty. He cited the example of the U.S. refusing the sign the international ban on land mines, which results in tremendous human suffering around the world.

Choe said North Korea, like every nation, is entitled to test rockets for civilian purposes. When asked if he believe the rockets recently tested are for satellites or weapons, he said is not aware of any evidence one way or the other.

In regards to human rights violations, Choe criticized the former military government of South Korea, especially their National Security Law, which he said led to the “restricted free speech and freedom of conscience, [and] allowed the authorities to detain, torture and sometimes kill their political opponents whether they were professors, poetry, labor activists.”

“If a similar system is in place in North Korea, I would also oppose it,” said Choe.``xEkuukEuZuVGsmcnNbT``x1244214745``xDeadline``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x After Much Criticism, Senator’s Door Opens``xtrib``xFor Stanley Rygor, the opportunity to talk to State Sen. George Onorato (D-Astoria) involved more than just the marriage equality bill trudging its way through Albany. It was about continuing the legacy of his son, Robert, a gay rights activist who lost his life to AIDS in 1994 at the age of 40.

The lifelong Astoria native was joined by his wife and 13 others to plead their case to Onorato, who had come out staunchly opposing same sex marriage.

“I spoke on behalf of those among us who are attracted to the same sex,” Rygor said. “I do it for all the young men who are stigmatized or demonized because of their attraction to the same sex.”

By the time the two sides met, the 13-term State Senator had become the target of many outcries from gay constituents in his district. His office was reportedly flooded with emails, phone calls and letters. One constituent even posted a YouTube video featuring audio of himself trying to reach Onorato.

But on the day the two sides met, the bad emotions subsided and a civil conversation took place.

“The meeting didn’t have the usual lobbying tone to it. It was an intensely personal, emotional sense there,” said Brendan Fay, who was among those that spoke with Onorato.

A coalition of constituents, including clergymen, activists and parents, banded together and spoke to Onorato. But most memorable was Rygor, who sought to the Senator’s noblesse oblige.

“I was going for the guy’s sense of decency,” 83-year-old Rygor said. “I was appealing to his heart. I was appealing to his sense of being a good person, a good Christian, a follower of Christ.”

In lieu of an interview, the Senator released a statement calling the meeting “cordial, respectful and candid” and said he “appreciated having the opportunity to hear their stories and learn about their experiences.”

Fay said the group left Onorato’s office feeling revived.

“We came out of the meeting feeling that there was a shift,” he said.``xEkuukEuyZFGKBtmfEs``x1244214673``xDeadline``xpage3060509B.jpg``xJoseph Orovic``xGeorge Onorato``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Council Race Casualties``xtrib``xWith last week’s announcement by the Queens Democratic Organization of its support for all the incumbent Council members from Queens, and their support of party regulars in contested races, a couple of contenders have already fallen by the wayside.

In the wide-open race to replace Councilwoman Melinda Katz (D-Forest Hills), who did not get support from the borough Dems for her race for Comptroller, Karen Koslowitz, the former Council member and deputy borough president gained their support.

Citing his willingness to work with Karen, as well as health and business issues, contender Joseph “JR” Nocerino has dropped out of the race, leaving behind Koslowitz, former Assemblyman Mike Cohen, Heidi Chain, Lynn Schulman and Mel Gagarin.

In Jackson Heights, where Helen Sears is seeking a third term thanks to the term limit change she voted for, a former staffer of hers has dropped from the race.

Alfonzo Quiroz, who worked as deputy chief of staff for Sears, had been campaigning for the past two years for the position. He said he had hoped that the term limit override would be ruled illegal – and had even joined in to the legal fight to oppose the change to the law that extended the current Council members to be eligible to serve three terms instead of just two.

Given that final appeals have been lost in that case, he has decided to vacate his run, leaving Sears, Danny Dromm and Stanley Kalathara in the race.

The City primary is scheduled for Sept. 15. ``xEkuukEuVZFdICBdqzj``x1244214573``xDeadline``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Lawmakers Clamor Over Ed Control``xtrib``xVictory one for Learn NY was marked this week, when Dept. of Education Chancellor Joel Klein announced “the missing ‘Parent Link,” which will allow parents to monitor their child’s school progress.

Various advocacy groups like Learn NY and lawmakers have been clamoring the past few weeks to introduce plans and legislation that would revise the law granting the mayor executive control of the public schools. The law, known as “mayoral control,” will expire on June 30 unless renewed.

Parent Link is a brand new function of the DOE’s online Achievement Reporting and Innovation System. ARIS was created to help educators find and monitor information about their students. Parents can now contact schools to receive a password, and log on to www.arisnyc.org/parentlink for access to the database, which will provide detailed and updated attendance numbers, course grades, and scores on state tests and in-class assessments.

The announcement, made by Klein and Councilman Peter Vallone Jr. (D-Astoria), comes on the heels of Learn NY’s demands that children’s school progress be made easily and readily available during the semester. Learn NY is an advocacy group which was formed specifically to support the mayor’s continued leadership, but with tweaks. It is comprised of a coalition of ethnic and religious groups like the Asian American Federation, and supported by Assemblywoman Grace Meng (D-Flushing). Learn NY supports mayoral control with suggested improvements like the new ARIS system, greater financial transparency, increased parental input and independent analysis of performance data.

Meanwhile, Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver announced a plan last week to maintain the mayor’s executive discretion over the 13-member Panel for Educational Policy, allowing him to continue appointing eight members, but mandating that two of his picks be parents of public school children. As of now the PEP is comprised of one appointee made by each borough president, and eight of the mayor’s – who he has the right to replace at will. It is not clear if Silver’s new plan, which was presented with Assembly Education Committee Chairwoman Cathy Nolan (D-Ridgewood), outlines set terms for the mayor’s appointees.

Several days later the advocacy group Campaign for Better Schools held a rally on the steps of City Hall for further parental involvement, proposing robust reforms on parent participation, including creating an independent outreach and training initiative for parents to be housed at the Public Advocate’s office; restoring the District Superintendent’s powers to oversee schools and help address parental concerns locally; and strengthening the role of local Community Education Councils in decisions affecting school closings, re-structuring and insertions of schools inside existing schools.

In addition to ARIS, Klein would like to conjoin the Community Educational Council, which is made up of parents, with the local community boards. The move would expand the input of the CEC – but still in a strictly advisory capacity.

With the support of Assemblyman Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows), the New York Civil Liberties Union publicized suggestions of further checks on mayoral control. Silver made modest concessions to advocacy groups and Democrats like Lancman. His plan would reportedly empower the City Comptroller and the Independent Budget Office to scrutinize Department of Education finances and school-performance. The authority of the district superintendent would also be expanded.

Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith is also pushing a proposal that would largely maintain the mayor’s authority. Deputy Senate Majority Leader Jeff Klein (D-Bronx) is pushing a proposal that would keep the PEP the same.``xEkuukEuuyAaYJrKfxv``x1244214469``x(default)``xpage4060509A.jpg``xLori Gross``xMayor Mike Bloomberg, shown here with Chancellor Joel Klein, introduces last year’s results of parent and teacher survey. Education advocates are pushing for greater parental involvement. ``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x City To Make Extra Film Tax Edit``xtrib``xNew York City will trim its film and television tax credit as it seeks to renew the fund later this year. The subtle revision parallels efforts by lawmakers in Albany - who temporarily renewed the state's credit earlier this year - to wean the industry from its reliance on subsidies.

Citing the City's struggling economy, officials proposed reducing the credit from 5 to 4 percent of labor related production costs and will cap tax refunds at $250,000 per television episode or film. The revised credit will also cap tax refunds for post-production work - 75 percent of which must be performed in New York - at $300,000. Annual refunds for all productions will be capped at $24 million. The City also proposed phasing out funding for long-term productions, shaving 1 percent annually from their refund rates after three years and finally eliminating refunds after five years of consecutive use.

The revisions could deliver another blow to an already skeptical television industry. State legislators snubbed the industry in March when - after months of stalling - the state's own tax credit was renewed for only one year. Television producers typically look for long term commitments before selecting locations, with successful shows often shooting for years.

Gov. David Paterson expanded the state's program last year, raising the credit from 10 to 30 percent of labor related production costs. The move spurred a burst of growth at Queens-based Kaufman Astoria and Silvercup Studios.

More than 125 productions took advantage of Paterson's changes, creating thousands of jobs and nearly doubling the cash injected into local economies, according to an ESDC-funded study by Ernst & Young. Production spending rose from $940 million in 2007 to $1.8 billion last year after the credit's 20-percent expansion, creating approximately $1.90 in tax revenue for every dollar invested in the fund. The agency estimated that continuing the program this year would create or preserve more than 19,000 jobs and generate nearly $200 million in additional tax revenue, doubling the state's investment.

But boom nearly turned to bust when the state's tax credit fund evaporated in January. Its exhaustion reverberated through an industry once dubbed recession proof, with producers scaling back or completely eliminating local productions. One production, Fox's "Fringe" decided to leave town and no new television pilots were booked in the City, down from 19 last year.

"This is crucial," Hal Rosenbluth, president of Kaufman Astoria Studios, said of the tax credits. "We live in a mobile industry; they want to come to New York, but if the cost differential is too great to justify they will go elsewhere."

And after months of tip-toeing around the subject with half-hearted statements and hints at cuts, the one-year, $350 million deal just didn't cut it for many disenfranchised producers.

"With only a one year deal, it's not likely we will put a new series in New York. It's too difficult to manage talent issues and it's too costly to move a show if the credits were to run out. Shows that we have scripted for New York will go elsewhere," a major television studio executive wrote to Silvercup Studios in Long Island City. "Without long term stability it is not worth the hassle or the investment to make this type of a choice to come to New York. It's all a bit odd for us."

Officials said the latest changes come as the City's fund nears exhaustion. The bill will fund the tax credit program through 2011.``xEkuukEuFlVketdwXzl``x1244214385``x(default)``x``xMichael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Eminent Domain Set For Willets Pt.``xtrib``xThe specter of eminent domain has finally been introduced into the saga of Willets Point's redevelopment.

The City's Economic Development Corporation has scheduled a public hearing regarding the highly controversial land seizure method at Flushing Town Hall on June 22. It is the first formal step in the legal proceedings required to gain control of the 22 acres of land left in the Iron Triangle.

The EDC maintained its hopes to reach an agreement with the remaining landowners at Willets Point, rather than use eminent domain.

"Our objective has always been to make as many negotiated acquisitions as possible," said Janel Patterson, an EDC spokeswoman. "We are still seeking to do negotiated acquisitions. We want to emphasize that."

The agency said regardless of whether the land is acquired through eminent domain or negotiation, land owners will receive fair market value for their property.

But for opponents of the redevelopment, the move represents a broken promise by the City and Mayor.

"Once again the Bloomberg administration does something completely different than what they promised," said Councilman Tony Avella (D-Bayside). "I think it's disgraceful. They never had any intention of fair negotiation."

The Councilman also said this turns the corner on eminent domain, making it nearly impossible to prevent.

"You'd have to overturn the action the Council took, and seeing has how Speaker Quinn is in Bloomberg's pocket, that's not going to happen," he said.

Before the hearing's announcement, the EDC reached a deal with two more landowners, 126 Willets Point Boulevard LLC and German Diaz Auto Repair. It adds nearly 35,000 square feet to the City's property, which now totals about 40 acres.

"We will continue to work with the remaining land owners and businesses as we move forward with our plans to transform this blighted area into a center of economic opportunity and job creation and a 21st century neighborhood," said EDC President Seth Pinsky. ``xEkuukEuFElaorFlQhZ``x1244214318``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Relish In The Process``xtrib``xTwo are gone, and how many more will go?

In the borough’s primary races for Council, two contenders have already removed themselves from the running and with petitioning set to begin Tuesday, it would not be a surprise to see more drop by the wayside.

Challenging an incumbent in Queens is a major uphill climb, as is taking on the Democratic regulars who have gained the support of the borough organization.

The two who dropped out this week are not likely to be the last; petitioning is hard for the neophytes and the process to survive challenges is brutal. As individuals drop and hangers-on are challenged by skilled election lawyers, we expect to see races change dramatically over the coming weeks.

The system is far from perfect, but it works. A handful of today’s Council members got elected the first time out without Party support, and that may yet be the case this year. No fewer than 70 have lined up to fill a mere 14 seats, four of which are expected to be vacated by members seeking higher office. When petitioning starts we’ll have a more exact count.

So starting Tuesday, when volunteers come to your door or greet you in the street with petitions in hand, give them a listen – we are all part of the process, and every signature can lead to a victory. ``xEkuukEukVpfCWliTEg``x1244214250``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Jury Taint Alleged In Senator’s Case``xtrib``xLawyers for State Sen. Hiram Monserrate (D-Corona) are claiming that a cop from the precinct investigating him was also a member of the grand jury that indicted him – their latest effort to dismiss felony assault charges against the embattled lawmaker.

Joseph Tacopina, Monserrate’s lead lawyer, submitted the motion May 22 requesting access to grand jury records in an effort to prove the link.

Charles Castro, Monserrate’s former chief of staff and fellow officer turned NYPD critic, alleged that one of the officers testifying during the hearing, identified only as Police Officer Refer, later told him that he recognized a fellow officer on the grand jury.

“Mr. Refer spoke to Mr. Castro about his testimony before the grand jury,” the affidavit reads. “And (Mr. Refer) stated to Mr. Castro that he recognized a grand juror as a police officer who worked with him at the 105th Precinct as a sitting juror of the grand jury listening to his testimony.”

The affidavit goes on to allege that prosecutors were informed of the relationship, but told the officer not to worry about it.

If a link is established, Tacopina argues that the judge would be compelled to dismiss Monserrate’s indictment based on the juror’s perceived bias and the alleged officer’s effect on other jurors during deliberations.

“Failure to have excluded the grand juror from the grand jury room during the officer’s testimony, the deliberations and the vote related to this case would have so impaired the integrity of the grand jury proceedings as to require dismissal of the indictment,” Tacopina wrote.

Monserrate pleaded not guilty to various counts of assault in April after being accused of slashing his girlfriend, Karla Giraldo, 30, across the face during a Dec. 19 incident at his Jackson Heights home.

The criminal complaint alleges that Monserrate struck Giraldo after breaking a glass in his hand, causing a laceration around her left eye that required 20 stiches to close.

The first-term senator has consistently denied wrongdoing since his arrest, claiming that his girlfriend was injured after he tripped into her while holding a glass of water in his hand. Giraldo has backed up those claims. She urged prosecutors to drop the charges shortly after the alleged attack and has refused to testify against Monserrate.

“From the very beginning, I have said this is an accident. My girlfriend has said this is an accident,” Monserrate said. “I am innocent.”

Monserrate will return to court in July. If convicted, he faces up to seven years in prison and expulsion from the Senate. ``xEkuukEupAVzgeeDrzq``x1244214095``x(default)``x``xMichael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Synagogues May Get Security $$``xtrib``xProponents of the Non-Profit Homeland Security Preparedness Study Act got a second advocacy wind in May, after the attempted terror attack on Riverdale Jewish Center and Riverdale Synagogue in the Bronx.

The four alleged terrorists believed they had C-4 plastic explosives to use against Jews, as well as guided missiles for shooting U.S. military planes - both of which were fakes provided by an FBI informant. Perhaps assuaging fears of further anti-Semitic incidents, the Anti-Defamation League issued a report stating that anti-Semitic incidents were sharply down in 2008, dashed in Queens by 83 percent from 2007.

The would-be terrorists were arrested last month, and indicted Wednesday for conspiracy to use weapons of mass destruction against the United States and conspiracy to acquire and use anti-aircraft missiles.

Assemblyman Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows) and Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) renewed their efforts to push the act forward. The governor vetoed it last year for reasons that are not clear. The act would direct New York's Office of Homeland Security to analyze the security needs of non-profit institutions, namely religious institutions like synagogues, which face higher risk of terrorist attacks. Existing programs which are meant to fortify these institutions against threats would also be analyzed.

The act requires Homeland Security to assess the feasibility of a non-profit homeland security grant for such institutions, and report back to the state legislature by the end of the year.

The Anti-Defamation League, an organization whose mission is to fight anti-Semitism, issued a report this week which stated there were six anti-Semitic incidents reported in Queens in 2008, down from 35 in 2007. New York State saw a decrease to 207 incidents in 2008, from 351 in 2007.

"If there's a rise in anti-Semitism," said Rabbi Michael Weisser of the Free Synagogue of Flushing, "believe me, they would be blowing a trumpet. The ADL is usually right about these things. They really monitor terror and KKK-type activities. I don't have a sense that anti-Semitism is on the rise, but I do have a sense that Islamophobia is on the rise."

Weisser said every synagogue he knows of has some form of security, including his. His synagogue hires a private security staff to monitor the crowd during Saturday services or other events. If grant money does become available to him, he would use it to install cameras to monitor the back parking lot, since the front is monitored by security. He would not use it to hire more security staff, since he does not sense alarm among his congregants, and he wouldn't want to spur any.

Rabbi S. David Taub of Temple Torah in Little Neck said the grant money would be major for his synagogue. He has sensed heightened tenseness among his congregants, and would use the money to hire private security to monitor who comes into the synagogue. His congregation has an open-door policy as a house of worship, which he fears someone with harmful intentions could exploit. He says that his synagogue currently has limited funds for security, but the NYPD monitors the building informally during High Holiday services, when synagogues see a surge in attendance.``xEkuukEuppuErFOySig``x1244214004``x(default)``x``xLori Gross``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Foreclosure Aid Available, Just Ask``xtrib``xThe phones never rest at Neighborhood Housing Services of Jamaica. The HUD-certified nonprofit has seen a significant jump in homeowners trying to keep a roof over their heads.

Consider it the next wave in a mortgage crisis with no visible conclusion. With the City’s unemployment numbers rising, organizations like NHS have been flooded by local homeowners fearing they may lose their houses, while lenders have been inundated with mortgage holders hoping to restructure their loans.

According to real-estate research Web site propertyshark.com, 258 new foreclosures were reported across the City last month, an 8 percent jump since April. Queens led again, with 209.

But some of those foreclosures could have been prevented, had the homeowners sought assistance. Lenders have become more willing to work with borrowers, and the City and a horde of nonprofits are ready to help.

“It’s critical homeowners pick up the phone, call the bank, call their mortgage company or call 311 and say, ‘Hey, I’m facing foreclosure and I need help,’” said Eric Eve, senior vice president of Global Community Relations at Citi.

New York City was first in the nation to offer aid to struggling homeowners via 311. Simply calling up and saying, “Foreclosure” will lead to a nonprofit willing to offer advice and quite often do the legwork themselves.

Many homeowners fear the lender’s reaction but Eve maintained there is little to fear.

“We’re not in the home owning business. We’re in the mortgage lending business,” Eve said. “If we can keep an owner in his or her home, that’s still an important customer. A vacant or foreclosed home presents a challenge to that community.”

Overcoming the stigma of debt itself is quite often the biggest barrier, according to Helen Maxwell, a foreclosure prevention counselor for NHS of Jamaica. She has seen clients neglect to tell their families of their monetary troubles. Sometimes the person’s own spouse has no idea their property is facing foreclosure.

When NHS meets with a client, it first reviews the entire financial situation and establishes a budget to present to the lender. Then, the organization works with the lender to explore if any loss mitigation options are available.

“Our clients are scared to pick up the phone and contact their lender,” Maxwell said. “We often act as a buffer.”

Then, Maxwell takes pains to explain the homeowner’s options in laymen’s terms.

According to Eve, lenders are willing to work with their clients, often extending the term of the loan, changing the interest rate, lowering the principal or any combination of the three.

It’s a new dynamic, as Maxwell said; a year ago mortgage companies and banks were much less willing to negotiate. She attributes the change in heart to the Obama administration’s Homeowner Affordability and Stability Plan, which makes it easier for refinancing and restructuring to occur.

There is a word of caution in all of this.

The growing number of desperate homeowners has bred a cottage industry of predatory helpers, with companies offering to reduce interest rates to as low as two percent for a fee ranging in the thousands of dollars. Some have even gotten a list of delinquent borrowers, cold calling with offers to assist with refinancing.

Both Eve and Maxwell emphasized there should be no cost to getting help, and NHS is collecting any fliers being handed out to homeowners by these companies.

“Under no circumstance should you give your money to these companies who prey on your desperation,” Maxwell said.

The best solution, she said, is the humility to seek help when you need it.

“The earlier you speak up, the better your chances are of saving your home,” she said. “The longer a homeowner waits, the harder it is to get a handle on the situation.”``xEkuukEEAVVeGGAAGNs``x1244211955``x(default)``xpage9060509A.jpg``xJoseph Orovic``xIt is easier than expected to avoid foreclosure, according to local experts. Calling 311 and reaching out to your bank or a non-profit agency can help you avoid forclosure.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Your Permanent Record? After Rockefeller Law Reform Passes, Pols Still Debate Sealed Record Provision``xtrib``xWith the implementation of Rockefeller Drug Law reforms less than a week away, a provision to seal the records of some non-violent drug offenders has come under fierce criticism by State Senate Republicans, including Senator Frank Padavan (R-Bellerose).

"The potential exists for someone being in a classroom who was convicted for selling drugs in a school yard. That is unconscionable," said Padavan, citing the fact that one of the drug-related laws that can be sealed include first degree sale of a controlled substance near school grounds. The list of applicable laws also includes various degrees of burglary, grand larceny and any other B class felony that is associated with drug crimes.

Supporters of the provision say the sealing only occurs after a rigorous review process that gives judges discretion to give a rehabilitated drug addict a second chance to get a job.

"We're starting to move toward to the idea of viewing drug use as a public health issue as opposed to a criminal justice issue." said Glenn Martin, vice president of development and public affairs for the Fortune Society, a nonprofit organization that supports prisoners' re-entry into society. "The employer is a private citizen with little understanding of the criminal justice sentence, [and] makes decision based on the stigma of criminal convictions," said Martin. "We have to trust our judges, who have access to the details of the case, not just the conviction on the criminal background search."

The Charge
Padavan cites widespread concern and "outrage" among District Attorneys, who already have the ability to seal records, that— especially in sensitive professions—would block employers from screening their applicants for drug histories.

Padavan's office pointed to a statement by Staten Island District Attorney and President of the District Attorneys' Association of the State of New York, Daniel M. Donovan: "Under the law as it is currently written, a background check would be a futile exercise because judges would be allowed to seal records of as many as four criminal convictions, one of which can be for a felony."

David Little, director of governmental relations for the New York State School Boards Association, said in the same statement: "The law to require fingerprinting of all prospective school employees was a monumental step forward in protecting the children of New York State. While everyone deserves a second chance after paying their debt to society, the safety of our children must be of paramount concern. The law requiring criminal background checks on prospective school employees allows for discretion. An applicant will not be summarily rejected because of a prior conviction. But school districts must have a complete history of the adults responsible for our children."

Defenders of the current bill completely disagree with these assessments and dismissed them as "fear mongering."

"This is based on the politics of fear and has nothing to do with the policy in place." said Autin Shafran, spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans).He echoed various advocates of drug reform in stating that the policy is about "letting judges have the final say, instead of politically motivated prosecutors, who were the only ones who had the power to initiate the sealing."

The Process
According to Corinne Carey, an attorney for the NYCLU, getting to the sealing process is a long and detailed process, where the judge has to consider a wide variety of factors and hold hearings about them for the legal record. The law also requires the notification of all the prosecutors involved in any of the convictions that are being sealed so that they can testify before the judge before a decision is made.

"I see getting to the sealing provision as a funnel," said Carey. "At the top of the funnel, which represents eligibility for sealing, enter a really modest number of people who are eligible to have their record sealed by law. These are people who are charged with drug offenses that are not [Class] A level felonies. The crimes must be non violent." The eligible defendants must also not have committed another felony in the past 10 years.

If the defendant meets that criteria, he or she is eligible for the "diversionary" procedure, which would potentially send them to court-approved and monitored treatment facilities instead of prison. The criteria the judge then considers is whether they have a drug problem; whether their dependency can be effectively addressed by the diversionary procedure; what treatment would be most effective; and any other relevant information.

The judge also holds a hearing about whether the defendant is determined to not be a threat to public safety, because the drug treatment program can be either inpatient or outpatient care.

"After the diversionary process, we get to the middle of the funnel," said Carey. "Of the small group who make it through that process, the next step is to get into and participate in the drug treatment program." Carey said there is often a waiting list, and even those who get in often cannot complete the program to the satisfaction of the court monitor.

Of those who do finish the program, they must then find legal representation to apply for the sealing of their record. A lawyer may be hired or can work pro bono, but there is no requirement for providing representation, as in a trial.

"Now the Judge has to give notice to the DAs in all of the jurisdictions for all of the offenses you're trying to seal. Then there are four factors for sealing: circumstances and seriousness of the crimes; the character of the defendant, including the treatment records and what the defendant has been doing in the meantime, like school, a job or community activities; the entirety of defendant's criminal background; and the impact of sealing on both rehabilitation and public safety," said Carey.

"Of the very small group of people who make it through this process, I think they probably deserve to have their record sealed and given a second chance," she added.

The records are not sealed to the eyes of law enforcement authorities or if the defendant is arrested for any other subsequent misdemeanor or felony. If they are convicted on such an arrest, their entire record becomes and remains unsealed. The sealed records are also visible when buying a gun.

Rethinking Prosecution
Those in favor of the law as written admit that there may be an incident in which a former addict relapses or commits another crime, but they insist that drug crimes are most often committed by people who have no record and that any sensitive job would require drug testing anyway.

Furthermore, according to Carey, "there is a point at which you can overprotect a society from risk that creates even more risk and harm." Advocates argue that by allowing people a second chance to find employment, there would be a great benefit to the families and neighborhoods of convicted and rehabilitated offenders.

"In order to see meaningful change, the public and policy maker need to have a greater appetite for risk," said Martin, who works with ex-convicts on a daily basis at the Fortune Society, "We can't keep making criminal justice decision as reactionary measures - our courts have not functioned adequately. We should be using our resources for the most dangerous crimes. We cannot have a failsafe criminal justice system, but we can go in a different direction."

Consensus?
While the philosophic differences between those in favor and against the sealing provision appear to be wide, the practical implementation of the bill may be in sight.

Padavan said that at the least, he is calling to delay the bill so that "the DAs, the Governor, the leadership in the Assembly and in the Senate can meet with everyone who is outraged - meet with all the organizations that deal with the issue, including the Fortune Society, and analyze this issue completely."

One of the primary sponsors of the original Rockefeller reform bill, Sen. Eric Schneiderman (D-Manhattan), has introduced another bill to delay the implementation of the sealing provision by an additional 240 days because the Division of Criminal Justice Services has voiced concerns over whether their computer system can implement them by June 8.

The DCJS has confirmed that it will be a "real struggle to ensure that the various systems are communicating and that the data is 100 percent reliable." According to a spokesman, the DCJS will implement what the law says, but it remains unclear if it will be able to.

Both Schneiderman and a spokesman for Smith have said that they may consider "tweaks" to the law, although they firmly support the core principles, such as "restoring the discretion of the judges."

In fact, the original Senate and Assembly bill contained a provision to not seal the records for any employer that requires fingerprints as part of the job application process, but that provision was removed in the final negotiations over the bill.

When Shafran was asked whether the final bill may change the sealing process to address Padavan's criticism, he said "[The Republicans] came back to where we were - but there is a difference between pointing out a potential problem and trying to make people afraid of it."

Gov. David Paterson defended the original bill Wednesday and said it would not be changed, even though legislators went back and reviewed it after Republican criticism: "I signed the bill and I knew what I was signing."``xEkuukEEVAVuVNWHrbc``x1244211595``xFeature``xfeat060509A.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xUnder the new guidelines, judges have discretion to seal the records of drug felons.``x``x``x84971066339260``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xfeat060509B.jpg``xActive drug courts in Queens currently serve at the discretion of the District Attorney.``x``x``x``x``x Flushing Savings Ranked Top In Nation``xtrib``xFlushing Savings Bank was recently ranked the nation’s top thrift by analysts at SNL Financial – a bright spot that could mark a turning point for a company that had weathered a beating from wary investors during the height of the banking crisis.

The SNL rankings were based on 2008 performance numbers compiled from the nation’s 100 largest thrifts. The banks were evaluated based on various criteria including revenue, equity and loan quality.

“It’s really a tribute to the hard work of our staff and their association with the communities that they serve,” said John Buran, the bank’s president and CEO.

And it’s that close tie to their community – the bank focuses almost exclusively on New York City – that has allowed FSB to avoid many of the pitfalls faced by their bigger rivals, according to Buran. The bank has adapted to the City’s explosion of diversity by recruiting an equally diverse staff – the organization boasts fluency in more than 30 languages.

Their community-centric philosophy led the bank to avoid many of the complicated financial instruments and subprime voodoo that brought the industry to its knees last fall, instead focusing on highly-personalized business and real estate loans in its own backyard.

“We understand that there’s more to a business than what appears on paper,” Buran said. “It gives us the opportunity to make some judgments that perhaps larger institutions – who have to deal with significantly more volume and therefore have to make it more of a cookie cutter situation – are really unable to do.”

Like most banks, FSB has been hammered by investors over the last year. The company has made a comeback in recent months, recovering from a low of $4.03 in March. But despite closing at $10.72 on Tuesday, the stock remains nearly 50 percent below its one year high.

FSB hopes the top ranking will attract new investors and help bring back those that fled last year.

“This represents a true recognition of the profitable growth and tremendous strides that our organization has accomplished in the last year. We have experienced growth in our retail banking and business banking sectors and remain active in the multi family and commercial lending arena, despite tumultuous financial markets,” Buran said. “We believe that our ongoing commitment and strong relationships with the communities that we serve will sustain our profitable growth for years to come.”

The company was ranked fourth during last year’s SNL analysis.``xEkuukpAEkkQEJVFvIc``x1244209122``x(default)``x``xMichael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Brandeis Brunch``xtrib``xThe Brandeis Association Scholarship Brunch to benefit the Jerome Ginsberg and Moses M. Weinstein Scholarship Funds will be held Sunday June 7, at 9:30 a.m., at the Rockwood Park Jewish Center, 156-45 84th Street, Howard Beach. The Hon. Seymour Boyers will be the Guest of Honor.

Tickets are $50 per person. Honor Roll: $250 (includes one ticket). 100 percent of funds raised will go to the Brandeis Association Scholarship Fund which provides scholarships to deserving law students.

To learn more contact Lawrence M. Litwack at (718) 428-6100 or LarryL@BigAppleAbstract.com.``xEkuukplAykFaKYyIkB``x1244208962``x(default)``x``x``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Fast Track At Atlas Park``xtrib``xOn June 17, at 6 p.m., Women on the Fast Track (WOTFT), a national organization for business and professional women, will hold an introductory meeting in Glendale. The meeting will not only be an introduction to the organization, but will also offer women the opportunity to network.

WOTFT is a unique networking group for business and professional women that was launched in Nassau and Suffolk County in the latter part of 2006. Comprised of smart, talented, successful, enterprising women willing to share information, contacts, resources, inspiration and their boundless energy, WOTFT has quickly grown to be one of the areas pre-eminent networking groups. The organization also has chapters in New Jersey and New Mexico.

The event will begin at 6 p.m. at The Offices at Market Plaza, Atlas Park located at 71-19 80th St., Suite 8-306 in Glendale and is open to all women professionals and business owners. For more information about Women on the Fast Track or to RSVP for the June meeting, call (516) 222-0236, visit www.womenonthefasttrack.com or email events@businessdevelopmentgroup.com.``xEkuukplAkkIKYxxPOQ``x1244208922``x(default)``x``x``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Around The World On A Bike In Queens``xtrib``xLooking to get outdoors this summer and trying to find a way to get some exercise and see some great places in Queens?

Look no further than the “Queens Around The World” bike map, a comprehensive guide to bike paths and lanes, with highlights along the way of some of the best the borough has to offer.

Designed to guide riders along 18 miles of on-street and off-street bicycle lanes in Queens, the map highlights destinations along the route where cyclists and walkers can explore the diversity of cultures and architecture in the most ethnically diverse county in the nation.

As cyclists pedal from Flushing to Long Island City they will pass by some of New York’s most notable and hidden landmarks such as the Geeta Hindu Temple, Scrabble Avenue and the Louis Armstrong House. The interactive guide offers many opportunities for riders to park their bikes and walk around the unique neighborhoods and shopping districts to explore a variety of ethnic cuisines in a borough that is home to over one million immigrants.

Biking and walking is an important part of Mayor Bloomberg’s PlaNYC to make New York the greenest city in the nation and the Queens Around the World tour guide complements the City’s efforts to promote biking and support economic development throughout the Five-Boroughs.

“A fun and engaging bike ride through the diverse and fascinating neighborhoods of Northern Queens is the perfect way to celebrate Bike Month. Locals and tourists alike will find it thrilling to explore the countless local gems Queens offers, whether on foot or on bike or both,” said City Planning Commissioner Amanda M. Burden.

“The Queens Around the World tour is designed so cyclists can take a single 18 mile trip or multiple short trips, making it appealing to return again and again to explore all that Queens has to offer – a host of opportunities for cultural, culinary and historical exploration.”

Since 2002, the Bloomberg Administration has worked to advance cycling and increase bicycle infrastructure throughout the city. This map complements these multi-agency efforts which include:

• City Planning’s bike parking zoning text amendment, adopted in April 2009, to require indoor, secure, long-term bicycle parking in new multi-family residential, community facilities, and commercial buildings that will provide bicycle parking and storage both at home and in the workplace;

• City Planning’s recently incorporated requirements for bike parking in commercial and community facility parking lots;

• The New York City Department of Transportation’s (DOT) commitment to complete the New York City Bicycle Master Plan, created by DOT and DCP, by 2030. In the last two years DOT has already completed over 140 lane miles of new bicycle routes.

• DOT’s installation of approximately of 5,000 new outdoor CityRacks by 2011.

• DOT is working with the real estate industry to help develop model solutions to increase bicycle parking opportunities in existing office buildings.

Queens Around the World is the first in a series of bike tour guides developed by City Planning and complements the City’s 5-Borough Cycling Map which shows existing bicycle lanes and a network of recommended on-street routes. Please visit our website for upcoming announcements on future bike maps focusing on different boroughs and themes.

Paper copies of this free map are available at the City Planning bookstore, by calling (212) 442-4642 and at select locations in the city. The map is also downloadable from the DCP website. For more information about this map and other City Planning projects, go to nyc.gov/planning. ``xEkuukplyApVdVmILhQ``x1244208690``xLeisure``xlei060509A.jpg``x``xThe map highlights dozens of Queens hot spots.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x ‘Bayside Life’ Opens At Historic Ft. Totten``xtrib``xA new exhibit opened at the Bayside Historical Society last week and details life as it was in the Bayside community 70 years ago, featuring photographs, memorabilia, documents, accompanying narrative, and reproductions of a local magazine, Bayside Life, published from 1939-1941.

An opening reception was held at BHS’s headquarters, the Castle in Fort Totten Park, May 28, highlighted by period music performed by Belt Blvd., an a cappella ensemble from Bayside High School. During the event, long-time Bayside residents shared their reminiscences.

The exhibit, “Bayside Life: On the Edge of Modernity,” earned its name because Bayside was literally and figuratively on the brink of modernization during the era just prior to the U.S.’s entry into World War II. Bayside was on the edge of urbanization because of its proximity to Manhattan; was greatly affected by the newly constructed Cross Island Parkway (which opened in 1939); and was experiencing a population explosion (population had doubled from 14,000 in 1927 to 29,000 in 1939). There was massive home construction (Bayside Hills had just been developed), and the little village had become a town. Furthermore, the nearby World’s Fair opened that year with a theme of “World of Tomorrow,” contributing to an atmosphere of optimism following America’s Depression years.

The publication Bayside Life, though short-lived, sought to promote a sense of community, hometown pride and neighborhood spirit by focusing on local achievements and happenings at the exclusion of world affairs. With war declared in Europe, Bayside residents pined for a time when neighbors knew each other and life was less complicated.

The exhibit will be open through the next year. For more information, visit baysidehistorical.org, or call (718) 352-1548. Support for this exhibit was made possible, in part, by funding from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, New York State Senator Frank Padavan, and New York City Councilmember Tony Avella.

The Bayside Historical Society is accessible by both public transportation (Q13 or Q16 bus to Fort Totten) and car: Cross Island Parkway North to exit 32 (Bell Blvd.).

BHS is dedicated to the preservation of Bayside and its surrounding neighborhoods, and offers a variety of cultural and educational programs, exhibits and events for the community throughout the year. The Society is housed in the Officers’ Club (the Castle) in Fort Totten Park, Queens, a NYC landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. ``xEkuukplyFpSUzCLnQL``x1244208630``xLeisure``xlei060509B.jpg``x``xVisitors to the exhibit check out “Bayside Life.”``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Making Murals``xtrib``xQueens College graduate art education students in Art Professor Rikki Asher’s mural making class were assigned to design a work of public art that interpreted through painted visual images the ideas that flow through our minds. Most of these students are New York City public school teachers who will apply the mural-making skills they learned in their own classrooms. Shown here creating the third panel of the mural are students Sarah Henes and Julie Wright (foreground). The finished mural now graces the main lobby wall of Kiely Hall on the QC campus.
``xEkuukplVuyCnZGEEft``x1244208546``xLeisure``xlei060509C.jpg``x``x``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Sensational Sushi``xtrib``xMEGUMI SUSHI
96-05 Metropolitan Ave.,
Forest Hills
(718) 261-3483
HOURS: Tues.-Fri. 11 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun Noon-10:30 p.m.
Delivery and Takeout
PARKING: Street
CREDIT CARDS: Yes

Megumi Sushi is a little slice of Japanese heaven on always-busy Metropolitan Avenue. Bedecked with hanging lamps and handcrafted artwork, Megumi is a quaint little restaurant that caters to a great number of people. A hatted chef working behind the sushi bar greets customers as they enter.

“People come here from all over Queens,” said Megumi owner Alex Tan, who runs the restaurant with his wife, Dewi. “Our fish is very fresh, and the customers know it.”

Megumi Sushi opened a few years ago and has been doing very well, as Queensites have come in droves to taste the many unique sushi delicacies. Tan, a longtime sushi chef, opened his own restaurant and created a slew of tasty sushi dishes that can be ordered for lunch and dinner. Megumi also has a delivery service.

When eating a meal at Megumi Sushi, it is good to start off with soup or salad, and certainly a satisfying choice is the Miso soup. Customers should also try the Megumi salad, which consists of chicken, asparagus, crabmeat, mushroom, avocado, and a homemade ginger dressing.

Browsing the menu, customers will see a number of sushi options that they may not recognize. Of course, the menu has well known selections like the California roll, but then there are also choices such as the Spider Roll, Heaven and Earth, and the Volcano Splash. All three of these taste delicious in their own way. Other customer favorites include the Yakimeshi Unagi (eel) and the Whitefish Katsu.

Tan said that the restaurant serves “Godzilla-sized portions.”

Vegetarians need not worry because Megumi has a variety of meatless and fishless rolls. Different vegetables are sliced up and fitted into a sushi roll, including asparagus, mushrooms and spinach.

Megumi may bait people to the restaurant with its top-notch sushi, but the desserts reel ‘em in for good with six different ice cream flavors and ice cream tempura, which is a deep fried Japanese specialty. There is also banana tartufo and cheesecake. It all goes very well with a cup of green tea. Tan said that tiramisu tempura would be on the dessert menu very soon.

The restaurant may be a hot spot for dinnertime, but Tan said more customers should take advantage of the “excellent prices” for lunchtime. “In Forest Hills, they won’t find any sushi like ours,” he said.
``xEkuukplukFlVloCaaY``x1244208423``xReviews``x``xJeff Feinman``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens Pride``xtrib``xQueens is an amalgam of scores of ethnicities, a wide swath of cultural backgrounds, a seemingly-endless number of languages and a range of faiths. In short, we are the most diverse spot on the face of the earth.
Just as we celebrate the differences between our national heritages, we also celebrate the other aspects of our lives that make us unique: our cuisine, our dress and, yes, our sexuality.
Queens has a rapidly growing lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender population; people who live among us, work with us and celebrate their lives alongside us.
This special edition is dedicated to those in the LGBT community; to their families, their friends and their eventual spouses. As the state Legislature works to enact a marriage equality bill, we look forward to the day that we are all equal – husbands and wives without regard to orientation.
This is not a “gay” issue; it is a civil rights issue. We are all equal under the eye of the law. We are all equal in Queens, no matter sexuality, ethnicity or language spoken at home.
The thought that the state may soon pass a law that makes it official fills us with… well… pride. ``xEkuFypAyAZjhEjFDVW``x1243609697``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Flushing Drama Trumps Dem Choices``xtrib``xJohn Choe officially announced his candidacy for the 20th Council District on Monday and promptly won the endorsement of the Queens County Democratic Organization the next day.

The endorsement gave a boost to former Chief of Staff for Councilman John Liu – who currently holds the seat, but it was the most hotly contested of all the endorsements made that day. Choe faced a strong challenge from District Leader James Wu for the endorsement, but following the abstention votes by District Leaders Julia Harrison and Martha Flores Vasquez, Wu relinquished his votes to Choe “for the sake of party unity.”

“I’m totally happy with the situation,” said Wu. “Of course I would’ve liked the endorsement, but the will of the voters is more important.” Wu emphasized that he still supported John Liu for Comptroller, explaining that he understood why Liu would back one of his former staffers. “Having Liu running strong citywide will still help me on the ballot,” said Wu.

