The Forum South 50 2013

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • December 12, 2013 | 1

VOL. 12 • NUMBER 50 • DECEMBER 12, 2013

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup

Ellen Buonpastore, of Lindenwood, welcomes her son, Sgt. Kristian Peter DiStefano-Buonpastore, home from Afghanistan last week. The U.S. Army hero's return was celebrated by a large crowd of family, friends, military members, and community leaders in Howard Beach.

Fighting Fraudulent Contractors

Page 4

Concerns Aired Over Rockaway Rail Line Plans

Page 12

Battling Diabetes at Little North Pole

Page 20

Approved! Massive Ozone Park

Rezoning Gets Green Light

Page 34

See story on page 3

A HERO COMES HOME

2 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • December 12, 2013 2 THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • October 25, 2012


By Anna Gustafson

For the students at JHS 202 in Ozone Park, a $30,000 music grant that the school just landed was about more than receiving a sea of shiny new instruments: It was emblematic of the school’s revived and growing music program that is becoming a crown jewel at an insti-tution that has gone against a city-wide tide of years of art and music cutbacks and focused on boosting its creative endeavors.

“There’s a lot more available to us - that gives us so much more po-tential,” Savrana Gayadin, an eighth

grade student at JHS 202, said of her school’s growing music program.

Gayadin was one of a classroom of students last week to catch a first glimpse at the 29 new musical instruments the school received thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation, a national nonprofit that donates instruments to schools across the country.

Justin Wolf, a JHS 202 teach-er who has worked to revive the school’s music program since ar-riving at the institution three years ago, applied for the grant approxi-mately two years ago. Following a rigorous review process by the nonprofit, Wolf and JHS 202 Prin-cipal William Fitzgerald were noti-fied at the end of November that the school would receive a bevy of new instruments - everything from flutes and trumpets to saxophones and clarinets - that were worth about $30,000.

“I almost fell to the floor; I was so excited,” said Wolf, a music teacher who has garnered high praise from his middle school students for bring-ing new energy into a program that helps give an artistic outlet to stu-dents who may not always find their passion amongst textbooks.

“This grant allows each student to have access to their own instruments, which is great,” Wolf continued.

Gayadin and two of her fellow eighth grade peers, Afsana Ahmed and Anthony Marino, agreed, say-ing the new influx of instruments - which replaces others that have been around the school since the 1960s - is most welcome.

“It’s exciting because we can play a lot clearer; you can hear a dif-ference,” Marino said of the new in-struments, which also include a xy-lophone, euphonium, bass clarinet, and four snare drum kits.

The $30,000 grant follows an-other $10,000 the school and the Parent Teacher Association spent on the music program two years ago as part of its effort to offer mu-sic to pupils - a stark contrast to the cuts in the arts that schools have sustained throughout the five bor-oughs in recent years. Additionally, Wolf applied for, and received, a grant from Little Kids Rock - a non-profit that works to bring modern rock into schools by donating in-struments - that landed the school 31 guitars last year.

Such a commitment to the arts

has not only drawn students to the music program, but it helped the institution land the grant from the Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation.

“When they saw how serious we are about our music program here, they said they wanted to invest in us,” said Fitzgerald, who noted that, in addition to music, the school has worked on building an entire ros-ter of creative programs, including drama and visual arts.

“Not all students are talented in academics - this gives students a chance to shine in other areas,” Fitzgerald said.

As Ozone Park School Focuses on Creativity, Major Music Grant Cements Dreams of Renowned Arts Program

Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup Music students at JHS 202 show off their new instruments, which the Ozone Park school landed thanks to a $30,000 grant from the Mr. Holland's Opus Foundation.

JHS 202 students said they were thrilled to test out the new instruments.

By Patricia Adams

A grand welcome home was staged for Unit-ed States Army Sgt. KristianPeter DiStefano last Friday, when a host of family and friends, a color guard and a bevy of elected officials welcomed the Howard Beach native back from his fifth tour in active combat.

A career solder who began his time in the army after enlisting 9 years ago, DiStefano, 27, will visit with his family until he returns to base to re-up his training in early January.

“I didn’t want to go to college,” is the quick response, when asked why at 18-years-old, to why he chose to enlist.

He later developed a taste for academics and now holds a Master’s Degree in Civil Engineer-ing, a Bachelor’s Degree in U.S. History and an Associate Degree’s in the History Of War and Art History.