Wu said that while he could have tried to force a deadlock and move on to more rounds of voting, the two abstentions made it impossible for him to win, because even assuming he won the plurality of the votes, he would still lack a majority. So the choice became a stalemate from Liu’s district, which Wu said would look bad for everyone, or Wu would have to switch his votes to his opponent.

“I do think abstention is a huge cop out,” said Wu.

Florez-Vasquez said she and Harrison made a “mutual decision” to leave the decision to the voting community. Florez-Vasquez said she wanted a candidate to represent the whole district, “not just the Asian district.”

“In this district we go one of two ways: we want an Asian candidate or a qualified candidate. I think this is the year for a qualified candidate,” said Florez-Vasquez. She also said that Wu changed his vote out of “anger and retaliation.”

Harrison said she did not appreciate U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights), the county Democratic Chairman, dictating which candidate would be endorsed. “There is a united front in the community to not have someone shoved down our throats – let it be a free election and let the community decide for itself.”

She also said “I don’t know how John Choe can possibly win with three Korean people in the race.” She then said her sources tell her that Choe is “perceived as an advocate of a North Korean government […] The anxiety is very strong about John Choe proselytizing to the young people of immigrant parents selling them on the philosophy of the North Korean government.”

Choe brushed off the accusation as “crazy talk,” calling it “a desperate attempt by opponents to distract the electorate from the real issues.”

“Working families care about how they’re going to support their families, provide health care and a good education to their children. They care about maintaining the quality of life for their neighborhoods and to work with their neighbors to improve their community,” Choe said. “That’s what I’m running on and that’s what I’m qualified to help people as a candidate and elected official.”

Choe also noted the double standard for multiple Korean candidates: “When there are multiple white candidates no one says they are splitting the vote.”

The Queens County Democratic Organizations also endorsed Bill Thompson for Mayor, Eric Gioia for Public Advocate and John Liu for Comptroller. All the incumbents, including Helen Sears, received the party’s backing. The Democrats also endorsed Jerry Iannece for the 19th district; Deirdre Feerick for the 26th district; and Karen Koslowitz for the 29th district.``xEkuFypAyuZBtpPFrEw``x1243609647``xDeadline``xdeadline052909.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xDistrict Leader James Wu (l.) stands with John Choe shortly after the vote for the 20th District.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Hospitalization Rises As Flu Worries Spread``xtrib``xWith a dramatic increase in swine flu hospitalization, three new deaths and a handful of new school closings this week, New York’s U.S. Senators have asked that the federal government grant $350 million for state land local health agencies to respond to the growing crisis.

Though many schools that were closed last week re-opened Tuesday, four more had their doors closed effective last Friday, keeping kids out of schools this Tuesday and Wednesday, including PS 58 in Maspeth. On Tuesday, the Health Dept. ordered five more closed, including a small special-needs school in St. Albans.

Due to the holiday weekend, not all students at PS 58 were notified, according to an administrator at the school. Notice did not come in until after 5:30 p.m. last Friday. Though staff were notified by administrators, and an announcement was made at the Maspeth Memorial Day Parade, there were still approximately 50 students who showed up at the school Tuesday morning – and so did the school buses, filled with kids for the P9 special needs school located within the same building.

Bus drivers were at a loss over not only who was to sign off on their cards showing that they had come, but also what to do with the students on board. One driver told an on-site coordinator that she had a special needs child from Manhattan on board, and was unable to return her home since her mother lives in a homeless shelter.

A Dept. of Education spokesman said Wednesday that the bus company and the school had been notified Friday evening, and that the onus of contacting the drivers was on them to stop the pick-up of children.

Over the weekend, a 41-year-old woman and a 55-year-old woman from Queens, as well as a 34-year-old man from Brooklyn, were listed as the latest fatalities linked to the disease. The Dept. of Health said Tuesday it would not identify the victims at the request of the families, but also noted that they all had underlying illnesses. A spokesman said after autopsies are performed there will be a better understanding of how those conditions may have exacerbated the reaction to the flu, and that at that time the conditions would be identified.

Mitchell Wiener, 55, an assistant principal at IS 238 in Hollis, was the first New York City victim of swine flu. He died May 17.

Over the last five days, between 20 and 25 people per day have been hospitalized with the flu, which is a dramatic increase after only 57 had been admitted to hospitals in the prior month. Nationwide, there have been 7,927 confirmed cases and 11 deaths, including 456 cases in New York and the four deaths – three of which were people from Queens.

The Centers for Disease Control has said that those numbers are expected to continue to increase and “it’s likely that such outbreaks will continue over the summer.”

Concern for the spread of the flu within a more enclosed school – at Riker’s Island – led one staffer at the “Island Academy” to contact the media. More than 30 teenage and adult age students at the facility have been isolated in quarantine as they have developed flu-like symptoms.

The Dept. of Health guidelines for determining when a school gets closed are not wide-sweeping, with decisions made on a case-by-case basis. As for Island Academy, the criteria have not been met, according to a spokesman.

“We have been speaking to teachers and staff at Riker’s, and our recommendation is that any kids with illness be removed from the school and placed in a communicable disease unit until they are no longer infectious,” the spokesman said. ``xEkuFypAVAldCPZIqpb``x1243609598``xDeadline``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Boro Reps Take Action Over Trash Site Sanction``xtrib``xThe Department of Sanitation’s planned marine transfer station barely 2,000 feet from LaGuardia Airport faces a new obstacle. Two Queens Congressmen, Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside) and Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights) have stepped in to legislatively toss the MTS into the proverbial trash can.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed an amendment sponsored by the two representatives which would essentially enforce the Federal Aviation Administration’s own rules in regards to the station’s proximity to LaGuardia Airport.

The legislation was attached to the FAA Reauthorization Act, which provides the agency with funding for 2010.

“A 100-foot garbage tower at the end of a LaGuardia runway is an invitation for disaster,” Crowley said. “Increased trash around our airport means an increased bird population and that means an increased risk of another bird strike.”

The $125 million facility would be located at 31st Avenue and 122nd Street. Closed Sanitation trucks filled with garbage would line up as much as 17 deep to enter the facility. Once inside, the trucks would tip their load into chutes where compactors would then press the waste into containers. The containers, each holding about 22 tons of waste, would then be loaded onto barges capable of carrying as many as 48 containers – or more than a million pounds of containerized garbage.

“This amendment is about public safety trumping garbage,” said Ackerman. “Of all of the shorelines that surround all of the boroughs, why would the Sanitation Department pick the one spot for this facility that is directly opposite one of the busiest runways in the nation? It makes no sense.”

Caption: This waste transfer station will be replaced by a large-facility — less than 2,000 feet from LaGuardia‘s runway.``xEkuFypAVypRFHnGNSx``x1243609560``xDeadline``xdeadlinea052909.jpg``xBy Joseph Orovic``xThis waste transfer station will be replaced by a large-facility — less than 2,000 feet from LaGuardia‘s runway.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x The Tyke Grew Up``xtrib``xYou may remember Eloisa Almanza from the Goya commercial she was in. It aired 20 years ago, and in Spanish, but we’ll bet her performance was memorable.

Eloisa started out modeling and acting when she was a little tyke, and her mom used to take her on auditions. “I’ve never been afraid of the camera,” she said.

Today, she works as a nurse, after-school ESL teacher, and squeezes modeling in during weekends and summer months. On set she often goes by the name “Miss Isa.” She likes modeling, but her day jobs are her real priority.

During her time off, Eloisa likes to hang out at Queens bars, restaurants, and clubs. You might catch her at Extravaganza in Woodside. She loves going out for sushi, but is quirky about eating cooked fish: she only does shellfish.

Once during a shoot at the Grand Canyon, an antagonistic wind kept blowing up the thin dress she was wearing. “There were tourists there,” she exclaimed. “I ruined the Grand Canyon!”

Eloisa Almanza
Home: Rego Park
Age-25
Height: 5' 6'’
Weight: 126 lbs
Stats: 36-28-38``xEkuFyplyVyvHTGIrig``x1243608656``xQconf``xconfmodela52909.jpg``x``x``xconfnichelleuhura052909.jpg``xStar Trek's Uhura (l. to r.), from the original TV show, Nichelle Nichols; from the new movie Queens-born Zoe Saldana.``x58881066339339``x``xFilling Big Space Shoes``xWhen Zoe Saldana’s latest movie opened earlier this month, the budding actress knew she would need to be prepared for the inevitable comparison between her and Nichelle Nichols.

After all, Saldana was taking on the role of Star Trek’s Uhura, which Nichols took as a pioneer – the first black woman integrated into a television show.

Saldana, who was born and raised in Queens but moved to the Dominican Republic after her father died in a car accident, has mostly just had the word “hot” attributed to her work so far.

In comparrison, Nichols was asked by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not to leave the show after the first season because of the importance of her pioneering place in TV history.

Though Nichelle’s importance can’t be denied, it seems that neither can the future of the blossoming Queens gal. We look forward to the sequel. ``xThat Jew!``xSome people open their mouths just to change feet. It was bad enough when Arkansas State Senate minority leader Kim Hendren called Senator Chuck Schumer “that Jew” at a campaign event, but his apology was even worse. Apparently he didn’t appreciate Schumer referring to him as “hard right” in an interview.

“I don’t use a Teleprompter, and occasionally I put my foot in my month,” Hendren said, “I was attempting to explain that unlike Sen. Schumer, I believe in traditional values, like we used to see on the Andy Griffith Show.”

Give the guy a break, he was just saying something unscripted, you know – his actual thoughts. He went on to say there was a Jewish person he very much admired: Jesus.

“Apology accepted,” said Schumer, likely rolling his eyes.

And before you go on hating, just know it was their homegrown conservative blogger, Jason Tolbert, who caught the gaffe. ``xCiti Singer``xCan you remember the best moment of your childhood? For an 11-year-old Long Island girl the moment is on the horizon.

Sammi Podel said she was born to be a Mets fan, but never in her wildest dreams did she think she would take center stage at Citi Field.

Sammi was one of about 100 contestants to audition to sing the national anthem at a home game. She was chosen along with three soloists and two a capella groups to perform the Star Spangled Banner. The other soloists include Wanda Nash of Queens.

Well, we hope they don’t forget the words.``xWalken In Strange Places``xOne of QConfidential’s favorite actors, Christopher Walken, arguably the most iconoclastic of his generation, finally opened the window of his mind to Esquire.

And man, what a view.

The Astoria native offered up wild nuggets of the sort of wisdom only his brain can conjure up.

“I used to love Danish. My father used to make a Boston cream pie. You never see that anymore. Very good.”

The beauty is now open to interpretation Walken leaves his quotes: “That’s supposed to be a fact, that the question mark is originally from an Egyptian hieroglyph that signified a cat walking away. You know, it’s the tail. And that symbol meant — well, whatever it is when they’re ignoring you.”

Walken even mentions his father’s Astoria bakery, which the family still owns: “It was closed one day a week, but he would go anyway. He did it because he really loved his bakery. It wasn’t a job.”

He never admits to playing Russian roulette in his spare time, though we have our suspicions.``xCiti Singer``xCan you remember the best moment of your childhood? For an 11-year-old Long Island girl the moment is on the horizon.

Sammi Podel said she was born to be a Mets fan, but never in her wildest dreams did she think she would take center stage at Citi Field.

Sammi was one of about 100 contestants to audition to sing the national anthem at a home game. She was chosen along with three soloists and two a capella groups to perform the Star Spangled Banner. The other soloists include Wanda Nash of Queens.

Well, we hope they don’t forget the words.``xCops Hook Crooks Underwater Assetts``xFour ATM machines were discovered by police SCUBA teams on the bottom of Flushing Meadow Lake. The underwater jackpot came nearly one month after a Queens man was charged with their theft.

Valentin Garcia, 34, was charged with grand larceny of an auto, criminal possession of stolen property and criminal mischief after police linked him to the heists.

The alleged ATM bandit was arrested on April 21 after he leapt into the East River to evade police following a chase. He was spotted that day driving a white van – which was later found to be stolen – that matched the description of a recent ATM theft attempt. Police said he used van to ram street-side ATM machines before hauling them away.

Published reports allege that Garcia used his one prison phone call after being apprehended to alert friends to the arrest. He was allegedly overheard telling someone to “get all of the cash out from my mattress!”``xconfschumer52909.jpg``x``xconfwalken052909.jpg``x``xconfatm052909.jpg``x“That Jew” Chuck Schumer at a recent Queens Dem dinner.``x``xAstoria native Chrstopher Walken``x``xATMs recovered from Meadow Lake.``x``x``x``xconfmodelsmall052909.jpg``x``xconfcartoon052909.jpg``x``x Providing Equality For All New York Citizens``xtrib``xSo sometime last week, Trib reporter and Twitter and Facebook addict Joe Orovic posted a link to a piece on same-sex marriage.

The link led to a Daily News opinion piece by John McCain’s daughter, Meghan titled: “Why the New York GOP should embrace gay marriage.”

Her premise: “No matter how politically charged the discussions about marriage equality may get, the question is really a simple one: Do the rights and privileges we offer citizens include everyone in our country, or only some of us?”

She declares: “Equality under the law and personal freedoms are what make America the greatest country in the world, and they are core values that I hold as a Republican.”

And Meghan, a new resident of the Big Apple, points out with pride: “Last week, the New York Assembly passed the marriage bill with the support of five Republican Assembly members. Now, the bill goes before the state Senate, where Republican senators will make the difference on whether the bill becomes law or dies. Once again, New York has the opportunity to make a statement about Republican values and fairness by passing the marriage bill.”

Meghan McCain closes with: “I believe marriage equality will soon come to New York. My hope is that Republican senators will offer their support and make the difference to pass the marriage bill.”

Ms. McCain is correct, we need a handful of Republican State Senators to make same-sex marriage a reality in New York State.

For the first time, last week we saw an indication that the public is moving in favor of same-sex marriage.

A NY1 poll showed that New York City residents slightly favor legalizing same-sex marriage in New York State, with 46 percent in favor and 42 percent opposed.

The youngest group polled – under 30 – showed the greatest support for legalization with 56 percent in favor. Only 32 percent of those over 65 favored legalization.

Talking to high school and college students today makes it clear that attitudes have changed.

The religious driven prejudices of the past have given way to a more open and accepting attitude. There is little doubt that the next generation of our country’s leaders will support equality for all.

It is somewhat surprising to this critic of the New York State Legislature that earlier this month, the New York State Assembly passed the same-sex marriage bill by an overwhelming majority of 89-52. Due to the self-serving Albany campaign rules, there is little turnover in the Legislature so you won’t find a chamber of spring chickens. Yet 63 percent of the members of the Assembly voted in favor.

This is the second time the Assembly passed the bill to legalize same-sex marriage. Alan Van Capelle, the executive director of the Empire State Pride Agenda, points out that every member of the State Assembly who voted for it in 2007 got re-elected with mostly larger margins and five states have already legalized same-sex marriages.

With the Governor fully supportive of the legislation, the battleground is now the New York State Senate, a house now Democratic for the first time in more than four decades.

Majority Leader Queens’ Malcolm Smith has announced support for the bill but smartly will not bring it to the floor until he has 32 votes needed for passage.

The questions unresolved are how aggressively is Malcolm working to round up those votes, and does his possible reluctance to do so have any bearing on a deal he made with State Senator Reuben Diaz in order to gain his support for Majority Leader?

Diaz, a Pentacostal minister, is one of seven Dems who are not in favor of the bill. Republican support will therefore be needed to provide equality for all New Yorkers. Van Capelle believes if there is any bill has that has the power to break the partisan log jam in the Senate, it’s this measure.

In addition to potential Republican support, Van Capelle, says four of the seven Democrats in the “nay” camp are movable and identified two of them as Queens Senators. Astoria’s George Onorato and Jamaica’s Shirley Huntley are two of the four and should hear from supporters of the bill.

While Van Capelle and company apply their pressure to find additional votes before the end of the Legislative session in about a month, people in Queens can express their support for the same-sex marriage bill by contacting:

NYS Senator George Onorato at: onorato@senate.state.ny.us or (718) 545-9706.

NYS Senator Shirley Huntley at: shuntley@senate.state.ny.us or (718) 523-3069.

This is not a question about how you raise your children or your place of worship’s views on gays. There are no choices here that most of us will ever have to make.

The majority of us are really not involved in the issue.

Except for one thing . . . do we in this country believe the minority deserves equal rights?
MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com``xEkuFyplEkyWzldRIko``x1243608126``xNot4Pub``xnfp052909.jpg``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``xTwo of the potential key votes: Queens State Senators (l-r) Shirley Huntley and George Onorato.``xnfpstern052909.jpg``xHenry Stern``x49501066339351``x``xCan Governor Justify MTA Ousting Without A Successor?``xLee Sander has worked his last day as executive director of the MTA. He was fired by Governor Paterson with no successor in sight, and given two weeks’ notice, which is the custom in many low-end jobs. That is a hell of a way to run a railroad.

What Paterson meant when he called for a “widespread cleanup and cleanout” of the MTA is difficult to discern. He has not named any other individuals who should be “cleaned out.” Nor has he identified any specific plans or methods to “clean up” the agency.

The governor also said: “The one thing I learned in this process is that the public doesn’t trust anything the MTA says.” There is an element of truth in that remark. We don’t believe the MTA when they announce completion dates for capital projects, or when they threaten doomsday cuts unless fares are increased drastically. But this reputation and those practices long preceded Lee Sander. He has not, so far as we know, said anything in particular that turned out not to be true.

If one asks whether the public trusts anything the governor or the legislature says, one would find a similar, if not greater, degree of skepticism. There is good reason for this attitude. The governor was all for significant budget cuts until the legislature kept the budget essentially intact. Then he reversed himself and signed off on the budget.

He vigorously and publicly opposed a tax increase on incomes over $300,000 (the so-called “millionaires’ tax”), until he supported it and signed the bill to put it into effect. He asked state employees to give up their previously contracted 3 percent pay increases, while giving substantial raises to his own staff. And, after saying how much he liked Caroline Kennedy as a successor to Hillary Clinton’s vacant senate position, he appointed someone else, trashed Kennedy in the press, and then denied what he had done.

To succeed Sander temporarily, MTA chair Dale Hemmerdinger, another Spitzer appointee, has designated Helena Williams, who has been president of the Long Island Rail Road for less than two years. She is a labor lawyer, who later ran the MTA’s Long Island bus lines. She will multi-task for the nonce, continuing as LIRR president.

You may remember the scandal that arose in September 2008, when it was discovered that 93 percent to 97 percent of career employees of the Long Island Rail Road retiring every year since 2000 retired early and soon began to receive disability payments in addition to their pensions. The retirement board hardly ever turns down a disability application, and since 2000 has paid more than $250 million on these claims. Where was Ms. Williams during her two years as president of the railroad?

The selection of a new CEO is probably the most important personnel decision that will be made by state government this year. Political maneuvering notwithstanding, there was absolutely no reason we know of to throw Lee Sander off the train at this time, when there is no one likely to be appointed soon with similar qualifications.

It was reputed that the governor intended to appoint Marc Shaw, a previous executive director, but that plan ran into a blizzard of opposition from Democrats in the State Senate who believed, possibly accurately, that Shaw had been condescending to them during negotiations on the transit package this spring.

Anyone can look at an agency head’s job performance and think of ways it might have been different or better. We are not saying there is no person in the world who could match the job Sander has done. But those people are few and far between, and scarcely likely to come to the attention of Governor Paterson.

To dismiss a major commissioner without a successor, in the absence of fault, is most unusual, and difficult to justify to disinterested observers. If there are any facts of which we are unaware which would explain this apparently rash and impetuous action, it is up to Governor Paterson to tell us what they are.

And what of Dale Hemmerdinger, chairman of the MTA? Will he be left by the governor to twist slowly in the wind? He has also served two and a half years without salary, fault or complaint. Yet his job is suppposed to be merged with Mr. Sander’s former position. When?

Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar, and sometimes a blunder is just a blunder.
StarQuest@NYCivic.org``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xnfpcartoon052909.jpg``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``xForm``x Two Exhibits Bring Art To Rockaways``xtrib``xThe Rockaway Artists Alliance will host two new exhibitions: “Geometric” and “A Dash of Whimsy: The Art of Carol Rickey,” June 6-28 with a special opening reception Sunday, June 7, from 1 to 3 p.m., at its Ft. Tilden home in the Rockaways.

“I am very excited to be having my first solo exhibit,” said Rickey. “I’ve been in a lot of group shows, and having my own show is something I’ve always dreamed of.”

Her exhibit and “Geometric” kick off June in a big way. Both will open Saturday June 6, with Geometric running to Sunday June 28, and Rickey’s show running to Sunday June 21. They will be showing in the sTudio 6 and sTudio 7 galleries respectively at Fort Tilden in the Rockaways.

An opening reception will be held to celebrate both shows on Sunday June 7 from 1-3 p.m. The artists will be on hand and there will also be refreshments, live entertainment and lively company.

Speaking of her work, Rickey said, “I got interested in drawing some years ago, when I saw a sign in a store front window that said ‘Drawing Lessons, Inquire Within.’ I was hooked from the first class. Now I do watercolor and oil paintings.”

Rickey, who is fond of both classical music and the blues and studies ballet, said she is intrigued by all forms of art. “I’d like viewers to see the beauty in ordinary objects, and the whimsy in some of my still-lifes. I want my paintings to lift the spirit.”

“My paintings have fresh, bright colors and a post-impressionistic style…I’m trying to do something unique,” she added. And with the vivid, engaging works in A Dash of Whimsy, she has.

Speaking of creating something new, “Geometric” embraces the patterns in lines and angles and shapes. Photographer Joseph Abbate said, “’Geometric’ has taken me on a deviation from my usual path of florals and botanicals.” And indeed his works, like the bright yellow, red and orange “Parallel Peppers,” show the often surprising results.

In “Plates & Pitchers Pattern” by Stephanie Volovar Sautner , unexpected patterns emerge in color and motion. At the same time Robert Robels, veering sharply away from corners and edges, creates shapes and images which fade in from shadow and mist, such as in “Reflections,” or form out of the darkness in “Night Church.”

Clearly RAA’s ‘Geometric’ steps beyond the simple world of circles, squares and pyramids and crosses some lines to get there. Or as painter Roy Secord explains the appeal of this exhibition, “[There is a] common geometric expression, common truth and common mystery. My work is about that common denominator, that something shared… and always about that underlying mystery.”

Geometric artists include Penelope Atheras, Madeline Braisted, Michael Cohen, Sally Cumming, Robyn Davis, Philip Emelianov, Tim Ettinger, David Evans, Dan Guarino, Igor Gushchin, Dina Kaliko, Martha Elliot Killian, Ruth Kraiem, Denis Macrae, Gabrielle Mangano, Alyssa O’Shea, Ralph Petagna, Geoff Rawling, Renee Lee Rosenberg, Jessica Schulman and Yuri Yurov.

The Rockaway Artists Alliance invites all to come and enjoy “Geometric” and “A Dash of Whimsy,” feel the breeze, hear the waves and touch the edge of summer.

For more information call (718) 474-0861, e-mail rockart116@aol.com or visit rockawayartistsalliance.org. A complete listing of exhibitions, events and news can be found at the RAA website. Regular gallery hours are Saturday noon to 4 p.m., Sunday 1-4 p.m. and by appointment. Open to all, the RAA meets regularly in sTudio 6 on the 2nd Monday of each month.

RAA works in partnership with the National Park Service at Gateway National Recreation Area and in part is supported by NYC Department of Cultural Affairs, JP Morgan Chase, The Independence Community Foundation and Brooklyn Brewery.

Fort Tilden, located in the Rockaways, is an historic and now decommissioned U.S. Army post. Today it is home to many cultural, community and sport activities and serves as a premier part of Gateway National Recreation Area, a unique urban national park that spans several boroughs and incorporates beaches, marshlands and bird and wildlife refuges. Winter and summer its beaches, fields and trails offer sanctuary to many a traveler.``xEkuFypZlukHjJfxdZu``x1243607842``xLeisure``xlei052909.jpg``x``x“Vases,” by Stephanie Sautner``xleia052909.jpg``x“When Autumn Comes” by Roy Secord``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Open Space Exhibit Celebrates Dionysos``xtrib``xSocrates Sculpture Park presents Temple of Dionysos, 2009, a new work by artist Pentti Monkkonen. The installation is part of the Park’s ongoing series called Open Space, a forum for single artist and collaborative projects that run concurrently with Socrates’ group exhibitions. Temple of Dionysos will be on view in the Park through Aug 2.

Temple of Dionysos is a sculpture that is part cargo boat, part neoclassical temple. The deck of the boat doubles as a stage; its crane serves as a deus ex machina, or “god from the machine”. In ancient Greek theatre, a crane was used to lower actors who played gods onto the stage, serving as a device to expeditiously resolve conflict in drama.

The shape of the boat deck begins with the formal semi circle of the amphitheater, which is elongated and bounded with another semi circle at its stern. This simple geometry reflects the purely utilitarian, “machine esthetic” of cargo boats. At the base of the semi circular wheel house, there is a frieze of longshoremen carrying crates. The combination of the “machine esthetic” and the neoclassical frieze recalls 1930’s art and architecture which purposefully glorified the worker.

Dionysos is the god of theatre and it was for the Dionysic festivals that the first written plays were performed. This modern Temple of Dionysos does not serve as a stage for a specific performance; instead it gives the viewer an experience akin to walking onto an empty stage. One may wonder at performances past, or experience a heighted self awareness under the gaze of an invisible crowd.

Socrates Sculpture Park is open free of charge, 365 days a year from 10 am to sunset and is located at the intersection of Broadway and Vernon Boulevard in Long Island City. For directions, go to socratessculpturepark.org.``xEkuFypZZVZQnEDzdud``x1243607757``xLeisure``xleib052909.jpg``x``xThe installation mirrors both a crane and the conceptual deus ex machina of Greek theater.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Italian With Pride``xtrib``xIl Fagiano
17-12 Utopia Pkwy., Whitestone
(718) 352-6896
CUISINE: Italian
HOURS: Open for lunch and dinner
PARKING: Street

For those in Queens, we know there are two kinds of Italian restaurants: There’s the pizza joint on the corner and then there are the places you go for more.

Il Fagiano Ristorante in Whitestone is of the latter variety.

Situated on a quiet stretch of Utopia Parkway, Il Fagiano’s dark green awning announces a family friendly establishment with all the charm of Italy. It should be your go-to place for authentic Italian cuisine at an affordable price.

The owner is at the market every morning by 7 a.m. to buy only the freshest ingredients for his restaurant.

Obviously, the market drives the daily specials, which is easily the best option for your antipasti and dinner but the staples are all there as well.

A good way to go at the beginning of the meal is the seafood appetizers. The steamed clams and mussels are served with tomato, basil and herbs and the baked clams and fried calamari are served with a dark red tomato sauce. But in my opinion, the grilled calamari and grilled vegetables are the way to go.

I see “grilled” on menus all the time and usually it’s all served with the same Burger King results. It’s not really grilled, it may have been at some point, but Il Fagiano’s calamari and vegetables are hot from the grill and have that smoky taste to complement any summer evening.

Moving on to the pastas, like I said, all the ingredients are fresh and noticeably so. All the traditions are there with twists that whet anyone’s appetite. The rigatoni Matrigiana is served with smoked bacon, onion, fresh tomatoes and basil. Orecchette con Broccoli is shell pasta with garlic, oil and broccoli – and it’s all under the $15 range.

I had the special – a spinach fettuccini with mushrooms and artichoke served with a hearty meat sauce. It was difficult not to slurp the entire bowl down, but this food is meant to be savored – take my advice and slow down when you visit Il Fagiano.

For the main course (or if you decide it’s not a pasta-night), Il Fagiano offers a wide range of meat dishes with daily specials.

A choice of chicken, veal or fish should satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Chicken Francese is a sautéed breast in butter and lemon sauce and a good choice. I’m a fan of the grilled veal chop served with vegetables as well as the grilled salmon, sword fish or shrimp, all of which hover around $20.

For dessert, Italians do it right, in my opinion, with a cappuccino but if you have a sweet tooth, Il Fagiano offers an orange or lemon sorbet, several gelatos, limoncello and, best of all, homemade tiramisu.

In the end, if you don’t leave completely satisfied, you probably didn’t eat at Il Fagiano.``xEkuFypZupkONGVppxg``x1243607402``xReviews``x``xHarley Benson``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Miss Taxi International's Ride``xtrib``xIrina has been interested in modeling since she was a little girl, but never paid it much attention until she entered the Miss Taxi International competition in Queens last year – and won.

“It’s really after last year that I’ve been involved,” she said, pointing out that one of the prizes for winning was a got scholarship to go to modeling school at the Elizabeth Talent Studio in Manhattan.

Irina explained that as part of her title, she has been able to attend museum functions, go to events and even be interviewed for Queens Public Television.

“It’s been good,” she said. “I’ve been doing photo shoots and going to places.”

While not in front of the lens, Irina splits her time between studying for a degree in education from Queens College and working with disabled children at a center on Long Island.

Though she admits that modeling is a hobby for now, she would not be opposed to swinging into it as a full-time career should the opportunity arise.

This Bryant High School grad moved from Astoria to Jamaica, and spends some of her down time checking out the unique cuisines offered in her home borough.

“I have a hobby,” she admitted. “Every weekend, or in my free time, if I eat or go on a date I always go to a different restaurant. There are so many to choose from.”
Though she does admit a particular affinity for Red Lobster.

Throughout her work, Irina’s parents have been very supportive, attending events with her wherever her work takes her.

“They’re always there,’ she said, “and they don’t have any complaints.”

Irina Gonzalez
Home: Jamaica
Age: 19
Height: 5’ 6"
Stats: 33-25-37
NYPhotoByNick``xEkuFuZpFFFfeWLpptJ``x1243470333``xQconf``xconfmodel1_052109.jpg``x``x``xconfsawlady_052109.jpg``xNatalia “Saw Lady” Paruz performs with other saw musicians.
``x58881066339339``x``xSaw Record``xNatalia Paruz, Queens’ own Musical Saw Lady, is organizing an attempt to break the Musical Saw record set last year in Poland with 27 performers making music using a carpenter’s saw.

For the past seven years, Astoria has become a pilgrimage spot for musical saw players from all over the world. In past years musical saw players from China, Japan, India, Germany, Canada and all over the U.S. have participated.

The festival, in which the “Largest Musical Saw Ensemble” record is expected to be broken, will be held Saturday, July 18, 2 p.m., at Trinity Church, 31-18 37th St.

We hope the feat generates a lot of buzz.

To learn more go to musicalsawfestival.org.``xConfession``xCall it taking confession… to a whole new level.

Six officials from the Local Christian Assembly Church in Forest Hills, including former minister Isaac Ovid, took that sacrament straight into their court trial when Federal prosecutors obtained a videotape of them “repenting” for wasting $10 million of the congregation’s donations on bad investments and personal spending.

The U.S. Attorney’s office said it would be turning the video over to defense lawyers, along with the allegedly damning bank records.

The videos were shot sometime in 2005 inside the church, with the confession taking place in front of the congregation. Prosecutors claims the majority of the investor’s money went to luxury purchases, such as a $200,000 Bentley sedan leased by Ovid. ``xDrinking Outside``xA humongous new open air German Biergarten, Studio Square, opened last week in Long Island City. They serve 17 imported and domestic beers on tap, as well as wines and spirits. The menu also boasts bratwurst, black angus hamburgers, pulled pork, kielbasa, and sides of bacon. The place is 18,000 square feet, and plans also to host weddings and parties.

With a selection like that, a lot of guys might clamor to set a wedding date. Now you know where to bring you dates, girls. ``xSerbia Loves Queens``xEven in the Balkans, our borough is recognizable. And we thought they barely got TV signals out there.

Serbian director Darko Lungolov filmed parts of his feature “Here and There” in Long Island City and Astoria. The film was featured at the Tribeca Film Festival, among other flicks set in Queens.

The film follows Robert, who flies to Serbia to marry a woman for cash so she can get her immigration papers, while Serbian immigrant Branko struggles to save up enough money to bring his wife to the U.S.

Lest you be hesitant on checking it out, the movie won two awards at the Film Festival. And as our two Slavic reporters have proven, they do have funny accents and a great sense of humor.
``xMets Fan Streaks Into Jail``xCiti Field’s first streaker may be sliding all the way to jail, according to law enforcement officials.

Whitestone's Craig Coakley, 30, was charged with third-degree criminal trespass and interference with a professional sporting event after he dashed across right field last week wearing nothing but a stuffed monkey around his waist.

Coakley slid into second base before being apprehended by Mets security. He also documented the event on video, publishing it on the Web site Youtube last week.

“I didn’t think I was gonna get in so much trouble.  It was a bet. My boss said he would pay me a week’s worth of salary if I did it and my lawyer told me it’s only a misdemeanor,” he told police.

The NYC Interference with a Professional Sporting Event Law, passed in 2003, prohibits fans from disrupting sporting events and can incur stiff penalties on those charged with violating the law.

“As the defendant sadly learned yesterday, one ‘streak’ equals three strikes and you’re out – out of the ballpark and on your way to the courthouse to face arraignment on criminal charges,” Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said.

If convicted, Coakley faces up to one year in jail and civil penalties of up to $5,000.``x``x``xconfchurch_052109.jpg``xconfbeergarden_052109.jpg``xconfserbian_052109.jpg``xconfstreaker_052109.jpg``x``x Local Christian Assembly Church in ``xIt's open, the website is not.``xA scene from “Here and There.”``xFrom Whitestone streaker Craig Coakley's Youtube video``x``x``x``x``xconfmodel_052109.jpg``x``xconfcartoon_052109.jpg``x``x Should U.S. Senators Be Appointed Or Elected?``xtrib``xSenator Chuck Schumer defends her beyond reason, then the President talks Congressman Steve Israel into not challenging her. So goes the United States Senate career of Kirstin Gllibrand.

She continues to have it handed to her on a silver platter. I always thought you had to earn your US Senator stripes.

First, she is handed the Senate seat belonging to Hillary Clinton and once occupied by Bobby Kennedy, after a botched appointment by a blundering governor dissed Carolyn Kennedy with disinformation.

Then her past record against gun control gets opponents to line up with Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy – widowed by a gun violence incident on the LIRR – acting as cheerleader. McCarthy has threatened to challenge Gillibrand in the Democratic Primary if there are no other anti-gun takers.

From the moderate left, Manhattan Beep Scott Stringer, Suffolk Legislature Majority Leader Jon Cooper, Long Island Congressman Steve Israel and U.S. Rep Carolyn Maloney express interest.

An aggressive Israel quickly emerges as the politically shrewd, fundraising-able, likely candidate to take on Gillibrand.

With Schumer rattling his sword and apparently getting Obama to intervene, the biggest threat to Gillibrand is eliminated and a message is sent to others.

Now I know and like Maloney, Cooper and Stringer.

I don’t know Gillibrand and know little of her record other than she comes from a gun-owning family, is a great fundraiser and won an upstate normally Republican District.

Other than the real shaky inconsistent positions on gun control, she appears to lean to the right of most Dem Primary voters; I have nothing against her and am willing to give her a chance.

But my understanding of politics is you gotta earn your seat. Everyone should have a challenge -- at least once.

Sorry, Gillibrand has not stood before the people of New York State and been tested. She was appointed. Hillary Clinton and Bobby Kennedy and Chuck Schumer and all our great ones before faced a challenger and let the people decide.

Now Chuck Schumer is a fine U.S. Senator, but he has gotten a floundering Governor to bow to his wishes and now he’s using his impressive skills and national influence to pave the way for a free ride for Kristin Gillibrand.

We yell bossism even when the boss is a talented, liberal United States Senator.

We are yet neither for nor against Gillibrand. We are for forcing her to stand before the people of New York State and present her case. We are for a fair and open process encouraging New York’s best to test the waters and raise the funds to challenge her. We are for fair and open elections.

We are saddened that the President should interfere and encourage a system where a United States Senator is elected by a single person and kept in office by another.

We call upon Senator Schumer to step down from his protect-Gillibrand crusade. Our great State needs two strong, talented Senators, each of whom can stand on their own and meet the test.

Can Kristin Gillibrand?

A Little Planning Ahead
Oh no!

The guys who run things in the universe have decided that some time in 2011 – less than 2 years from now, metro New York is going to need another area code.

Got that?

The proliferation of cell/smart phones obviously has far outpaced the decrease in those almost useless house phones and whatever has been freed up from declining business use.

I remember when they relegated Queens to 718, trying to make us feel like a lesser part of the city than those Manhattan 212 elitists who kept the traditional NYC area code.

Then came the weird numbers — 646, 347 — and although there was a plan, cell phone portability made it seem that they were assigned somewhat randomly making us feel further disjointed.

Now, they are planning another number.

Assemblyman Rory I. Lancman, commented, “I don’t know if there’s room in my mental geography for another area code.”Now let’s see, what three digits will work least effectively with the existing four unrelated area codes? And how can they be assigned to make the people in this mighty city the least satisfied?

They’ll be working on the answers for the next year and pretty soon, when you get your kid a cell phone, you’ll be thankful for one button dialing because it’s not only the number you’ll have to remember but when calling anywhere in New York City, you won’t even know the area code.

MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com``xEkuFuyApuFQdVWVYhU``x1243469043``xNot4Pub``xnfp_kirstengillibrand_052109.jpg``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``xKristin Gillibrand``xnfp_stern_052109.jpg``xHenry Stern``x49501066339351``x``xSander Ouster Protested, Did Vito Lopez Threaten Him?``xLast week we wrote on the plight of the MTA, discussing the merits of Elliot (Lee) Sander, the agency’s CEO. Sander is honest, competent and innovative, but we felt it might be possible for Governor Paterson to find a stronger executive who would have more influence with the agency’s funders.

Paterson had “accepted Sander’s resignation” with two week’s time for the departing CEO to clear out of the office. This is early deadline for departure; “two weeks notice” is usually given to an employee who is being dismissed, or where a successor has been selected and is ready to start. That is not the case here; anyone nominated for the position by the governor must be confirmed by the State Senate, a process which usually takes some time. Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith has already expressed strong objections to Marc Shaw, a former MTA chief and a potential nominee.

The dismissal of Sander looks much worse than it did when it was first announced. First, Paterson has not expressed any appreciation for Sander or for his two and a half years of service, a practice which is customary unless the appointee is departing in disgrace. Then the governor told reporters he wanted to “clean up and clean out” the agency. “The one thing I’ve learned in this process is that the public doesn’t trust anything the MTA says.”

This expression of gubernatorial displeasure brings to mind his remarks on January 22, when he trashed Caroline Kennedy, who had been a candidate for Hillary Clinton’s Senate seat, with false and gratuitous allegations of misconduct on taxes and nannies, and then denied to the press what he had done the day before. Whatever the merits of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, there was absolutely no reason for Paterson to denigrate a woman who had never harmed anyone and was regarded by many as a national treasure. This was one of a series of errors which seriously damaged Paterson’s poll ratings. Last week a majority of voters said they would prefer the disgraced former Governor Spitzer to Paterson, who was chosen by Spitzer as his legacy to the people of the State of New York.

ENTER VITO LOPEZ
Sunday’s News carried an important article by Pete Donohue, the newspaper’s resident transit expert: Sander Tangled With Power Pol: “An Assemblyman tried to bully the MTA into giving his son-in-law a promotion – creating a wall of tension between Elliot (Lee) Sander and one of the state’s most powerful lawmakers.”

“Assemblyman Vito Lopez, the Brooklyn Democratic Party chairman, told Metropolitan Transportation Authority honcho Sander that he wanted Keith Summa, an engineer with the agency, to get a higher-paying gig. When Sander refused, Lopez flew into a rage, two sources familiar with the exchange told the News.

Lopez, the Brooklyn Democratic boss, has a history of intervening with government agencies on behalf of his friends and relatives.

The reputed choice by Governor Paterson of Marc Shaw as Sander’s successor has also run into strong objections.

The scapegoating of Sander is put into perspective by Nicole Gelinas in a column in the Post.

“Paterson has made it difficult, if not impossible, to get a qualified person to head the MTA, even if he wanted one. In the perverse world of Albany, taking the job under the conditions that Paterson has helped create would identify the candidate as a hack, dumb or crazy.”

We have had our differences with Sander, and we have not hesitated to point them out. He continued capital projects which we think are wasteful, but they were well under way when he came on the scene. Nonetheless, he was well above the norm of transit managers, knowledgeable, honest and devoted to the transit system. His resistance to political bosses seeking patronage will always be to his credit. As a former commissioner, I am well aware of attempts by politicians to foist their unqualified followers on agency heads, sometimes without the mayor’s knowledge.

The Lopez allegations will be investigated by the MTA Inspector General Barry Kluger. The investigation will be a test for Kluger, now largely unknown to the public. Will Kluger turn out to be a truth seeker, or will he choose, by neglect, misjudgment or failure to act, to be part of the scandal? We hope he conducts himself wisely and honorably. We were, however, disillusioned by the botched Spitzer investigations over Troopergate two years ago, first clearing him and then accusing him when the tide turned. Kluger was appointed by Spitzer, but played no part in the bungled investigations. His slate is clean and let us hope it remains so.

StarQuest@NYCivic.org``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xnfp_cartoon_052109.jpg``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``xForm``x Pension Participants Tied To Hevesi``xtrib``xOf the $84,400 that helped fund Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi's (D-Forest Hills) 2005 special election, one quarter of the money came from sources tied to the financial industry.

According to campaign filings and the State Comptroller's records, at least three of Hevesi's largest donors had received money from the State's Pension Fund, which Hevesi's father, Alan, was overseeing at the time as the State's Comptroller.

Also among Hevesi's donors were criminally indicted consultant Hank Morris and alleged un-indicted co-conspirator Jack Chartier, who contributed a total of $3,000 towards the campaign.

Markstone Capital Group, Easton Capital Group and Mezzacappa Management all donated to Hevesi's run either directly or through employees within days of his campaign's launch. All three firms already held over $140 million in pension funds at the time. Mezzacappa also received five additional investments from the fund totaling $400 million in 2005 and 2006.

The company also donated a total of $100,000 towards the elder Hevesi's comptroller races in 2002 and 2006.

Placement agents, which sparked an ongoing investigation by State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo, were only used by Easton, according to a list released by current Comptroller Tom DiNapoli.

Hevesi declined to comment, and several attempts by the Tribune to reach Cuomo's investigators failed.

The sources of funds themselves are legal, according to political consultant Hank Sheinkopf.

"It's perfectly lawful," he said. "The alternative is to have 100 percent publicly and adequately funded campaigns. That's they only way you stop these kinds of things."

Given the ongoing investigation, some sensed an air of impropriety.

"Something may not be illegal, it still could be incredibly unseemly and work against public's interest," said Councilman John Liu (D-Flushing), who is running for City Comptroller this year. "The timing and magnitude of these contributions raise concerns about whether in fact the best interest of the pensioners and the general public was of paramount importance."

Hevesi launched his campaign in a special election to fill the seat vacated by Mike Cohen on March 14 of that year, beating out Anthony Como for the seat. Cuomo's investigation found that former Liberal Party boss Ray Harding received $800,000 in exchange for political favors, which included orchestrating the seat vacancy for the young Hevesi.

Cuomo's investigation specifically stated that the younger Hevesi was likely unaware of the machinations that led to the vacancy, and Hevesi has maintained his innocence.``xEkuFuylyAENStsYXOh``x1243468691``xDeadline``xPage03_052109.jpg``xJoseph Orovic``xAndy Hevesi’s (l.) 2005 campaign was financed in large part by individuals or companies tied to the financial industry, including some who benefitted from his father’s (r.) position.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Disgraced Politician Gets 10 Years In Jail``xtrib``xFormer Assemblyman and discredited Labor Leader Brian McLaughlin was sentenced to 10 years in a federal prison and fined $25,000 Wednesday.

The 57-year-old pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in 2008, which included stealing $2.2 million in cash, getting free cars and taking money from a Little League Baseball organization financed by his own legislative member item funds.

According to published reports, Judge Richard Sullivan held back a sentence of 15 years because of McLaughlin’s cooperation with investigators into Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio’s (D-Richmond Hill) own corruption charges, as well as a case pending against Petrocelli Electric Company in Long Island City. Still, the reports indicated the judge held back little scorn when handing down his decision.

The sentencing marks the end of a political saga that began three years ago, when McLaughlin’s offices were raided by the FBI and pulled dozens of files and paperwork. Initial suspicions centered around his ties to two Queens electrical companies – Petrocelli and Welsbach – which maintain a large part of the City’s network of street and traffic lighting.

McLaughlin was indicted under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act in 2006. He was accused of defrauding Local 3, receiving bribes and embezzling funds from a number of sources, including a local Little League.

Petrocelli Electric Company was raided by federal investigators in 2006 in connection to the McLaughlin probe, which began as a bid rigging investigation into contracts awarded to Petrocelli’s company.

Petrocelli and Welsbach Electric of College Point held a combined $160 million in city contracts at the time of the probe, far more than their competitors.

McLaughlin worked as a part-time representative for Local 3 and served as president of the City’s Central Labor Council before his indictment in 2006.

The seven-term assemblyman announced he would not seek reelection just weeks before the probe began.

McLaughlin is also believed to have flipped on another associate during the course of the investigation, according to published reports. Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio (D-Glendale) was indicted in December after McLaughlin reportedly wore a wire to gather incriminating evidence against his former colleague.
``xEkuFuylykkXlTAQpZy``x1243468622``xDeadline``xPage03_052109a.jpg``xJoseph Orovic ``xBrian McLaughlin, who admitted to a slew of corruption charges, will go to jail for 10 years.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Candidate List Swells For Council Races``xtrib``xThe races to fill vacant City Council spots in Queens have gotten considerably hotter since the last Campaign Finance Board filing in March, and the numbers show that certain parts of Queens are in for a battle royale come time for this September’s primary.

The most competitive race in the borough is the seat currently held by John Liu (D-Flushing), who is turning away from re-election in order to seek the City Comptroller seat. As of the May 15 filing, nine Democrats and a Republican have signed on to the race, with Yen Chou leading the way in fund-raising with $164,205.

In the 19th District, where Tony Avella (D-Bayside) is running for mayor, seven have joined the race, including the local Community Board chairman, a handful of Democratic regulars and a named legacy from the other side of the borough. Paul Vallone, brother to a sitting councilman and son of the former Council Speaker, leads the fund-raising with $97,168.

In the 24th District, Jim Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows) has just started fund-raising, but his decision to seek re-election has virtually eliminated his Democratic challengers, Martha Taylor and Mike Simanowitz, who though technically still on file with the CFB, have said they intend to drop from the race.

One of the most interesting races deals with some substantial challenges to an incumbent seeking re-election. Helen Sears (D-Jackson Heights) is seeking a third term, but she (having raised $119,623) is being hotly challenged by gay activist Danny Dromm ($81,087), another community activist Alfonso Quiroz ($67,686) and South Asian business leader Stanley Kalathara ($67,952).

Another wide open race is brewing in Forest Hills, where Melinda Katz is also seeking the Comptroller spot, and a slew of talented candidates have begun to jockey for position. Lynn Schulman ($62,570) is leading the campaign finance filing, but is not too far ahead from Heidi Chain ($54,562), former Assemblyman Mike Cohen ($40,300), Mel Gagarin ($13,808), former Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz ($23,550) and JR Nocerino ($3,515).

A rematch is brewing in South Queens, where Eric Ulrich (R-Howard Beach), who to date has raised $400, is seeking to defend his seat against well-armed opponent Frank Gulluscio, who has raised $15,482. This battle is expected to boil over, as the Mayor has promised his support to Ulrich’s campaign – part of a deal cut to get the Queens GOP to back the mayor’s re-election bid.

Speaking of that deal, Tom Ognibene, who was replaced in the Council after term limits in 2001 by Dennis Gallagher, has announced he will seek to get the seat back from Liz Crowley (D-Glendale), who ousted Anthony Como in the second of two elections for the district last year. Crowley has raised $39,035, but will need to raise a lot more – the GOP wants the seat back.

The petitioning period begins in a few weeks, and by that time the list of candidates will likely swell some more, only to be chopped down in the petition challenges to follow. The race is on.``xEkuFuylVEVOpjdtnYS``x1243468515``xDeadline``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens College Camps Out For Darfur``xtrib``xIn the beaming mid-afternoon sun, Jenn Polish ran across Queens College’s quad to a makeshift tent consisting of a clear tarp and a few hunks of wood. She shook up a can of black spray paint and scrawled “War is over, if you want it” along the tent’s side.

Decades have passed since Queens College’s hum of activism during the Civil Rights era. But dozens of students like Polish have picked up the torch with a “Refugee Campus.” The five-day, four-night camp-in was organized in tandem with STAND, a nationwide student activism organization, and hopes to raise awareness for the genocide in Darfur.

“We’re bringing back the notion that students can make a difference,” Polish said.

The camp will host various educational events, discussions with scholars and occasionally break out into song. Drums, guitars and two didgeridoos lay scattered around on the floor.

Along the way, the students are gathering signatures for a petition, with the unique inclusion of a space for the signee’s own comment, dubbed “My message.”

According to the students gathered, fellow classmates offered a mixed reaction, ranging from full-on support to skepticism.

“Some people have said we’re just trying to get a reason to camp out and party at school during finals week, but that’s not at all what this is about,” said Doug Leresche, a participant and native of Zimbabwe.

The students have had to experience a life much simpler than their own. All their food – a smattering of spreads, bread and snacks – was provided by classmates. The makeshift tents weren’t the most comfortable digs either. No open fires were allowed, so they had to take a trip to the nearest microwave for hot food. The library was open 24 hours, so it offered warmth and a rest room. Showers are available in the gym.

“When we were thinking of this, we were debating with that idea of ‘How far do we go with this?’” Leresche said. To remain true to the spirit of the refugee camps, the group decided to only allow women to fetch the water.

“Men, when they leave a camp [in Darfur], often get killed. Women are raped, but they come back with water,” Leresche said.

Their first night was admittedly rough as temperatures dipped down to the low 50s.

“It was freezing,” Leresche said. “We all woke up at around 4 a.m. and just kept on freezing.”

The group created a master list of students’ final schedules, to assure that the campsite would not be unmanned at any point. Nine students committed to stay for all four nights, despite having to study and take their end-of-semester exams.

“We’ve been studying, or at least trying to,” said Polish, who then started reviewing for a biology final.

The entire venture was supported by the college itself.

“We came to the school’s administration prepared. We went point by point over any objection they might have, but they immediately supported us,” Polish said.

“Our goal is plain and simple, that the genocide stop and never happen again,” Polish said.``xEkuFuyluVpBPnPHCNf``x1243468450``x(default)``xPage04_052109a.jpg``xJoseph Orovic``xJenn Polish spray painting “War is over if you want it” on a symbolic refugee tent, at Queens College.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Immigrants Scammed In Queens``xtrib``xState Attorney General Andrew Cuomo has filed a lawsuit against Miriam Mercedes Hernandez, a businesswoman from Queens, for an immigration scam that targeted and defrauded over a dozen immigrants out of tens of thousands of dollars.

Hernandez allegedly told her clients she had the connections necessary to secure them permanent residence status in exchange for up to $15,000 in fees. She allegedly said the process would take eight months, but she did not deliver on the documents.

When the victims confronted Hernandez she would threaten to call the authorities should they complain. The AG alleges that she would also sometimes only take on a client if they could bring her up to ten additional clients, so she could charge all of them up to $7,500 as an initial fee, in addition to the individual fees.

Immigration advocates lauded the lawsuit because undocumented immigrants are often the most vulnerable to such scams because they are afraid to seek legal protection from the authorities.

The lawsuit is a result of an ongoing investigation into similar schemes that target immigrants and their families with false promises of legal permanent residency.

Community advocates say these individuals often target specific ethnic communities through word of mouth and advertisements. These schemes are not limited to documentation, as there have been recent City and State investigations into fraudulent job placement companies operating in Queens which also target undocumented aliens who are then blackmailed into losing their fees.

If you have been a victim of immigration assistance fraud you are urged to contact the Attorney General through the Office's Immigration Services Fraud Unit Hotline at (212) 416-6149. ``xEkuFuyZZAAFiklAEDB``x1243467799``x(default)``x``x Vladic Ravich``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x DA Says Budget Cuts Are Too Deep``xtrib``xThe Queens District Attorney was the latest official to join the proverbial bread line at City Hall on Tuesday as government agencies throughout the City struggle to make due with shrinking budgets.

Citing a 70 percent rise in arrests over nearly two decades and budgets slashed by more than 20 percent since 2001, DA Richard Brown requested additional funding to help fill an estimated $2 million gap created by the first round of citywide cuts. Under the current budget plan, the DA’s office will lose another 14 percent of its funding from 2008 levels by next year. Additionally, Brown said that projected cuts would eliminate another $4.4 million in city funding between 2010 and 2011.

“The impact of all of this is enormous,” Brown said. “The funding simply does not provide a stable budgetary plan that will allow us to make intelligent decisions on hiring, staffing levels, salaries, and a myriad of other issues that affect our day to day operations.”

And despite implementing numerous cost saving measures during the past few years – including staff reorganizations, streamlining case processing and closing the Family Court Bureau – the DA says that the latest cuts will almost certainly eat into core law enforcement functions.

“We remain deeply concerned about the impact that all of this will inevitably have on our operations, our staffing levels and continuation of many of our specialized initiatives – including initiatives in the areas of child abuse, domestic violence, gun trafficking, gang violence and related crime and many others,” Brown said.

According to Brown, mortgage fraud cases increased three fold within the last year, with 1,200 Queens cases pending in April.

“New trends such as the increase in homicides, the proliferation of gang violence and the growing number of real estate and mortgage fraud cases and other crimes require additional attention,” he said.

But budget related staff reductions through attrition and hiring freezes and ongoing wage stagnation have hammered the DA’s office as experienced prosecutors continue to flee for lucrative positions in private firms.

“We lost many of our experienced mid level assistants and support staff, many of whom moved on to the private sector and higher salaries – simply because we could not keep pace,” he said.

Brown said that average caseloads for assistant district attorneys had risen to more than 200 last year, and will continue to rise without resources to hire additional attorneys.

“We need baselined restorations of the cuts that we have suffered – and not have to live from year to year not knowing what monies we can rely upon,” he said.

Brown called on the council to restore a $540,000 supplement that has been granted annually to the Queens DA since 2006.

“The bottom line in everything I’ve said today is that we need you – the members of the City Council – more than ever before – to once again provide us with the resources necessary to allow us to continue our efforts in reducing the level of violence within this City and improve the quality of the lives of our residents,” he said.``xEkuFuyZZVVDPfPWuHe``x1243467755``x(default)``xPage05_052109.jpg``xMichael Lanza``xD.A. Richard Brown``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x No Closings From GM, Chrysler``xtrib``xLast week General Motors and Chrysler announced they would close a substantial chunk of their dealerships nationwide, but it appears Queens is not on either company’s list.

Chrysler, which plans to shut down 789 dealers by June 9, released a list of doomed car peddlers, Queens-free.

GM promised to scale back its numbers by more than 1,000 of its nearly 6,000 nationwide dealers, though it refused to say which ones. It contacted the dealers it plans to drop via mail, saying the company would not renew their franchise agreements, which would expire in roughly a year.

A source at the Greater New York Automotive Dealers Association said they did not foresee any of the borough’s dealerships being affected by the change nor had they heard of any dealer being contacted by GM.

The companies have been in a steep decline, losing over seven million vehicle sales in the last few years.

The closings by Chrysler reflect a restructuring it faces after filing for bankruptcy earlier this month.

GM’s move could be a prelude to its own stint with bankruptcy, as millions in government loans and the dropping of several brands has not been enough to stymie the decline in sales.

Formal calls to GNYADA requesting an interview were not returned as of printing.``xEkuFuyZZpkhBHveRSe``x1243467702``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Go With Your Gut``xtrib``xIt’s not easy to be a parent in Queens these days. With just more than a month left in the school year, our focus is usually on helping our kids get that last bit of information into their heads before their thoughts turn to lazy summer days, camp, time with friends and family vacations.

Those thoughts are far from the minds of Queens parents as we head into Labor Day weekend. Instead of thoughts of the summer, our minds are filled with questions about swine flu: Which schools will be closed next? What do I do if my child’s friend gets sick? Will the City cover my health expense if I’m uninsured and go to see a doctor?

And, perhaps the biggest question looming: Does any of this effort on the part of the schools, the City or us parents even matter?

Unfortunately, there are no easy answers to any of these questions, especially to the query about which school is next. Nobody knows. Schools with high absentee rates are open while others close. There is no formula – the mayor himself has said that.

So what do we do? We go with our gut. If you feel uncomfortable sending your kids to school, make a rational, thought-out decision based on reality. If you know your kids could be exposed to truly sick children, keep them home. If your kids are sick themselves, definitely keep them home.

But if you’re buying into the fear, stop and think. Clearly, you have to make the decision that is in your child’s best interest, but just be sure of the facts before you make that call. ``xEkuFuyZyFFUJXcAJOX``x1243467633``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Health Crisis: As Schools Close, Questions Linger Over Latest Spread Of Swine Flu ``xtrib``xSwine flu is not as dangerous as initial reports indicated, but it is also not going away anytime soon.

Experts stress that while the current strain of the H1N1 virus is usually milder than the typical flu, Queens institutions – not to mention parents – have been feeling the stress of unpredictable school closures and busy emergency rooms.

Following the death of 55-year-old Assistant Principal Mitchell Wiener and the wider spread of the virus, the City’s official policy has evolved to more strenuously urge anyone with flu-like symptoms to stay home. However, critics charge that the City is not providing enough information about teacher and student absentee rates to let parents make their own decisions about sending their children to class.

Further complicating the situation, it remains unclear whether school closure and disinfection actually slows the spread of the flu, which is transmitted rapidly in children because it is a new, albeit relatively benign strain.

Flu Advice
As of press time, the advice coming from School Chancellor Joel Klein and the City’s new Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley is for anyone in a higher-risk group who may have come in contact with the flu to seek medical advice from their doctor or one of the City’s health clinics.

The high risk groups include people over 65 or under 2 years of age; people with chronic lung, heart, kidney, liver or blood disorders; people with immune systems that are compromised (either due to illness or medicines); pregnant women; people on long-term aspirin therapy; or anyone with a pre-existing condition that may compromise their ability to fight the flu, such as asthma or obesity.

Individuals in these categories may be advised by their doctors to take preventive medications such as Tamiflu or Relenza. “However, most people who get the flu do not need to seek medical care and do not need to be tested for H1N1 flu,” said Farley and Klein in a letter to parents posted on nyc.gov. “The Health Department recommends testing only for people who are in the hospital.”

The other recommendation was to parents of school children: “The best way to prevent additional cases of flu in our schools is to ensure that people with symptoms stay home. If your child has a fever, accompanied by cough or sore throat, please do not send the child back to school until 24 hours after the symptoms resolve.”

School Closings
Mayor Mike Bloomberg has emphasized that closing schools is a “complex” decision that must balance the children’s chances of exposure to the virus with the burdens placed on parents who must now find daycare and supervision for their children. He also said that closing a school will not stop children from spreading the virus.

However, several politicians have criticized the City’s response, citing a lack of communication and specific about the rubric used to determine which schools will be closing and what uninsured New Yorkers need to know about seeking treatment.

The mayor has said that “whether you have health insurance coverage or your immigration status is in question it doesn’t matter. We will not ask about that. The only question that matters is: are you severely ill, and if you are, our hospitals are there to take care of you.”

However, Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Sunnyside), who is currently running for Public Advocate, and City Comptroller and mayoral candidate Bill Thompson have both called for up-to-date listings on how many students are believed to be ill and what schools they attend. The mayor has indicated that while the Department of Health is monitoring these figures closely looking to find signs of “clusters,” the data is constantly changing because so many students are staying home without being sick.

The United Federation of Teachers has set up a hotline for its members to call and leave daily updates on the number of students and staff that are absent and sick, as well as such details as “a brief description of the activity in the nurses’ office.” The UFT has not made a decision on whether to release this data to the public as of press time, but their representative said their decision would be revealed in a press conference scheduled for 1 p.m. Thursday.

Health Questions
Another important point of confusion is how the City plans to accommodate uninsured residents. “What [the Mayor] is trying to say is he wants people to walk into the emergency rooms,” said Assemblyman Jose Peralta (D-Corona). but that clogs up the borough’s already overwhelmed medical system with non-emergency patients. This is consistent with published reports of especially long wait times in ERs throughout Queens in the past week.

While everyone is urging anyone who is ill to seek medical attention, the details on what the City will do to cover their fees remains unclear.

“City hospitals will try to pick up the cost if they qualify for some sort of health insurance, but failing that, some sort of bill will be sent to the person’s house down the road,” said Peralta. “Instead of that, what should happen, and the mayor has the power to do this, is to open up an emergency facility in all the clinics from the DOH to offer screenings for people to be tested if they have certain symptoms, then we’ll truly know the extent of the problem and ensure everyone gets care.”
``xEkuFuyZVEEhqHGNHGc``x1243467511``xFeature``xfeature052109.jpg``xVladic Ravich``xIS 238 Assistant Principal Mitchell Wiener died from swine flu this week.``xfeature052109a.jpg``xSchool Chancellor Joel Klein speaks outside IS 73, which remained open despite hundreds of students calling in sick.``x84971066339260``x``x``xThe mayor has insisted that the City is working around the clock to monitor the situation closely, all the while keeping the situation in perspective. “We can’t stop the flu,” said Randy Weingarten, the president of the UFT. “we are concerned with trying to stop serious illness.”

“I know what he’s afraid of – a line around the block,” continued Peralta, “I mean people in that line could catch it from each other. It is something of a catch 22 […] I think [the mayor] doesn’t want to create a hysteria or a panic, but it’s already out there. There is a lack of information on what this is, on how to stop it, and on why it is all happening in schools? What are the factors?”

Calling the flu “the first crisis since 9/11,” Peralta’s office issued a statement announcing an emergency town hall meeting – the first on swine flu – to be held on Thursday May 21, at Our Lady of Sorrows Auditorium located at 35-34 105th St. in Jackson Heights.

Peralta said the Mayor’s office initially agreed to send a representative to the meeting, but changed plans on Wednesday.

“The mayor’s office told me ‘we don’t have control of the issue, and the mayor has to have control.’ I think [the mayor] wants to be the one to say I am having a town hall meeting,” he said. “If the mayor would’ve been the first person to say lets do, I would’ve been there, but if you’re playing politics with this…”

Matthew Gorton, a spokesman for the mayor’s legislative office, disagreed: “The mayor’s office has been sharing information with elected officials on a continuing basis, through conference calls, e-mails, and daily press conferences.” He also said the mayor’s office had a very different sense of the tone of their conversation with Peralta.

So while Queens residents now have a new strain of flu, it seems some think our politics have remained the same.
``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xcover_052109.jpg``xWith 18 school buildings in Queens having closed since the start of the swine flu epidemic, parents are left wondering when their children’s schools will be named to the list.``x``x``x``x``x Cops Bust Up Wedding Over Alcohol``xtrib``xThere was considerable anger toward the police in the Queensbridge housing development after a wedding reception being held Saturday at a New York City Housing Authority facility was shut down by Lieutenant Brown of Public Service Area 9.

The reception was scheduled to go from 4 to 9 p.m. inside the Riis Center on Saturday, but the entire wedding reception was cleared out because, according to the police, alcohol was being consumed on the premises.

Inside, bride Lanette Gilbert was in tears, shaking her head in disbelief that her wedding reception was over before the food was even served. The guests were told to leave by about 10 police officers. Many of her relatives were arguing and pleading with Brown to allow the celebration to continue.

According to Gilbert, she first heard there was a problem when she spoke with Brown after he threatened to close the event because he was “being disrespected.” She said, “He said they were yelling and cursing at him and stuff. I never heard him say that people were drinking. He said they were disrespecting him.

“I said, ‘show me who is being disrespectful and I would’ve told them to leave,’” said Gilbert. Instead, she alleges that Brown decided to collectively punish everyone at her reception because of the attitude he got from the crowd.

Gilbert admitted there was alcohol at the event, but maintained she did not know she was violating any rules. “If he had asked us to get rid of the alcohol, we would have done that with no problem. I can see if we had liquor bottles out or beers out, but everything was discreet.”

Gilbert alleges that Brown tried to give her a summons and demanded her ID. “I was in my wedding dress, so no I didn’t have my purse on me!” she explained. Her husband, Robert Gilbert, showed his ID instead and received an open container summons.

Then the police said they were closing down the event and entered the center to clear everyone out. As some angry family and friends filed out in disbelief, others tried to argue with Brown that the violation did not justify throwing out the 50 or so guests in the middle of the reception.

“If this was a white neighborhood, you wouldn’t have done that,” William Singletary, an uncle to the bride, told the police while they waited for the room to be cleared. “You’d give them a ticket at most, if anything.”

Brown seemed unsympathetic to entreaties of the two families, saying, “It’s not that I don’t care, it’s that I won’t be disrespected. You messed it up for the whole.”

A few minutes later he yelled, “Now you can’t even have dinner. Everyone leaves now, now! Now!”

As the hall began to empty, the bride stood in tears, at one point interrupting the steady barrage of confused and angry remarks of the departing guests by yelling “Will some man please take my wedding cake out of here,” before sobbing again.

Robert Gilbert sat expressionless as the party was emptied. He was one of the last to emerge from the center and by that time he seemed to be taking the whole fiasco in stride, taking photos with his sister and saying, “I don’t know, I think it’s unfair. With all this other crime going on, they go and break up a wedding over that? They had a Mother’s Day party there and there was drinking, I mean come on, they never just stopped the event before.”

“Seriously, all these cops do not need to be here,” said one teenager as he loosened his tie and walked angrily out of the event.

“Just cause they have a uniform don’t make them better,” said Georgiana Gilbert, the sister of the groom. “Then they wonder why people don’t respect them. I don’t respect them – you gotta give respect to get respect.”

Community Affairs at PSA 9 said they did not have a statement ready as of press time, so Brown’s justification and timeline of events is not yet available. However, after reviewing a contract for events in a NYCHA facility, there is a ban on consumption of alcohol in the fine print of the agreement section.

Nonetheless, the guests uniformly said they felt disrespected by the collective punishment. While tempers were hot, most of the comments to the police were complaints about injustice, although there was an occasional heckle like “swine!” yelled by a departing guest.

The poor relationship between the residents and the police comes as no surprise as new data recently released by the NYPD shows that stop and frisk incidents have grown some 18 percent over the first three months of 2009 when compared to the same time last year.

If you ask a young, black male in Queensbridge how often the police stops him or one of his friends, you will likely get a shrug and a boastful “all the time.” Most seem embittered toward the police and almost everyone has a story of harassment to tell.

There were several exceptions; people who may fit the profile for harassment but said they had no problems. “I’m a working man,” said one, “but it happens, and I still think it’s messed up.”

Other residents expressed skepticism about the fairness of the policy, but said they were grateful to have the police keeping “the crazy young ones” under a close watch.

The guests at the wedding were less ambiguous about their feelings: “They went overboard. They could’ve given a ticket or a desk appearance. They could’ve told me personally that someone was disrespecting them and that would be the end of that,” said Lorenzo Rhames, a relative who had just arrived at the reception from Tuckahoe when it was broken up. “The key word here is discretion, and [Brown] let his ego get in the way of his discretion.”

Despite the commotion and anger, the food was quickly packed away and plans were made to celebrate inside one of the Queensbridge houses. “Pack it up and take it to the crib,” yelled one man as he carried out trays of food past the balloons that were left behind.``xEkuFuyZEVkuqGIRyor``x1243467152``x(default)``xPage13_052109.jpg``xVLADIC RAVICH``xOfficer Brown tells the bride and friends that they need to leave the community center.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Boro PEP Member Asks For More Input``xtrib``x
Learn NY, an advocacy group among many contending for a chance to influence the Legislature’s decision on mayoral control of the public school system, is not alone. A thrush of political maneuvering is taking place inside the Senate chambers, suggestions are being made in the Assembly, political candidates are weighing in and parents and their representatives are all hoping for a voice in the decision.

Though the State Senate promised a bill by the end of the day Monday, all that came out of the meeting was a slew of reasons why the members disagree, mainly focused on the fears that they have regarding supporting a mayor who may seek to push the Democrats out of power in the Senate.

Prior to 2002, when the Legislature granted the mayor control over the Dept. of Education, and Bloomberg was given the ability to appoint a chancellor, schools were run by individual school boards that had authority over everything from staffing to school curriculum and zoning. Under legislation granting mayoral control, schools were handed citywide mandated curricula. All matters from class size to textbook selection were dictated by the chancellor. Mayoral Control abolished schools boards, and replaced them with the Community Education Councils, which serve strictly in an advisory capacity.

Individual schools are now answerable to the 13-member Panel for Educational Policy, eight of whom – including the Schools Chancellor Joel Klein – the mayor appointed himself. Critics of the DOE say that it is ineffectual, and only rubber-stamps mandates by Bloomberg and the Chancellor.

Dmytro Fedkowskyj, the sole representative from Queens, recently testified before members of the State Assembly’s Education Committee that he, like Learn NY, supports the continuation of mayoral control, so long as certain provisions are implemented.

“While I may be part of a small group that supports Mayoral Control, I have a hard time supporting the current system if the law is not revised to require fiscal transparency with some additional checks and balances on the mayor’s power,” he said. “Fiscal transparency entails being open to the public about the structure and functions that determine policies and outcomes.”

“We can say, because the numbers don’t lie, that the mayor’s bold leadership has driven more operational and capital funding into our school system – and that’s a good thing,” he added. “But this same bold leadership has also worked as a disadvantage to the current system, because there’s no oversight…millions of dollars have been spent on no-bid contracts, without PEP approval, so I ask: who is being accountable to who with tax payer dollars?”

Fedkowskyj went on to say that the authority of the PEP, which was meant to be a check on the mayor’s decisions, was sometimes bypassed.

Assemblyman Rory Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows), introduced with State Sen. Daniel Squadron (D-Brooklyn) legislation which would eliminate no bid contracts signed by the Dept. of Education. Lancman’s office claims that one in every five contracts that were dispensed by the DOE exceeded estimated costs by 25 percent.

Fedkowskyj testified that right now, the PEP can only approve total estimates of the DOE expense budgets, but not how and where to spend the money. He also said that the CECs need local governing power while they work in conjunction with the district offices on curriculum, and other localized school issues.

Fedkowskyj and Learn NY support a renewal of mayoral control legislation, but with different provisions. The Learn NY advocacy group, which is comprised of 50 educational organizations, community- and faith-based institutions, was formed to rally support for the continuation of mayoral control.

Learn NY does not want to see funding issues divided between multiple entities, such as the PEP. They believe that a centralized control of the school system is a positive thing, holding that previous to 2002, there was no one party which parents could hold accountable for education issues.

The group claims that the new system has provided many benefits: it holds schools to equal standards for curricular accomplishment; funding is distributed based on need – $350 million of which has been reallocated from central bureaucracy to schools and students; more than 90 chronically failing schools have been replaced with 350 smaller schools, giving parents more choices; all public school teachers are certified; and school crime rates are down 34 percent.

Learn NY supports audits for financial transparency, either at the City or State level, as the public, they think, would benefit from objective, independent analysis of performance data. The group also wishes to facilitate increased, and more informed, parental input. They believe that parents deserve a system for ready access of information on their child’s performance and school.``xEkuFuyZplpsekhGMGT``x1243467080``x(default)``x``xLori Gross``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens Identity Theft Ring Busted``xtrib``xLaw enforcement officials announced 45 indictments last Thursday after wrapping up a 12-month investigation into an international identity theft and credit card fraud ring operating in Queens. Prosecutors alleged that the ring had stolen nearly $12 million from numerous banks and thousands of individuals last year alone.

Officials claimed that the ring operated three criminal enterprises from Queens that systematically ripped off consumers and financial institutions with fraudulently obtained credit card accounts.

“This is one of the largest identity theft networks uncovered in recent history and is just possibly the tip of a much larger global credit card trafficking operation,” Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said. “Particularly disturbing is that we have no way of knowing if any of these accounts have fallen into the hands of terrorists and are being used to finance their terrorist activities or to undermine the efforts of homeland security and other law enforcement officials intent on keeping our borders and citizens safe. Such a serious threat to public safety cannot go unchallenged.”

The ring relied on a network of suppliers who would sell compromised accounts to identity theft cell leaders, usually collecting a flat fee or a percentage of the funds accessed with the account. Suppliers allegedly used voice modification technology and hacked caller identification systems to obtain personal information from individuals and to access and change targeted accounts, according to prosecutors. The cell leaders would run accounts through a “mill,” where counterfeiters created forged credit cards and identification cards. Once a cell leader obtained the phony documents, they were allegedly distributed to foot soldiers and shoppers who then used the accounts.

“Technological advances have made it increasingly easier to carry out identity theft and fraud – two of the fastest growing crimes in the United States and which afflicts millions of victims and costs billions of dollars in losses to consumers, businesses and financial institutions,” Brown said. “In this case, some of the defendants are alleged to have activated consumers’ credit cards by utilizing SpoofCards, which allow a caller to disguise the telephone number they’re calling from and even their voice and gender. From a law enforcement perspective, such cards are anything but a spoof. They are virtually untraceable and can be used by identity thieves and hackers to pose as government and financial entities as a means to unscrupulously obtain personal information from unsuspecting consumers.”

Foot soldiers later accessed the accounts through ATMs and bank tellers, according to prosecutors. Equipped with forged credit cards and forged identification cards, foot soldiers could withdraw up to $4,900 at a time from bank tellers. Shoppers made purchases, usually high-end electronics, with stolen credit cards — usually those with high credit limits but no cash advances. Shoppers would then seek “fences,” individuals who would buy the fraudulently obtained electronics.

Wole “Shola” Ogunwen, of St. Albans, allegedly ran the largest of the rings, Shola Enterprise, and supplied various accounts to local cell leaders, who managed local cells actively sought new accounts. Funds obtained from the compromised accounts were then allegedly funneled back to Ogunwen.

The investigation, dubbed “Operation Plastic Pipe Line,” began in September 2007, when officers assigned to the Identity Theft Squad joined the District Attorney’s Economic Crimes Bureau sought to end a burst of illegal activity utilizing Citibank credit cards in Queens and elsewhere.

If ring members are convicted of the most serious charges, they face up to 25 years in prison.``xEkuFuyyyAAoifAIdwA``x1243466699``x(default)``xPage17_052109.jpg``x Michael Lanza``xDA Richard Brown stands with law enforcement officials to announce the bust of an identity theft ring.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Boro In The Spotlight``xtrib``xIt might not be news to Queens residents, but tourists – including our fellow island dwelling New Yorkers across the river – are about to hear all about two Queens neighborhoods the City hopes to highlight in an upcoming advertising campaign.

Astoria and Jackson Heights are two of the nine citywide destinations being highlighted by NYC & Co’s “Nine in 09” ad campaign, which will be supported with a five-borough media marketing promotion that includes bus shelters, radio spots and newspaper advertisements. There are seven other neighborhoods being promoted as well, with two each in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan, and one in Staten Island.

Astoria is being promoted as a mecca for all things Greek, including restaurants, churches, and local parks that feature replicas of Greek statues and amphitheaters.

Jackson Heights will be presented as a gathering point for Indian, Bangladeshi and Pakistani communities, with unique grocery stores, clothing and jewelry stores, and some of the most delicious South Asian restaurants in the hemisphere.

The “Nine in ‘09” campaign will through mid June and will include an online component, which features some sample itineraries for exploring these neighborhoods at www.nycgo.com/destinations.

“Everyone should be thrilled that we’ve been able to get all this media attention to increase traffic to those areas,” said George Fertitta, the CEO of NYC & Co, which is a non-profit company partially funded by the city and private enterprises, “Nowadays, a lot of people aren’t traveling as much, and you can travel the world at home.”``xEkuFuyyykZzcLkSrws``x1243466627``x(default)``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x BAD MEDICINE``xtrib``xA Richmond Hill man was sentenced to 17 years in prison for two rapes in 1997 – including a 33-year-old woman on her way to work and a 30-year-old woman who was riding in his vehicle after mistaking it for a livery cab.

Peter Grebinger, 42, pleaded guilty to first-degree rape in April. Grebinger was linked to both crimes through a DNA “cold hit” after DNA evidence was matched to his profile in the national DNA database.

Grebinger admitted to forcing his victim into a building where he raped her and demanded money before fleeing in January, 1997. He also admitted that he had picked up a woman flagging down a cab on her way to work before sexually assaulting her inside his vehicle in December. He then kicked her out of the car and fled. Both women went to local hospitals where sexual assault evidence kits were prepared and DNA profiles were obtained.

“Law enforcement has always had the tenacity to go back and attempt to resolve unsolved crimes. With DNA fingerprinting, we now have the technology to effectively do so,” Queens DA Richard Brown said. “This defendant is a violent predator and today’s sentence will protect the law-abiding members of our society from his brutish behavior and, hopefully, provide his victims with a measure of closure after so many years. It will also avoid the necessity of the defendant’s victims having to relive their ordeals on the witness stand.”

Grebinger submitted a DNA sample after being arrested last year following an unrelated narcotics investigation. His DNA profile was matched to the crimes.``xEkuFuyyVlpijazHhYg``x1243466580``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x BLOODY DISPUTE``xtrib``xA Jamaica man was arrested after a dispute with his sister’s boyfriend turned deadly on Saturday.

Michael Thompson, 42, was charged with manslaughter after he allegedly stabbed and killed Adeyemi King, 40, during a heated three-way exchange on Liverpool Street in which he allegedly came to his sister’s aid when the argument turned violent, according to published reports.

King, suffering from stab wounds to the torso, was transported to Jamaica Hospital at approximately 1:30 p.m. but was pronounced dead on arrival.``xEkuFuyyVFlgzDHdFkG``x1243466538``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x ASSAULT SUSPECTS SOUGHT``xtrib``xPolice are seeking help in identifying two individuals wanted for an April assault in Astoria.

Police described the suspects as a black man in his 30s, approximately 6 feet and 2 inches tall, and a black woman in her 20s, approximately 5 feet and 6 inches tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds.

The male suspect allegedly slashed a man with a box cutter at a pizza shop at 27-01 21st St. on April 27 at approximately 12:45 a.m. The suspect then fled the location with the woman in a red sedan.

Anyone with information can call Crime stoppers at (800) 577-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted through the Crime stoppers website at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by texting to 274637 (CRIMES) then entering TIP577.``xEkuFuyyVEFDVMZSwxD``x1243466513``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x DOG TOSSER SENTENCED``xtrib``xA Maspeth woman who stuffed her injured dog in a suitcase and threw it in the trash can outside of her house was sentenced on Tuesday to 30 days in jail.``xEkuFuyyuZZiZPtXDeu``x1243466477``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Circus Legend Steps Out Of Spotlight``xtrib``xAn old-friend shuffled among the throngs gathered outside the “Big Top” in Cunningham Park for the opening day of a 30-year-old tradition.

Swapping his trademark red-tuxedo coat and black hat for an unpretentious blue windbreaker and a pair of khakis, Paul Binder, the co-founder and former ringmaster of 30 years with the Big Apple Circus, watched as loyal fans gathered for his last official production run in Queens.

Binder, the artistic director for this year’s show, “Play On,” announced in October he would step out of the ring, passing the torch to his protégée and former associate art director, Guillaume Dufresnoy.

It’s been a strange journey for the 66-year-old who was designated as a living landmark by the New York Landmarks Conservancy. Armed with an MBA from Columbia University, Binder traded his prospects in the suit and tie world of corporate finance for a world of tights and red noses after a brief foray into television production. He traveled the world during the 70s with his friend and Big Apple co-founder Michael Christensen, taking a juggling act they developed during a stint with the San Francisco Mime Troupe to the streets of old Europe.

It wasn’t long before they would wet their circus feet. They were soon recruited to perform at the Casino de Paris, then on French television and eventually in the Nouveau Cirque de Paris. The experience would lead Binder, a Brooklyn native, to form his own circus when he finally returned home.

“It was very quickly that I came to the realization that this was a form that in this country had disappeared – the intimate theatrical environment that was created by the small one-ring circus,” Binder said. “It didn’t take me long to say, wow, it’s time to get home – I don’t want to live the rest of my life in France – and that this would be a wonderful addition to the cultural scene of New York City. We set out to create from that form a uniquely American style of it.”

“It was a dream that really has come true,” he added.

And after nearly three decades of bringing together talent from around the world, Binder has settled on a simple philosophy for developing a successful team.

“There are two criteria that we use to select an act. One is that the person has to be virtuoso – they have to be able to do their trick – difficult tricks — with grace and beauty,” he said. “The second criterion is contact with the audience – we look for performers who naturally make contact with the audience that they’re in front of – they are obviously seeing you and you are seeing them and you have a sense of who they are as human beings. They’re not super heroes. They’re not cartoons. They’re real people doing amazing and extraordinary things.”

And even though Binder is stepping out of the spotlight, he said he will actively work to preserve that philosophy in his new advisory role.

“My role is very clear for me: to make sure we pass the stewardship of this wonderful cultural organization to a new generation of steward who will not only run it, but support it,” Binder said. “Those people that grew up with the Big Apple Circus, we hope that they’ll take responsibility for its future.”

“Play On,” will run through May 31 at Cunningham Park. Tickets and information are available at bigapplecircus.org.``xEkuFuyyFZlIeQntHrb``x1243466378``xLeisure``xLeisure052109a.jpg``xMichael Lanza``xPaul Binder has handed off his top hat to a new ringmaster for the Big Apple Circus.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Villiage Art Initiative``xtrib``xPasquale Fabiano has seen 20 or 25 new faces just this week in his pizzeria, Il Vesuvio, on Bell Boulevard in Bayside. He credits an ingenious plan by Louis Cattaruzza of Best Organization, to merge art with commerce, and promote both.

Best Organization is Cattaruzza’s consulting company. His idea, titled the Villiage Art Initiative, is to exhibit the work of award-winning fine artists at shops on Bell Boulevard to create fanfare, and draw in customers. Cattaruzza, a long time Bayside resident, is interested in community development. He would like to see Bayside residents spend more time out in Bayside, rather than staying in, or straying to nearby Flushing for their leisure shopping and dining.

“Rather than sitting on their computer,” said Cattaruzza, “[people could be] mingling on ‘Main street,’ and doing what they would do in Paris, London or Manhattan.” Both Fabiano and Cattaruzza have agreed that even though the initiative is just weeks old, it is working.

More than just displaying art in opened establishments, Cattaruzza had the idea to create gallery spaces out of un-rented commercial properties. Bell is dotted with gaps in empty store fronts. The landlord of what was formerly Chase bank, on the corner of Bell Boulevard and 43rd Avenue, struck a deal with Cattaruzza to allow him to have a black tie gallery opening next Thursday night, May 28. The event is intended to draw attention to the un-rented space, in the hopes that an attendee looking to rent, or someone in their circle, might take out a lease. The landlord has agreed to make a donation to the Villiage Art Initiative, in appreciate of the project. The gallery will stay open there for an indefinite period, until someone takes a lease.