In addition to the academic achievements, there are multiple Army commendation medals, medals for good conduct and skill badges in nu-merous fields. And then there is the one award that perhaps speaks more of DiStefano’s char-acter and persona than even those he actually wears on his uniform—the purple heart which he declined. “I was not taking a medal for some-thing where my buddies got hurt worse than me.”

His service began in 2005, a month after high school graduation. After completing his training he spent time on bases across the coun-try, acquiring special skills and developing com-bat readiness, including an extended stint in an Air Borne division.

“I really like jumping out of planes—but you

have to be careful.” A smile is accompanied by pointing to a large scar running along the side of his head. “We were testing parachutes and mine opened a little late,”—DiStefano found himself face first in the side of a mountain.

But the scars of that injury, and others—he has been shot in the chest, stabbed and “blown up” in nearly two dozen episodes involving ex-plosives—are not the deepest scars. Those that remain unseen, camouflaged and hidden in the recesses of the mind, are the ones in desperate need of attention. They are what now fuel his personal mission.

Diagnosed last year with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)—two separate cases of it—it is now one of his life’s goals to see that people realize what the disease is and the dire need to address it.

A condition complicated and fueled by rage and anger issues, experts say there have been nearly 40,000 cases diagnosed among soldiers since 2003. The number is believed to be even higher because many soldiers keep their illness a secret.

His own diagnosis came as a result of three Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), caused by inci-

dents involving explosives and from the stress of bearing witness to the horrors of war and the loss of comrades.

“Amazingly people fail to see this as a real disease and how devastating it is to those in search of understanding and help.”

Now on medication and in treatment, he says things are much better and manageable, but is quick to caution. “In order to get help, you have to recognize what’s going on. And you have to have a place to turn.”

He makes note that troops serving after sev-eral tours of duty are especially vulnerable and susceptible because of the dramatic increase in repeated stresses. Not only are some serv-ing multiple tours, but tours were extended to 15 months instead of the usual 12, because of escalated combat conditions in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

He will spend much of his time off help-ing members of his unit adjust to life at home. “When you are used to spending every day with thirty guys–risking your life next to them every day–it can be a little taxing to come home and settle into life with a picket fence. Indeed that is a fact well represented in divorce statistics–a ridiculous 48% overall in his unit.

Nevertheless it in no way deters him from what he knows will be the rest of his career. “This is what I signed on for. To work for my country.” But helping his country may be a little short of describing exactly what DiStefano has done for the last few years as a Route Clearance Specialist.

Patricia Adams/The Forum Newsgroup Kristian DiStefano shares a moment with his sister Arieanna DiStefano-Buonpastore. Having celebrated her 21st birthday only 2 days before on December 3, a grateful sister said there could have been no better present than to have her big brother home.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 42

A Hero Comes Home

4 | THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • December 12, 2013

By Anna Gustafson

Sophia Vailakis-DeVirgilio just wants the nightmare to end.After Hurricane Sandy hit New York City, leaving the Broad

Channel resident, her husband and their then 10-year-old daugh-ter with no home, she didn’t think life could get much worse.

But, it did. Her husband, Lenny, who was diagnosed with liver cancer in April 2012, had to stay in the hospital a number of times following the storm - including for prostage surgery - and Vailakis-DeVirgilio herself began to face health issues and had to have a partial hysterectomy in mid-February 2013, leaving her immobilized for weeks. She wasn’t able to return to work for close to two months.

Throughout this time, the family was having to move around - first to a family member’s house in Brooklyn and then a rental apartment - because Sandy brought three and a half feet of wa-ter rushing into the first floor of their Broad Channel home. Vailakis-DeVirgilio and her husband were, like so many others across South Queens, facing paying tens of thousands of dollars, or more, to repair the place on West 12th Road - a street that has a physicality - small and narrow - the exact opposite of its denizens - large, gracious and warm-hearted who immediately looked out for one another following Sandy.

So, when a contractor her husband knew offered to help them out with their house, they were relieved. Here was a man who, they thought, was licensed and sympathetic to their seem-ingly never-ending plight after the hurricane. The contractor, Robert Guddahl, who frequently does work in the Brooklyn’s Bay Ridge neighborhood, started going to meetings about Sandy aid with the family in what Vailakis-DeVirgilio and her husband that was a gracious gesture to try and understand what resources were available to them.

They ended up giving Guddahl $53,000 for repair work - most of which, they said, was not completed. Now, the family is attempting to get $41,900 back from the man - who turned out to not be a licensed contractor - who they said completely took advantage of their situation in order to land big bucks.