Cattaruzza has plans to expand the initiative quickly throughout Bayside and the rest of Queens. The theme of the initiative is Leonardo Da Vinci. “In addition to being the smartest person ever,” explained Cattaruzza, “he was a mathematician, a scientist, an artist, sculptor – he had the artist’s spirit. The artist’s spirit today is so badly needed because we’re being asked to create a new way of being. Leonardo Da Vinci knew then what the Renaissance was all about, and that’s what we need today.”

The artists – among them are Helaine Soller, and Barbara Lowy – are local. Soller studied at Queens College. Her work is included in the Print and Photographs Division of the Library of Congress. Lowy is currently studying at the Brush and Easel Art school in Flushing. Her work was exhibited at the Courier Mittman Art Gallery in Bayside. Her painting, “The Arm”, was selected as a grand prize winner by the Director of the Queens Museum of Art, Tom Finkelpearl.

Cattaruzza is looking for more artists to participate, and volunteers to help hand paintings, and promote events. For more information on the May 28 gallery opening, or to volunteer, contact him at Lcat@nyc.rr.com.``xEkuFuyyFpkueooPKRG``x1243466302``xLeisure``xLeisure052109.jpg``xLori Gross``xArt pieces like this one, locally produced, will be on display as part of the Villiage Art Initiative.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Ben’s Best Is Boss``xtrib``xBen’s Best Gourmet Deli
96-40 Queens Blvd., Rego Park
(718) 897-1700
Cuisine: Kosher Deli
Hours: Open 7 Days
Parking: Park in the Sears lot, they’ll pay for the first hour

Ask who the manager is at Ben’s Best Deli, in Rego Park, and the response you’ll get is “God.” Ben’s Best is a traditional kosher establishment, so they play by The Manager’s rules.

When my mother, step-father, and I walked in, we knew it was a kosher deli by the plates of sliced pickles and coleslaw on every table. The sours had a restrained punch to them. They weren’t too salty. Neither was the coleslaw.

The waitress, Janet, presented us with some chopped liver on rye. It was great chopped liver, with just the right amount of sharpness.

I ordered kreplach soup. The dough casing around the kreplach dumpling was delightfully thick – even more so than a Chinese dumpling – and the soup came in a huge mug that read “RX: Jewish Penicillin.”

My mother and step-father opted for the $16.95 “Great Early Bird Dinner,” which comes with soup, a main dish, drink, and dessert. Mom loved her Hungarian goulash because it was fresh, and not salty or fatty. Step-dad thought his brisket of beef was just perfect for the same reasons. His meal, like mine, came with a potato pancake that was the best I’ve ever had. It was thick, not overly fried, and had a smooth center instead of stringy shredded potato. It was just great with applesauce, and so big that it could have been a main course on its own.

I ordered a London broil entrée with mushroom gravy. The flavor was great, and it was well cooked, but I was digging my huge potato pancake so much, that I decided to pack the meat for the next day’s lunch. I overheard other diners extolling the steak sandwich. Ben’s Best also has no less than 24 varieties of meat sandwich, which I plan on knocking off in future visits.

The most delectable part of the meal was dessert. All desserts on the menu are non-dairy, but you’d never be able to tell. We had chocolate seven layer cake which was just divinely creamy. The rugelach was textured, firm, and rich. It was the best rugelach I’ve ever had, which makes Ben’s Best a two-time record breaker for best dishes. My mom couldn’t get enough of the fresh hot apple strudel.

Every morsel of food was fresh, and well seasoned. Nothing was at all greasy. Every serving was plentiful. The staff was friendly, and the place was just steeped full of 64 years of New York Jewish history. Ben’s Best is under the kosher certification of Rabbi Israel Steinberg. It is more than worth the schlep of dining out.``xEkuFuyyEAlISEFvGDT``x1243466198``xReviews``x``xLori Gross``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Think It Through``xtrib``xIf school board control of the schools was bad, and if disenfranchised parents feel that mayoral control isn’t a success, the Legislature needs to come up with a third idea.

Albany must not kowtow to the demands of the mayor, but should listen to the needs of the parents, hear from educators and learn from examples in other large cities to determine what will work best for our children. This decision affects our future. Do it right.
``xEkukupVlZyAVkQkFUj``x1242405876``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Mayoral Control Extension Questioned``xtrib``x“The Dept. of Education would be a massive agency,” explained Assemblyman Rory Lancman, “if it were a City agency. It is not a City agency. It is not an agency of the state. It is its own thing. It exists in a legal netherworld.”

Lancman (D-Fresh Meadows) and State Sen. Daniel Squadron (D-Brooklyn) have introduced new legislation to designate the DOE as a City agency, which would be subject to the City Charter, and increase oversight of the Mayor. Legislation passed in 2002 gave Mayor Bloomberg largely unchecked “mayoral control.”

With mayoral control set to expire in June, and with the burdens of the state budget and the MTA behind them, legislators are shifting their focus to the question of the City’s schools.

Prior to 2002, when the Legislature granted the mayor control over the Dept. of Education, and Bloomberg was given the ability to appoint a chancellor, schools were run by individual school boards that had authority over everything, ranging from staffing to curriculum to school zoning. Under mayoral control, schools were handed citywide mandated curricula and all matters from class size to textbook selection dictated by the Chancellor. School boards were abolished, replaced by the Community Education Councils, which serve strictly in an advisory capacity.

Individual schools are answerable to the 13-member Panel for Educational Policy, eight of whom the mayor appoints himself. Critics of the DOE say that it is a show-panel which only rubber-stamps mandates by Bloomberg and Schools Chancellor Joel Klein. Lancman takes issue with mayoral control without mayoral responsibility. He would like to have a DOE that is beholden to the City Council, lawmakers – and parents by extension of the democratic process. Perhaps most importantly, he would like the DOE, like all other city agencies, to be bound to the City Charter.

“The City Charter,” said Lancman, “is the constitution of the City of New York. The City Charter is a means to produce a government that is efficient and transparent.”

The charter, for instance, demands bidding on contracts made between city agencies and outside contractors, such as consultants. One of the most outstanding critiques of the mayor’s DOE, is that he is too fond of “experimentation,” meaning he spends an excess on education consultants. Lancman’s office claims that one in every five contracts that were dispensed by DOE exceeded estimated costs by 25 percent. Parents, especially in areas on the low end of the achievement gap, demand lower class sizes. The feeling is that the mayor’s experimentation with consultants is at the expense of the tried and true successes linked to individualized attention.

“Less than one in three Black and Latino students graduate with a Regent’s diploma. I saw this at my school. My high school classes were overcrowded. For one class, I had to sit on my teacher’s desk,” said Iris Martinez, a recent graduate of a high school in Brooklyn and member of the Urban Youth Collaborative. “If students and their communities had a real role in decisions about schools, we could share our direct experiences, and help change things.”

The Urban Youth Collective is a member organization of the Campaign for Better Schools coalition, which has its own plan to improve upon the DOE. It includes a Panel for Educational Policy which is comprised mostly of appointees with a set term limit, who are not picked and removed by the mayor. The coalition also wants clearly defined powers for the panel to approve the proposed DOE budget, education policies, and large procurement contracts.

Representatives from the chancellor’s office did not respond to requests for comment.

In a separate defense of mayoral rule, a poll released in March by Quinnipiac University indicated that 47 percent of registered voters approve of the way Bloomberg is handling public schools, whereas 40 percent disapprove. However, the majority of registered voters with students in public schools, 54 percent, disapprove of Bloomberg’s management of the schools, while 41 percent do approve. A majority of parents, 47 percent compared to 40 percent, think that mayoral control should continue.

“New York City voters to Albany: Let Bloomberg continue to run the schools. But have him share control with the City Council or the borough presidents,” Maurice Carroll, the director of the Quinnipiac’s Polling Institute said. ``xEkukupkZkEuJxmhAVn``x1242402721``xDeadline``xPage_3A_051409.gif``xLori Gross``xRory Lancman is pushing for a change to mayoral control.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x McLaughlin Sentencing Stirs Up Political Storm``xtrib``xDisgraced Assemblyman Brian McLaughlin is expected to finally face sentencing for pleading guilty to corruption charges on Thursday. The former labor boss and seven-term democratic Assemblyman faces up to 10 years in prison. But as is common in this political circus, the day approaches with a sideshow.

A group of union leaders, family members and friends submitted letters to Judge Richard Sullivan for consideration during sentencing. The submissions come from people as wide-ranging as McLaughlin’s Alcoholics Anonymous sponsor to State Senator Frank Padavan (R-Bellerose).

The Senate Republican’s letter in particular sparked a brouhaha, as the Democratic Senate Campaign Committee pounced at the opportunity to lambaste Padavan’s submission.

The letter itself is rather innocuous, simply stating Padavan’s relationship to McLaughlin as a former coworker and calls him “a dedicated community servant, an active member of his parish and a loving father.”

Padavan said he rarely writes such letters, and was prompted to do so when members of McLaughlin’s family contacted his district office.

He called the DSCC’s work a “political hatchet job” and “low level politics.”

“[The DSCC are] a bunch of lying bastards. And I’ll tell the Majority Leader when I see him. And this guy, what’s his name, Shams [Tarek, DNCC Spokesman]? He’s going to rue the day he runs into me.”

Before taking his position with the DSCC, Tarek was the communications director for Councilman Jim Gennaro, who challenged Padavan in a hotly contested race for Senate last year that was not resolved until after this year’s session began.

Tarek responded to Padavan’s criticism. “As vague as the language may appear to be, the fact that he wrote the letter means that he’s looking for leniency [for McLaughlin],” Tarek said. “This letter is a favor to Brian McLaughlin. It’s seeking favor from the judge. Long time Democratic party allies didn’t write a letter.

“The facts speak for themselves and I hope for his sake that Senator Padavan is not threatening me.”

Political circus aside, the 56-year-old McLaughlin pleaded guilty to a slew of charges, including stealing $2.2 million in cash, getting free cars and taking money from a Little League Baseball organization that had been funded by his own legislative member item funds.

The judge may also have to factor in McLaughlin’s cooperation with investigators into Assemblyman Anthony Seminerio’s (D-Richmond Hill) own corruption charges as well as McLaughlin’s cooperation in a case pending against Petrocelli Electric Company in Long Island City.``xEkukupkyklfLEChhPe``x1242402628``xDeadline``xPage_3B_051409.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xBrian McLaughlin``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Two New Schools Set``xtrib``xThe City released Requests For Proposals for the construction of two new schools in the borough this week. One school is the controversial Maspeth High School, passed by the City Council in early April despite opposition from Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village). The other is a school in Long Island City that would house pre-kindergarten to eighth grade.

The RFP for the Maspeth’s new high school comes in the face of an ongoing remediation battle, after concerns of the proposed site’s contamination levels raised concern within the community.

While the School Construction Authority has made assurances that the site would be properly handled and ventilated, Crowley has called upon the State’s Department of Environmental Conservation to make a third-party determination on the site’s suitability.

“We’ve reached out to the DEC and we think it’s important that this site get a clean bill of health,” said Lydon Sleeper, Crowley’s chief of staff.

Should the DEC suggest remediation, it will happen, Lydon said.

The controversy sprouted when engineers planning the site found traces of barium, chromium, lead and mercury in several soil samples while conducting an Environment Impact Study.

The Department of Education said it would take steps to negate the impact of the contaminated soil by covering it with a barrier and layer of soil.

The school was originally slated to be an intermediate high school serving 1,650 students. The Council ultimately approved an 1,100-seat high school for grades 9 to 12 at 74th Street and 57th Avenue.``xEkukupkVFFaxdnEygg``x1242402533``xDeadline``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Bird Data Lacking, Expert Fears Mishap``xtrib``xThough the Department of Sanitation plans to move forward with its marine transfer station in College Point, concerns about birds and airports continue to grow.

Dr. Steven Garber, a biologist who specializes in wildlife hazards to aviation, outlined the dilemma in a report he independently filed in March. A substantial part of his career was dedicated to literally keeping birds away from JFK Airport as a biologist working for the Port Authority.

His report claims DOS’s transfer station will only increase the number of birds hovering about LaGuardia Airport, saying the structure “constitutes flagrant safety violations that will greatly increase the risk of imminent plane crashes.”

Those birds are already undercounted, according to U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY).

Garber doubts the DOS’s assurances that sealed garbage containers will eliminate the bird hazard. The FAA’s regulations would not allow the transfer station to exist, yet Garber was at a loss when trying to explain this exception.

“It’s so clear that every step of the way, the system is broken,” he said. “If I had a choice of listening to an airport guy who runs the airport and a garbage guy, I’d trust the airport guy.”

The station will affect the surrounding ecosystem in more ways than just an increase in birds, Garber said, likening it to a snowball effect. Garbage attracts bugs, which attract rodents which lead to birds.

“They will be affecting that ecosystem in a way that will have more birds coming in and out of the area,” he said.

The problems may lie in the birds themselves. Canadian geese aren’t native to the City, yet caused the “Miracle on the Hudson” landing of U.S. Airways Flight 1549.

The size of the birds presents a particular hazard to airplane jets.

“Canadian geese never used to stop here before. They have not made a jet engine that can handle a Canada Goose,” Garber said.

The winged critters have caught the attention of Schumer, who said he feels the Federal Aviation Administration could do more to report and mitigate the number of bird strikes.

The Senator’s ire came after the Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood refused to accept the FAA’s plans to keep the number of bird strikes secret.

“To keep this information secret when most every other accident type is reported made no sense at all,” Schumer said in a statement. “Secretary LaHood is making the right call to scrap the FAA’s proposal.”

LaHood’s rejection was followed by a report showing the number bird strikes have doubled since 2000 at 13 major U.S. airports. But only 20 percent of bird strikes in New York have been reported, according to Schumer, leading the Senator to introduce legislation making transparent reporting of wildlife strikes mandatory.``xEkukupkuuuVtjVivHw``x1242402444``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x LIC P.O. May Get Ferraro’s Name``xtrib``xThe Long Island City Main Post Office is on its way to being renamed in honor of former U.S. Rep. Geraldine Ferraro. Last week, the House of Representatives passed legislation remaining the Post Office at 46-02 21st Street after the trailblazing lawmaker who represented the ninth district for three terms beginning in 1978.

“I’m honored and humbled that the House voted to name a post office after me, particularly one in my former district in Long Island City,” Ferraro said. “Through my service on the House Post Office and Civil Service Committee, I saw firsthand that few functions of the federal government are as important as delivering the mail. I thank Congresswoman [Carolyn] Maloney and all my friends in Congress for their support, and I thank my former constituents in Queens for the trust they placed in me.”

Ferraro entered history books as the first female vice-presidential candidate on a national party ticket, running alongside Walter Mondale in 1984. Her successful career in Congress included a stint as the Secretary of the House Democratic Caucus from 1981 to 1985. During her legislative career, she maintained a special focus on equity for women in the areas of wages, pensions, and retirement plans.

“Following the path of women who came before her, Geraldine Ferraro has helped pave the way for our daughters to achieve anything they set their minds to,” said U.S. Rep. Joe Crowley (D-Jackson Heights). “As the current Representative of her former district, I am proud to call Geraldine Ferraro a leader, a mentor, and most importantly a friend.”

Maloney, who sponsored the bill, called Ferraro “a trailblazer, role model, and leader,” and “a pivotal figure in American history.”

“Thousands of her former constituents use the Main Post Office every week, and I know they will be delighted to have this important neighborhood institution named in her honor,” added Maloney.

The Senate has not yet taken up the resolution.``xEkukupkFZuqzkjlQsG``x1242402374``x(default)``xPage_4_051409.gif``xVladic Ravich``xGeraldine Ferraro``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Streit’s: No Kosher-Nostra In Queens``xtrib``x“The Kosher Nostra, led by rabbinical organizations in Queens and the Five Towns, saw a shakedown opportunity with an icon of the Lower East Side and a rabbi from the most famously independent minded Modern Orthodox family in America. So they waited four weeks before Pesach, unzipped, urinated all over them, and declared something shmekt nit frish [smells funky].”

Such is David Kelsey’s summation of a scandal involving a snub by the Vaad Harabonim of Queens, a rabbinic organization, about Streit’s. Kelsey is a widely-read and well-followed New York City writer on Jewish culture, with a popular blog, kvetcher.net. Streit’s is a kosher foods producer, which specializes in matzo and kosher for Passover products. The VHQ specializes in certifying that food products are fit for kosher consumption.

Kashrut, or Kosher, is a body of Jewish laws that mandates, in painstaking specifics, what qualifies food as edible for Jews concerned with ritual fulfillment. On its most basic level, it forbids the mingling of dairy and meat products (meat includes chicken, but excludes fish). Certain animals such as pig and shellfish are entirely forbidden. The religious laws developed over thousands of years, first from the literal dictums in the Old Testament, and later from extrapolations of the text made by rabbis of status. Guidelines continue to become stricter with every passing decade.

Local organizations, known as vaads, as well as national rabbinic organizations, like the Orthodox Union, monitor and certify participating food manufacturers, and for a fee, allow their specific stamp of approval to be printed on the outside of the product. This way, the kosher consumer can easily identify what products are kosher-edible. Most Orthodox Jews, will not eat a product that does not have such certification.

Streit’s, a family-owned company that was founded in 1916, produces nearly half of all matzo for the U.S. market. Despite being colossal within the niche market, they maintained a certain independent status by having an in-house rabbi certifying their kosher status – not an outside vaad. No one has ever taken issue with this, because their in-house rabbi since the 1950’s was the revered Rabbi Ahron Soloveichik. Today, it is his son, Rabbi Moshe Soloveichik, also highly reputable in Modern Orthodox spheres.

This year, less than a month before Passover, when Streit’s was filling orders for their peak season, the Vaad HaRabbonim of Queens removed Streit’s Matzo from the list of products that they consider fit for kosher consumption. The Vaad HaKashrus of the Five Towns and Far Rockaway followed. So days before the holiday, Streit’s was taken by surprise. Some stores, like the kosher supermarket Brach’s, pulled the matzo from the shelves. People were confused about the kosher status of Streit’s products. Adding insult to injury, VHQ did not, and still has not, made it clear what the company’s offense was, and how they can get back on the approved list.

“The directive from the Queens Vaad was in no way meant to imply that the matzo is not kosher for Passover,” Rabbi Yoel Schonfeld, co-president of the Vaad HaRabonim of Queens told The Jewish Star paper. “People asked me, ‘I bought Streit’s Matzo. Should I return it?’ I said no.”

“We’re not saying, chas v’Shalom [God forbid], that it’s not kosher,” said Rabbi Yosef Eisen of the Five Towns Vaad. “We’re just saying that there are certain concerns about the level of oversight. No one here at all had any malice, any intention to hurt anybody,” he stressed to the Star. “The reason that this has been pushed off from year to year, although there have been certain concerns that this is a private [certification], but no one wanted to hurt, at all, Rabbi Soloveichik. [He] is a distinguished individual.”

Kelsey, felt that VHQ meant to push Streit’s to be certified by an outside organization – a conflict of interest, according to Kelsey, since in addition to belonging to VHQ, Schonfeld has worked in the Orthodox Union’s Kosher division as an administrator for more than 20 years.

But Alan Adler, Director of Operations at Streit’s, and great-grandson of the founder, does not hold those feelings. His instincts were that there were some politics behind the change, but denies that VHQ’s motivations were based on business.

“We have a good working relationship with Orthodox Union. We never felt any pressure to join any of those organizations,” he said. “I don’t think they’re looking to drum up money in this manner.”

While the removal of Streit’s from VHQ’s list had the potential to cause a huge decrease in sales in the Queens and Five Towns area, Adler says that of the $10 million in business they do each year, they only lost about $200,000 in sales. He felt the timing was unfortunate, but that there was no conspiracy on the part of the vaads.

Kelsey proudly calls himself an apikorous, or heretic, and is far from the Jewish mainstream. Adler credits Kelsey’s blog, Kvetcher.net, and his network of like-minded Jewish bloggers, for drumming up support and sales. Adler says that because bloggers and Modern Orthodox rabbis supported the Soloveichik name, they did considerably well. He says he bears no grudge, but does direct a question at VHQ; “Soloveichik has been on the box since [the mid-50s] you just noticed now?”

Wary of media spotlight, the VHQ did not want to incite communal gossip about Streit’s, or cause any potential detriment to the company by offering further comment. It was clear that the rabbinic organization was rueful of the attention drawn on Streit’s. A spokesman did say that they are working with Streit’s to help the company meet their standards – an outcome both groups are eager to facilitate.``xEkukupkkZlSMlsgQrN``x1242402278``x(default)``xPage_5_051409.gif``xLori Gross``xStreit’s kosher certification was questioned by a Queens organization.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Election Day Registration Sought``xtrib``xState lawmakers are crafting a bill that may allow New Yorkers to both register and vote on the same day.

The bill, championed by State Sen. Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach), chairman of the Senate Elections Committee, would amend the state's constitution and eliminate registration deadlines of up to 25 days before an election.

"The presidential election energized a lot of first-time voters, but there were a lot of issues. People were turned away at the booths either because they were not registered or they were registered but their names were not in the book," Addabbo said. "We don't really want to turn people away from voting."

Many voting rights advocates rank registration problems as among the most pervasive and discouraging hurdles for potential voters.

"Far and away, voter registration problems were the No. 1 reason New Yorkers called the Election Protection hotline last year - contributing to 56 percent of our call volume," said Zoe Segal-Reichlin, a spokeswoman for Election Protection, a national voting-rights advocacy group. "Easing registration barriers, and in particular adopting Election Day Registration in New York State, would be a tremendous step forward."

Reichlin said that more than 240,000 people, including 17,000 New Yorkers, issued complaints through Election Protection's national hotline in 2008.

Critics of the plan have argued that same-day registration is prone to fraud, but Addabbo is confident that the plan being developed will not jeopardize the integrity of New York's elections.

Under the proposed system, voters who register at polling sites would be placed in a separate ballot pool to be verified and counted after the election, similar to the absentee ballot system.

Addabbo acknowledged that the changes could complicate close elections.

"We'll get a better certified vote, but we may have to wait a little later for it," Addabbo said.

Lawmakers are also concerned that the increased responsibilities may strain election boards at their current funding levels.

"Certainly what we don't want to do is burden the board of elections into these pieces of legislation while their budgets are getting slashed," Addabbo said. "Our poll workers are going to have to be briefed and trained about how to entertain a voter who wants to vote and register on the same day."

Addabbo suggested that hiring additional poll workers and lowering the age of eligibility for potential recruits may be necessary to implement the program. But he insisted that gains in voter participation would far outweigh any potential costs.

"Anybody who is entitled to vote should be able to vote," he said.

The bill will be one of many election subjects discussed during public hearings scheduled throughout the summer. Addabbo hopes to bring the bill to a vote before the end of the year.

The changes must be approved in two consecutive legislative sessions in order to amend the state's constitution, putting the earliest possible implementation at 2011.``xEkukupkEFZNCOzQhLP``x1242402137``x(default)``x``xMichael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Don't Miss Out On Digital Conversion``xtrib``xBe ill prepared and on June 12 your TV will be of little use.

The Federal Communications Commission held a digital transition help center at the Forest Hills library last week, answering questions about the coming switch from analog television signals to digital. Concerns about cost, compatibility and difficulty were addressed.

The switch for non-cable subscribers can be addressed in one of three ways. You can buy a new television. You can pay for a subscription service like satellite or cable. Or you can purchase a converter box - the option the FCC addressed while in Forest Hills.

Before making any purchases, check to see if your television set even needs a converter box. Check the instruction manual or TV itself for NTSC, in which case you most likely do not need a box.

The agency's message is three-fold: Apply. Buy. Try.

Firstly, apply for a coupon for $40 off your converter box. Each household in America is entitled to two for use towards the purchase of two converter boxes. The boxes typically run anywhere from $40 to $80, and each coupon comes with a list of eight retailers selling boxes closest to you. To apply for your coupons, you can call (888) 388-2009 or visit dtv2009.gov.

Before buying, make sure you know the seller's return policy to avoid getting stuck with a box that isn't compatible with your television set.

After you've purchased the converter, hook it up to your television as per the instructions. If you've done it right, your television should be able to work properly and the box's remote will become the new way to flip channels.

Remember to be friendly and help any neighbors or family members who have difficulty hooking up the converter box themselves. The elderly in particular seemed confounded at the Forest Hills library.

Should you not be getting a good signal, or none at all, do not panic. It may not be your converter box. Check that your television's antenna is suitable for DTV signals. Should you live in an apartment building with a rooftop antenna, check with the building manager or landlord and make sure it has been upgraded to receive digital television signals.

If everything is up and running smoothly, you may notice some channels are not on the usually corresponding numbers. This is normal. Some who have already made the switch have noted a loss of PBS. An FCC spokesperson gave assurance that it will be back, but not necessarily on the usual channel number.

Your deadline is June 12 at 12:30 p.m. Do not wait until the last minute and miss out on Oprah.``xEkukupkpZFCppjnIDv``x1242402073``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Cyclone Was Start Of The Calamity``xtrib``xSunday, May 3, marked the first anniversary of Cyclone Nargis, which devastated Myanmar (Burma) killing as many as 140,000 and leaving around 2.4 million homeless. Still a humanitarian crisis, at least 1.5 million people lack adequate medical treatment and proper nutrition with many at risk of dying from starvation, dehydration and communicable diseases.

Vigils and commemorative events were held around the world including in Washington DC, San Francisco and in New York where Amnesty International and the Queens-based Burma Point and the Fund and Support Committee for Burma sponsored an observance and situational update. Khet Mar, 40, co-founder of the Zagawa Environment Network, and Khine Mon Oo, a Nargis volunteer, shared their experiences saving the lives of Cyclone Nargis victims and the oppression they faced.

Just after the cyclone, soldiers and other government officials limited weekend relief trips by road from Rangoon to the hard-hit Irrawaddy delta by blocking traffic and arresting donors. Ten months later, there was still a systematic obstruction of relief aid, including theft and black market sale of relief supplies, preferential delivery to bureaucrats and government supporters, forced relocation and forced labor, including children, in violation of international human rights statutes.

Moe Chan, executive director of the Committee for International Movement of Burma Point - whose strength comes from the 10,000-member Burmese community living in Woodside, Sunnyside, Elmhurst and East Elmhurst – explained: “The military junta is in complete control and oblivious to the needs of the people. Often, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) must work through the government, and are frequently impeded in their efforts because the junta doesn’t want the publicity that the outside world is helping the people.”

A number of relief workers were jailed just for attempting to give aid to their countrymen, including celebrity-comedian Zarganar who remains locked up to this day. Khet Mar herself spent time as a political prisoner. Nevertheless, a network of Burmese community-based organizations delivers food, water and rehabilitation aid to the storm victims.

Khet Mar made more than 35 humanitarian trips from Rangoon to the devastated Irrawaddy delta delivering truckloads of rice, onions, cooking oil, water, medical and school supplies.

Largely ignored by the military government, many people are still homeless existing in make-shift palm and bamboo huts, with plastic strips as doors or roofs. Others camp out at monasteries, schools or public buildings.

Due to governmental inefficiency, in the town of Kyautsayit all that arrived at the monastery was a one-foot by one-foot container of crackers with a World Food Organization logo stamped on it. In the township of Daydaye, with more than 1,000 residents, only 28 aid blankets were delivered.

At military checkpoints on the Rangoon to Irrawaddy road sometimes bribes as much as $50 are required to deliver aid supplies. At black market areas in Rangoon, people regularly see blankets, candy, crackers, mosquito nets, pots and pans with NGO and foreign nation markings for sale.

Nevertheless, aid is getting through. Older in-country organizations like Save the Children and Doctors Without Borders have better access as do the many smaller Burmese networks.

Chan implored the world’s recognition of Burma’s plight. “We ask people to donate and to petition their representatives and the United Nations to pressure Burma to accept international aid and respect human rights,” he declared.

May Soenyunt, a Fund and Support Committee member from Elmhurst, deplored that the NGOs were largely restricted to Rangoon and that many isolated areas in the delta were difficult to reach. “We send our money to friends and networks in Burma that have a better chance of getting through to the really needy,” she said.
``xEkukupEAlEmZngQVBT``x1242401981``x(default)``xpage_13_051409.gif``xRichard Bocklet``xQueens Burmese are trying to aid those still suffering from last year’s Cyclone Nargis.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Drugs, Guns In Bayside``xtrib``xA man was arrested last Wednesday after police found small arsenal in his home during an apparent drug raid in Bayside.

Ioannis Glezelis, 56, was charged with various counts of criminal possession of weapons and drugs after police discovered 11 guns in his Kennedy Street home at approximately 10:30 a.m.

The arsenal allegedly included three Mac-11 machine guns equipped with silencers, two .380 semi-automatic pistols, two .45 caliber pistols, a .44 caliber Magnum, a .32 caliber revolver, a .22 caliber revolver and a shotgun. Approximately 1,000 rounds of ammunition and an undisclosed quantity of prescription medication, including Xanax, Vicodin and Oxycontin, were also discovered during the raid.

Published reports last week misstated the trigger of the search – a routine traffic stop in which police identified a small quantity of pills in his car.

Authorities acknowledged that Glezelis was the subject of an ongoing Narcotics Division probe, but declined to comment on the nature of the investigation.

A judge set bail at $250,000. If convicted, Glezelis faces up to 25 years in prison.``xEkukupEZkZlkobEbhz``x1242401727``xBlotter``xBlotter_Gun_051409.gif``x``xPolice showed off some of the weapons recovered in Bayside.``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MAN CONVICTED IN 2007 MURDER``xtrib``xA Jamaica man was convicted last Thursday in the 2007 shooting death of 25-year-old Du-Ewa Prentice after an argument in her front yard.

Rodney Greene, 39, was convicted of second-degree murder, third-degree burglary, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, tampering with evidence and fourth-degree criminal mischief.

According to the trial testimony, Greene and his then girlfriend, Prentice, had argued in the hours before the shooting over her plans to attend a gathering at which another man would be present. He then shot her in the head in front of her St. Albans home on Feb. 23, 2007. Prentice was hospitalized but succumbed to her wounds nearly a month later.

Investigators discovered a patch of uneven dirt on the side of the house and dirt splashed across the driveway. They found a handgun buried in the dirt, later determined to be the murder weapon. Greene then admitted to shooting Prentice and burying the weapon.

“Evidence presented at trial showed that the defendant harassed and ultimately murdered his young girlfriend because of petty jealousy,” Queens DA Richard Brown said. “A woman with her whole life ahead of her was senselessly murdered. The defendant will now likely face most, if not all, of the remainder of his life in prison. Hopefully, the victim’s family will find some measure of justice in this verdict. ”

Greene was also convicted of robbing the Brooks Barber Shop on Merrick Avenue in 2007. Police found Greene’s fingerprint at the scene of the burglary.

Greene faces 25 years to life in prison when he is sentenced later this month.``xEkukupEyEVtfXfrPRX``x1242401615``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x TWO SHOT, ONE DEAD``xtrib``xPolice are investigating a double shooting near Springfield Gardens that left one man dead last Friday.

Two men, 23 and 29, were found shot in the basement of the 181st Street residence at approximately 10:22 a.m. The 29-year-old man suffered from gunshot wounds to the face and neck and was pronounced dead on the scene. The 23-year-old was taken to Jamaica Hospital where he was listed in stable condition after being shot in the torso.

A .38-caliber revolver was recovered at the scene.``xEkukupEVZVrFzIBUgo``x1242401575``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x FORCIBLE TOUCHING``xtrib``xPolice are seeking information on a man accused of forcibly touching a woman last month aboard a Manhattan bound F train.
The suspect – described as a 50- to 60-year-old man, approximately 5-foot-6 and wearing a blue and white striped shirt – is accused of inappropriately touching a woman after the train departed from the 169th Street and Hillside Avenue stop on April 30.
The woman alerted riders on the train causing a fellow passenger to snap a photo of the suspect. Both the victim and suspect exited the train at 74th Street and Roosevelt Avenue. The suspect then fled.
Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.``xEkukupEVkZcwgSRJWY``x1242401527``xBlotter``xBlotter_051409.gif``x``xThe victim snapped this photo of her assailant.``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Elder Law Seminars At Flushing House``xtrib``xAre you a senior citizen stuck on a financial roller coaster due to the Medicare Part D “doughnut hole?” Did you know that the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 makes it more difficult for seniors and the disabled to obtain their Medicaid benefits? In light of these setbacks, have you contacted an elder law attorney and made plans to protect your assets and save estate taxes? Hear answers from experts at free Elder Law seminars hosted by Flushing House, the not-for-profit, independent living retirement residence established in 1974.

Dana Krohn, Part D Appeals Associate of the Medicare Rights Center (New York City), will review how recent changes in the law have impacted senior programs, benefits, and rights. She will give an overview of Medicare Part D, the “doughnut hole,” the impact on prescription drug costs, and the impact on New York’s EPIC program (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage), at our first seminar on Saturday, June 6. She will look at the appeals process, other options, and how to get help now.

Ronald Fatoullah, noted elder law attorney, will show how Medicaid provisions of the Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) of 2005, severely limit access to benefits for seniors and the disabled, at our second seminar on Saturday, June 13. He will explain how the latest amendments to the DRA and Supplemental Needs Trusts, can help many seniors. He will also review the provision which allows retirees to retain funds in their IRA accounts and waive the minimum required distribution.

Hon. Ann Margaret Carrozza, member of the New York State Assembly and elder law attorney, will discuss how recent political developments have impacted the status of both state and federal estate taxes. Real estate, liquid assets, retirement accounts, life insurance, assets in revocable trusts, are all assets subject to estate taxes. Ann will explore strategies which can soften or even eliminate these taxes. She will present our third seminar on Saturday, June 20.

Admission is free. Handouts and refreshments will be available. All three seminars are from 2:30 to 4 p.m. in the Flushing House dining hall, 38-20 Bowne St. For more information and to RSVP, call Robert Salant, director of community relations at Flushing House, (347) 532-3025 or (718) 762-3198, send an email: rsalant@uam.org or go to flushinghouse.com.``xEkukupEFFuRjhEOsll``x1242401334``x50plus``x``x``x``x``x``x99891066339300``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Older Volunteers Bring New Expertise``xtrib``xWhen Margaret Ross retired from a career in nursing, she had no idea that her new life as a volunteer would lead her right back into healthcare.

Neither did Mike Chesnut, whose work building retail partnerships looks a lot like his volunteer service for a group of Denver nonprofits that are fighting homelessness.

The same is true for retiree Berlin Hall. Since leaving his accounting executive career, Hall’s desire to help at-risk families led him to volunteer to manage the books for a family services agency.

As they move into roles in service and volunteering, older adults like these are discovering that what they know is just as important as how much time they can give.

Their help couldn’t have come at a better time.

With demand for nonprofit services skyrocketing, fundraising and revenues are way down. Some experts predict as many as 100,000 nonprofit organizations could run out of money for their programs completely.

The recession has spurred more interest in volunteering among older adults, particularly among boomers, says Jill Friedman Fixler, a nonprofit consultant and co-author of “Boomer Volunteer Engagement.”

“This is a group with abundant skills and profound circles of influence and they believe they can have an impact in their community right now,” she said.

That was the idea for Chesnut. After leaving his job as a retail sales executive with Procter & Gamble, Chesnut, 64, spent several years as a counselor for small business owners. When he moved to Denver a few years ago, he decided to focus on helping nonprofits.

As he explored his options, Chesnut was struck by Denver’s homeless problem. Millions of dollars were being spent pulling families out of shelters, but programs that were trying to keep families out of them to begin with were underfunded.

After organizing a coalition of local nonprofits, Chesnut began a research project that eventually led to a successful $600,000 grant.

“Coming from the corporate world and working with large retailers, you learn to look for common interest,” he said. “What I did was put numbers to the problem.”

Nancy Benyamin, a volunteer coordinator for Jewish Family Service who worked with Chesnut, said he’s an example of the increasing importance of skilled volunteers to nonprofits that want to expand their capacity in lean times.

“Mike really enabled us to apply for this large grant,” Benyamin said. “Without his assistance, the new funding just wouldn’t be happening.”

For Ross, 72, the serious needs she saw as a volunteer for SeniorsPlus in Lewiston, Maine, made her rethink the decision to step away from healthcare completely.

After retiring as director of nursing for a state Medicare program, Ross signed up to help answer a referral phone line for SeniorsPlus, an agency that helps the local aging population get services and support.

The organization was so impressed by her knowledge of medicine and healthcare benefits that they asked her to take on a new role as a counselor, and even get additional training.

Seeing the healthcare system from the point of view of at-risk seniors has been an eye-opener, Ross said.

“[In my old job], I rarely was aware whether the patient was insured or not,” she said. “Now I’m on the other side of the fence saying, ‘Let’s get this person the coverage they need.’”

For Hall, a Hughes Aircraft retiree, volunteering for Family Assessment, Counseling & Education Services (F.A.C.E.S.) was a way to shield some families from the challenges his own family faced when his father, an alcoholic, left.

After reviewing Hall’s background, Mary O’Connor, the executive director at the Southern California nonprofit, asked him to set up a new accounting system for the cash-strapped group.

Five months later, the books are on the way to being balanced and Hall has become a strong F.A.C.E.S. supporter. He says his experience getting involved on a skilled basis, while frustrating at times, has been extraordinary.

“If my mother had access to this kind of thing, I can see how much better off we would have been,” he said with emotion. “But I had no idea that the kind of challenges this organization faces even existed.”

To find skilled volunteer opportunities, visit www.VolunteerMatch.org.``xEkukupEpklIHBjSKlj``x1242401028``x50plus``x50_plus_051409.gif``x``xBoomers and older adults are discovering that what they know is just as important as how much time they can give.``x``x``x99891066339300``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Real Solution Delayed: Partisan Politics Blocks Long-Term Fix In MTA's Legislative Boondoggle``xtrib``xThe MTA is fiscally safe for now, but the lack of a comprehensive plan has left commuters stranded, looking for a light at the end of the tunnel.

After a turbulent process that brought the agency to the brink of falling back into disrepair and slamming straphangers with service cuts and huge fare increases, the Democratic Majority in the State Senate managed to hammer out a short term solution.

"It bought us time," said Wiley Norvell, spokesman for Transportation Alternatives. "Unfortunately, instead of a plan that gave us a decade of assured affordability and expanding service, we now have a plan that pretty much guarantees we'll be sitting down every six months to a year talking about fare hikes and service cuts. It's not doomsday, it's not spiraling out of control, but it's a steady grind where there is no expectation that things are going to get better."

Queens residents will feel all the effects soon enough, whether they pay a quarter more for their mass transit, notice a 10 percent uptick in their EZ-Pass statement, or bear the increase in their vehicle inspection and registration fees.

The plan also includes a payroll tax of 34 cents per $100 for all employers in the 12 counties served by the MTA, with the notable exception of school districts, which will recoup their contribution through a refund from the State.

The exception was added to prevent double taxation from the school districts - which are tax collecting entities in most parts of the state - from passing along the increases to their residents.

Defending The Vote
State Sen. Frank Padavan (R-Bellerose) joined the entire State Senate Republican Minority in voting against the rescue package, citing the payroll tax as "an additional burden" for private and parochial schools to bear.

"[With] the payroll tax on businesses you assume they can pass that cost along, but non-profits have no ways of doing that," said Padavan, explaining his vote against the plan. "Many non-profits in Queens will be hit hard by this. Organizations like the Queens Centers for Progress and QSAC [Quality Services for the Autistic Community] have had their budget frozen and now have to shoulder this tax. That means we'll lose jobs when they'll have to lay people off."

However, the Executive Director of the QCP, Charles Houston, did not see it that way: "I really do not anticipate having to make any staff reduction because of this. As far as our staff goes they'd get hit one way or another, but not as much by this payroll tax as by the fare increases that were proposed."

QCP has an annual budget of about $32 million, of which Houston anticipates about $80,000 will have to now cover the payroll tax. "We have to look into other areas, like in our purchasing of supplies. We will try to find a number of other areas to economize. [The tax] would have to be larger for us to contemplate any personnel reductions."

QSAC Executive Director Gary Maffei said that while layoffs "were not off the table," his organization would try to make up the difference in fundraising. "Regarding making cuts, before we'd have layoffs, we'd look at suspending things like tuition reimbursement for employees and cutting some fringe benefits. Layoffs is the last resort."

Padavan also echoed many Republicans when he said "the process took place behind closed doors." He cited a letter he sent to Gov. David Paterson, urging the Governor to call upon Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans) "to start genuine bipartisan discussions among all state legislators that will hopefully forge a fair and equitable solution."``xEkukuppyVZsjpNgheD``x1242400657``xFeature``xFeat_1_051409.gif``xVladic Ravich``xExisting bridge tolls will jump 10 percent; in addition, there will be various license and registration fee hikes.``xFeat_2_051409.gif``xThe monthly unlimited Metrocard will increase from $81 to $89 June 18.``x84971066339260``x``x``xIdeas Not Considered
Padavan said the MTA could have been saved by increasing revenue from better tax collection of cigarette sales on Indian Reservations, as well as with more federal bailout money. He said the Democrats made no effort to hear his concerns because of the "unprecedented level of partisanship."

Erin Duggan, a spokesman for the Governor, said Padavan's ideas were not practical for saving the MTA in time. "The cigarette tax? Yes, that is an issue, and we've been working on it for years. And because we've working on it for years it's not a solution for right now. The MTA needed a dependable source of revenue before the drastic cuts went into effect."

Smith's spokesman Austin Shafran had strong words for the Republican opposition: "Regardless of what the Senator said, there is no legitimate reason for voting against preserving a reliable and affordable mass transit system for nearly 10 million New Yorkers to get to work everyday.

"I think that's a poor excuse for neglecting to fix a problem that the Senate Republicans helped to create. The people of New York who rely on mass transit care about one thing and that's making sure that they weren't hit with a 30 percent hike or lost services or jobs. That's exactly what our plan did."

However, Shafran said the East/Harlem River tolls - a crucial part of the original Ravitch Commission Report - were taken off the table because they were "a fiscally irresponsible way to raise revenue." He explained that by giving the bridges to the MTA, the agency would have to assume the burden of maintaining the bridges, which is currently shouldered by the City and State.

"This was not a political decision," said Shafran, downplaying the fact that three Senators, dubbed "The Three Amigos" by the media, were able to buck the slim Democratic majority into shelving the Ravitch Plan, which enjoyed the widest support among civic leaders, business groups, and even in Albany.

Not Politics? Really?
"I would disagree with that," said Norvell, "The Manhattan, the Williamsburg and the Queensboro have been undergoing extensive renovation for years. An enormous amount of money - hundreds of millions of dollars - has been invested already. It was all accounted for in the Ravitch plan.

"It's certainly not a good reason to block the East River tolls. From the outside, it sure looked like a political decision, because they kept saying everything is on the table -except the most popular and valuable plan. That was really problematic. To this day, the Ravitch plan remains the plan that would have produced the most money."

The current plan also includes a 25-cent increase in Access-A-Ride fares and a litany of other increases which can found online at mta.info/mta/09.

The MTA compromise will fund enough of the agency's capital plan to keep the system in a state of repair, which includes maintaining the existing infrastructure, but the long term health and expansion of the mass transit system will have to wait until the fall - just before the election - when the Senate is due to return to the MTA's massive debt burden.

"We got here because of a lack of leadership," said Norvell, "We were in a position where any two legislators who decided to be intransigent could stymie the entire package […and] with the majority making a mess of things, politically speaking, the minority had every interest to watch them fight among themselves."

And in case you were wondering, there are additional fare hikes of about eight percent scheduled to go into effect in 2011 and then again in 2013, assuming the economy does not get any worse.``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xcover_051409.gif``xThough a budget for the MTA has been approved, politics has led to a short-term solution without answering long-term needs.``x``x``x``x``x Big Apple Circus Wants To Play On!``xtrib``xThe spectacular Big Apple Circus is back in town for its 31st season with Play On! - a brand new, magical music box of a show.

Play On! is a circus symphony of astonishing acts and side-splitting laughter, propelled by a jazzy mix of classical, soul and rock and roll from the best circus band in the land. While the title is from Shakespeare (If music be the food of love, play on), Play On! is pure circus, featuring the world's finest artists under a classic Big Top tent, performing in the intimate setting of a single ring.

There are high-spirited Colombians on the flying trapeze, an acrobatic Chinese ballerina, pirouetting on top of her partner; jazzed-up juggling twins from America, Russians springing skyward from their Russian barre, a talented troupe of Italian dogs; and the breath-taking exploits of Big Apple Circus equestrians vaulting onto galloping horses - not to mention the incomparable paragon of love and laughter, Grandma the Clown.

Artistic and Creative Directors Paul Binder and Michael Christensen have gathered an amazing cast of extraordinary performers, who bring thrills and delight from eleven countries around the globe:

From England, Carrie Harvey, sensational international ringmistress - from Spain's Circo Mundial to France's Cirque Amar to England's Hippodrome - returns to host Play On!;

From America, the beloved Grandma (Barry Lubin), iconic clown of Big Apple Circus's Department of Laughter, and International Clown Hall of Fame inductee;

From Russia, the award-winning Rodion Troupe amazes with startling, soaring leaps and flips from a bar that is only five inches wide in a Russian Barre act;

From Italy, Luciano Anastasini and his Pound Puppies, rescued from animal shelters, deliver doggone delight;

From America, clowns Glen Heroy and Mark Gindick take us on a quest to reconstruct an extraordinary music box in a magical adventure full of merry mischief;

From Belgium, renowned mime and comedian Olivier Taquin is joined by company member Valdis Yanovskis (Russia) in a whimsical, playful and endearing act that takes us back to the silent film era;

From America and Kazakhstan, Christine Zerbini and Sultan Kumisbayev are joined by their equine partners in a thrilling vaulting display around the ring;

From China, the Nanjing Acrobats combine world-class acrobatics and classical ballet to create unforgettable images of unparalleled skills and grace;

From Colombia, an astounding, heart-stopping trapeze act, The Flying Cortes;

From America, flashy identical juggling twins the LaSalle Brothers, Jake and Marty, are double the trouble and the fun;

From Germany, Sarah Schwarz vibrates with playfulness and elegance on her tight wire as she dances to musical inventions and variations;

From China, Guiming Meng returns to the ring with unequaled equilibrium, jauntily juggling colossal ceramic jars;

From Russia, the lovely Regina Dobrovitskaya swings stylishly high above the ring in a breath-taking trapeze act;

And, completing the cast, the extraordinary and multi-talented artists of the Big Apple Circus Company: Andrey Mantchev (Bulgaria), Virgile Peyramaure (France), Christian Atayde Stoinev (America).

A superb team of brilliant creators returns to the ring for the Big Apple Circus's most impressive line-up ever. Veteran clown and versatile director Steve Smith stages Play On! Award-winning Broadway composer Michael Valenti creates original music and orchestrations for musical director Rob Slowik, who conducts and performs with the brilliant Big Apple Circus Band. Choreographer Vicki Davis adds her scintillating stepwork. Costume designer Austin K. Sanderson designs another vibrant and eye-catching wardrobe. 2008 Tony Award-winning scenic designer Todd Rosenthal creates the elaborate and innovative set.

New to the creative team are accomplished sound designer Nick Borisjuk who adds rich reverberations, and lighting designer Shannon January who adds shimmer and sparkle. And, as always, creative consultant Barry Lubin contributes his one-of-a-kind comic genius to bump up the laugh factor.

Performances of Play On! begin Saturday, May 16, and run for 26 shows through Sunday, May 31 under the Big Top at Cunningham Park (Francis Lewis Boulevard and Union Turnpike).

Tickets range from $15 to $45 and are available by calling (888) 541-3750 or at www.bigapplecircus.org. Tickets may also be purchased at the Queens Theatre in the Park in Flushing Meadows Corona Park, from noon to 6 p.m. Tuesday though Saturday ($1 per ticket service charge). The Circus Box Office, located in front of the Big Top at Cunningham Park, is open Saturday, Sunday and Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. ``xEkukFAAAyFGTZxKRsk``x1242399963``xLeisure``xLei_1_051409.gif``x``xSarah Schwarz will perform.``xLei_2_051409.gif``xCrews lift the big top on Cunningham Park Wednesday.``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Gay Film Series Ready To Celebrate 5th Year``xtrib``xCinemarosa, the borough's premier Queer Film Festival, will celebrate its fifth anniversary this weekend with a series of short films to be shown from 3 to 5 p.m. at the Queens Museum of Art. The screenings will be followed by a Q&A session with the audience and a celebration afterward.

The screening will feature five films ranging from four to 2o minutes. The film makers will be on hand. The films are:

FAGETTE (Dir. Ali Cotterill, USA, 2008, 4 min), a trans-fabulous Sunday treat. It's croquet gone gay, drag-tastic cheerleaders, and synchronized dance, all in an Astroturf wonderland.

SWEET WILLIAM AND THE MILLER (Dir. Matthew de Leon, USA, 2008, 7 min), in an adaptation of Oscar Wilde's "The Devoted Friend," a humble gardener, sweet William, falls into a desperate love triangle with the Miller and his wife.

OVERNIGHT BOOK (Dir. Erin Greenwell, USA, 2008, 20 min), a passionate teenage misfit (Mary) and washed up adult writer (Bobby) meet in a dingy diner. Drawn to a younger version of himself, Bobby will help Mary craft her James Joyce proposal in an ambling journey through the suburbs of "Anytown" USA.

Mr. A (Dir. Joe Murphy, USA, 2008, 12 min), a teenage boy's life is disrupted after an accidental discovery.

DORIAN: A PICTURE (Dir. Joe E. Jeffreys, USA, 2008, 6 min), Dorian Wayne, a retired NYC female impersonator, shares memories, film clips and a picture from his career that began in the 1950s.

"Special guests, fans, groupies, stockers, and all the CINEMAROSA family of Queer Queens locals and NYC extended family will celebrate the Fifth Anniversary of Queens Only Queer Film Series," said series founder Hector Canonge. "Expect the unexpected, and look for the surprises as we blow (literally) yes, blow five pink luscious candles and bathe in pink champagne. Come prepared."

The evening will conclude with a multimedia performance and dance party celebration animated by DJ Pepe aka Cerebro and his unique sound mixes VJing by your host. Light refreshments will be provided courtesy of Queens Lesbian and Gay Pride Committee. Admission is free. To learn more, go to cinemarosa.org. ``xEkukFAAlEkfLPJSRbc``x1242399812``xLeisure``xLei_3_051409.gif``x``xFive films will be higlighted at the festival.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x German Tradition Lives``xtrib``xZum Stammtisch
69-46 Myrtle Ave., Glendale
(718) 386-3014
Cuisine: Bavarian
Hours: Open 7 Days
Credit Cards: All major
Parking: Street

Authentic is more than a description - it is a way of life at Zum Stammtisch in Glendale. A Bavarian staple in Queens since 1972, this place has been serving up the best wurst in Queens, along with authentic brews and hearty meals for a generation.

On Mother's Day, four generations were on hand to enjoy a delicious meal in this corner classic on Myrtle Avenue. With my daughter, wife and her aunt and grandmother, we settled in to our table among the bustling wait staff that hurried around in white dresses and black aprons carrying steins of brew pulled from fresh barrels.

There were no light beers, no dainty salads and no "dieter's specials' to be found on this menu. Meat, hearty vegetables and true German beers line the menu.

We started with a couple of salads to split, and they were as basic as they come - iceberg lettuce, tomato, carrot and radish. The blue cheese dressing lent a good balance. My daughter thoroughly enjoyed the Egg ala Russian, which was a hard-boiled egg split in two covered with Russian dressing and a dollop of black caviar.

Moving on to our main courses, a few of us split two orders of the Jaegerschnitzel, which is a monstrous veal cutlet, breaded, fried and slathered with a brown hunter gravy made of mushrooms and veal stock. The veal was tender and juicy, and there can never be enough of the gravy; it is sweet, salty and sublime.

As for me, I was trying not to get too filled up, saving room for dessert, so I ordered from the sandwich menu - a classic Braunschweiger (liverwurst), figuring I'd be in for your average meat between two slices of bread with a side of potato salad.

First of all, there is no such thing as average or ordinary at Zum Stammtisch. The dish was served on a round platter, with individual portions of sliced rye each loaded with a mound of smooth liver paste, topped with a ring of fresh onion and garnished with, again, radishes. In the center of the plate was a mound of fresh German potato salad - vinegary, with diced celery and onion.

It was difficult, but I actually managed to eat the whole thing. Frankly, I wish I had saved some - half of it would have made for a tasty lunch the following day.

Following our main course, we perused the dessert menu, and decided to split a few items, including the fresh Apple Strudel a la mode, a slice of Linzer Torte and Vanilla Ice Cream topped with Hot Raspberries.

The strudel was a sizable portion with a flaky crust and candylike apples inside - move over apple pie, this one's got you beat. The Linzer Torte was a slice of a multi-layer torte - very different from the cookie you can get at your local bakery; the dough was rich, with a crisp cinnamon taste, and the lattice top added visual appeal. The ice cream was a throwback to the days of the soda shop, where the best toppings made all the difference and the ice cream itself didn't have to be overwhelmed with cookies, candy and - ick - marshmallow.

The service was speedy and friendly, the food was hearty and filling and the experience was wonderful. It's no surprise that this place has been a community icon for the last 37 years, and it's good to see the place still going strong after all this time. ``xEkukFAAZpkUzHFTFRc``x1242399702``xReviews``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x A Political War In The New York State Senate ``xtrib``xWe haven’t surveyed the state but the New York State Senate war is starting early – real early.
In the battle to control the Senate – finally taken by the Dems by one seat after almost four-and- a-half decades of Republican control – the initial volley has already been fired for the 2010 election a year-and-a-half early.

It is the Senate elected in 2010 which will have to raise its hand to approve the 2011 redistricting based on the new Census. That redistricting can create lines for the Senate, the Assembly and members of Congress which can decide swing seats and, in the case of the Senate, could mean control of that house for some time to come.

And so the Dems who have just tasted power, and Southeast Queens’ Malcolm Smith, their chosen leader – after some rather unpleasant wrangling – are using their new-found position to raise and spend money to lay the groundwork for capturing additional seats in the next election. Obviously, that means they are likewise spending to retain the marginal ones won in the last election or at risk.

Clearly, their “A” seat for the next go-round is Queens’ 11th Senatorial District held by Republican Frank Padavan since 1972. Padavan is Queens’ longest serving elected official and until this past election was believed to be unbeatable.

But a changing District where Dems now far outnumber Republicans and the incredible will of the hardest working campaigner this County has seen for some time brought Councilman Jim Gennaro a handful of votes away from toppling the Queens Republican elected King.

Gennaro intends to be back in 2010 armed, ready and this time properly funded by the State Senate Dems who targeted other races leaving Gennaro on the “B” list.

Jim Gennaro is a “B” lister no more.

In May, one year and six months before he will face Padavan again, the State Senate Dems mailed into Padavan’s District:

“Senator Frank Padavan Protected The Rich At The Expense Of Middle Class Families.”

“Enough Is Enough.”

It screams and expands this message on both sides of the hit piece paid for by the New York State Senate Democratic Campaign Committee. (The reverse side can be seen on this page.)

This is nothing new in the campaign game to control the Senate Senate – it’s just very early.

We can sit and expect the Dems to not let up for the next year and a half.

And likewise, expect the GOP to spend its resources protecting Padavan and watch them figure out how to undermine Gennaro even during his expected very easy reelection to the NYC City Council.

This is just one of a handful of seats around the State where the war will be fought.

But today’s front line is in Queens.

Michael Schenkler can be reached at:MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com


Winning The War
Some view it as a numbers game. Until Jim Gennaro’s candidacy, Frank Padavan was able to easily overcome a huge Democratic registration advantage. Years in office establishing name recognition and huge allotments for member items by the majority Senate Republican Party established Padavan as almost unbeatable. But with registration constantly moving to favor the Dems and with a Democratic Senate majority, the bountiful pot of member items will not exist for Padavan and the incredibly hard-charging Gennaro may be too much to beat in 2010.

As we survey the numbers throughout the State, the math increasingly favors the Democrats. On Long Island, enrollment figures show two new Districts where Dems now lead Repubs for the first time.

The chart below is this writer’s selection of the seats most likely to be in contention in 2010. The top four are presently Republican and will likely be the focus of the Dems. In each and every case, the enrollment favors the Dems – heavily in Padavan’s district and slightly in the other three.

The bottom four are presently Democratic and represent the last four seats to swing to them; it will likely be from among these that the GOP will try to recapture its control. The GOP presently has a slight edge in the top two while the Dems have substantial enrollment leads, probably putting the bottom two out of reach.

In 2010, along with the Governor, a Lt. Governor who runs on the same ticket will be elected. The Lt. Guv has the right to vote in the State Senate to make or break a tie. The Dems presently have a 2 vote (32-30) edge. The GOP must win back one seat and the Lt. Guv or 2 seats.

We’ve crunched the numbers below, and things don’t add up well for the GOP at this moment.

But politics is a fluid game and a failing Governor sure can impact his party in the State. It is going to be a year of rough and tumble politics in the NYS Senate.
``xEkukFAAkuyCtouMQen``x1242399246``xNot4Pub``xnfp_flyer_051409.gif``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``xSenate Dems target Frank Padavan``xnfp_stern_051409.gif``xHenry Stern``x49501066339351``x``xA Basically Uncut MTA Is Bailed Out``xThe Legislature has passed a modified, limited MTA bailout, entirely at the expense of riders and taxpayers. New taxes and fees are imposed on employers in general, and auto owners in particular. The giant MTA bureaucracy remains sacrosanct, and any reduction in state funding has been warded off by the threat of disproportionate fare increases and unacceptable service cuts.

Bailouts of other companies have been accompanied by substantial staff reductions, but the MTA appears immune to pruning. We cannot micromanage to tell where the fat is hidden, but it is hard to conjure an agency in which each and every one of the almost 70,000 employees is essential to its mission. Recently departed MTA executive director Lee Sander already made some internal cuts, and we welcome whatever attrition has taken place.

The credit Sander has justly received for improving relations with the Transit Workers Union comes with a price, and we do not know fully how heavy a price it will be. We do know that the MTA wanted to take a dive on the issue of restoring the union’s checkoff rights, which had been taken away under the Taylor Law after the illegal Christmas strike of 2005. That issue, like many others, ended up in the courts.

Running the MTA is a very difficult undertaking, in part because the vast system of public transit can never be self-supporting, even with all the toll receipts siphoned off from the bridges Robert Moses built. Yet that does not mean a blank check for the authority whenever it runs low on operating funds.

On March 16 of this year, the governor and the Assembly speaker (in whose district the station is located) celebrated the opening of the replacement for the South Ferry subway station. Now the station is available to all 10 cars on a train rather than the first five. The station was built in 1912, when local trains had five cars, and South Ferry was a local stop. Was that convenience worth half a billion dollars? Was it worth the destruction of 80 trees in Battery Park, with inadequate recompense to the plant kingdom? Perhaps the money could have been spent more usefully elsewhere in the transit system. On the other hand, perhaps it would have been wasted on a boondoggle like the Fulton Street Transit Center, still incomplete after $1.5 billion was appropriated.

It is fitting that the station serves 2 Broadway, the mother ship of MTA folly and waste.

The new State legislation for the MTA plan envisions the merger of the unpaid position of chairman and the CEO – executive director, who is the full-time CEO. We shall see if Dale Hemmerdinger is ready to leave real estate to run the MTA full time, since Lee Sander has already announced his departure.

In our judgment, Sander had done a generally decent job, considering that the two governors he served were preoccupied with other matters than mass transit. He was honest and diligent. If he were replaced by a brilliant railroad man like David Gunn, there might be an improvement.

But the likelihood is that a successor will be far worse, more subject to political pressure, and more ignorant of the needs of the vast transit system, which includes the subways, buses and two railroads (the Long Island and Metro-North). For a new CEO to be an asset, he would have to have demonstrated integrity, competence and familiarity with the business of moving large numbers of people in safety, at high speed and at relatively low cost. The likelihood is that any successor chosen by the political establishment on a personal basis will be less committed and less effective than Lee Sander has been. We had hoped Sander was retained, but it is really Paterson who is being tested by his decision on this issue.
StarQuest@NYCivic.org
``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xnfp_stat_051409.gif``x``x``x``xnfp_cartoon_051409.gif``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Woodhaven Woman``xtrib``xDaena (pronounced Diana) has been modeling since she was 16, despite her first incident.

“Somebody stopped me in the mall and said that I looked like I had potential,” she said. “It was a scam, but I liked the whole taking pictures thing, so I wasn’t discouraged.”

What started as a hobby at first has grown into a full-time gig – that is, until motherhood happened just a few weeks ago.

But Daena, who is a combination of Dominican and Salvadoran, isn’t letting her little bundle of joy slow her down. Just three weeks since her Caesarean, and she already fits into her pre-pregnancy jeans. She also did a couple of shoots while she was pregnant.

Having moved from Freeport, Daena is thrilled about living in close proximity to good public transportation so she can go in and out of the City as she pleases.

When she’s not hanging out at the Queens Center Mall, or taking care of the little tyke, she and her baby’s father are enjoying the life of a young family in Queens, looking forward to beautiful weather – and counting the days til Daena can get back in front of the camera.``xEkukFAlEuVFbLHKAGo``x1242398145``xQconf``xConf_model_051409.gif``x``x``xConf_state-of-play_051409.gif``xTrying to learn how to be an aggressive Congressman, Ben Affleck studied his new friend for his role in "State of Play."``x58881066339339``x``xBox Office Buddy``xAlthough Mayor Mike Bloomberg may have billions available in his coffers for his bid as a third term mayor, less-than-certain- candidate, Queens Congressman Anthony Weiner has actor Ben Affleck.

Now, we’re not sure if Affleck is going to endorse Weiner’s mayoral candidacy, but the two have struck a curious friendship while Affleck was researching his role as an ambitious, young Congressman in the movie, “State of Play.”

Who is more likely to win an election, someone with billions or a friend of an Oscar winner?
Oh, Comptroller Bill Thompson and Councilman Tony Avella are in it too.``xMeet The Mets``xJohan Santana has proven again that he is worth whatever dollar amount we are paying him.

The ace Mets pitcher responded last week to the news that he was listed as the National League pitcher of the month for April by going 7 strong innings and striking out 10 to gain a win in a 1-0 loss, thanks in part to the Mets newly redesigned bullpen.

This was the second month in a row that Santana won the award – he got it last September for going 4-0 with a 1.83 ERA. His 1.10 and 3-1 record for April wasn’t too shabby, and after Monday’s game, that ERA dropped to 0.78.

Starting pitching, a bullpen and Carlos Beltran, the best hitter in all of baseball this season – sounds like the formula for success, right?

So why are we just hovering at .500?``xChapey Stiff``xTimes may be hard, but no one wants to work for free – especially for a politician. Some 30 campaign staffers got a quick lesson in cynicism when Geraldine Chapey, a south Queens Democratic District Leader who lost a special election, stiffed her staff out of thousands of dollars in salary after losing her race for City Council to Republican upstart Eric Ulrich.

Seth Allen, a St. John’s honors student, said “We are getting stiffed - hard-core.” The staffers claim they are owed $14,000, which just might be less than the billable hours Chapey’s lawyers are gonna ring up sorting this out.``xMad Cow?``xOur borough was treated to a strange sight last Wednesday when a bovine prowler hit the streets of Jamaica. A wayward cow turned what was supposed to be a rainy spring afternoon into a low-budget reenactment of Pamplona’s running of the bulls.

First reported at about 2 p.m., the angus cow escaped a slaughterhouse on 158th Street and Beaver Road. The cops corralled the wayward barnyard creature with the use of a Mounted Unit trailer, which is usually used for horses.

After temporarily being housed in a shelter in Brooklyn run by the City’s Animal Care and Control agency, the cow was transferred to a farm in Calverton, Long Island, where she should have few beefs.

She’s being introduced to a steer named Wexley with the hope of, y’know, finding the right moo-d.``xJet Blue Brawler Behind Bars``xWoodside’s violent-flyer Christina Szele is behind bars.

Szele was denied bail by a Denver judge after allegedly violating the terms of her probation two months ago.

The Queens air-brawler was arrested again March 8 for allegedly punching her sister-in-law in the face and pulling her hair, according to published reports.

Szele, 36, was sentenced to 5-years probation in February after attacking flight attendants aboard a Jet Blue flight last June, forcing the plane to make an unexpected stop in Denver. She allegedly punched the flight attendant in the face while shouting racial slurs after she was asked to stop smoking on the plane.

Szele was also arrested in September after she allegedly failed two drug tests and was involved in another assault in Queens.

She faces up to 20 months in prison if the judge decides that she violated her probation.``xGosling Moves``xActor Ryan Gosling is new pals with the Steinway Moving and Storage crew, which is based in Long Island City. Gosling’s new movie, Blue Valentine, features Steinway moving crews and trucks trouncing around New York with the pretty leading man. The movie, which is about marital turbulence, also stars Michelle Williams, will be out for swooners in 2010.

Ladies: need a mover?
``xConf_santana_051409.gif``xConf_chapey_051409.gif``x``xConf_Szele_051409.gif``xConf_gosling_051409.gif``xJohan Santana ``xGeraldine Chapey``x``xChristina Szele``xRyan Gosling``x``x``x``xConf_model_face_051409.gif``x``xConf_cartoon_051409.gif``x``x Burger’s Book Unveils Hidden Gems``xtrib``x“He’s 87 years old and he still does walking tours,” said Jerry Goodwin looking over at the author, who was busy signing books and shaking hands. “When he told me no one would publish it, I said I’ll publish it – of course, I didn’t know a thing about that at the time, so I could say it.”

The book, titled Unexpected New York, was written by Goodwin’s friend Chester Burger. Burger started at CBS as a page and after “just a lot of luck” became the network’s first television news reporter. “It said Visualizer on my first business card,” said Burger. “The whole news operation was half a dozen people and we had to figure out how to show the news on television.”

The book explores unknown facets of everyday places in our city. For example, did you know the Hell’s Gate Bridge was the longest, heaviest and strongest steel arch bridge in its day? Or that the designer, Gustav Lindenthal, a German immigrant “apparently taught himself mathematics, engineering theory, metallurgy, hydraulics, estimating, management, and everything else a successful bridge designer had to know?”

The book contains 87 such unknown stories about everyday places in the City, with six of them in Queens – although some of those are pretty well known to the residents of the area. Still, the plethora of historical anecdotes imbues the City with a sense of wonder that many of us lose in our daily routines.

Burger shopped the book around to various publishers, who all rejected it because they could not print the hardcover, 147 color page book (all the photographs were taken by Burger) and turn a profit. So Goodwin, who had previously done business with Chinese companies, decided to undertake the task. At $29.95, “I can assure you we’re not making a profit,” said Goodwin, but with a third printing just around the corner, they hope to break even on this labor of love.

The stories compiled in the book reflect a lifetime of curiosity and thoroughness that earned Burger the rarely bestowed Medal for Outstanding Service to United States from the federal government. Aside from being the pioneering face of TV news, Burger organized CBS’ entire nationwide news coverage in the early 50s and eventually left the company to go into consulting.

In 1964, he started Chester Burger & Co., the nation’s first communications management consulting firm, from which he retired in 1988 – although he still advises the Air Force. He is the author of five other books.

The tidbits of trivia themselves do not contain the intelligence and storytelling that Burger so naturally exuded when he introduced his book at the Astoria Historical Society on Monday. He peppered his talk with a distinguished “ladies and gentleman…” that echoed from another time. But this native New Yorker still has plenty of fight left in him, that night being his 40th book signing.

His opinion on today’s television news was a bit of blunt irony: “Oh, it’s enormously well done technically; they’re so good at that now. But I don’t see any effort to prepare Americans for the complexity of the world we are living in. The media – not all of them, but many – have a tendency to underestimate the intelligence of the people and act accordingly.”

To order the book, visit Amazon.com or contact the publisher directly at unexpectedny.com.``xEkukEVVAVVaCJtMZrj``x1242155955``xLeisure``xPage-35A.gif``xVLADIC RAVICH``xThe support structure of the Hell Gate Bridge.``xPage-35A-1.gif``xChester Burger reads from his book.``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Cerebral Palsy Painter Refuses To Be Stopped``xtrib``xLife before a canvas and easel is precarious enough. Throw in a language barrier and mental disability and you’ve got the frustrating scenario defining 24-year-old Lisa Baw’s existence.

The Taiwanese transplant came to the states three years ago with her parents and siblings, pursuing what has become a promising devotion to painting while negotiating a life challenged by cerebral palsy.

Now Baw’s work is on full display at the Culture Center of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office, 133-32 41st Rd. in Flushing, May 9-16.

“The purpose of this art show is to help inspire people with my work. Painting brings me confidence and health and is one of the best things in life,” Baw said at her exhibition’s opening reception. She often mentions her hero Helen Keller, another icon of turning disabilities on their head.

Baw’s work is a combination of nature and the things her unique mind sees, creating a palate of color that a former teacher once compared to master Henry Matisse. One painting shows Van Gogh-like stabs of paint, forming an aquatic reference to her astrological sign, Pisces. Baw is also an avid swimmer, pianist and has authored an award-winning children’s book.

Art has also proven therapeutic for Baw’s condition, her father David said. Cerebral palsy severely impedes one’s attention. But when she’s painting, Baw clocks in 16 hours of painting every week, which her father calls “art therapy.”

Baw is currently enrolled in Queensboro Community College, seeking a degree in Fine Arts and Performance. But according to David, the academic criteria requiring her to read and speak English has stymied her growth as an artist.

The school believes Baw should drop her status as a matriculated student, standing in direct opposition to the artist’s dream life – surpassing normalcy into greatness.

The big picture remains foremost in Baw’s mind. She hopes to start a foundation for the disabled and has a persistent dream to teach kindergarten.

Until then, her family will continue to look for a different college for their daughter. They’ll also live with the wayward globs of paint she leaves along the way.

“Every time she paints, it’s always a mess,” her father says with a laugh. “As long as she feels happy, I don’t say anything.”``xEkukEVVZZFPENNQLgH``x1242155773``xLeisure``xPage-35B.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xCerebral palsy has not stopped Lisa Baw’s dreams of artistry.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Top Burgers And Fries``xtrib``xFive Guys Burger and Fries
132-01 14th Ave., College Point
(718) 767-6500
73-25 Woodhaven Blvd., Glendale
(718) 943-3483
Cuisine: American
Hours: 11 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week
Parking: Lot
Credit Cards: Yes

The Five Guys Burger and Fries franchise came to College Point a year ago. In that time, the squeaky clean burger joint has attracted a loyal following. Lunch time is busiest, with diners from nearby office buildings and high schools opting for the never-frozen, handmade beef patties over the plentiful fast-food alternatives.

Recently, the franchise opened a second location on Woodhaven Boulevard, and the décor is simple: red and white tile walls, linoleum floors, wooden tables and chairs. The restaurant’s various accolades and reviews are posted for all to see, as is a bulletin board crammed with customers' handwritten notes and a white board with the following message, "Today's potatoes are from Rigby, Idaho."

The toppings are prepped daily. The fries are hand cut.

"Everything is fresh," said one manager who confessed she prefers the Veggie burger, only $1.99.

Order a Hamburger for $4.49 and you'll get two patties. Ordering the "Little Hamburger" for $3.09 gets you one. Toppings are free and include mayo, relish, onions, lettuce, pickles, tomatoes, fried onions, sautéed mushrooms, ketchup, mustard, jalapeno peppers, green peppers, A-1 sauce, Bar-B-Q sauce and Hot Sauce.

Zagat rated for six years running, Five Guys also offers kosher hot dogs and fries prepared two different ways: "Five Guys Style" and "Cajun Style." The fries are cooked in zero-cholesterol peanut oil and the restaurant's display of cardboard boxes overflowing with peanuts really sends home this message.

Presentation of the food itself leaves something to be desired. The burgers are wrapped in tin foil so tightly they come to resemble small silver balls. And the fries are served in Styrofoam cups.

But Five Guys Burger and Fries is a tasty and affordable option for those who like to load their burgers with fresh toppings and enjoy fries that actually taste like potatoes from Rigby, Idaho.
— Brian Rafferty``xEkukEVVuupjyOnNszb``x1242155440``xReviews``x``x``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Another Hevesi Tied To AG’s Probe``xtrib``xState Attorney General Andrew Cuomo’s ongoing probe into pay-to-play involving the State’s pension fund has led more than 100 investment firms to be subpoenaed, while entangling former Queens State Senator Dan Hevesi into the investigation.

“This situation is the worst of both worlds. This is the nexus of private sector fraudulent operators meeting government and political fraudulent operators,” Cuomo said.

Cuomo’s latest complaint has connected former State Comptroller Alan Hevesi’s consultant Hank Morris to an alleged $320,000 kickback from Saul Meyer, founder of Dallas-based Aldus Equity. Morris helped land the firm $175 million of State pension funds to manage.

The deal with Aldus was reached after another firm allegedly refused to pay kickbacks to Morris and an associate. Morris then sent word to Meyer, promising the contract in exchange for 35 percent of the Aldus’ fees – about $300,000.

Meyer agreed to the terms and Aldus came to manage the Aldus/NY Emerging Fund. He then allegedly asked for $200 million more in State money.

The Attorney General said a week after Aldus received the money it sought, Aldus helped the younger Hevesi land a $25 million investment from New Mexico’s public pension fund. The contract netted him a $250,000 placement fee. He then allegedly thanked Meyer personally “for NM.”

Hevesi’s attorney has denied any wrongdoing.

Meyer was arraigned on securities fraud charges, which he denied, and was released on $200,000 bail.

The revelations come nearly two weeks after Cuomo claimed former Liberal Party Chairman Ray Harding allegedly obtained $800,000 in illegal placement fees in exchange for favors, including allegedly clearing a State Assembly seat for Alan Hevesi’s son Andrew. The Attorney General’s complaint stated that shortly after the elder Hevesi asked Harding to create a vacancy for his son Andrew, then-Assemblyman Mike Cohen vacated his seat for a lucrative job at H.I.P.

When asked if the investigation has revealed any direct link between then-Comptroller Hevesi and favors given to his sons, Cuomo simply responded with “The investigation is ongoing.”``xEkukEVVEkpoCoeikor``x1242155120``xDeadline``xPage-3A.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xDan Hevesi netted $250,000 in the deal between Aldus and Hank Morris, according to Andrew Cuomo.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Flu Schools Reopen As Virus Fears Shrink``xtrib``xAs the swine flu that started its U.S. outbreak in Fresh Meadows continues to spread, officials urge the public to remain cautious, but have downgraded the level of concern about the epidemic.

“We have looked daily at every hospital and every intensive care unit in the city within the past 10 days,” said Dr. Thomas Frieden, New York City Health Department Commissioner, “and we have yet to find a single patient with severe illness.”

As of Tuesday, the total number of cases confirmed as swine flu in New York City was at 73, the vast majority of which (69) have been identified as students and staff at St. Francis Prep, and their friends and families.

According to City officials, six students from St. Francis had traveled to Mexico during spring break. On the fourth day back to school following the break, April 23, 254 of the nearly 3,000 students reported being sick.

Though the City and the National Centers for Disease Control have failed to conclusively link the outbreak to a visit to Mexico, St. Francis Prep has been clearly identified as the source for the vast majority of the City’s cases. The school has been very clear to point out that the students who took the trip to Mexico did so on their own, and that this was not the school-sanctioned senior trip, which is usually to Hawaii.

The City Health Department has said that one third of the nearly 2,000 students who responded to the survey reported that they had been sick with flu symptoms, but for many the window of opportunity to correctly identify the illness as swine flu had passed by the time testing could occur.

The school, which was closed for nine days while it was sanitized – and also to stop the spread of the disease – reopened Monday with considerable fanfare. Students who continue to exhibit flu symptoms have stayed at home.

There were 190 ill students who said that household members were exhibiting flu-like symptoms. Of the 210 staff members who responded to the City’s survey, only 23 had reported symptoms of flu.

Another Fresh Meadows school, PS 177, was also closed for part of last week after flu concerns were raised, but reopened last Friday.

As of Tuesday, the CDC had confirmed 403 cases of swine flu in 38 states, including 90 cases in New York State. The next highest are California, with 49, and Texas, with 412, including one death.

The CDC has lifted its advisory to close schools where suspect cases are found, noting that “CDC has modified its policy to recommend implementation of measures that focus on keeping all students, faculty and staff with symptoms of influenza out of schools and childcare facilities during their period of illness and recuperation, when they are potentially infectious to others.”

The CDC added that should the World Health Organization raise its threat level from 5 to 6, confirming a pandemic, that decision would be focused more on containing the outbreak and less on the severity of the illness, which for most people is no different from typical flu symptoms. ``xEkukEVVpVZgvToZneP``x1242155057``xDeadline``xPage-3C.gif``xBrian M. Rafferty``xSt. Francis Prep reopened this week.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Higher Fares, No Tolls Part Of New MTA Plan``xtrib``xIt looks as though straphangers were rescued by a midnight reprieve from the Governor. Well, the Governor, Senate Majority Leader Malcolm Smith (D-St.Albans), and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver (D-Manhattan) actually did it together, but the drama won’t end here.

As of press time, a bill has finally been cobbled together that seems to be palatable to the entire razor-thin Democratic majority in the Senate, with the Governor and the Assembly ready to sign off on it. This will prevent the drastic service cuts and massive fare hike set to go into effect at the end of the month.

“Look, while it’s not perfect and it’s not everything that we would want[…] something had to be done,” said Mayor Mike Bloomberg.

The bill is a grab bag of smaller tax increases on vehicles, a payroll tax for employers, and a 10 percent fare increase (2 percent more than the earlier proposals). Paterson has also said that the current budget hole will require additional fare hikes in 2011 and 2013 of 7.5 percent.

A source familiar with the negotiations who declined to be named said the deal “will avert the worst case scenario,” but criticized the compromise as a very limited win for the majority of city straphangers. “Some publications are implying that fares have gone down, but that’s not true, they’re being increased, and 2 percent more than the 8 percent the riders would have absorbed as a fair share…Who knows what else is down the line?”

The plan also includes a payroll tax of 34 cents per $100 for all employers in the 12 counties served by the MTA, with the notable exception of school districts, which will recoup their contribution through a rebate from the State.

The exception was added to prevent double taxation from the school districts – which are tax collecting entities in some parts of the state – from passing along the increases to their residents. It was necessary to add the provision to win the support of Sens. Craig Johnson and Brian Foley from Long Island.

The bill also mandates the Legislature to do its own forensic audit of the MTA’s finances this year; requires that the MTA to adopt and post rules and information about its granting of privileges or benefits to members; and will require the MTA to provide information to employees on how to report fraud or abuse to the MTA inspector general or the attorney general.

The payroll tax will be used to fund capital fund projects over the next two years, with a more substantial funding source left to be determined by the State in the fall – just in time for the election.``xEkukEVuAlyNSOYVmLf``x1242154986``xDeadline``x``xVLADIC RAVICH``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Top Court ‘Dark Horse’ Is Boro’s Nick Garaufis``xtrib``xThe retirement of Supreme Court Justice David Souter has set off a rumor mill of possible replacements, and it has spit out a surprising name. The Atlantic Monthly has listed Queens native and Eastern District of New York Judge Nicholas Garaufis as a “dark horse” for the vacancy.

“It’s very flattering to be mentioned in the company of these brilliant judges and legal scholars,” Garaufis said of the speculation.

The 61-year-old started his legal career after receiving a J.D. from Columbia Law School in 1974. He was first employed as an associate of Chadbourne and Parke, and also served as an Assistant Attorney General under Louis J. Lefkowitz.

He returned to his Queens roots when he served as counsel to Borough President Claire Shulman. During that time, he dealt with the Federal Aviation Administration a great deal, which landed him a job as the agency’s Chief Counsel.

He was nominated to the Federal bench by President Bill Clinton in February 2000 and began his service that August.

News of the rumors set off a flurry of congratulations from past friends and associates.

“He doesn’t even know anybody at that magazine,” said longtime friend and Congressman Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside). “He was the most surprised person. It’s great to be thought of in that venue. He’d be a great find for this administration. Just to be mentioned is an honor.”

Shulman also chimed in, calling Garaufis “a man who possesses impeccable judgment, a man of utmost integrity and intelligence.” She added the Garaufis “would be a wonderful addition to the Supreme Court.”

Around this time, the media tends to have fun predicting a possible appointment’s judicial style. Ackerman summarized his old buddy this way:

“Nick knows the role of the judiciary. He’s not a guy that necessarily believes in the death penalty but he’ll hand down a death penalty sentence when he feels he needs to.”``xEkukEVulFyFotUXTdi``x1242154836``x(default)``xPage-4.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xNicholas Garaufis``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Debate Rages Over Stop And Frisks``xtrib``xThe NYPD announced several steps to amend their controversial stop and frisk policy on the eve of a hearing by the City’s Public Safety Committee last week, but opponents have called the measures “smoke and mirrors.”

The changes include a pilot program in three precincts that will require officers to hand out a card to individuals listing the legal authority for the stop and common reasons justifying it. The NYPD has also revised the patrol guide, which will require officers to provide an explanation.

“It probably helps a little bit, but it’s not dealing with the real problems,” said Christopher Dunn, the associate legal director of the New York Civil Liberties Union. “People can be stopped for ‘reasonable suspicion,’ but when you get to a point that nine out of 10 people who are stopped have done nothing wrong, it raises a serious question about whether people being stopped because of some reasonable suspicion or for some other reason.”

The issue has come to a head in recent years as the rates for stop and frisks has gone up dramatically — reaching a total of 531,159 reported stops in 2008 — a more than five fold increase since 2002.

Even more alarming is the racial breakdown of the stops, which show that non-whites make up roughly 90 percent of those targeted. In the wake of the Sean Bell shooting in 2006, the NYPD commissioned the RAND Corporation to assess these statistics to see if the department was engaging in racial bias policing, which yielded a complex and controversial analysis.

Greg Ridgeway, a senior statistician for the RAND Corporation with a Ph. D. in statistics, is a leading researcher in racial bias in policing and authored the study, a summary of which was presented at the recent hearings.

He testified that while “raw statistics for these encounters suggest large racial disparities… [these] comparisons to the Census, while they are the most widely used, are not suitable for assessing racial bias.”

Instead, Ridgeway analyzed stop and frisk rates against crime-suspect descriptions, which he said “are independent of the police and, unlike the Census, is linked to suspicious activity.” He admitted this method poses its own problems, including potential bias in who is reported to the police and possibly excluding crimes that have no witnesses, such as trespassing.

Another factor for the racial discrepancy is the much higher concentration of police officers in minority neighborhoods.

According to this benchmark, the study found that blacks were stopped at a rate of 20-30 percent lower than their representation in crime-suspect descriptions, while Hispanics were stopped 5-10 percent higher.

Compared to a racial breakdown of arrestees, the number of stop and frisks targeted blacks at roughly the same rate as their arrest numbers, while Hispanics were targeted 6 percent higher.

The other troubling statistic from the NYPD – that only one in 10 of the reported frisks actually yielded an actionable offense – has critics outraged at the negative consequences of such a blanket approach, especially to law-abiding minorities that are targeted.