“He knew all the things we were up against, and he still did this,” Vailakis-DeVirgilio said. “He charged us for consulting - which he never did, he triple charged us for exploratory demo-liton and then for demolition, he charged us for soil samplings

and then for sketchings. The only sketchings I’ve seen is some doodlings.”

Guddahl began work on their house in December, but it wasn’t until the spring that red flags were raised about the situa-tion, Vailakis-DeVirgilio said.

“In July I confronted him - I said I need receipts, I need a detailed bill where you map out where your money is going,”

she said. “He said he didn’t feel comfortable turning over the re-ceipts. I said, ‘Your receipts? For our money you’re spending?’”

In an attempt to recover their money, the family has contact-ed the state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, the city public advocate - otherwise known as Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio, and elected officials.

Guddahl, who could not be reached for comment, respond-ed to Vailakis-DeVirgilio in a statement to the attorney general’s office, which reached out to him on behalf of the Broad Channel resident.

“It is a surprise that Sophia Vailakis-DeVirgilio is now making complaints to a multitude of agencies,” he wrote in an Oct. 30 email to the attorney general’s office. “She always claimed to be extremely satisifed with the help and services provided. The pric-ing was on an agreed lump sum price. Her payments were made over several months as she directed. Meetings took place weekly, many times daily, and some on a moment’s notice to meet with her and/or others as she requested.”

Upon reading Guddahl’s response, Vailakis-DeVirgilio said she was so frustrated and outraged that she cried.

“He knows how to rob people,” said Vailakis-DeVirgilio, who is now living with her husband and daughter in their friend’s house on West 12th Road.

As for what they plan to do now, the Broad Channel resident said she is unsure. She is hoping that, in between the continued battle for her husband’s health and attempting to repair the home on which she is still paying a mortgage, she and her husband will be able to fight Guddahl.

Vailakis-DeVirgilio’s story is one of many throughout much of South Queens, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park) said. The legislator has urged the state attorney general to target unscrupulous contractors who Goldfeder said have ex-ploited numerous residents. His office has worked with about 29 families who have been fighting a battle similar to Vailakis-DeVirgilio.

“Twenty-nine people - for any one issue, that’s a lot,” Gold-feder said. “There’s no one way to resolve the issue; you want to do as much as possible and bring in as many agencies as possible to resolve the issue.

“We’re working to resolve these issues,” he continued. “We’re committed to protecting our families.”

Photo Courtesy Sophia Vailakis-DeVirgilioAfter Hurricane Sandy destroyed their Broad Channel home, pictured here just after the storm, Sophia Vailakis-DeVirgilio and her husband turned to contractor to help them begin to piece their lives back together. However, the couple has now filed a complaint with the state Attorney General's office alleging that he stole tens of thousands of dollars from them.

Hurricane victims, pols say fraudulent contractors are major blight on recovery efforts

After Sandy Destroyed Their Home, A Broad Channel Family Faces New Battle

By Bianca Fortis

Political and civic leaders in Queens this week expressed their support for Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio’s appointment of Bill Bratton for the next commissioner of the New York Police Department.

Bratton first served as NYPD commissioner from 1994 to 1996. He has also served as the Boston Police Department commissioner, as well as the Los Angeles Police Department commissioner.

“Bill Bratton has proved that you can fight crime effectively and bring police and community together,” de Blasio said when he made the announcement last week at the Red Hook Community Justice Center in Brooklyn.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said in a statement that he applauded the selection of Bratton.

“He is a consummate law enforcement professional with whom we worked closely – and successfully – in the past and will, I am sure, in the future,” he said.

Brown described Bratton as a tough crime fighter with the abil-ity to bring law enforcement and communities together as partners.

“I very much look forward to once again working with Bill in helping to keep New York as the safest big city in America,” the Queens DA said.

Bratton has been credited with helping to reduce the high crime rates that once plagued New York City, but he has also been criticized for his support of controversial policing tactics, including stop-and-frisk, the legality of which has been questioned.

“Bill Bratton knows that when it comes to stop and frisk, it has to be used with respect,” de Blasio said. “It has to be used properly. One of the things that inspired me was a quote from Bill. He said, ‘Stop-and-frisk is like chemotherapy. Used in the right dose, it can save lives. But used in the wrong dose, too heavy a dose, it can create its own dangers and problems.’”

Earlier this year a federal judge ruled stop-and-frisk is unconsti-

tutional, although the city is working to appeal that ruling.According to a report released last month by state Attorney

General Eric Schneiderman, only 3 percent of stops result in a con-viction.