“If you stop 50 people in a community, somebody will have a gun or drugs or whatever. That’s the strategy; it’s a game of numbers. That one person you get justifies it. So you can say you stopped a crime. That’s what it’s designed for,” said Noel Leader, a recently retired NYPD sergeant and co-founder of 100 Blacks in Law Enforcement Who Care.

“There’s a lot of dislike of police officers because of all these unnecessary stops and harassment. What I was taught in academy is that we’re hunters, not fisherman,” Leader said. “Now they’re making them like fisherman, to cast a big nets and pull in what you can. It’s counterproductive and I’ve seen it with my own eyes.”

Leader also alleges that the number of stop and frisk incidents is greatly underreported because the required paperwork is often never filed.

Councilman Peter Vallone (D-Astoria), the chairman of the Public Safety Committee, disagrees. While he said there are many problems with the stop and frisk policy, it can be “a great law enforcement tool when done properly. It is a proactive way to get guns off the street before crimes are committed and not after the drive-by shooting kills a little girl.

“One of the legitimate areas of concern is the low rate of return on these stop and frisks,” said Vallone, “but that has to be weighed against their value in crime reduction. Look at the dramatic drop in crime – the proof is in the pudding.”

Dunn disagrees: “Crime has gone down in the City for a long time now. The crime numbers have dropped since the 1990s, but frisks only went up in 2004. For this policy to explain crime going down, they’d have to show a precipitous decline in crime in the last few years, which just isn’t supported by the data.”

The Civilian Complaint Review Board, which handles independent complaints against the NYPD, showed that complaints regarding stop and frisks have nearly tripled since 2002, to a total of 2,466 complaints in 2006. The CCRB can be reached by calling 311.

If stopped in the street by police:
• Remain calm
• Do not reach into your pockets.
• Ask why you are being stopped.
• Do not become loud.
• Keep some legitimate form of identification on you at all times.
• Remain silent. You have the right of silence, use it.
• You always have the right for legal representation – never speak without a witness being present.

You can legally be stopped by the police if:
• You are running and a crime has just been reported in the area.
• You are hanging around with some people who are under police investigation
• You are near an area where a crime has just been reported.
• You are somewhere where an officer thinks people have no reason to be at that time of day or night.
• You are acting in a way that appears to the officer to be very suspicious and you act even more suspicious when the officer sees you have spotted her/him.
• An officer thinks that you have stolen property in your possession.
• An officer stops you walking and you refuse to answer simple questions, give false or evasive answers or make contradicting statements.
• Someone has pointed you out to an officer.
• You begin to bad-mouth an officer.``xEkukEVuZVFWCmGaGOX``x1242154753``x(default)``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x His Wish Granted, Corona Man Passes``xtrib``xWalter Vergara, a 50-year-old former hairdresser from Corona, died on Sunday at Elmhurst Hospital. He had been diagnosed with terminal bone cancer last year.

Vergara’s dying wish was to see his mother one last time. But due to a miscommunication nearly two decades ago, Elizabeth Prado-Ocejo, a 74-year-old retired teacher living in Peru, was unable to enter the country. Prado-Ocejo was twice denied a visa by the U.S. Embassy after her six-month visa accidentally became a six-day visa in the 1980s, causing her to inadvertently overstay her visit and leading the agency to permanently profile her as an illegal immigration threat.

“I’m very sad,” Vergara said from his hospital bed last month, struggling to muster enough strength to form his words. “It’s very important to me to see my mother – my life is falling away and I want to be able to see my mother. That will be the cure for me.”

Despite the challenges, Prado-Ocejo, was finally granted a visa thanks to last-minute efforts by U.S. Rep. Gary Ackerman (D-Bayside).

Ackerman was able to avert the impending tragedy after calling the U.S. Ambassador to Peru to explain the family’s situation – a simple gesture that would promptly end months of bureaucratic wrangling. Prado-Ocejo was granted a six-month visa the following day.

Prado-Ocejo and her daughter were welcomed by Ackerman April 4 at JFK and escorted to the hospital for the bittersweet reunion.

“Even though I’m here in the position I am, I thank God for at least being here” Prado-Ocejo said. “He’s very delicate, so I’m happy to be here.”

Vergara’s mother and sister stayed in his Corona apartment during the ordeal.

“Although we all knew what would be the eventual outcome with Walter’s condition, we are extremely sad to learn about his passing,” Ackerman said. “But we will always be comforted in knowing that his dying wish of saying goodbye to his mother was finally fulfilled. I will never forget that tearful moment when Walter and his mother were reunited in his hospital room. He said it was the best time of his life. Having his mother at his bedside not only brought him such comfort during his final days but it became the best medicine of all.”

While many close to Vergara were outraged by the visa denials, Ackerman defended the State Department’s policies.

“It’s not something where they try to systematically keep people out,” Ackerman said. “The thing is, you can’t compromise national security – but there’s also such a thing as common sense.”

Ackerman explained that staffing and time constraints left many embassies unprepared to deal with the demand for U.S. visas. Unfortunately, those demands sometimes cause people like Prado-Ocejo to fall through the cracks.

“There is a problem here, and the problem is that there are so many applications that they don’t take time to read them all,” Ackerman said. “If they would have read them all and could spend time with each of the applicants when they personally interview them, they would have understood that she has no reasonable expectation in anybody’s mind of trying to sneak into America to stay here.”

A wake for Vergara was held on Wednesday at the Rivera Funeral Home in Corona. His mother will return this week to Peru, where his funeral is scheduled for Saturday.``xEkukEVuyFlztJPkIRp``x1242154638``x(default)``xPage-11A.gif``x Michael Lanza``xWalter Vergara was reunited with his mother last month.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Auto Theft Ring Busted By The DA``xtrib``xEight alleged members of an auto theft ring were indicted last Friday for their alleged roles in the theft of 16 cars – a haul valued at approximately $400,000.

The vehicles, mostly stolen from dealership lots in Queens and Long Island, allegedly had their vehicle identification numbers changed or altered before being resold.

The defendants were variously charged with second-, third- and fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, third- and fourth-degree grand larceny and fourth- and fifth-degree conspiracy.

According to the charges, Melvin Pinckney, 54 – with the assistance of accused ring members David Jimenez, 40, and Alexander Gil, 34 – allegedly stole vehicles from auto dealership parking lots, including Recon Motors in Whitestone, a storage facility for excess inventory from multiple dealers. Officials said the vehicles were taken to various lay-up locations – including a spot near 78th Street and 153rd Avenue – where they were kept until they could be sold.

Prosecutors said many of the cars were allegedly stolen from the lots after the thieves swapped phony keys with real ones during earlier test drives.

Lisle Jackson, a middle school assistant principal in Brooklyn, allegedly purchased and traded the stolen vehicles.

“A sweeping nine-month investigation that utilized both court-authorized wiretaps and traditional surveillance has dismantled a loosely knit auto theft ring that specialized in stealing luxury automobiles,” Queens DA Richard Brown said. “For such thieves, an automobile dealership represented the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. They could leisurely window shop for the exact makes and models of the cars they wanted and then, under the cover of darkness, steal them.”

The arrests came after a joint undercover investigation by the New York City Police Department’s Auto Crime Division and the Queens District Attorney’s Organized Crime and Rackets Bureau.

The accused ring members face sentences from 7 to 15 years in prison if convicted.``xEkukEVuVuVsTRNhQGX``x1242154545``x(default)``x``x Michael Lanza``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Economy Hurts Borough’s Orchestra``xtrib``xThe Queen’s Symphony Orchestra’s free parks concerts are staples of the summer season: a robust ensemble of 60 or so professional musicians, dressed sharply in black and white, play Tchaikovsky or maybe Dvorak as the sun sets to a crowd of attentive seniors, half-distracted parents, and restless children who either run about or impatiently kick their heels as if in church pews.

Recessionary forces, though, are proving powerful enough to upend longstanding pleasures as this perennial concert experience is in jeopardy. Rapid declines in philanthropic gifts and government funding have assailed the orchestra’s finances. Nearly $100,000 of the QSO’s now-$650,000 budget, most of it government support, has vaporized. With corporations and foundations forming few new charitable partnerships, if not severing existing ones, the orchestra has few places to turn in order to salve its losses. While it hopes to receive some stimulus money, the New York Times reported that only $400,000 has been allotted to the New York State Council on the Arts, a pool of money to be split among hundreds of cultural groups.

The QSO’s May 9 performance, its final of the season, will go on as planned. Next season is a different story. Right now, the orchestra has seven concerts scheduled for the 2009-2010 season, many of which may figure in the cost-cutting formula the organization enacts.

“We’re looking at cuts in programming in terms of numbers of performances, number of players, number of rehearsals, and changes in what repertoire we do. It’s across the board where we’re going to cut,” said Lynda Herndon, the orchestra’s executive director. While Herndon refused to say what specifically will get the axe, she said that cuts in the above areas are “inevitable.”
The QSO is just the latest performing arts group to go through painful belt-tightening. The Brooklyn Philharmonic recently laid off a third of its administrative staff and cancelled its final program this season and all of next season’s subscription concerts. Even the redoubtable Metropolitan Opera put up its celebrated Chagall murals as part of the collateral for an existing loan in order to free up cash flow.

Many orchestras will have to implement cuts throughout 2009 as they struggle to pinpoint the economy’s nadir. The budget Herndon submits to the QSO’s Board of Directors within the next couple of months is unlikely to encapsulate all of the downsizing the orchestra will have to undergo.

“We will continue to work the budget based on the actuals that occur throughout the year,” Herndon said.

If there’s a lack of self pity in Herndon’s voice when she speaks about the orchestra’s financial woes though – she jokingly asked whether the Tribune was telling the QSO’s sob story – it’s partly because theirs is a common plight, but also she’s extricated the orchestra out of worse financial quagmires.

In fact, the QSO has undergone a rejuvenation of sorts under her leadership. She spearheaded the search for only the third musical director in the orchestra’s 56-year history, Constantine Kitsopoulos, whose more ethnically diverse musical offerings have hit home with the borough’s motley population; single ticket sales have nearly tripled and the subscriber base has more than quadrupled. Most importantly, and perhaps most germane to the current predicament, through now in-vogue frugality Herndon got the QSO out from under the $320,000 in debt she inherited when she took over as executive director in 2002.

“We became our own bottle washers,” Herndon said, referring to how she discontinued the office’s cleaning services.

Partly because of what it has overcome, the orchestra, on the cusp of its 57th season, is bullish on its ability to weather this economic storm.

“We’re making cuts now to come back stronger in the future,” said Kitsopoulos, who points to the hardened survival instincts of musicians: “We’ve all been through lean times and are good at surviving and being promoters of our art.” Herndon, herself a former freelance violinist perhaps best exemplifies this spirit: “I worked hard to get this place out of its deficit. I’ll be damned if I let it go under.” ``xEkukEVuuZEovPJYIXW``x1242154471``x(default)``xPage-12.gif``xDavid Doerrer``xThe Queens Symphony Orchestra performs.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Machines Compete At Hall of Science``xtrib``xMore than 100 diminutive gladiators descended on Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Sunday, destined for battle in a first-of-its-kind Queens event.

The boisterous crew of pre-teens typed and tweaked their way to the top during the fourth annual Robo Cup Junior regional competition during its New York Hall of Science debut.

Competitors used pre-fabricated robotics kits to design, program and operate their creations – taking advantage of sophisticated sensor technology, including optical, audio and impact sensors designed to create robots with real-time environmental awareness. Students then programmed their creations on laptops, where they planned, tested and modified coded instructions that determine the robot’s behavior.

“A huge part of what they’re doing is breathing life into these creatures that really have personality and behaviors that aren’t entirely predictable,” said Margaret Honey, president of the Hall of Science. “While there’s incredible science and technology in this event, there’s also elements of magic and fantasy and the unanticipated that make it very special.”

The competition is a project-oriented education initiative aimed at instilling and developing computer programming and engineering skills in young students. The event is based on Robocup, a university level robotics competition that began in Paris in 1998.

The event pits creations from elementary and middle school students throughout the tri-state area in three fields of competition: dance, rescue and soccer.

In the dance competition, students program their robots to perform synchronized musical routines. Using optical sensors to detect black electrical tape running across the floor, the robots crisscrossed the stage, spinning in circles and waving their arms.

During the rescue competition, competing robots performed timed runs through a miniature scale accident scene – picking up mock victims as they navigated a chip-board obstacle course.

In the final event, two-robot teams battled through the brackets for top prizes in the Robocup Junior soccer tournament. The autonomous teams pushed around an infrared-beam emitting ball as they spun and charged across an artificial six-foot field trying to score goals.

Winners of Sunday’s events may be invited to participate in the international tournament later this year in Graz, Austria. The regional competition was organized in 2006 by Elizabeth Sklar, a computer science professor at Brooklyn College.

Honey said the event’s organizers hope to make the Hall of Science an annual venue for the tournament, with plans already underway for next year’s competition.

For more information on participating in Robocup Junior, visit rcj.sci.brooklyn.cuny.edu.``xEkukEVuFpEKzHiEszv``x1242154301``x(default)``xPage-16.gif``xMichael Lanza``xDozens of spectators gathered to watch a semi-final soccer match.``xPage-16-a.gif``xA robot is placed at ready position at the New York Hall of Science auditorium, where they competed in a dance competition.``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Model Woman``xtrib``xPaola is not your average model. Trained as an actress at the Weist Barron School of New York, she was cast recently in a lead role on the A&E series “Watching the Detectives” and will be featured in an upcoming episode of “The Unusuals” on NBC. She is also collaborating with “En La Escena TV,” a bilingual entertainment show on Latino and Caribbean lifestyle, as Associate Producer and Assistant to Executive Producer.

In her time modeling, Paola has graced the pages of Latina Magazine, Everyday with Rachael Ray, All You Magazine, House Beautiful, Inc. and 20/20 Magazine.

Paola said she carefully picks the type of work she chooses, something “that will match with the proper representation of all women.”

To that end, in November 2007 she was invited by the “Tyra Banks Show” to participate on the “So what” campaign to raise awareness of positive body image.

Whether it is acting or posing for the camera, Paola loves what she does, but also enjoys time out in her new-found borough.

If you want to see more of Paola, you can find her in an upcoming Duane Reade series of ads or simply go to paolacancellieri.com.


Paola Cancellieri
South Ozone Park
Age: 25
Height: 5’ 6"
Weight: 135 lbs
Stats: 36-28-37
``xEkukEFZkpkoKsztgQf``x1242137202``xQconf``xpaola-redtop-IMG_7664.gif``x``x``xWoody-Allen.gif``x``x58881066339339``x``xWearing Woody Allen``xT-shirts bearing the image of Woody Allen as a Chassidic Jew will be given away for free in a promotion by the Queens-run Web site 7FatCow.com. 7FatCow, which is a collective of mostly ex-Orthodox Jews, takes issue with Allen’s $10 million lawsuit against American Apparel – a trendy clothing company – which used the Allen image on their ad billboards without his permission.

The image, which is a still from his movie “Take the Money and Run,” has a caption translating to “The Holy Rabbi,” written in Yiddish. A representative from American Apparel explained that Allen – a devout secularist – is the company’s “spiritual leader.” Apparently, the feelings of adulation were not reciprocated.

In addition to promoting the Web site, the point of the T-shirt giveaway is to poke fun at Allen’s ungracious response to the company’s use of his image. 7FatCow, which is run by a Sunnyside resident who goes by the handle “de profundis,” likened Allen to a “petulant autistic child,” and feels that his litigiousness is a result of Allen’s distaste for the Jewish community from which he hails.

The free T-shirts will be made available for order on 7FatCow.com on Friday, May 8. There is no word yet from Allen’s lawyers on the shirts.``x'Super Hootie' vs.Parakeets ``xThe ongoing battle against a flock of wild parakeets responsible for repeatedly destroying high-voltage equipment in Whitestone just got a not-so-new champion.

Workers upgraded Hootie, a mechanical owl intended to scare of the troublesome birds, last Tuesday – painting him orange and equipping him with a bright orange cape.

The workers dubbed the new Hootie as “Super Hootie,” saying the parakeets disliked the color orange.

The upgrade came after the birds knocked out power at nearly 1,500 homes the day before when their nest short-circuited Con Edison’s 24,000-volt feeder reclosure, destroying it.

The cost of replacing each reclosure is estimated at $20,000.``xEric Ulrich’s GOP Gaffe``xWe have reported that 24-year-old Eric Ulrich, who won the recent special election to replace Joe Addabbo in the City Council, is a regular guy who drives a Chevy Impala and watches “Family Guy,” as he told New York Magazine. But it was something else he said at the time that has some of our Southern friends up in arms.

“Republicans aren’t all religious fundamentalists from Alabama; some of us are just normal working-class Catholics from Queens,” Ulrich said.

Uh-oh.

“If justifying your participation in the Republican party by disparaging part of its core constituency – those types that ‘cling to their God and guns’ – is what’s ‘normal,’ then, Mr. Ulrich, I’m glad I’m not normal,” wrote Suzanna Logan, a blogger from Birmingham, Ala.

Another blogger, Robert Stacy McCain, wrote “If Eric Ulrich and the New York GOP were half as organized and energized as folks down in Alabama, maybe they wouldn’t have lost that NY-20 seat.”

Ouch.

And those are the comments we can print.``xBig Plans``xWhile the government is busy handing out its own stimulus funds, Rego Park’s Bing Sheng Zou got a million bucks of stimulating money thanks to a scratch-off lottery ticket.

The 27-year-old sushi chef purchased the winning ticket at Woodhaven Boulevard’s Quick Stop. He will receive his winnings in installments, with an annual check of $32,000 coming to him after taxes.

His employer might have something to worry about now though.

“I love working as a sushi chef,” Zou said. “Now that I am a millionaire maybe I’ll open up a Japanese restaurant of my own.”``xPro Boxing Makes Queens Debut``xFight promoter Joe DeGuardia brought his Star Boxing brand to Queens last Tuesday.

The event, dubbed VIP Boxing, was held at Russo’s On the Bay in Howard Beach.

Vinny Maddalone, a Flushing heavyweight defeated Benji Baker in lopsided fight that was stopped after the fourth round. The win brought the 35-year-old’s record to 32 wins and 5 losses with 22 knockouts. Maddalone is mounting a professional comeback after his loss to former heavyweight champ Evander Holyfield during a match in 2007.

Curtis “Showtime” Stevens emerged victorious by unanimous decision over Dan Mouton during an eight-round super middleweight contest.``x``x``xSuper-Hootie.gif``xulrich.gif``xlottery-conf.gif``xPro-Boxing.gif``x``xWhitestone's Super Hootie``xGOP Councilman Eric Ulrich``x``x``x``x``x``x``xjacket-IMG_91382.gif``x``xQ090507-ConEd.gif``x``x Rising Star``xtrib``xAWe love it when one of our own gets a big nod, and so naturally we were pretty giddy this week when we heard speculation that Federal Eastern District Justice Nicholas Garaufis is being considered a dark horse candidate to replace Justice David Souter on the United States Supreme Court.

Garaufis and this newspaper have a relationship going back decades, to when he was our attorney. We have watched this friend of ours ascend the ranks, from serving on School Board 26 to working for the borough president’s office, serving as an attorney for the FAA, and then getting appointed by President Bill Clinton to his current position as a federal judge.

This guy who used to hang his shingle on Bell Boulevard still calls Bayside home, and is a Queens kid through and through. Long shot or not, we’re proud of Nick, his career and the prospect of his rise to the most powerful court in the land. Go get ‘em, Nick.
``xEkukpylVkpAeansnXv``x1242068520``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x BUS DRIVER CHARGED``xtrib``xA Far Rockaway bus aide was charged last Tuesday with sexually molesting a 9-year-old male student on the bus earlier and with possessing nude photos of children on his cell phone.

Darnell Washington, 20, who works as a bus aide for Philippe and Elmer Transportation, was charged with first-degree sexual abuse, possessing a sexual performance by a child and endangering the welfare of a child.

“The charges are very disturbing. As a school bus aide, the defendant’s responsibilities are to ensure the safety of students to and from school,” Queens DA Richard Brown said. ”Instead, the defendant is accused of turning a ride to school into a terrifying sexual ordeal for a young boy.”
According to the charges, the school bus was at the intersection of Rockaway Beach Boulevard and Beach 73rd Street on Monday when Washington asked the 9-year-old boy to play a game, allegedly reaching inside of the front of the boy’s pants and sexually abusing him. He then allegedly reached into the back of the boy’s pants and rubbed his buttocks.

The boy returned home and told his parents what had occurred.

Washington was ordered held on $200,000 bail. If convicted, he faces up to seven years in prison.
``xEkukpyluZFpPiyUsOM``x1242068473``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x BLUE BLOOD``xtrib``xPolice are offering a $10,000 reward after one of their own was found murdered in her Sunnyside apartment.
Michelle Lee, 24, an NYPD criminologist, was found fatally stabbed last Monday shortly after 8 a.m.

Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.``xEkukpylukAKMtNbxhd``x1242068429``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MANHUNT``xtrib``xPolice are seeking a suspect believed to be responsible for the April 11 shooting death of Anthony Potter.

Police are seeking information on the whereabouts of Cassius Daley, 31, after he allegedly shot and killed Potter, 45, in St Albans.

Potter was found in his home at 4:40 a.m. suffering from a gunshot wound to the torso. He was rushed to Jamaica Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS.

Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.``xEkukpylupEBmNnNxkq``x1242068401``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MISSING TEEN``xtrib``xPolice are looking for a 14-year-old South Jamaica teen reported missing April 30.

Ja’Nay Amos was last seen at 7 a.m. near the intersection of 143rd Street and Rockaway Boulevard. She is described as a black girl, approximately 5 feet and 4 inches tall and weighing approximately 126 pounds.

Anyone with information can call the Crime Stoppers Hotline at (800) 577-TIPS. Tips can also be submitted at the Crime Stoppers web site at www.nypdcrimestoppers.com or by text to 274637(CRIMES) then TIP577.
According to the charges, Tambunting was employed by Jacmel Jewelry for approximately 28 years, including nearly 18 years as a vault manager. An inventory check conducted in January revealed that as much as $12 million worth of merchandise was unaccounted for. An investigation later found Tambunting at Jacmel’s offices allegedly wheeling a suitcase containing 66 pounds of gold with an estimated value of $868,000.

She allegedly told detectives that she had taken the gold over several months during the previous year by concealing it in the lining of her pocketbook. A search later revealed 447.8 pounds of gold at Tambunting’s residence.

Tambunting, who was released on $100,000 bail, faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted. ``xEkukpylFyVMYAKkxYR``x1242068365``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x A Beep Launch Stirs Queens Political Memories``xtrib``xMarc Leavitt is running for Borough President!

Wow!

No, this is not an endorsement and it’s way too early for that sort of thing.

And to tell you the truth, Marc is such a longshot to win, the political writing community will have to go beneath the surface for the story.

No, the story is not Marc who has just announced his candidacy on the web (MarcCrawfordLeavitt.com) and in a letter to friends where he explains the essence of his candidacy.

I have know Marc for a long time – but not well. Decades ago he wrote an elder law column for the Trib. His law partner Paul Kerson is also an old-time Queens acquaintance and often an attorney for the underdog. I knew his other law partner, John Duane, when he ran for and served in the Assembly representing Northeast Queens.

But it’s been Marc’s political, musical satire that has made me take note. Not only is he a singer/performer; he writes the songs. A la Mark Russell, Marc on CD, in person or just reading the words on his Poltunes.com website, demonstrates a progressive agenda and analytical sharp mind as he dissects the political issues of the day.

Knowing him for years, listening to him share my daughter’s love of theater, talking to him and understanding his view of politics and most importantly, listening to him I know Marc Crawford is one of the good guys – bright and well intentioned.

No, I don’t think Marc is winning this one; but do believe he can make his Marc.

Every incumbent should be challenged. Incumbents who have outstayed the term limits imposed by the people should be challenged hard. But sadly, the system doesn’t often enable that to happen.

Even with the most progressive matching funds program in the nation, running against an incumbent is extremely difficult.

The Uphill Run
The Democratic Party in Queens is in control.

They will stay that way. All the members of Congress, all Assembly members, all but one State Senator and all but one Councilmember from the Borough are blue and show allegiance to the Dem Organization. Even when an insurgent Dem wins, they quickly make their peace with the County Organization and, on the things that matter to county, can usually be relied on to stand with them.

There are differences among elected officials in the fidelity shown to the County organization when it comes to dispensing jobs and sometimes backing candidates, so the County Organization often can prefer loyalty to quality.
That’s called politics.

And so, quite often, the Democratic Organization uses its legal skills to prevent challenges to loyal party members running for office. Although this may strengthen the party and its hierarchy, it does little to further Democracy.

The amount candidates are now spending on Petition operations, Election Attorneys, Campaign Finance Board Compliance and Compliance attorneys, has seriously impacted the ability of a challenger to get his or her message to the people.

The people must read, think and absorb what’s out there during an election. Evaluate candidates, listen to differences and don’t let “name recognition” serve as a substitute for quality. We need creative, hardworking legislators for the community not just party faithfuls who put the party before the people.

The people must evaluate.

Elections in general and, primary elections in particular, are really healthy for Democracy.

Historical Perspective
In 1981, when 59 year-old Aaron Weiss, a gentle community leader, decided to challenge the Queens County Democratic machine, he set into motion his boundless energies that would reverberate all the way to the highest courts and reshape city government; and Marc Leavitt was there.

Aaron Weiss challenged Donald Manes’ incumbent Councilman-at-Large Steve Orlow. To avoid a possible loss in the Democratic Primary, the Party machine had Weiss’ name removed from the ballot on a technicality.

Shortly thereafter Weiss struck back. Claiming the City Charter and the nature of the Councilman-at-Large seat denied the basic principal of one man, one vote guaranteed by the United States Constitution, Aaron Weiss filed suit.
In perhaps the greatest legal upset in this borough’s history, a young attorney, Paul Kerson, representing Weiss, fought the Queens Democratic Party, the City Attorneys and the best that organized politics could throw at him and Aaron.

In 1983, the Supreme Court of the United States verified what Weiss had been saying. They struck down the city’s 10 Councilmen-at Large seats and heralded a new day for political reformers.

A reformer had finally triumphed. Aaron Weiss laid the groundwork for the reform movement to follow. This tenet leader, this fair organizer, this retailer stood up and was counted. He toppled Goliath.

Marc Leavitt was there. He served as a pro bono attorney with his now-partner Paul Kerson giving of themselves for the rights of the people.

Not much has changed since then.

Marc Leavitt, like the late Aaron Weiss, is a community leader who believes politics has a higher calling than just Party. The Democratic Organization still has an awesome legal team that drives challengers to the ground making them cry for mercy.

No, this is not an endorsement of Leavitt. It is way too early for that sort of thing.

It’s merely the memory of a longtime political junkie that underdogs do sometimes win.

Marc, enjoy the adventure.

Stay tuned.

MSchenkler@QueensTribune.com``xEkukpVkEyFeVdRHVrN``x1242052163``xNot4Pub``x455_Marc.jpg``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``xMarc Leavitt as he appears on poltunes.com``x``x``x49501066339351``x``xLeft in Digital Dust``xImagine for a moment what the Internet would be like without providers of content. You know, these are the people and organizations that create the articles, images, and videos that make the Web an interesting place to spend your time.

Now imagine what would be left if everyone who made anything worth looking at on the Web were suddenly to pull the plug. You know what would be left? Not much. The online landscape would be decimated, leaving only the Amazon.coms and other retailers of the world.

Without content producers, you could buy things, but that would be about it. No news, no entertainment, no how-to information or homework help would be available. There would be no blogs, no smut, and no embarrassing home videos to smirk about. The World Wide Web would be nothing more than a vast, digital shopping mall, worth visiting when you needed something, but worthless otherwise.   

The biggest loser in this hypothetical scenario would be Google, which has gotten fat and happy selling advertising around its access to everything others create. According to comScore, Google had 63.5 percent of all United States search traffic for 2008, and the number is only going to increase.

Despite a slowing of sales growth in the beginning of 2009, Google has remained profitable. Net income was up 8.9 percent for the first quarter, a number any content provider would be overjoyed with in a troubled economy. This is at a time when a majority of news organizations, for example, are seeing declines in the ad sales that pay to produce that content.

Through no fault of its own, Google is inching toward a monopoly in the search business and taking an increasing bite from its competition’s profitability. And make no mistake, content producers large and small are the competition that is being left in the digital dust. Dreaming here, I would love to see Google kick something back to the content producers of the world.

Walter Isaacson, in a cover article in Time magazine earlier this year, suggested that the moment may have come for online news organizations to begin asking for “micro-payments” from its Web readers. This idea is not new. It has been more or less described as ahead of its time at best or impractical at worst.

Yet, small payments to those who provide content may be a solution to the decline of print journalism. Google and the other search companies would pay for the material they use to sell ads around.

Google says it doesn’t have to pay royalties because it is just indexing content, rather than reproducing it. This seems to conflict with the company’s corporate philosophy, “You can make money without doing evil.” Content producers are bleeding at a time when Google’s only lament is a decline in its rate of growth. Something is wrong here. You might call it evil, depending on where you sit.

Recently, Eric Schmidt, Google’s chief executive officer, pointed out that there was a simple line of computer code — called a robots.txt file — that could be used to keep his company from searching a Web site. Essentially, he was calling the bluff of content producers who have complained, as I have, about the irony of the situation. I’d like to call his bluff, instead.

The time has come to protest. By declaring a Day Without Google, Mr. Schmidt would get the message that without content the Web would be far less compelling — and far less profitable for his company. All it would take is one simple code.   

-- Reprinted From the East Hampton Star ``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xNFP090507-SwineFlu.jpg``x``x``x``x``x``xBy DAVID RATTRAY``x``x``x``x``x``xForm``x Battle Lines Drawn In Boro Council Races``xtrib``x
(Saturday, April 25) Wow!

It was a day to behold: bright, warm and perfect.

How can one end a day of glory writing on the imperfections of politics?


Yup, in case you were wondering, politics is imperfect. It is about as imperfect as the imperfect people who play the game.

Elected officials are no better than the average guy. Not morally, not ethically and at times we think not intellectually.

No, we’re not going to name names.

But we are excited about a batch of names – new names entering the fray.

In spite of the vile action by the self-serving City Council in overturning the two-term limits imposed by the people, there are a large handful of Queens races attracting quality people.

The races for seats with no incumbent running are as exciting as elections of eight years earlier when the people imposed term limits, causing every Queens seat to change hands, and bringing a field of 65 candidates — many competitive, many bringing new ideas to the game. It is clear that NYC matching funds and a council seat that is up for grabs will attract a solid field of solid candidates – the people are well-served by such contests. Such is the value of term limits.

The old, the stale, the tired, the lazy, the self-serving, those too close to the lobbyists, are forced to move on and make way for those yet untainted by the imperfections of politics.

In the 19th CD, Tony Avella’s windmill tilting charge for the mayoralty has attracted no fewer than eight candidates vying for his open seat: Jerry Iannece the Community Board Chair who ran eight years ago is being challenged hard by Paul Vallone – yes of the family – with both well on the way to max out with City matching funds. Avella choice Steve Behar, Congressman Ackerman staffer Kevin Kim, longtime city employee Debbie Markell, paraplegic Tom Cooke and Joseph Gravagna are also in the race as is Republican Daniel Halloran. While it’s too early to bet on a horse, clearly Iannece and Vallone are off to the quick lead – in money and name recognition. But in a field this large, the race will be long and hard.

In the 20th CD, John Liu’s well-funded and fast-moving candidacy for Comptroller has another seat wide open and a list of candidate’s names – many new to us – keeps on growing. The seat in the heart of Flushing has attracted the candidacy of Chinese Americans Yen Chou, James Wu – son of former Dem District Leader Ethel Chen, Korean-American SJ Jung, Issac Sasson from Julia Harrison’s old Democratic Club and Queens College student Constantine Kavadas. We wouldn’t be surprised to see more hats in this one.

The vacant-seat, crowded, energized field rule only applies if the newcomers can be competitive. As David Weprin vacates his 23rd CD seat for a well organized Comptroller run, his brother, Assemblyman Mark Weprin, has cleared the field of many of the stronger candidates leaving Bob Friedrich, Pres. of the Glen Oaks Village Co-op, well funded Swaranjit Singh and an underfunded Bryan Rivera remaining to take on the Weprin dynasty.

Melinda Katz is leaving her 29th CD seat vacant to be the only woman in the Comptroller race and it too has attracted an active field. Former Councilwoman Karen Koslowitz took a title change at Borough Hall to begin her campaign and former Assemblyman Mike Cohen is battling the latest Hevesi scandal (when he vacated his seat for a job gotten him by the Comptroller’s office and Andy Hevesi succeeded him). Longtime civic activist Heidi Chain, former candidate Lynn Shulman, girls softball league organizer JR Nocerino, and under-30 candidate Mel Gargarin take aim at the front running former electeds.

Eric Gioia vacates his 26th CD seat for a run to be Public Advocate. Dem District Leader Diedre Feerick, longtime civic activist Jimmy Van Bramer, high-powered Bloomberg LLP attorney Brent O’Leary along with David Rosasco vie to replace him.

All the other Councilmembers appear to be taking advantage of the four extra years the Council voted itself when it overrode the term limit law. Although, especially in Southeast Queens there are attractive new candidates, beating an incumbent, even one who voted to overturn the people’s law, is a very long-shot, uphill climb at best.

We’ll be watching if any of the incumbent seats turn into real races.

One, Helen Sears’ 25th CD, is the center of great political action. Sears, who it is rumored wanted to be succeeded by her son, is facing an aggressive challenge from Democratic District Leader and gay activist, longtime Jackson Heights leader Danny Dromm. One-on-one, Dromm could possibly unseat the incumbent. However, at the moment, also in the race are Alfonso Quiroz who will capitalize on his Latino surname and also likely to erode some of Dromm’s gay support and well-funded Indian businessman Stanley Kalathara who must hope his ethnic constituency turns out in great numbers. Head on, Dromm could be the upset winner in the city. In a larger field, incumbents don’t lose.

We’ll keep an eye on the new names and the old races as we approach Election Day.

``xEkuEEpyApluMwASldu``x1241106908``xNot4Pub``x``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``x``x``x``x49501066339351``x``xPlacement Agents Sell Their Influence; Is That Criminal?``xRecent disclosures about the role of placement agents in arranging investments for the city and state pension funds have raised serious issues of improper influence.

As a result, State Comptroller Thomas J. DiNapoli has announced that he will no longer deal with middlemen in making decisions about where the state pension fund will invest.

City Comptroller William Thompson is moving in the same direction, and has asked Attorney General Andrew Cuomo to look into his office procedures. Cuomo requires no invitation to investigate anything, but he is likely to be gentle in his treatment of Thompson, who has not even been accused of any wrongdoing. The remedy in this case could well be the abolition of the business, which is inherently sleazy, rather than the selective prosecution of its more successful practitioners. A gifted and talented public official could try to pursue both goals.

Hank Morris, a political intimate of Hevesi for many years, is said to have been paid $30 million for his services as an intermediary. These were concealed under the name of a Connecticut firm, Searle & Co., which paid Morris 95 percent of the funds they received for him, 5 percent being a reasonable tariff for a laundry. Even people in politics, who are used to insiders reaping some financial reward if their horse wins, were astounded at the size of the bonanza alleged to have been paid here.

The other shoe in this drama would drop if it were discovered that Morris had, in some way, shared some of his good fortune with his lifelong friend and client, and the man who made it possible for him to receive such vast sums.

It would be preposterous for anyone to believe that Morris’ services were worth eight figures without recognizing that his principal contribution to the process was the indispensable influence he exerted to induce the Comptroller, the sole trustee of the fund, to make the investment in the first place, or to hire his client as a money manager for the fund.

There is a problem, however, in criminalizing the sale of influence, even though it is apparent to many that that is what happened here in a particularly egregious manner. For one thing, where is the certainty necessary to prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt? Assume Morris was given power because of his prior services to Hevesi. Should the Comptroller have elevated his enemies?

What would have been a reasonable fee for Morris to charge, evaluating the expertise and insight he may have contributed to the transaction? Don’t salesmen and brokers receive commissions on real estate transactions, and people who connect business owners and managers receive finders’ fees? Lawyers are selected in part because of their reputed influence with judges and their ability to persuade juries. For lobbyists, relationships they have acquired over their years are their stock in trade.

The problem a writer has in defending a political figure is that sometimes you find out that the man has done much worse things than the one he was accused of. In the fall of 2006 we did not believe that Alan Hevesi, who had just been re-elected Comptroller by voters largely aware of his lapses, should be driven from public office for using his chauffeur to drive his handicapped wife. However, subsequent revelations have persuaded us that he was unfit to serve as Comptroller.

On the other hand, at some level of avarice that reasoning turns sour. Even if he did not receive a nickel from Hank Morris, allowing his aide to reap such enormous rewards for selling his influence was unconscionable. It is difficult to maintain that this Ph.D. college professor was totally unaware of what was going on within his office. Hevesi has been wise to stay out of the limelight since his departure from public office.

Wherever the line of propriety may be drawn, the Morris scheme appears to exist beyond it. But impropriety, distasteful as it may be, is not criminality. What Morris did should be banned by law or regulation. That is not the same as saying he should go to jail for it. If he did share his fees in any way with Hevesi, they are both guilty of a crime. If he did not, that presents a more difficult issue. We do not argue that he is blameless, or that he committed no crime; we await the evidence which will be presented if the case survives motions to dismiss.

StarQuest@NYCivic.org``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xNFP090430-McDonalds.gif``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Don't Panic``xtrib``xAs of press time, the growing story about cases of Swine Flu in Queens has dominated the news - locally and worldwide. In our Fresh Meadows office, we find ourselves a stone's throw from the epicenter of the New York City outbreak.

And we are remaining calm.

Our thoughts and well-wishes go out to those affected by this disease, including the families that have had to deal with the effects of this fast-spreading virus.

We urge that caution and care be used to ensure that this disease does not spread further by the careless actions of those who have been either affected or infected.

So far, the disease's effects have shown to be no worse than any other strains of the flu that make their way through the City every year.

Though we are all well aware of the potential dangers with this or any other flu virus, we must not let the spread of this disease cause a panic - we should just use common sense. If you believe you are infected, stay home. If you need medical assistance, seek it.

Our hospitals are prepared to handle the regular cases that come, but as the Mayor and City Health Commissioner urged this week, do not seek medical care for this flu unless you would have previously sought help for any other flu. Yes, our hospitals are prepared, but they are also overtaxed on a day-to-day basis thanks to the recent closings of St. John's, Mary Immaculate and New Parkway.

Use common sense, wash your hands, stay home if you are sick and we will all get through this together.
``xEkuEEpyyApokJRIzWN``x1241106690``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x House Explosion Kills 1 In Floral Park``xtrib``xA woman was killed and a community was shaken last Friday after a suspected gas leak sparked a deadly explosion in Floral Park.

Ghanwatti Boodram, 40, a married mother of three and nurse at St. Luke’s Roosevelt Hospital in Manhattan, was killed in the blast that leveled her home and ignited two houses nearby. Six others reported minor injuries.

The explosion shook the quiet residential block on 260th Street near 80th Avenue shortly before 5 p.m. – approximately 30 minutes after Con Edison workers arrived to investigate a reported gas leak.

Vita Barth, Boodram’s neighbor, whose house was also damaged during the explosion, reported smelling gas earlier that afternoon. Con Edison workers arrived on the scene shortly after to determine the source of the odor.

But as workers were investigating Barth’s claims, Boodram’s home suddenly exploded.

“All of a sudden the whole house just shook,” Stanley Barth said. “The house next door was on fire.”

The blast sent shockwaves throughout the immediate area, shaking homes and rattling psyches.

Erin Stevens, a local teen, said the ground shook as she walked down the block with friends.

Con Edison reported an 80 percent gas reading at a manhole near the site of the explosion, according to published reports. Despite the high reading, workers continued their probe rather than initiating an evacuation.

The company’s failure to evacuate residents after learning of the leak led one lawmaker to call for retribution. Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Sunnyside) demanded the resignation of Con Edison CEO Kevin Burke on Monday.

“Kevin Burke should resign or be fired by his shareholders,” Gioia said. “Homes and streets should not be exploding – period. Three deadly explosions within two years is an outrage, and demands accountability at the highest levels.”

Con Edison defended its workers, saying they followed protocol and had called for support before ordering an evacuation.

The company was venting nearby manholes when the explosion occurred.``xEkuEEpyEZppiygjDUX``x1241106170``xDeadline``xLANZA042409_44.gif``xBy Michael Lanza``xFirefighters respond to the Floral Park home explosion.``xLANZA042409_50.gif``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Dinner In Douglaston``xtrib``xDouglaston Manor
63-20 Commonwealth Blvd., Douglaston
(718) 224-8787
thedouglastonmanor.com
Cuisine: Italian/Continental
Hours: Dinner, Wed.-Mon.
Parking: Valet
Credit Cards: All major
Yes, we all know that Douglaston Manor is one of the most popular catering spots in the borough, but it is also one of the secret hidden dining gems for an inexpensive night out at a place filled with character and charm.

Last Friday night the place was hosting a women’s club event and a wedding, but there was also activity in the restaurant, with our server Dennis shuffling between helping the occupied tables, tending bar and making sure the place was running in tip-top shape.

The service was as expected – my water glass never ran dry and the echo “How is everything?’ filled our meal.

As we pored over the menu, we sampled some bread served with a pesto oil dipping sauce. Though a filet and Chilean sea bass were listed as special for the night, we decided to each order from the prix fixe menu, getting a salad and pasta bowl.