State Sen. Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach), a proponent of stop-and-frisk, who said the tactic should not be abused, was in favor of Bratton’s appointment.

He said public safety is one of the most important issues to him

and his constituents.“Picking a police commissioner that will work with our precinct

is very important to me personally and for my people,” he said.He said Bratton’s track record - including his implementation

of CompStat and the reduction in crime that occurred under his watch - is a sign that his leadership is a step in the right direction for the city.

“The new mayor and the commissioner are inheriting a very safe city,” he said. “Under their watch, I’m sure it is their intent to keep it safe.”

At the announcement, Bratton listed three goals he hopes to achieve in his new role: to maintain a low crime rate, ensure the city remains safe from terrorism and to bring the NYPD and city resi-dents together “in a collaboration where there is mutual respect and mutual trust.”

Bratton was also partially responsible for the implementation of the “broken windows” theory by the police department in the 1990s. The theory holds that if police crack down on minor of-fenses, like vandalism and graffiti, that will help curb more serious crimes.

Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) also applauded the decision.

“Ray Kelly is leaving some big shoes to fill but I can’t think of anyone better qualified than Bill Bratton to lead the department in the new administration,” he said. “He has the experience and a proven track record of success in fighting crime in New York and other big cities across the country.”

U.S. Rep. Nydia Velazquez (D-Ridgewood) too lauded the ap-pointment.

“William Bratton is a strong choice for New York Police Com-missioner,” she said. “I believe he will help build relationships be-tween our city’s diverse communities and the police force, while making all our neighborhoods safer.”

Photo Courtesy Dan Leveille/WikimediaIncoming NYPD Commissioner William Bratton and his wife, Rikki Klieman.

Queens Shows Support for New Top Cop


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By Anna Gustafson

After a Brooklyn man was killed while trying to cross Woodhaven Boulevard at Jamaica Avenue, residents are calling for change to an area they say is plagued by accidents and dangerous road condi-tions.

Yunior Antonio Perez Rodriguez, 35, of Brook-lyn, was struck and killed around 3:15 a.m. last Saturday, according to the NYPD. Police said the driver fled the scene. According to cops, he may have been driving a white Honda Civic.

The 35-year-old was pronounced dead at Ja-maica Hospital Medical Center, police said.

Community Board 9 member Alex Blenkin-sopp, also the communications director for the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association, said change needs to come to Woodhaven Boulevard and stressed that he has long supported bringing speed cameras to the area.

“Speed cameras are something I’ve favored in the past, especially around schools,” Blenkinsopp said.

“Woodhaven Boulevard presents a hazard to pedestrian,” he continued. “Anything that will slow

traffic down is something we need to take seri-ously.”

Fellow CB 9 member David Adorno agreed, saying “something needs to be done in that area.”

Adorno went on to say that something like what is known as a “traffic box,” or a designated space at an intersection that drivers must be out of when a light turns red or face steep penalties, could be implemented around Jamaica Avenue and Woodhaven Boulevard.

“If drivers knew there would be a box and they’d get a ticket, maybe they’d think twice,” Adorno said. Blenkinsopp noted that Woodhaven residents are anxious to discover the results of the Woodhaven Boulevard study that the city has been conducting for years, saying that could help to pin-point solutions to the corridor.

The city Department of Transportation launched the Woodhaven Boulevard study five years ago, and civic leaders throughout the area touched by the boulevard have stressed that relief is needed for drivers and pedestrians.

To find out more about the study, visit http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/motorist/wood-havenblvd.shtml.

Police are searching for the individual wanted for the murder of a Richmond Hill man last week.

Noel Hidalgo, 58, was found beaten to death inside his studio apartment on Jamaica Avenue near 108th Street, according to the NYPD. Hi-dalgo’s nephew reportedly discovered his uncle

on the floor with his hands tied behind his back around 3:40 p.m. on Dec. 4, according to police and other published reports.

He was pronounced dead at the scene, police said.

The police have not yet made any arrests in

the murder, but the NYPD released an image on Monday of an individual they want to lo-cate for questioning. The man they are looking for is pictured on surveillance footage wearing a hoodie and a leather jacket while pushing a bicycle.

Police did not identify the man as a suspect, though they did say they want him to come in for questioning.

Anyone with information about the murder is asked to call

Crime Stoppers at (800) 577-8477.

Man Dies After Hit-and-Run in Woodhaven,

Residents Call for Change

After Richmond Hill Man’s Beating Death, Cops Search for Suspect

Follow The Forum Online Too! WESBITE: www.theforumnewsgroup.com

TWITTER: @forumnewsqueensFACEBOOK: facebook.com/TheForumNewsgroup

NYPDThe NYPD is looking to bring in this man for questioning.

Family members of Noel Hidalgo, who police say was murdered at his Richmond Hill apartment, console one another.Noel Hidalgo's nephew found his uncle beaten to death on the afternoon of Dec. 4, police said.

Richard York/The Forum Newsgroup The scene outside Hidalgo's apartment on Jamaica Avenue near 108th Street.


My Accurate Prediction

Dear Editor:

Just as I predicted in a letter to the editor prior to the September Democratic Party Primary for Queens Borough President...To the victor goes the spoils. I said, "Don't be surprised when Congress member and Queens County Democratic Party Chairperson Joseph Crowley and Queens Borough President Melinda Katz reward state Sen. Tony Avella, city Council member Leroy Comrie, Deputy Borough President Barry Grodenchik and state Sen. Jose Peralta for being loyal members in good standing." They all took the "hint" from Crowley, folded their tents and endorsed Katz. Even Avella assisted Katz by dropping out but not endorsing Peter Vallone, Jr. Crowley will reward each by either becoming Deputy Borough President, working for mayor-elect Bill de Blasio, city Comptroller Scott Striner, Public Advocate Letitia James or being designated as the "official Queens County Democratic Party clubhouse" candidate for future public office. First up for the quid pro quo is lame duck city Council member Leroy Comrie, who will become Deputy Queens Borough President. He was not selected from a classified ad in the New York Times. There are hundreds of citizens who voluntarily serve on community planning boards, along with thousands of other professional people equally, if not more, qualified for the job. Comrie will now be able to double dip at taxpayers expense for future pensions as a former city Council member representing the 27th Council District from 2002 to 2009 and Deputy Queens Borough President to supplement his social security. Who knows if he can collect another pension as Chief of Staff to former city Council member Archie Spigner from 1994-2001. His boss, Queens Borough President Melinda Katz, will

win the tri-fecta of public pensions at taxpayer expense as a former State Assembly member representing the 28th Assembly District from 1994 to 1999, city Council member representing the 29th Council District from 2002 to 2009 and Queens Borough President. Will she be able to collect another pension as Director of Community Planning Boards for the Office of Queens Borough President from 1999 to 2002? Will Queens Borough District Attorney Richard Brown or state Attorney General Eric Schneiderman investigate this potential scandal of promising people jobs in exchange for dropping out of the Queens Borough President Democratic Party Primary? Don't hold your breath as both Brown and Schneiderman are loyal members of the Democratic Party clubhouse. Never bite the hand that feeds you!

Larry PennerGreat Neck

Throwing Out The Trash

Dear Editor:

It would appear that Bill de Blasio, our next mayor, has taken the first step in closing the gap between the rich and the not-so-rich. In this past Saturday's Daily News article, “HOBNOB WITH BILL FOR 50Gs" says it all! P.S. This and some other recent news about some of our politicians here in New York reminded me of a bumper sticker I saw: Politicians, like diapers, should be changed often, and for the same reason!

Dave ShlakmanHoward Beach

Appreciating Community

Work Dear Editor:

Anna Gustafson's article (Nov.21, p.12) inspired me to attend Letty Cottin

Pogregin's discussion of her recent book, “How to Be a Friend to a Friend Who’s Sick.” Not only did several of us buy copies, I just finished reading mine and my husband started the book. I have asked our librarian in Howard Beach to order copies and have recommended this book to several people. It is most informative as a guide to respond correctly and helpfully to anyone experiencing not only illness of a friend or family member, but of profound loss as well.My most heartfelt thanks to your reporter for her well-written article and to you, Pat Adams, for publishing it.