The salads were well made and featured a great balance of greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, black olives and red onion. The chunky bleu cheese accompaniment created a delightful balance.

Though the salads could have probably served as a lunch for some, we had an appetite that night, and were well-surprised by the size of the bowls that bore our pasta dishes. I try to make it a rule to not eat anything bigger than my head, but the challenge was set.

My guest enjoyed that Spaghetti a’Carbonara, with pieces of sautéed pancetta mixed in to the cream and egg sauce, topped with plenty of Parmesan. She made it about halfway through.

For me, I enjoyed – and finished – the Rigatoni a’Matriciana, which again used pancetta as a base flavor (how can you go wrong with bacon, even the Italian variety?), but was served in a fresh tomato sauce. I added a touch of red pepper flakes to the dish – I like it hot.

At $12.99 a head for everything, including a soft drink, this is a deal that most well-known restaurants would be hard-pressed to match or beat.

Of course the night wouldn’t have ended well if we passed on dessert, which in this case was two magnificent pieces of fresh cheesecake, still a bit soft in the center, plated with a butterscotch sauce – which was a first for me, and something I’ll be looking for in my travels.

Plans are underway to expand the menu and add a lunch seating, but no firm date has yet been set. In the meantime, a great dinner at a classic location can be found on the menu at Douglaston Manor.``xEkuEEpypkkCFNlQalt``x1241106022``xReviews``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Latin American Design On Display At St. John’s``xtrib``xAn exhibition devoted to Latin American Graphic Design is currently on display at the Dr. M.T. Geoffrey Yeh Art Gallery on the Queens campus of St. John’s University.

“The Big Five of Latin American Graphic Design” is an electrifying exhibition featuring works from Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Venezuela. “It is the first showing of Latin American Graphic Design in New York,” said Parvez Mohsin, director of the gallery and one of the curators of the exhibit.

Artist Jose’ Manuel Morelos’ work, “El Amor en Los Tiempos Del Colera( Love in the Time of Cholera),” based on the novella by Nobel prize winning writer Gabriel Garcia Marquez, is just one of the visually compelling and striking posters that are on display at the gallery.

“It is very interesting to incorporate Latin American Art and graphic design says St. John’s freshman Blessing Ihenyen. “In America we use more of an internet access to get information out. In Latin American countries they use more posters to get information out to the public. It is more accessible.”

In many of the works displayed, bold and vivid colors are used creating an exciting and dynamic energy throughout the gallery. The exhibit also includes books, brochures and a plethora of other work.

“It is great to see the cultural resources that St. John’s brings to the community as well as the local community benefiting from them,” said Charles Bahadur, a Web content manager in St. John’s marketing department.

The exhibition will run through May 4. It is a rare and one-of-a-kind exhibition that should not be missed. For further information and directions to the exhibit call (718) 990-7476. Hours for the exhibit are Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m. to 5p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday noon to 5 p.m.``xEkuEEpVyVuHCHzSXch``x1241105654``xLeisure``xPage-39A-2.gif``xJo-Anne Raskin``xArtists Jose Manuel Morelos (l.) and Juan Carlos Darias at the display.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Opera, Tribute To Lincoln Highlight Oratorio Concert``xtrib``xThe Annual Spring Concert of the Oratorio Society of Queens will take place on Sunday, May 17, beginning at 4 p.m. at Queensborough Performing Arts Center at Queensborough Community College.

Under the leadership of conductor David Close, the group will perform Gounod’s “Messe Solennelle,” as well as a selection of classics from the world of opera and America’s patriotic musical heritage.

The 82-year-old Oratorio Society of Queens, which boasts more than 100 members, will also be joined in the concert by professional soloists Greta Feeney, soprano; Erika Person, mezzo-soprano; Jeffrey A. Easter, tenor; and Vaughn Fritts, bass-baritone. The singers will be accompanied by The Orchestral Arts Ensemble of Queens, under the direction of Maestro Close.

The “Messe Solennelle” (St. Cecilia Mass), written by French composer Charles Gounod (1818-1893), was first performed in Paris on the name day of St. Cecilia, the patron saint of music. It was performed in London in1851 and established Gounod’s reputation as a noteworthy composer. He wrote operas, most notably “Faust” and “Romeo and Juliet,” and symphonies, choral pieces, and chamber music. While recognized most notably for his operas, Gounod also composed many pieces of sacred music, including the widely-revered “Ave Maria.” The first half of the concert will conclude with a stirring rendition of Beethoven’s “Hallelujah from Mount of Olives.”

The second half of the concert will offer familiar choruses from Bizet’s “Carmen,” and in commemoration of the bicentennial year of Lincoln’s birth, “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” and a newly arranged version of “Amazing Grace,” by renowned American composer Bruce Saylor who is a member of the music faculty of the Aaron Copland School of Music at Queens College. Many listeners are familiar with Saylor’s work through the many arrangements he has created for soprano Jessye Norman. The concert will also feature a performance of the patriotic anthem “This is My Country.”

The Queensborough Performing Arts Center at Queensborough Community College is located on 56th Avenue, one block east of Springfield Boulevard in Bayside. Parking is free on the main lot adjacent to the theater, which offers easy-access entry.

Ticket prices at the box office are $25 for general admission and $20 for seniors and students with ID. Children, 12 and under, accompanied by an adult, will be admitted for free. For additional information, call the Oratorio Society of Queens at (718) 460-0726 or visit www.queensoratorio.org.``xEkuEEpVVulQPLdDTlN``x1241105548``xLeisure``xPage-39B.gif``x``x``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Antarctic Exhibit Shows Research Station Life``xtrib``xScott Sternbach, the director of LaGuardia Community College’s photography department who recently returned from a National Science Foundation-grant funded photography expedition to Antarctica, is exhibiting his large-scale photographs at the College through May 31.

The exhibit showcases 30 large black and white portraits of workers at the remote Palmer Research Station, along with color photographs that capture the breathtaking landscape and a menagerie of penguins, sea lions and other animals that inhabit the magnificent tundra.

“It was one of the greatest things I have ever done,” Sternbach said. “When I left, I felt like I left a part of myself there; it was gut-wrenching.”

Using an 8x10 view camera, Sternbach spent two-and-a-half months photographing the “souls” of Antarctica: the researchers, biologists, cooks, pilots and boat captains involved in a federal project studying the effects of global warming on the region. The portraits are the centerpiece of his self-published book that will be available for sale at the reception.

By launching the exhibition at LaGuardia, Sternbach is fulfilling the grant’s only requirement: to create a project that has an impact.

“I want to show my work to a diverse, urban population that has little knowledge of Antarctica,” he said. “At LaGuardia, I’ll reach that population.”

The exhibition is in the College’s E-building Atrium at 31-10 Thomson Avenue, Long Island City. To view Sternbach’s work from Antarctica, visit lagcc.cuny.edu/ph/.``xEkuEEpVFVEkmfPihxP``x1241105351``xLeisure``x``x``x``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Write On!``xtrib``xKew Gardens native Clara Paterniti was strolling home with fistfuls of cupcakes for her 4-year-old son’s birthday.

The mom and bartender has been finding her way through life and toying with a modeling career.

“I meet a lot of people that want to manage my career. It’s crazy. They’re like vultures,” Paterniti said.

She’s had offers for reality shows and music videos, and has had a role in a spoof 50 Cent YouTube video. That’s all nice to her, but her real dreams lie on the page.

“I want to be a writer,” she said, her voice reaching an excited pitch. What else would you expect from the daughter of a poet?

Paterniti guiltily admits to a reality TV addiction and uses Queens as her favorite shopping stop.

For now she’ll carry on modeling as it comes, and most of all work on – of course – a screenplay.

Clara Paterniti
Home: Kew Gardens
Age: 22
Height: 5’6"
Weight: 130 lbs
Stats: 36-25-40
>/font>
``xEkuEEpVpZACbHZxCwz``x1241105079``xQconf``xmyspace4-1.gif``x``x``xCrowley-Sings.gif``xJoe Crowley sings at the Kennedy Center.``x58881066339339``x``xJoe: Getting Into The Act``xCongressman Joe Crowley participated in an “informance” last Wednesday evening, playing guitar on stage with award-winning musicians at the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage. The evening was hosted by the Center for American Progress and Music National Service, and featured other political and musical notables, like Josh and Cora Dunham, who are the husband & wife rhythm section for Prince, as well as Congressman Dennis Moore of Kansas on guitar, Peggo Horstmann Hodes, the wife of Congressman Paul Hodes of New Hampshire, and others.

We’ve known for a while that Crowley likes to rock out; he’s performed at Queens Theatre in the Park, and his own fundraisers.

And we were there more than a quarter of a century ago when Joe was just completeing college and he played State Senator Gary Ackerman's Birthday Roast.
Keep rockin’, Joe.``xTea For Toby``xAn unusual package reached State Sen. Toby Stavisky’s Albany office with a strange powder lurking inside. Albany police found it contained a tea bag and a letter reading “NO TAXATION WITHOUT JUSTIFICATION.”

Regular Tribune letter writer Michael Chimenti sent the package as part of conservatives’ tea bag protests.

The incident led Albany police to call Chimenti on his work, home and cell phones, reaching him and saying Stavisky could press charges for receiving a “suspicious substance” if she chose so, according to Chimenti.

“How this was a suspicious substance is beyond me. It was clearly an intact tea bag with a letter marked TEA PARTY,” Chimenti wrote on parcbench.com.

Stavisky’s spokesman said that wasn’t the case at all. The Senator received a letter with powder, handed it off to the authorities who found it to be a tea bag, and responded with a brief thank you note.

Next time, send it with some honey.``xCouncilmember's Counsellor``xAt least the guy has experience.

Joseph Tacopina was hired by Senator Hiram Monserrate to help defend him against the assault charges he faces in court on June 26th.

Tacopina’s other noteworthy client? Disgraced City Councilman Dennis Gallagher, who was charged with rape and took a no-jail plea deal on lesser charges.

You can bet Monserrate is hoping Tacopina has better luck this time around.``xJim’s Green Apple``xCouncilman Jim Gennaro is at it again, solving New York’s problems one environmental issue at a time. The newest resolution the councilman is putting forth is making the Newtown Pippin apple the official fruit of New York City.

It is believed that the fruit was first grown in Newtown, now Elmhurst, in 1730.

We can understand why a recession, budget woes and cutting back of MTA services can take a backseat to designating the official fruit of this fair city. Thanks, Jim. ``xTaken Out Of The Ballgame``xQueens resident Bradford Campeau-Laurion is suing the City after police threw him out of Yankee Stadium when he left his seat to use the bathroom during the playing of “God Bless America.”

According the lawsuit, Campeau-Laurion passed by a police officer and was blocked from proceeding. The officer than grabbed his arm and twisted it, then marched him out of the stadium and told to leave the country if he didn’t like it.

A police spokesman said the officers ejected the man because they “observed a male cursing, using inappropriate language and acting in a disorderly manner while reeking of alcohol.” The lawsuit alleges Campeau-Laurion was enjoying the game quietly.

You would think that by now those Yankee fans would have learned their lesson. Mr. Met would be happy to greet you with open arms.``xBonnie, Clyde & The Kids ``xLast week, Hugo Lantigua of Corona and Erika Santana of Flushing allegedly broke into a Maspeth house with the help of a Brooklyn accomplice and stole $1,500 cash, jewelry and electronics. Later that day they are said to have performed another heist in Woodside, where cops caught them.

What the police didn’t expect was to find two young girls in the van – Santana’s 5-month-old and 4-year-old daughters.

The children were placed in the custody of Santana’s sister and the trio was arrested.``xTea-Bag.gif``xJosephTacopina.gif``xpippin-apple-newtown-pippin.gif``x``x``xState Senator Toby Stavisky wasn't happy about being tea-bagged.``xJoseph Tacopina``x``x``x``x``x``x``xmyspace5.gif``x``xQ090430-ObstructedView.gif``x``x Cohen Talks About His Seat Scandal``xtrib``xMichael Cohen asserts that his hands are clean.

The City Council candidate said he was unaware of any nefarious machinations that may have helped him attain his current six-figure job, leaving his seat open for then-Comptroller Alan Hevesi’s son Andrew to be rushed into his vacated Assembly seat.

“Nothing occurred to me that anything untoward, suspicious or illegal had gone on to in order for me to be interviewed by my current employer,” Cohen said in an interview with the Queens Tribune.

A criminal complaint from Attorney General Andrew Cuomo’s office claims a political operative gained $800,000 from the State’s pension fund in exchange for political favors, which included helping Cohen find his current job. Another unnamed official in the Comptroller’s office then pulled the strings ultimately leading to Andrew Hevesi’s win in a special election for the vacated seat.

The Attorney General’s complaint does not draw a direct line between the payouts and Cohen’s ability to get a $150,000-a-year job with insurance giant HIP. Cohen said by the time a meeting with HIP was arranged, he had already decided to vacate his seat due to a family illness that demanded he spend more time at home.

“My thinking of leaving was known with my colleagues in the Assembly; and then I was approached,” he said.

Cohen defended his current employment, saying he met HIP’s need for someone with strong ties to labor unions, and he currently retains this same position with the company.

While Cohen said he had a three-decades-long working relationship with the operative, thought by many to be Hevesi’s No. 2, Jack Chartier, they were never close friends. Still, he did not suspect any foul play when the job opportunity appeared.

He didn’t know “what motivated people or why they were doing it. I just accepted it as someone who was trying to help,” he said.

The operative, former head of the New York State Liberal Party Raymond Harding, was charged with securities fraud for receiving the state pension funds though he was not certified to be handling them as a placement agent.

Cuomo’s complaint states Cohen was approached by Alan Hevesi in 2003, asking to be notified should Cohen ever consider leaving office. When asked if the election of the younger Hevesi raised his suspicions, Cohen said, “Only because there are other people in the comptroller’s office I’ve known for some time. But you’re asking the million-dollar question. I can’t comment.”

But he quickly added he played no part in Andrew Hevesi’s election.

“It wasn’t a concern of mine who would succeed me. I wasn’t asked to help anybody to be my replacement. It was not my concern.”

Cohen said he has had “extensive conversations” with the Attorney General, and has not sought legal counsel regarding the investigation into Hevesi’s office.

The complaint’s revelations have changed the landscape of the 29th Council District race.

None of Cohen’s opponents demanded he bow out of the race to replace Melinda Katz, and most doubted any wrongdoing on Cohen’s part.

“I hope it all works out for him. I really hope the investigation does not reveal any improprieties,” said Heidi Chain, echoing the tone of other candidates that commented.

They all also said the decision to bow out of the race was purely his own to make - not theirs to demand.

Cohen acknowledged he now faces a cynical crowd of voters.

“I do expect the public to have a great deal of skepticism,” he said. “I know I’m going to have to deal with that. There are going to be a lot of people who are going to draw the worst possible conclusion about a situation. I personally have received no negative feedback.”

The case has also led elected officials in the State and City to call for a reform to the handling of pension funds. State Comptroller Tom DiNapoli and City Comptroller Bill Thompson both moved to ban the use of placement agents in the dispersal of pension funds, a direct nod to the system that allowed Harding’s alleged wrongdoing, as well as the indictments of others close to Hevesi.``xEkupVplZAFgJJAwMrL``x1240508793``xDeadline``xPage-3A-1.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xMichael Cohen has provided investigators information about the circumstances surrounding his vacating his seat.``xPage-3A-2.gif``xAlan Hevesi walks out from the school where he voted in the 2006 election. He resigned his post a month later in a scandal over his use of a chauffer, and his office is currently being investigated for corruption and political abuse of power.``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Borough Home Prices Continue To Plummet``xtrib``xThe Queens residential real estate markets took another hit in the year’s first quarter, according to a recent report.

The borough experienced sharp declines in the number of real-estate transactions, down 52.2 percent to 1,801 sales compared to 3,771 last year, according to the quarterly market survey published by Prudential Douglas Elliman.

Median home prices fell slightly, declining by 4.8 percent from a year ago to $393,000. The slide was buoyed by a strong rebound in condo sales in Northwestern Queens, up 7.6 percent from last year after a steep drop last quarter. Median prices for one to three family homes, the bulk of Queens’ real estate market, continued a steep fall, shedding 14.4 percent of their value from last year.

Leading the way in price declines were Queens’ suburban communities, including Northeast and Western Queens.

Northeast Queens, which includes neighborhoods like Bayside, Little Neck, Douglaston and Fresh Meadows, was hit the hardest with a 27.5 percent median price drop and a 56.8 percent decline in sales.

“I’m not surprised,” said Jerry Iannece, chairman of Community Board 11 in Little Neck. “It’s slow – and it’s slow for a number of reasons. People are losing their jobs. People that aren’t losing their jobs are fearful as to what’s going on.”

“It’s much more difficult to get a mortgage right now because of the mortgage market,” he added.

In Western Queens, median home prices fell by 25.1 percent from last year while sales fell by 51.8 percent.

Although prices in Central and South Queens have stabilized from drops in the previous quarters, they remain 14.7 and 12.9 percent lower respectively.

The Rockaways recovered slightly after a drop in the first half of 2008, with home prices now 1.4 percent higher than a year ago.``xEkupVplyllsGpkRowz``x1240508688``xDeadline``xPage-3C.gif``xBy Michael Lanza``xHouse sales in Queens continue to drop, according to a new report.``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Senate May Not Bring Gay Marriage To Vote ``xtrib``xFacing dismal approval ratings and hard economic choices, Gov. David Paterson switched gears this week and introduced a bill to allow same-sex marriage in New York. He insisted that the issue is a matter of morality and human rights whose time has come.

“Our work to correct injustice cannot depend on factors like timing or guaranteed success,” Paterson said. “For too long, LGBT New Yorkers have been told to wait for their civil rights and personal freedom. We will not wait any longer. Now is the time for action. Now is the time for leadership. Now is the time to march forward together.”

That may not hold true for Sen. Majority Leader Malcolm Smith, who said he would not bring the bill to the floor of the Senate if he does not have the votes to pass it.

At least four Democratic Senators are against gay marriage although they have not all publicly declared how they will vote on this bill. Smith has said he will not bring the bill to a vote without a majority, so Republican support is likely necessary for it to pass.

The Republican votes remain unclear, but Senate Minority Leader Dean Skelos (R-Long Island) said he would allow his colleagues to vote their consciences because the issue is a matter of personal opinion.

Sen. Frank Padavan (R-Bellerose) told the Tribune: “I am not supportive of same sex marriage in New York State. However, I am supportive of civil unions for same sex couples.”

Smith (D-St. Albans) said he supports the bill: “I have been and continue to be a strong supporter of marriage equality and remain steadfast in my commitment to passing the marriage equality legislation submitted today by Gov. Paterson. No person should ever be denied their civil rights or the basic freedoms others can enjoy.”

The bill would amend the Domestic Relations Law to give same-sex couples the opportunity to enter into civil marriages. It would mandate that all provisions of State law be applied equally to same-sex marriages regardless of whether they use gender-specific or gender-neutral terms. Therefore, same-sex spouses would enjoy the same legal status and treatment under New York law as heterosexual couples, on issues such as property ownership, inheritance, health care, and insurance coverage.

If the bill passes, it would make New York the fifth state to approve such a measure, with Massachusetts and Connecticut onboard and Iowa and Vermont slated to join them by the end of the year.

A similar bill was introduced under Eliot Spitzer’s administration and passed the Assembly, but was not brought to a vote in the Republican-controlled State Senate. The current Senate is the big unknown in the current attempt.

“If the bill loses, then it loses,” Paterson said in a radio interview this week. “I would like to introduce the gay marriage bill, let it stand on its own, if it loses it loses, and let the parties on both sides have their say, and inevitably, the inertia I think is that the public will accept this.”

Local activists for gay rights celebrated the decision. Daniel Dromm, a candidate for the 25th Council district, said “I think if we wait too long the timing is never right. The most important thing is that we get the bill in… I don’t see why this time around the bill is creating so much noise, but it’s time, and I think we should proceed on it and we should get people on record on it.”

Jimmy Van Bramer, a candidate for the 26th Council seat, said he felt “proud and moved” and lauded the governor for “being a leader, not just a passive supporter.”``xEkupVplypVvbasxHUz``x1240508605``xDeadline``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x DOC, COUSIN SENTENCED TO LIFE``xtrib``xA Queens doctor and her cousin were sentenced to life in prison on Tuesday after conspiring to kill her estranged husband, Dr. Daniel Malakov. The plot culminated in an execution-style shooting near a Forest Hills playground in 2007.

Dr. Mazoltuv Borukhova, 35, and Mikhail Mallayev, 51, were convicted of first-degree murder and second-degree conspiracy. Mallayev was also convicted of second-degree criminal possession of a weapon.

“Daniel Malakov looked to the law for justice when it came to gaining custody of his young daughter several years ago. Today, the judicial system was there once again to ensure justice for this promising young man whose life was cut short. First, prosecutors made sure that those guilty of his murder were held accountable for their actions with a conviction. Today, the judge who presided over the trial sentenced each of the defendants to the maximum allowed by law. This is a measure of justice for Daniel’s family and for society,” Queens DA Richard Brown said.

Prosecutors presented evidence that included records showing 90 telephone conversations between Dr. Borukhova and Mallayev in the weeks prior to the murder, which they said concluded in an agreement to kill her husband in exchange for money. Dr. Borukhova finally arranged for Malakov to meet her in the Annadale Playground in October 2007 under the premise that she would pick up her daughter. But when he arrived for the meeting, Mallayev, using a makeshift silencer from a discarded bleach bottle, shot him twice in the chest.

After the murder, prosecutors said that Dr. Borukhova and Mallayev had two more telephone conversations followed by a meeting at her Forest Hills medical office. Mallayev later deposited $19,800 into 10 separate bank accounts.

Mallayev was arrested in November 2007 after NYPD detectives matched fingerprints on the silencer to fingerprints taken in 1994, when he was arrested for trying to beat a subway fare. Borukhova was arrested in February 2008 after a grand jury charged both her and Mallayev with the murder.

Both Mallayev and Borukhova received the maximum sentence, which excludes the possibility of parole.``xEkupVplukElPePXWSh``x1240508421``xBlotter``xPage-14-Blotter-Pic.gif``x``xtop: Mazoltuv Borukhova. Bottom: Mikhail Mallayev``x``x``x99941066339274``xFrom the DA``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x PASTORS CHARGED WITH STEALING ``xtrib``x$500,000 FROM IMMIGRANTS: Two men operating a storefront church in Corona and were charged last Thursday with defrauding at least seventy Queens immigrants of more than $500,000. The sister of one of the men was also charged for allegedly participating in the scheme.

Gregorio Gonzalez, 56, and Gerardo Bello, 21, were charged with second-degree grand larceny, second-degree criminal possession of stolen property and first-degree scheme to defraud. Maria Gonzalez, 52, was charged with second- and third-degree grand larceny and second- and third-degree criminal possession of stolen property.

The pastors had promised to help their victims expedite immigration proceedings – including obtaining U.S. Visas and permanent immigration status – in exchange for cash.

“The defendants are accused of being con men who preyed upon the faithful of their church to unscrupulously exploit individuals new to this country – and who were in need of assistance – to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars from them. Ironically, in the end, it was prosecutors who did God’s work and brought their alleged scheme to a halt,” Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said.

The alleged scammers met with the victims at various Queens locations – including their church, Iglesia Pentecostal Roca de Salvacion Eterna, and at Maria Gonzalez’s apartment – between April and October of last year, prosecutors said, where they promised them U.S. Visas and permanent immigration status for fees ranging from $6,000 to $10,000.

An investigation and four search warrants later recovered $75,000 in cash and a list of approximately 100 individuals targeted in the scheme – many of whom had lodged complaints to the DA’s Office against the pastors.

If convicted, the defendants each face up to 15 years in prison.

An investigation into the full extent of the fraud is ongoing. Anyone who believes they may have been victimized by the pastors can call the Economic Crimes Bureau at (718) 286-6673.``xEkupVplEZyzXsJevJp``x1240508176``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``xFrom the DA``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MURDER SUICIDE``xtrib``xAn Elmhurst woman was among two found dead in an apparent murder-suicide at her home on Monday.

Suzanna Sutton, 30, was pronounced dead on arrival — shot in the head — shortly after 8 p.m. Robert Gruber, 30, was also pronounced dead after allegedly turning the gun on himself, according to published reports.

Police recovered a firearm at the scene.
``xEkupVplEFptcVHWNhz``x1240508130``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x115th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x HIT AND RUN``xtrib``xAn Elmhurst man was killed Saturday during an alleged hit and run.

Youyun Zhou, 43, was struck by a Volkswagon sedan on 80th Street and Jamaica Avenue while driving his scooter. He was pronounced dead on arrival by emergency responders.

Gus Pappaeliou, 27, fled after allegedly striking Zhou, but was arrested shortly after and charged with leaving the scene of an accident. Police followed a trail of antifreeze from the scene of the accident to the vehicle parked near Pappaeliou’s home.``xEkupVplpAAaSPoUrhu``x1240508099``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x102nd Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x A Taste Of The World``xtrib``xA top-notch dining event was hosted Tuesday night at Citi Field’s Caesar’s Club, drawing dozens of Queens restaurants into the beautiful new facility built for events and gatherings at the Mets’ new home.

The packed crowd that attended Queens: A Taste of The World had the opportunity to sample from myriad options by some of the top names in Queens dining – and some others who may not have made a big splash in the past, but who certainly made a name for themselves that night.

A personal highlight of the night came from Pavilion Restaurant, located in the Crown Plaza LaGuardia hotel. A seared tuna steak was sliced and joined with fresh green, a spicy mayo and other veggies inside a wrap. The flavor was delicate, fresh and blended perfectly with the tang of the tuna.

Durso’s Pasta & Ravioli Company of Flushing, which was recently featured in “Throwdown with Bobby Flay” on the Food Network, presented a couple of favorites, including their take on Mozzarella en Carrozza, which they described a “an Italian grilled cheese sandwich.” Essentially, fresh mozzarella is sandwiched between slices of a light bread and fried. This is served with a small dollop of a delightful red sauce, and shows Durso’s ability to take a simple dish and make it shine.

That was also the case for Papazzio, the Bell Boulevard standout, which offered a few selections from their menu, but nailed the cocktail party feel of the event right on the head with their skewers of mozzarella, prosciutto and olive.

If you were looking for a full meal, Glendale’s Zum Stamtisch loaded up plates with sauerbraten and the other German specialties for which they are known. Most vendors at the event did not have long lines, yet Zum Stamtisch had people waiting – not because of speed, but because demand was just that high.

Another simple highlight of the night was from the Bantry Bay Publick House, which offered, among its other options, an almond-stuffed olive wrapped in bacon. Yum.

Though it is hard to guess which booths were the most popular, White Castle’s burgers could be seen on many plates, served in their signature square boxes; Bourbon Street’s mini muffaletta sandwich – a New Orleans favorite via Bayside – appeared to be a hit.

Szechuan Gourmet of Flushing takes the cake for the spiciest food of the night – from the fiery chili chicken to the noodles, each dish packed a wallop that was indicative of their signature hot style.

And speaking of cake, the range of dessert options was a treat, from the red velvet, carrot and devil’s food options from Cascon Bakery in Whitestone to the candy-coated pretzels by Fretzel in Manhasset to the Francis Lewis Pastry Shop’s Italian specialties, there were plenty of options to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

The event was run by the Queens Economic Development Corp. and Angela Gozzi’s AG Media Corp, and was co-sponsored by the Queens Tribune.``xEkupVpZAupfnNaOwkH``x1240507940``xReviews``x``xBrian M. Rafferty``x``x``x``x24851066339365``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Lansbury Wows Crowd With Broadway ‘Spirit’``xtrib``xWhen Angela Lansbury makes her first entrance as the medium Mme. Arkady in the revival of Noel Coward’s “Blithe Spirit,” the audience breaks out in loving applause. Former Douglaston resident Lansbury proves that the occult can be funny.

The action begins when Charles (played by the suave Rupert Everett) invites Mme. Arkady to hold a séance, so that he can get material for his latest book about a murderous medium. He and his second wife, Ruth (Jayne Atkinson) are worldly and sophisticated. They are skeptical about the occult, so, naturally, Charles is astounded when his deceased first wife Elvira (the luminous Christine Ebersole) suddenly appears. Ruth is bewildered by his outrageous behavior, especially when he talks to Elvira whom she cannot see.

The two women are very different. Ebersole’s Elvira is a sensual, capricious creature with Bette Boop playfulness in contrast to the solid capable Atkinson. At first Atkinson seems stiff and officious but as Elvira gets more “in her face,” she becomes more frazzled and comical. Everett is fun too when he loses his studied composure. In the beginning he’s bewildered. It’s enjoyable seeing this smug pompous character get unsettled. After a while, though, Charles relishes having two wives fighting over him.

The play is directed Michael Blackmore, the only director to win Tony Awards for both a play, “Copenhagen,” and a musical, “Kiss Me, Kate,” in the same year.

Blackmore gets charm and quirkiness from his performers and mines humor throughout the play, even from the minor characters. Deborah Rush plays the doctor’s wife, who manages to constantly say the wrong thing. Susan Louise O’Connor portrays Edith, the inept maid whose every facial expression and awkward movement provides laughter.

Designer Martin Pakledinaz highlights the personalities with his costume design. Mme. Arkady is dressed in velvet and glitter emphasizing a gypsy-like, otherworldly quality. Elvira, dressed in white, has diaphanous sleeves that she often twirls around, almost angelically.

All three major performers demonstrate comic ability. The tall distinguished looking Everett, recognizable from his many movie roles, has a natural comic talent. Ebersole most recently wowed audiences with her versatility in “Grey Gardens.” Although better known for serious parts, Atkinson shows a pleasant new side to her acting abilities.

However, the best part of the evening is the octogenarian Lansbury, who milks her character role for every laugh and giggle possible by gesticulating and over-emoting. Recipient of four Tony Awards and six Golden Globes, she has been nominated for 18 Emmys for her TV and theater work, and this play reminds us why she has been celebrated over the years.

Mme. Arkady realizes that Elvira has shown up because someone was thinking about her and someone obviously had her in mind. The old adage reminds us to be careful what we wish for. That is unless you wish to see a legendary performer give a delightful performance. Then wish for a ticket to “Blithe Spirit.” Lansbury’s performance alone is worth the price of admission.

Blithe Spirit is being preformed at the Shubert Theatre, 225 West 44th St. Go to broadway.com for tickets and showtimes.``xEkupVpZlyAWxlAzQVT``x1240507869``xLeisure``xPage-25B.gif``xElyse Trevers``xDouglaston’s Angela Lansbury returns to the stage in Noel Coward’s “Blithe Spirit.”``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens Kids Shine At Tribeca Festival``xtrib``xThis past weekend’s world premiere of Woody Allen’s newest comedy, “Whatever Works,” heralds the debut of the Tribeca Film Festival 2009, presented by American Express, and marks its eighth annual journey across the big screens, small screens, and sidewalks of New York.

In the wings, there’s action aplenty, too. Kids’ play takes on a whole new dimension when the children are The Tribeca Film Institute’s Film Fellows and their “play” is film-making. Celebrating its fifth year of programs for youth, the Tribeca Film Institute has a captive audience of 5,500 young people each year with programs such as the youth screening series and the Film Fellows program.

The Film Fellows program identifies aspiring student filmmakers who, over a month-long spring period, are immersed in the New York community experience - involving training and mentorship, meet and greets at Miramax and Panavision, panels, workshops, screenings, creative filmmaking exercises and special events.

The Films Fellows program also fashions a short group film that reflects all five boroughs of New York City through the eyes of its young filmmakers. The short presents the collective creative craft of the 20 Film Fellows - selected from citywide schools.

Six of this year’s Film Fellows are Queens-based high school students who submitted work samples including videos, screen plays and other media – as well as engaged one-on-one interviews – in order to successfully compete for this very specialized Film Fellows opportunity. The Queens Film Fellows are George Itzhak of the Baccalaureate School of Global Education, Tiauna Clark of Year Up, Eli Schallcross of the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts, Rana Ayhan of Francis Lewis High School, Rayhan Islam of Aviation High School and Jennifer Barrera of the Academy of Careers in Film and TV.

Student shorts are highlighted at the Tribeca Film Institute’s annual youth media gala screening at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 30, at AMC Village VII, 66 Third Ave., and as part of a special student outreach event at noon Friday, May 1, at Borough of Manhattan Community College’s Tribeca Performing Arts Center, located at 199 Chambers St.

Barrera’s expectations as a Film Fellow embrace the “...hope to learn so much of how filmmaking really is. This program will help me succeed in something I really love and actually get me near to who I want to be in the future.”

In Clark’s estimation, the Film Fellows Program could be described as an arts “stimulus” package in and of itself. She said that the “experience of Tribeca Film Fellows thus far is amazing. I feel like a real pro in my profession and it was so cool to use a camera on my own and explore places I’ve never been before with Cityscapes.”

Additionally, this Fellow foresees that “by being here and actually getting hands-on experience, this program proves that this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. My major plan is to open my own production company in 10 years, and then have it become a conglomerate.”

Lisa Lucas, Director of Youth Programs at the Tribeca Film Institute, said the Film Fellows program affords a “behind-the-scenes look at the festival,” while helping the young filmmaker “take it forward to the next step.”

On the Festival’s wrap date, Sunday, May 3, there will be a Film Fellows graduation during which four of its 20 participants will receive a Youth Achievement Award of a $1,500 scholarship to advance their filmmaking ambitions and further their education in film.

Applications for the Tribeca Film Fellows program, open to students 16-20, attending public, private and/or parochial schools throughout New York City, may be accessed on-line at the Department of Education web-site beginning in or around mid-to-late January 2010.``xEkupVpZlppyVKUYGQq``x1240507800``xLeisure``xPage-25A.gif``xFrances Scanlon``xQueens Own Tribeca Film Fellows (l. to r.): Rayhan Islam, Jennifer Barrera, Eli Shallcross, George Itzhak, Rana Ayhan. Tiauna Clark is not pictured.``x``x``x69311066339373``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x State Revives VLT Plan``xtrib``xLawmakers are seeking new proposals to develop Aqueduct Racetrack into the state’s next gambling center.

Gov. David Paterson announced Friday that the state will seek developers to build and operate Video Lottery Terminals at the ailing racetrack. An initial deal struck in October collapsed last month after the winning contractor defaulted on its financial obligations – a $370 million upfront payment to the cash-strapped state.

“It is extremely disappointing that the economic crisis has slowed this development, but we are confident that Aqueduct will be transformed into a destination spot for racing and gaming fans,” Paterson said.

The new bidding process includes a 10-day deadline for upfront payments as defined in the winner’s proposal. The winner will be awarded $250 million in personal income tax bonds to help fund the project and a 30-year contract to run the facility upon completion. A 10-year extension is also on the table based on performance benchmarks enforced by the state. The winning contractor will be responsible for the design and construction of the facility.

“I am more optimistic today about the future of Aqueduct and our surrounding communities now that he VLT solicitation process has begun,” said State Sen. Joe Addabbo. “I intend to inform my residents and ensure their involvement in the process that pertains to protecting Aqueduct.”

The announcement came as the state continues its struggle to make Aqueduct a profitable enterprise.

New York was awarded ownership of the New York Racing Association’s three racetracks – Aqueduct, Belmont and Saratoga – after the nonprofit received more than $100 million in bailouts from the state during bankruptcy negotiations.

A deal to transform the ailing racetrack into a regional gambling Mecca was scuttled last month when the state dropped Buffalo based Delaware North. The company told lawmakers that it was unable to raise the capital it had promised to pay the state when the deal was struck in October.

Lawmakers estimate that a renewed Aqueduct could raise as much as $1 million per day in tax revenue.

Applications for development are due by 5 p.m. May 8.

At the same time that the contract for the VLT’s is being rebid, NYRA announced it will auction 64 parcels of land surrounding the Aqueduct racetrack in June as it struggles to pay back debts after emerging from bankruptcy last year.

The auction will take place on June 10 at 1 p.m., according to David R. Maltz and Co., the real estate group managing the auction.

The company describes the lots as prime development spots ranging from 2,000 to 75,000 square feet. The properties are wedged between the racetrack and the Belt Parkway and are valued at approximately $15 million to $20 million together.

The announcement came as NYRA and the state continue their struggle to make Aqueduct a profitable enterprise.``xEkupVpZZpAGrTdSyDs``x1240507709``x(default)``xPage-10A.gif``xMichael Lanza``xAqueduct’s property is for sale.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x A Green Future?: Jamaica Bay Marsh Loss In Decline Thanks To Army Corps Restoration``xtrib``xJamaica Bay is going to the birds. And that’s a good thing.

Officials gathered at the bay on the eve of Earth Day to announce that the City’s only wildlife refuge had grown for the first time in decades.

“These marshlands are the very foundation of this ecosystem,” said U.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner (D - Kew Gardens). “They are havens for insects, attract clams and support fish and birds. For years, concerned residents and environmentalists have warned us that they are disappearing. We can say now that the marshlands are coming back.”

The bay is home to 325 species of birds, 91 species of fish and 214 species of special concern – including some classified as threatened and endangered. The salt marshes also serve as natural levies for the City – breaking down storm surges and protecting against coastal flooding.

Conservationists have struggled for years to stanch the loss of marshlands, which are dissappearing at a rate of 44 acres every year. And for the first time, they are seeing glimmers of hope. The marshes expanded by 15 acres this year.

The increase was thanks to a $16 million Army Corps of Engineers project to restore Elder’s Point, a small island in the northern portion of the bay where 48 acres of marshland were rebuilt. The engineers replaced 240,000 cubic yards of beach soil and transplanted more than 750,000 native plants into the depleted area.

“We’ve now tried to expand by quite literally growing grass elsewhere, planting it in acres in this area and trying to see if it holds,” Weiner said. “And the answer so far is: yes it’s holding.”

Jamaica Bay’s marshes have suffered for years under the twin threat of rising sea levels and water pollution. Nearby water treatment plants dump more than 15,000 kilograms of nitrogen every day into the surrounding waters, according to the National Parks Service, killing the marsh plants that form the foundation of the wetlands’ ecosystem and strengthen island beaches against erosionary forces.``xEkupVpZVVukpqLEtHX``x1240507554``xFeature``xLANZA091208_106.gif``xMICHAEL LANZA``xConservationists like Bill Dunphy, who helps remove abandoned boats from the bay, have struggled for years to prevent decline at the marshes.``xLANZA091208_83.gif``xJamaica Bay is home to 325 bird species. Pollution and erosion have threatened the bay’s ecosystem for decades.``x84971066339260``x``x``x“This is a jewel. And it’s a jewel that disappearing little bit by little bit,” Weiner said. “We have to stop the man-made reasons that we have this problem. We have to stop dumping nitrogen in the water here as we process our waste water. We have to do something about global climate change that’s causing the water levels to rise. And generally speaking we have to be better stewards of the earth if we expect to be better stewards of Jamaica Bay.”

To combat those threats, Weiner announced plans to hold and improve on this year’s gains.

Paramount among them is an effort to reduce nitrogen emissions by 60 percent using $431.5 million allocated to the state for environmental initiatives through federal stimulus funds. The money will fund plans to retrofit four coastal sewage plants, significantly reducing their nitrogen output.

Meanwhile, engineers will continue to build on their success at Elder’s Point. An additional $9 million was allocated for restoring nearly 100 acres of marshland over the next few years. The engineers will build 60 acres of marsh using 250,000 cubic yards of sand on Yellow Bar Hassock, 34 acres of marsh using 200,000 cubic yards of sand on Elders Point West and study additional restoration options for sites around the bay.

“We have to reverse the trend of what we’re losing each year,” Weiner said. “We’re going to have to do more work here to keep up with the loss that we have.”

More than 2,000 acres of marshes have disappeared from the bay since the decline began in 1924. And while Weiner acknowledged that restoring the marshes would be a long and expensive slog, he said the alternative is unacceptable.

“We’re putting our finger in the dike right now,” he said. “It’s a race – we are putting in 50 acres and losing 44. It’s not a great success, but it sure beats the alternative.”``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xLANZA042209_30.gif``xU.S. Rep. Anthony Weiner traveled to Jamaica Bay on Tuesday to announce new plans to restore the wildlife refuge.``x``x``x``x``x Green With Envy``xtrib``xAs we celebrate Earth Day – the “holiday” that started as a way of bringing focus to the environment but has now morphed into a catch-all for recycling, reducing oil consumption, selling miniature fluorescent lights and even spawning a line of “green” greeting cards (on recycled paper, of course), we have seen great progress in Queens.

This newspaper led the local newspaper market in printing on recycled material, but more importantly, Queens has for years been an advocate for “green” living. Most recently, Queens College hosted a Green Business Conference sponsored by the Queens Chamber of Commerce; the Green Party in Western Queens has developed a strong following; and the Long Island City Business Development Corp. on Earth Day released the Going Green Guide for Business.

Yes, Queens is Green; perhaps more so than some of our neighbors within the City. We’ve got trees, we have very active recycling and we have the mindset to continue to make Queens – and the rest of the City – a more environmentally responsible place to live and work.``xEkupVpZFkyslTMCoBY``x1240507326``xOurOpinion``x``x``x``x``x``x33411066339317``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Good News For Boro’s Healthcare``xtrib``xOur borough finally got a reprieve from depressing hospital headlines.

Two failing medical centers were saved by partnering with outside organizations. The formerly named St. Dominic Family Health Center in Jamaica and Peninsula Hospital Center in the Rockaways will now stay open.

St. Dominic’s fate was left doubtful after Caritas Healthcare filed for bankruptcy, leading to the closure of St. John’s and Mary Immaculate Hospital. It was the only Caritas facility to escape a total shutdown.

A slew of legislators joined Primary Care Development Corporation (PCDC) and the Joseph P. Addabbo Family Health Center to provide St. Dominic’s with $900,000 in combined funding from the State Health Department and the New York State Health Fund. PCDC provided a $600,000 bridge loan to keep the St. Dominic’s open while the Addabbo Family Health Center will now assume control over the center, as well as its $5.5 million mortgage.

“As Caritas went into bankruptcy, we thought the community would lose this vital health center along with their hospital. PCDC brought the parties together and executed a plan to put the health center on sound financial footing,” said Peter Nelson, Executive Director of the Addabbo Family Health Center.

“Saving this health center in Queens was a major priority for the Department of Health,” said Dr. Richard Daines, Commissioner of the NYS Department of Health. “It represents the kind of care we must have more of in order to improve New Yorkers’ health, reduce unnecessary emergency room and hospital visits, and reduce crushing health care costs.”

The center will remain open throughout some renovations and improvements and has a grand reopening scheduled for May.

Miles south, Peninsula Hospital Center became a sponsored facility of MedisSys Heath Network.

Peninsula’s fate was originally in limbo, as the State’s Berger Commission recommended it merge with St. John’s Hospital in a new building. Those plans flatlined due to a lack of funding, and ultimately St. John’s demise.

The arrangement adds a fourth hospital to MediSys’s network of New York facilities. Peninsula will keep its current President and CEO Robert Levine, and its board of directors will remain untouched.

“Peninsula Hospital Center is an ideal fit, as it enables us to continue to build on what we have been doing over the years to improve health care service and access for Queens residents,” said David Rosen, President and CEO of MediSys.

The hospital will join Medisys’ network of facilities, which share many services and staff. Its resident physicians will join the rotation at Flushing Hospital, and Jamaica Hospital will provide anesthesia support. Both hospitals are already in the MediSys network, along with Brookdale Hospital in Brooklyn.``xEkupVpZkVufCmDxgNH``x1240507254``x(default)``xPage-5B.gif``xJoseph Orovic``xPeninsula Hospital has partnered with MediSys.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Fast Food Bill Would Curtail Kids’ Access``xtrib``xThe City’s kids may have a hard time finding a quick burger after school.

That’s if Councilman Eric Gioia (D-Sunnyside) could muster enough support for his proposed ban on fast food joints from opening within one-tenth of a mile from any City school.

Gioia’s proposal is motivated by a study conducted by the University of California and Columbia University, which found students attending schools near fast food restaurants have a 5.2 percent higher rate of obesity. They also had an increased caloric intake ranging from 30 to 100 calories. And distance does matter, as fast food more than a quarter of a mile away had no effect on obesity rates. The study observed millions of children nationwide.

“Children are literally being poisoned by their food environments,” Gioia said. “This study has confirmed what many of us have known for years: that proximity to fast food leads to an unhealthy lifestyle.”

Gioia also conducted a preliminary investigation that found neighborhoods with the highest rate of obesity had 28 fast food joints with .1 mile of a school.

He was joined at a press conference on Sunday by National Action Against Obesity President MeMe Roth. The Hunger Action Network of New York State, the Healthy Schools Network, and the New York Coalition for Healthy School Food all support the proposal.

“NAAO – and I personally as a parent to two New York City public school students – ardently support the proposal to keep junk food establishments at least 0.1 miles from New York City’s schools,” Roth said. “NAAO believes predatory marketing of junk food escalates the child obesity health crisis.”

The legislation would exempt current fast food establishments, but disallow any new restaurants from cropping up. The ban does not include staples like diners, pizzerias or burger joints, only targeting major fast food chains such as McDonald’s or Burger King.

Obesity in children has been linked to a plethora of ailments, ranging from diabetes to heart disease later on in life. In New York City, one in five kindergarten children are obese, and nearly half of the City’s elementary school children are not at a healthy weight.``xEkupVpZEpAwNcIUSXk``x1240507109``x(default)``x``xJoseph Orovic``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Children’s Author Thanks Boro Cleaner``xtrib``xNick Katsoris, the author of “Growing Up with Loukoumi,” and other books in the Loukoumi children’s book series, was at Barnes & Noble in Bayside Tuesday, to read “Loukoumi’s Good Deeds” to an audience of youngsters and moms.

The reading was just one stop on a national tour Katsoris has been on to promote “Loukoumi’s Good Deeds” – whose very purchase is a good deed, since every purchase ensures a $2 donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital.

The book, which is for children ages 4-8, also comes with a free audio CD with a bonus story. The CD is voiced by none less than Jennifer Aniston, Oscar Winner Olympia Dukakis, American Idol’s Constantine Maroulis, Grammy Winner Gloria Gaynor, and other ethnically Greek celebrities who were acquainted with Katsoris through his work on the board of the Hellenic Times Scholarship for Greek-American students.

The idea for Loukoumi’s Good Deeds and Loukoumi’s Gift came to Katsoris from a memory of something nice someone did for him.

“It was about 15 years ago and I was working as a law clerk for a Federal Judge. My appointment was for a two-year term and at the end of the two years I came into work on the last day and there was a present on my desk,” he said. “No one else was around, so I opened the present and it was a pair of beautiful gold cufflinks.”

“About an hour later Daisy [Waddy], the cleaning lady, came into my office and said, ‘Did you like my present?’ and I couldn’t believe it,” he added. “Here was a sweet wonderful woman who didn’t have a lot of money, yet she bought me a pair of gold cufflinks. I said to her, ‘Daisy, you didn’t have to do this, why did you buy me this present?’ and she responded, ‘because you said good morning to me every day.’ That was the nicest thing that anyone ever did for me.”

The book is dedicated to Waddy, who still lives in Jamaica, and is the namesake of the Daisy the Giraffe character, who teaches Loukoumi that a gift can come in many forms.

Gaynor, the singer of “I Will Survive,” recorded an original song for the CD titled “Make Someone Smile,” the major theme of the series. The character Loukoumi, named after a Greek sugary sweet, is a cartoon lamb who learns to do good deeds. The book’s anthem is “Whatever you do/ whatever you say/ do something nice for someone today!” The moral of the story is that simple things, like helping an elderly person to cross the street, can make a huge difference.

During the reading, Katsoris asked a little boy in the audience if he had done something nice that day. The boy replied that he had washed the family car. Another girl answered that she had helped take care of the family dog. Katsoris says that he has received emails from parents with similar stories of kids inspired by the books doing kids.

Donations to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, which is renowned for its life-saving cancer research, can be made at www.st.jude.org.``xEkupVpZpVuwHvDSyHa``x1240507054``x(default)``xPage-11A.gif``xLori Gross``xNick Katsoris stands as Daisy Waddy, to whom his latest book is dedicated, sits.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Rock Law Reform May Not Be Enough``xtrib``x“I am my own kid’s advocate,” said Barbara McClain, a resident of Queensbridge Housing Development and mother of six children. “You’ve got to stick up for your kids, if you want to help them; you’ve got to do the research.”

McClain’s children are all employed and have steered clear of the dangerous drug dealing path that dots the corners of the neighborhood. While she’s proud of her community and insists “the vast majority of people here are good, hard working people,” she acknowledges a sad fact of life in Queensbridge: many young people, whether from lack of opportunity or greed for the fast life, get involved in the drug trade.

On one of the first warm days of spring, there’s plenty of young men taking cash and handing off bags and everyone from the storeowners to the seniors returning from church walk past the operation completely aware of what is going on.

“My job is to stay out of cuffs,” says one young man after divvying up some cash. “That’s how it is and how it was.”

With the latest reforms to the State’s Rockefeller drug laws, the penalties for lower level drug felonies have been changed to reflect a growing consensus that the mandatory sentences “have done much more harm than good to the communities they were designed to protect,” according to Gabriel Sayegh, the director of organizing and policy at the Drug Policy Alliance.

“But does it go far enough?” said Sayegh, “We don’t think so, but it’s a step in the right direction.”

While the vast majority of people at Queensbridge – a low income housing development that has some of the highest incarceration rates in the city – think the changes are a good thing, the details of reforms have not been well publicized. “Are these new sentences retroactive?” was often the first question asked by both the dealers on the street and the concerned parents who pass by the busy corners.

Effective Oct. 7, 2009, a judge sentencing people convicted of a Class B felony will have greater discretion over the punishment. This includes a possible “diversionary process” which would allow certain qualifying offenders to seek treatment and parole to avoid being incarcerated.

“For many offenses there is still minimum sentencing,” said William Gibney, the directory of the Special Litigation Unit at the Legal Aid Society. “A difference is that some non-violent drug offenses would be subject to the diversion procedure.”

However, these changes are not retroactive for those sentenced before the bill was passed on April 7. Only those prisoners who were sentenced to B felonies before the sentencing reforms that went into effect in 2005 are eligible for some sort of re-sentencing.

“You’ve got to go back to 2004 and 2005, to the reforms that took place at that time,” said Sayegh. “[Assembly Speaker Sheldon] Silver, [Senate Majority Leader Joe] Bruno and [Gov. George] Pataki looked at drug law reform at that time. Together they agreed that the laws on the books needed to be reformed. This included A1, A2, B, C, and D felonies. But the problem was they only allowed for those individuals who were serving the harshest sentences to be re-sentenced.”

“What they did not do in 2004 and 2005 is what they did in 2009, which was to return judicial discretion,” said Sayegh. The B felony guidelines at that time changed the mandatory sentence from 7-21-year sentences to mandatory 3/12-9-year sentences. The diversion procedure was not an option.

Those prisoners currently in the custody of the State Department of Corrections and eligible for “merit time,” and who are serving the pre-2005 class B felonies, are eligible to apply for re-sentencing. Those with penalties after the 2005 reform are not eligible.

“This is one area that we feel they did not go far enough,” said Sayegh, “Considering what may have happened, we could have gotten much more limited reforms. But even with that being said – there are a number of people in jail who just should not be there. There is not a mechanism in place for most of those folks to go back and apply for retroactive relief and there should be, but there’s not.”

Both the Legal Aid Society and the Drug Policy Alliance said that of the 14,000 people incarcerated in the State for drug crimes in 2004 or 2005, only between 1,500 and 2,000 will be eligible for re-sentencing.

“If you want to know if someone in jail qualifies for any of these reforms, contact the prisoner’s attorney. You can also call Legal Aid. Have the following information ready: what they were arrested for, the name of the judge, where they’re located now, the types of programs they may have completed (like a degree), what was the conviction, the date, and who the defense attorney was,” said Sayegh.

As for the prisoners themselves, the Drug Policy Alliance is going to make sure everyone who qualifies for these programs is notified by them. “We are committed to making sure that every person who is eligible for re-sentencing knows that they are eligible and that they are given access to a lawyer.”

You can reach the Legal Aid Society at (212) 577-3300.``xEkupVpyAVysXacsDMQ``x1240506956``x(default)``xPage-7.gif``xVladic Ravich``xQueensbridge residents, drug dealers, aren’t sure who is eligible and what the new law means to them and their families.``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Can The Governor Figure Out Which Way Is Up?``xtrib``xI’m not going to relive the entire story of the decline and fall of Alan Hevesi, once the fair-haired boy of the Queens Democratic political establishment. I am going to reflect, shed a tear or two and see if there is something to be learned.

I first encountered the hoop-shooting star of the Queens College basketball team when my older sister got involved in politics there. Alan was not only superjock, he was also President of his senior class. The guy was exceptional.

I paid attention as Alan quickly rose through the Queens political ranks becoming an Assemblyman at the age of 31 – young for the tightly controlled Queens process.

Alan received his Ph.D. in Public Law & Government from Columbia in 1971 and was an associate professor of Politcal Science at Q.C. for his entire Assembly career.

He served in the Assembly – authoring 108 laws with as much distinction as one can in that body – until 1993 when he was elected Comptroller of NYC. After being term-limited out of office, he unsuccessfully ran in the Democratic Primary for Mayor.

After his loss, he was back the next year successfully running for NYS Comptroller, the state’s chief fiscal officer and the sole trustee of the state’s pension system.

He served as state Comptroller from 2002, and was re-elected in 2006. During his 2006 re-election campaign it came to light that he had used a State employee to chauffer his ailing wife. He repaid $82,000 (subsequently he was ordered to increase this to $206,000 because there was more than one driver and the abuse was broader than originally reported) to the State and won re-election over an unimpressive Republican foe, even though Eliot Spitzer, his Gubernatorial running mate, and others withdrew their endorsements.

But Alan was forced to resign in December of 2006 as part of a plea-bargain deal forced by an aggressive Albany DA, David Soares. He pleaded guilty to one count of defrauding the government and was sentenced to a $5000 fine and a permanent ban from holding elected office.

I remember chatting with Henry Stern, the astute columnist who usually shares this page, who then felt it wrong that Alan’s misdeeds were handled criminally. Soon Henry and I agreed there must be a lot more lurking that was not visible. We then assumed that the legal authorities wanted Alan out office but wanted to take their time on the “real” investigation.

The “real” investigation has now landed a batch of biggies and still goes on.

It seems pretty clear to this writer where it will end up and what will be the fate of that hoop-shooting, superstar politico that I admired as a teenager.

And with him, going down will be more than his close friend and arrogant campaign guru Hank Morris and David Loglisci the chief investment officer of the NYS Pension fund – the two are already under indictment on 123 counts for turning the $122 billion pension fund into a criminal enterprise. Also arrested is former longtime Hevesi political ally Liberal Party boss Ray Harding for illegally receiving $800,000 in pension fund fees for political favors including arranging a high-paying job for Assemblyman Michael Cohen in order to vacate his Assembly seat in a deal which had it quickly filled by Andy Hevesi, Alan’s youngest.

There have been recent indictments of investment firm execs with likely more to come. The latest charges clearly suggest a complex scheme operating out of Hevesi’s office and under his authority, doling out tens of millions of State Pension fund fees for friends and favors.

And then there will be the collateral damage: the candidacy of Michael Cohen for City council and the four-year incumbency of young Andrew Hevesi are both challenged. Cohen,who is cooperating with AG Cuomo, vacated the Assembly for the younger Hevesi to fill, when go-betweens got him a six-figure job at HIP. Will the Cohen deal of trading his elected seat for a bigger salary with no other wrongdoing, be sufficient to end his campaign for the City Council? Will the evidence that Andy Hevesi received his seat as part of the corrupt deal out of his father’s State Comptroller’s office be enough to send the last remaining elected Hevesi running for shelter? His older brother Daniel left the NY Senate seat in Forest Hills for a private investment firm when rumors about his Albany behavior were whispered. Jack Chartier, Alan’s longtime friend and political pal from his Forest Hills Democratic Club who served as Deputy Comptroller, and appears to be at the center of it all and the source of much of the information gathered by Cuomo, must also face the consequnces.

And Alan, the bright doctor of Political Science who I interviewed a number of times and broke bread with a few times over the past 30 years, where will he be spending his 70th birthday next January 31?

The State Comptroller is the sole trustee of the NYS Pension Fund.

“Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” – Lord Acton, 1887``xEkupVpyZpuAkxGItBE``x1240506704``xNot4Pub``x``xMICHAEL SCHENKLER``x``x``x``x49501066339351``x``xToll Scheme Resuscitated, But Exemptions Impractical``xWeeks after the plan to impose tolls on the big East and little Harlem River bridges was taken off the table due to substantial legislative opposition, an attempted resuscitation is under way, with sweeteners like exempting visits to doctors and certain business travel from the toll, which would start at $2 and go up with the subway fare.

In the past we have opposed the tolling of the free bridges that have linked the boroughs for a century. We have serious misgivings about the practice of imposing charges on some vehicles while exempting others. How would the authority decide the purpose of each individual trip without stopping the car and asking the driver, whose response may or may not be truthful? If the car is to be exempted, and given a sticker for free passage, how can it be assured that the car will not be used for some unprotected purpose. The issue is almost impossible to resolve logically or logistically. It is probable that the MTA would incur greater expenses and receive lower revenue because of the exemptions.

It is noteworthy that in modern times, the Staten Island Ferry, once advertised as the best sea voyage one could enjoy for a nickel, went to a quarter and then became a freebie. As costs of operating the ferry climb, the deficit grows. You probably have not noticed that no one has proposed charging even a nickel for the 25-minute ride across New York Harbor. We are NOT suggesting a tariff for the ferry. A small toll would cause more irritation than it is worth, and a large toll would be unjust. But the fact that this issue has not been discussed indicates the large role that politics play in determining transit fares.

Subway and bus fares were held at five cents through the 1940s, when the private companies running the lines were forced into bankruptcy. New York City tried to manage the lines through a Board of Transportation, which was superseded in 1953 by the New York City Transit Authority. In 1965, under the administration of Governor Nelson Rockefeller, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority was established, and in 1968 it took over both the New York City Transit Authority and the highly successful Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority.

The MTA raises the subway fare every few years, bowing to rising costs of labor, materials and electricity, the obligation to pay debt service (interest) on the ever-rising capital program, and corrupt and extravagant construction in sites like 2 Broadway, a tower on a prime site at Bowling Green which was converted into back-office space which the MTA, after spending hundreds of millions of dollars, does not even own.

Several MTA employees went to jail for crimes related to the construction of 2 Broadway. The entire project was a grotesque example of waste and fraud. This folly goes back to the Pataki administration, which was quite susceptible to lobbying by insiders. The massive debt incurred is a continuing burden on the agency’s operating budget.

Just as the Department of Defense became a partner in the military-industrial complex that President Eisenhower warned about before leaving office in 1953, transportation agencies have sometimes become part of the transit-industrial complex, with executives shuttling (that’s a transit word) from engineering firms to public authorities and back. “Build, baby, build” is a powerful slogan, but a great deal depends on how, what and where one builds. That requires a level of judgment that has not been demonstrated consistently or convincingly by transit officials, themselves in transit.

For political reasons, the transit unions have been exempted from any serious effort to reduce transit deficits. We are not talking about reducing salaries, but such issues as changes in work rules and pensions for future employees would save hundreds of millions of dollars over the years. These issues have not even been brought to the table because of the power of public employee unions and their influence on both the Democratic and Republican parties.

It is much easier to sock it to the general public by increasing as many taxes and fees as the governor and the legislature can find. This makes New York State, already heavily overburdened with income, sales and property taxes, even less capable of attracting or retaining businesses which are free to choose locations.

Of course, the smaller the tax base, the greater the tax burden on those remaining. Eventually, the house of cards will topple, like the tulip bubble in the 1600s, the dot.coms, the savings and loans, and the subprime mortgage crisis.

But that may not occur during the tenure of the legislators currently serving, which to them is as good as it never happening.

People have spoken out about the crisis in our state; we are neither the first nor the most eloquent to raise the alarm. Unfortunately, none of us has succeeded. This year the Obama stimulus plan came to the rescue. If current trends continue, we will again rely on massive support from Washington, which may or may not come in 2010, the year of state elections.``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``xNFP090423-GayMarriage.gif``x``x``x``x``x``xHENRY STERN``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Whitestone’s Finest``xtrib``xWhen Priscilla DiStasio last filled our Model of the Week space, modeling was a part-time thing. She was self-proclaimed “free agent” just squeezing in time for shoots.

What a difference five years can make.

DiStasio has gotten her act together and made modeling her passion.

“At the time I didn’t really pursue it seriously,” she said. “In the last year, I’ve really picked it up.”

Since then she’s picked up a manager – always a sign of sincerity – has been on the CD cover of club stalwart Jonathan Peters and has been featured on Sirius’ Maxim Radio.

“I’ve learned it’s pretty hard in a sense, in terms of who you can and can’t trust,” DiStasio said. “You have to be smart and you have to be really patient.”

She can also hold the hearts of many a nerd-master, as she’s been featured in the Grand Theft Auto game series, when she was on staff at Rockstar Games.

She’s currently working with www.appareladdiction.com, when she’s not spending time with boyfriend Lucas Prata (you can hear his music and vocal skills on Pulse 87).

You can see more of this delightful Whitestone native at www.mspriscilla.com.


Priscilla DiStasio
Age: 26
Home: Whitestone
Height: 5’5"
Weight: 117
Stats: 34-25-35
``xEkupVpyVuZoinRkHcx``x1240506547``xQconf``xl_ec2526e3f55154d28b8675f9f.gif``x``x``xGennaro_Furman.gif``xCouncilman Jim Gennaro, Ashrita Furman and Guinness World Records judge Danny Girton Jr. after the event at City Hall Park.``x58881066339339``x``xOne More Voice``xAshrita Furman, the Guru of Guinness, has once again added his name to the Guinness Book of World Records.

Furman and more than 100 participants earned the world record for “A Poem / Literary Passage Recited in the Most Languages.”

The group recited Sri Chinmoy’s poem “Precious” in 111 different languages. Furman recited the poem in Zulu.

With the new record, Furman, a Jamaica resident, became the first person to hold 100 records in the Guinness book of World Records.

Councilman Jim Gennaro, a self-professed Chinmoy devotee, presided over the event.

“This is exactly the type of event that should take place in the seat of New York City government,” Gennaro said. ‘To speak and hear the precious utterances of Sri Chinmoy is truly an inspiration.”``xSJU Aids L’Aquila``xItalian songstress Giada Valenti will perform a benefit concert for the victims of Abruzzo earthquake at St. John’s University on May 3.

Proceeds from the concert will be donated to the victims of the March 30 earthquake in L’Aquila, Italy and other small towns in the Abruzzo region. Nearly 300 were killed and approximately 50,000 were displaced during the 6.3 magnitude quake, according to published reports.

Valenti was born in Venice, Italy but moved to New York City in 2004. The concert will feature her new show, “Tribute to Love.”

Tickets for the 5 p.m. concert are available for $20 and $35 by calling Theater Mania at (877) 811-4111 or Perla Entertainment at (347) 934-3219. Tickets can also be purchased online at giadavalenti.com.

The concert will be staged at the Little Theatre at St. John’s University, located at 80-00 Utopia Pkwy.``xThe Mets: An Inauspicious Record``xWhen the Mets christened Citi Field last week with a loss to the Padres, it was not their first home opener loss, and oddly enough it followed the tradition of first-game losses in new stadiums. Opening Day at the Polo Grounds in 1962? A 4-3 loss to the Pirates. First game at Shea in 1964? Another 4-3 loss to the Pirates.

In the press box Monday night, as the Padres led 4-1, a buzz started growing about history repeating – again. After David Wright’s 3-run homer tied the game, at least that part of the curse was lifted, though the Mets did go on to lose 6-5.

The good news is that they won in their second Citi Field game – a feat that took them 10 games in the Polo Grounds and three at Shea.

So they’re improving, right?``xCool Idea``xRumors only spawn more rumors, as the United States Tennis Association has learned.

The sports organization is exploring a roof over its Arthur Ashe Stadium in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park to end rain delays during its U.S. Open.

But the Queens Chamber of Commerce smells an opportunity and views the roof as a means to bring the New York Islanders hockey franchise to our borough when their lease on the Nassau Coliseum expires in 2015.

How cool!

Sadly, the team is currently focused on renewing its lease and getting the Town of Hempstead’s approval for the Lighthouse at Long Island, a shopping and housing center to be developed on the acres near the Coliseum.``xUlrich: Regular Guy``xCity Councilman Eric Ulrich chose an unusual soapbox upon which to deliver his most recent editorial – no, not Fox News or the Post – but super-trendy New York Magazine. The 24-year-old took the opportunity to remind the tragically hip that though he may be a walking paradox in this City – a young Republican – he’s just like his constituents.

“I watch Family Guy. I like to go to Atlantic City, stay at the Borgata, and play three-card poker. I just bought a new Chevy Impala. Love it. I joke with my fiancée that I have a mistress,” he told NY Mag.

Ulrich also shared the story of his first phone call from Mayor Bloomberg, one he received while celebrating with breakfast at IHOP the morning after he was elected.

“I didn’t know what to say, so I said, ‘Hi, Mister Mayor.’ That’s when I realized I was a councilman. And now I recognize his number.”``x``x``xConcert.gif``xAn-inauspicious-start.gif``x``xUlrich.gif``x``x``xDavid Wright smacks a double in the first inning Opening Day. His three-run homer later that night wasn’t enough to give the Mets their first home win.``x``x``x``x``x``x``xl_fc1abea8219fc0cd9ed0bb979.gif``x``xQ090423-Taxation.gif``x``x Comptroller Scandal: Crony Was Paid For Cohen’s Seat: AG``xtrib``xCurrent Assemblyman Andrew Hevesi gained his seat only after an illegal payout to a political crony set in motion Assemblyman Mike Cohen’s move to a health industry job and pressure from then-Comptroller Alan Hevesi pushed for a quick special election, according to Attorney General Andrew Cuomo.

Raymond Harding, the former head of the New York State Liberal Party, was charged Wednesday with obtaining $800,000 in illegal fees from state pension fund in exchange for decades of political favors, one of which was facilitating Cohen’s departure from the Assembly.

“Harding helped [Michael Cohen] get a six-figure job at an insurance company to generate a vacancy in the Assembly seat,” according to Cuomo. An unnamed official in the Comptroller’s office, alleged to be un-indicted co-conspirator Jack Chartier, “helped arrange for the Queens Democratic Party to endorse Andrew Hevesi for the open seat. [Chartier] then met with an aide to [then-Gov. George Pataki] and requested that the Governor certify a special election for the vacant Assembly seat as quickly as possible, which would discourage competition for the seat. Andrew Hevesi was elected to the open Assembly seat in May of 2005.”

Cuomo was clear to point out that Andrew Hevesi was not aware of the deal that was cut to arrange for his seat. The criminal complaint also fails to clearly connect the dots between Harding receiving the money and his interceding to arrange the meeting between Cohen and HIP, which ended up giving Cohen a $150,000-a-year position in the insurer’s marketing department.

Andrew Hevesi had no comment on the indictment, but a spokesman was clear to point out Cuomo’s absolution of any knowledge the younger Hevesi may have had about the scheme. A Cohen spokesman said that the former Assemblyman would continue in his bid to replace Melinda Katz in the City Council.

The charges against Harding are the latest to come from Cuomo’s investigation into wrongdoing in Alan Hevesi’s office. A few weeks ago Cuomo secured indictments against Hevesi campaign consultant Hank Morris and the Comptroller’s Chief Investment Officer David Loglisci on 123 counts of corruption, fraud, money laundering, falsifying business records and grand larceny.

Alan Hevesi remains un-indicted, though in several sections of criminal complaints against all three, it appears that Chartier was acting under the direct orders of Alan Hevesi.

Hevesi was re-elected Comptroller in 2006, but quickly stepped down amid a scandal involving his un-reimbursed use of a state vehicle and chauffer to take his wife around town.

In the current investigation, in addition to his alleged influence in the Assembly seat, Harding is said to have been paid off for decades of political support on behalf of the Liberal Party, including for Alan Hevesi’s campaigns for Assembly from 1971-1993, Mayor in 2001 and State Comptroller in 2002.

According to Cuomo, Harding participated in a corrupt scheme devised by Hank Morris and David Loglisci to skew the process of selecting investments at the State pension fund to favor political allies, friends and family. “Morris and Loglisci allegedly made Harding a sham placement agent for three investments in order to repay him for past political favors to Hevesi,” Cuomo said. “Through investment deals with Paladin and Pequot, two private equity firms, Harding is charged with securing over $800,000 in sham placement fees.”

In May 2004 the state invested $20 million into Paladin Homeland Security, for which Harding received $300,000 in bogus placement fees, Cuomo said. In October 2005 and June 2006 the state pension fund invested $100 million into Pequot Diversified Offshore Fund, netting Harding $500,000 in bogus fees.``xEkFAAEuFyFIhRxBtOy``x1239914363``xDeadline``xCover-ARt-NEW.gif``xBrian M. Rafferty``xFormer Comptroller Alan Hevesi's office arranged the payment for a political official to set up a six-figure job for Assemblyman Michael Chen in 2005 in order to guarantee an Assembly seat for the Comptroller's son, Andy Hevesi, according to the Attorney General.``xPage-3A-2.gif``xAndy Hevesi (l.) took over the seat vacated by Michael Cohen (r.) thanks to a paid political favor, according to the Attorney General.``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Queens Marine Home After Second Iraq Tour``xtrib``xCpl. Jose F. Espinosa returned to his family in Middle Village this week after serving a second tour of duty in Iraq with the 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines. Espinosa enlisted with the Marines in 2002 after participating in the Youth Cadets, a non-profit organization started by Alirio Orduna, himself a former Marine.

“I did it for the right reasons – I wanted to serve my country and take part in Iraqi history. Why did I pick the Marines? Well, because: the few, the proud, not everyone can be the best,” said Espinosa.

Espinosa’s first tour was in 2006 where he served with the 125th, 1st Battalion. He was deployed for a year and spent much of the time in Fallujah during a very dangerous time in Iraq. “I have five good friends that died in my battalion,” he said.

Espinosa comes from a military family and said that military service “runs in my genes.” His father, Gilberto Espinosa, served in the Colombian Navy for 23 years. Espinosa’s older brother, Lance Corporal Jaime D. Espinosa, is a commanding officer with the 6th Communication Battalion.

During his second tour, Espinosa patrolled the Syrian and Jordan borders and said he saw a marked change in both the level of violence and the military’s approach to the civilian population.

“On the first tour it was: watch your 360, don’t trust nobody,” said Espinosa. “And now it’s more about reaching out to the people. [Another change was] the way we communicate with the people over there, because they have stepped up, too. They want to better themselves and help their country.”

He noted there was more emphasis on cultural sensitivity in his second tour, especially when meeting with the general population. “You take off your sunglasses, take off the helmet, your right glove and your Kevlar. We spoke to the man of the house and we didn’t speak with the females.”

He described the importance of judgment and discipline in their mission. “I was a vehicle commander on the convoys. One of my jobs was to prep the vehicles before the patrol and then plan the patrol. Their lives are in my hands. You don’t have second-guesses.”

Espinosa is proud of the work the Marines have done in Iraq, but there are many challenges they must confront outside of combat. “It’s hot; 160 degrees, plus you have 60 to 80 pounds of equipment on your body. The only way to deal with it is to keep in peak shape – the more you push your body to a higher level, the better you adjust,” he explained. “Gear is an issue too. The flak jacket I was wearing was very heavy and limited your motion. The heavier it is, the slower you move.”

“But adjusting to life back home is the hardest thing. Iraq is not the hardest. Trying to reconnect with your loved ones, especially your kids.” Espinosa has a 3-year-old son. “Rejoining your family, too – they have changed, you have changed. Even just sleeping at night is hard.”

“He’s the light of our organization,” Orduna of the Youth Cadets said. “He exemplified the values we hope to give to our youth cadets: discipline, motivation, leadership, respect.”

The Youth Cadet program is open to any youths interested in developing these skills and learning about a military career. More information is available at YouthCadets.org.

Espinosa said he plans to continue his military career after returning to school to get his degree in business administration. As for his immediate future? “Spend time with my family. And take my son to Disney World.”``xEkFAAEFAAutpqwOzTP``x1239913994``xDeadline``x``xVLADIC RAVICH``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Drug Treatment Center Gets A Borough Home``xtrib``xGov. David Paterson came to Queens Wednesday to show off the new Queens digs for a 42-year-old program to treat addiction.

Reality House will provide outpatient care to recovering addicts “through family and community based support and therapy,” said Charles Goodlett, a substance abuse counselor at the site. “We put them in touch with programs like Narcotics Anonymous to help them stay clean. We identify triggers and help them avoid regressing, so they call their counselor or sponsor. Basically, we create a network so instead of reaching for drugs, they reach for help.”

The organization is expecting to handle between 150 and 200 clients with two part time and two full time counselors on staff. While the doors are open to anyone who has gone through detox and is out of rehab, Reality House is focusing on helping veterans with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder rebuild their lives.

Established in 1967 to provide substance abuse and HIV treatment and prevention services to Harlem, Washington Heights, and the South Bronx, Reality House recently relocated to Long Island City and plans to offer its services to Queens residents.

Paterson praised Reality House for all the work it has done and said he hoped the facility would “bring the same hope to Queens as you’ve provided to Harlem for so many years.”

The governor also announced the creation of the ACTION (Addictions Collaborative to Improve Outcomes for New York) council, which will be “a public private partnership” that will include commissioners from 20 participating State agencies, non-government stakeholders, community-based organizations, addiction treatment providers, academic institutions and businesses working together to fight addiction.

The council was created by an executive order to build upon the recently enacted Rockefeller Drug Law reforms that Paterson characterized as “a holistic shift in public policy away from punishment” for non-violent drug offenders. He called the previous strategy “primitive” and said “We will start that process immediately with institutions like Reality House.”``xEkFAAEFAFpFPIJtNZI``x1239913930``xDeadline``x``xVLADIC RAVICH``x``x``x``x98071066339284``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Willets Pt. Rallies Under Citi’s Shadow ``xtrib``xCritics of the Willets Point redevelopment plan used the Mets season opener to draw attention to their cause, rallying in front of Citi Field on Monday to protest the ongoing relocation efforts in the area.

“The issue today is that the city has allocated hundreds of millions of dollars in low interest financing to build Citi Field, which is great, but in a time of economic crisis to have the city neglect the most vulnerable people in this relocation project is not acceptable to us and the group,” said Ted De Barbieri, a fellow at Urban Justice Center, who is working with the Willets Point Defense Committee. The coalition represents about 60 small business owners, each of whom employ an average of five workers.

The group has complained that Cornerstone Realty Group, a company hired by the City to help organize a relocation of the businesses at Willets Point, has not agreed to meet with them.

Marco Neira, the president of the Willets Point Defense Committee and owner of the Master Express Deli, said “They are supposed to help us, but they won’t even meet with us. They don’t sit down with us. They’re planning on relocating us individually, but we need to be moved like a group, like we are here, like a family. But they are thinking of moving us individually.”

The demonstrators said they need to know when they are being moved and to where so they can plan accordingly. A spokesman from the New York City Economic Development Corporation said, “We are legally prohibited from engaging in direct negotiations with businesses that are currently under lease with private landlords. However, our relocation consultant, Cornerstone, is talking with every business in the area to keep them informed of our plans.”

Another issue involves the job retraining classes being offered to the Willets Point workers at La Guardia Community College. Many of the employees at Willets Point are undocumented immigrants and they face barriers to finding alternative employment.

“It’s against the law to hire undocumented workers, but it’s not illegal to have undocumented workers working for you,” said De Barbieri, “The workers and business owners don’t’ oppose retraining. The premise of the program is the retraining and job placement, but you cannot retrain workers who are not able to work.``xEkFAAEFlEkeqLvgMLx``x1239913812``x(default)``x``xVladic Ravich``x``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Learning A Lesson By Being Homeless``xtrib``xJusef Ramelize went homeless during the first week in March. Using one week of his vacation time from his job as a graphic designer, this Ozone Park native spent seven days raising awareness for the homeless in Union Square in Manhattan.

He slept in McDonalds until they kicked him out. Other nights he would sleep on the trains.

“I wasn’t dressed homeless, I was dressed warm,” said Ramelize sipping a soy latte at Starbucks. “The last thing I wanted was to mock the homeless. It was about letting people know that there are homeless people out there who are like you and me. The most dangerous thing is a homeless person who does not look homeless.”

Ramelize certainly does not look homeless. When we met, he was smartly dressed and obviously meticulous about his appearance. He said he makes a good living as a graphic designer and has never been close to losing his home. During his week on the streets, he had his friends buy him an inexpensive vegetarian dinner from Whole Foods, an upscale supermarket on the same block, “because if I’m going to be aware of the homeless, I should care about animals, too.” He kept his iPhone for the week as well.

“It’s not about me trying to be homeless,” said Ramelize, “I want to inspire people to make their own sacrifices. I’m not saying ‘be homeless for a week,’ but be creative for God’s sake, do something.”

“A lot of people are numb to the problem of homelessness,” he said, “and it’s something we can come together and fix. I understand not giving to individuals, but there are organizations out there that really address this problem. You can donate, or volunteer, or just be aware.”

Activism is nothing new, but going without a change of cloth or a shower for a week is not common. I asked Ramelize what raising awareness means to him. Whose awareness was he raising and did he really think people would respond?

First, he explained that he raised awareness by passing out fliers touting his mission and asking for help to raise $5,000 for the Coalition for the Homeless. Then as we were concluding the interview, Ramelize mentioned something he had hitherto forgotten. “I’m not sure whose awareness I’m interested in raising. Maybe mine?” he said.

“Maybe this has something to do with it. A couple of years ago, I came from a very materialistic place. I mean, I spent so much money on clothes and shopping and trying to get stuff to make me feel good about myself. I was insecure and I wanted to look good. I mean, I got voted best dressed in high school,” he said and chuckled, “It was who I was.”

“Then one day I looked in my closet and I realized I had like 30 pairs of jeans. That’s crazy! It’s bull***t. I kinda freaked out. I took all those pants and gave them to the Salvation Army and now I’ve got two pairs. You don’t need that stuff – it’s not who you are. So maybe that’s why I’m so drawn to this topic.”

Donations can be made at his website HomelessForOneWeek.com.``xEkFAAEFZVFyvqtSMks``x1239913753``x(default)``xPage-5A.gif``xVladic Ravich``xJusef Ramelize``x``x``x85381066339868``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x METS PITCHER SENTENCED``xtrib``xAmbiorix Burgos, a former New York Mets relief pitcher, was sentenced Tuesday for an assault on his girlfriend at a hotel near Shea Stadium.

Burgos, 24, was sentenced to nine months in jail and was ordered not to have any contact with his victim for five years. He was convicted last month of third-degree assault following a four-day trial.

Burgos was staying at the Holiday Inn in Queens last September when his girlfriend, Maria Lopez, 26, attempted to leave. Instead, he threw her up against the wall in a rage and repeatedly punched and slapped her as she held her arms in front of her face. He then stepped on her and then began pummeling her while she was on the floor. Lopez suffered a lump on her head and bruising to various parts of her body – including her eye and chest.

Ms. Lopez told jurors that when she said she would call the police, Burgos replied, “The police won’t do anything to me. I am a baseball player”``xEkFAAEFVpEbuJaPHvU``x1239913501``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``xFROM THE DA``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x MISSING``xtrib``xPolice are looking for a Maspeth woman reported missing last Tuesday.

Aizhuang Huang, 38, was reported missing by her husband. She was last seen on at 1 p.m. at her home on Calamus Avenue. Huang is currently on medication and requires a doctor’s care.

Anyone with information can call the NYPD’s Crimestoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted through the Crimestoppers website at www.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.com or by texting to 274637(CRIMES) then entering TIP577.``xEkFAAEFuypnRqGbgeV``x1239913460``xBlotter``xMissing.gif``x``xAizhuang Huang``x``x``x99941066339274``x108th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x DOUBLE HOMICIDE``xtrib``xTwo Queens men were found fatally shot last Thursday in Corona.

The young men were found at approximately 12:53 a.m. near 54th Avenue. Juan Gonzalez, 20, was pronounced dead on arrival from a fatal wound to the torso. Edgar Fernandez, 19, also died shortly after being rushed to nearby New York Hospital in critical condition.

An initial investigation found that the men were confronted by a hooded Hispanic man who opened fire and then fled the scene on foot. Shell casings were recovered at the scene. A police investigation is ongoing.
``xEkFAAEFFuZpbaEUrqM``x1239913347``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x110th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x GRAND LARCENY``xtrib``xPolice are seeking assistance in locating a suspect wanted in connection to an office robbery last month.

The suspect entered an open office and removed several pieces of electronic equipment on March 12 at approximately 4 p.m. at 101-10 Queens Blvd.

He is described as a black man, approximately 35 to 40-years-old and about 5-feet and 8-inches tall.

Anyone with information can call the NYPD’s Crimestoppers Hotline at 1-800-577-TIPS (8477). Tips can also be submitted through the Crimestoppers website at www.NYPDCRIMESTOPPERS.com or by texting to 274637(CRIMES) then entering TIP577.
``xEkFAAEFFpAfjUzOqxL``x1239913309``xBlotter``x``x``x``x``x``x99941066339274``x112th Precinct``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x``x Leaders Bilked Parish: SEC ``xtrib``xThe son of a Forest Hills pastor has been arrested along with six other in an alleged scheme that defrauded $13 million from the pastor’s flock.

J. Jonathan Coleman, 40, of Astoria, is the son of the Rev. Joseph Coleman of Local Christian Assembly, located at the corner of 70th Avenue and Loubet Street in Forest Hills. The younger Coleman was charged along with Isaac I. Ovid, 28, Aaron Riddle, 34, Stephen Cina, 32, Cory A. Martin, 31, Timothy Smith, 35, Robert J. Riddle, 59, in what the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission is calling a complicated investment scheme that used two hedge funds to funnel $13 million from parishioners, mostly into the pockets of the defendants.

“Between January and October 2005, the Defendants raised over $9 million from 80 investors, many of whom were elderly, through the sale of unregistered limited partnership interests in the Logos Fund by promising incredible returns, sometimes as high as 50 or even 75 percent,” the SEC complaint states. “Instead of investing the money as promised, the Defendants used investor funds to purchase luxury items -including a Bentley automobile, expensive watches, and luxury vacations -and to pay unauthorized business expenses and satisfy prior debts. They lost most of the remaining funds through bad trades.”

“When the money ran out, the Defendants started a second investment company, the Donum Fund, LP with the intention of diverting the proceeds to pay back investors in the first scheme. Between September and November 2005, the Defendants raised over $3 million from three investors in the Donum Fund, but promptly lost a significant portion of that money on a single bad investment.”

Robert Riddle and Cina are listed as church officials on the church’s Web site. Ovid is also a minister at the church, according to the SEC.

“Instead of using the investors’ money to trade