B. K. BrumbergHoward Beach

Enough Filibustering

Dear Editor:

Our Constitution states that the Senate has sole power to “advise and consent” on all presidential executive and judicial nominations, as well as treaty approval. In the courts of our republic’s history, a total of 168 filibusters were used to block appointments. This “obstruct and delay” tactic is part of Senate rule number 22. The rule states that 60 votes are needed to invoke cloture, pass legislation and approve appointments. Both parties, when in the minority, have used this rule. Folks, now we understand why the public only has a 9% approval of Congress. However, during Barack Obama’s presidency, the Republicans filibustered 82 of the 168 times. It is a well-known fact that Senate and House Republicans have a history of disliking big government. This is why they used this rule to obstruct filling vacancies. The problem reached the boiling point when 93 judicial vacancies were held up for two years. Three of these are on the Circuit Court of Appeals for D.C. Congress authorized this court to have 11 judges. Obama nominated three replacements. GOP

blocked confirmation because this would give Democrats an edge on the D.C. court. Justice delayed is justice denied. This GOP tactic prompted Sen. Harry Reid, majority leader, to say, “Enough is enough!” The Senate took a historic step to reduce this abusive policy. By a 52 to 48 vote, they used the nuclear option which would strip the right to filibuster only for nominations, not legislation. GOP Senate minority leader, Mitch McConnell (R-KY, called the nuclear option a Democratic “power grab.” Folks, contrast his opinion to that of Sen. Tom Udall (D-NM), a champion of filibuster reform. Udall called this historic Senate action, “a victory for democracy and a return to the Constitution.”

Several Forum critics have written that I like to rant and whine over the same tired liberal talking points and that 90% of my opinions are baseless and lack facts. Folks, let me close my “baseless” letter with the last paragraph from my Forum letter on January 7, 2010 entitled, “End Senate Filibustering.” Twenty-first century America needs to end old parliamentary rules which cause the wheels of govern-ment to turn into a “horse and buggy” era. If we are to compete in today’s global economy, then our Senate must become the “road run-ner” of our century.

Anthony Pilla Forest Hills

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EDITORIALThe stories seem to go on for forever.The home health care aid who lost

thousands of dollars on contractors who left her home mold-ridden. The family that still hasn’t been move back into their house after Sandy destroyed it because a contractor took off with their money after doing almost no renovation work. Another couple, one of whom is fighting a battle with cancer, who are trying to get back tens of thousands of dollars from a contractor who up and left after doing very little of the repairs they agreed on.

After people lost almost everything the owned - homes they grew up in, homes they raised their children in, pho-tos and keepsakes and reminders of fam-ily members and friends long gone - they should not have to wage yet another war against corrupt contractors who are ex-ploiting people at one of, if not the most, the most vulnerable times of their lives.

But, so many are - Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder told The Forum this week that more people have called his office about fraudulent contractors than many other issues. Neighbors are hurting. They are exhausted and angry and frustrated to the

point of breaking.And they want to know what can be

done.So - what can be done? While there are certainly legal bat-

tles that can be fought, they consume

time and money many just do not have. (Though, for those who do need help, New York Legal Assistance Group is cer-tainly worth contacting - they provide free legal services for low-income state residents. Their number is (212) 613-

5000.)There is, however, public shame. Like

the worst landlord list printed online by the city Public Advocate’s office, per-haps there could be something similar for unscrupulous contractors? Whether it’s done by a legislator or a city agency, it would be great if there was a list eas-ily accessible about contractors who have defrauded people.

With that information out there, it could be help individuals looking for contractors and could potentially pres-sure individuals who have stolen from families trying to piece their lives togeth-er after Sandy to work with their former clients to return the funds.

Also, such a resource could help vic-tims connect with one another, allowing them to find out how others are coping - legally and emotionally.

After finding their houses essentially gone after Sandy, their lives torn apart, many of their jobs lost, people should not have to fight the people meant to get them back into the places they once called home - but, if they do, they should not have to do it alone.

Thought you could get away with stealing? Think again.


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By Anna Gustafson

In a far cry from the chaos that has erupt-ed at Community Board 9 meetings in re-cent months, the group’s gathering this week was, as noted by board officials and audience members alike, smooth sailing.

In lieu of the shouting that often domi-nates meetings, the group instead held quick and orderly votes to reject a city proposal to convert Beverly Road in Kew Gardens into a one-way street and to approve a speed hump on 78 Street between Rockaway and 91st av-enues in Woodhaven.

Whatever the reason the board man-aged to hold its shortest and most functional meeting in months on Tuesday evening - call it holiday cheer, or perhaps just fatigue after board infighting landed the group in numer-ous news headlines, the evening was, mem-bers said, a pleasant turn from a recent his-tory characterized by attempts to oust the organization’s district manager and another board member, as well as an individual re-signing during last month’s meeting over accusations that a member had made anti-Semitic remarks.

After several Kew Gardens residents spoke out against a city proposal to convert Beverly Road to a one-way northbound street from Brevoort Street to Park Lane South and Grenfell Street to a one-way southbound from Onslow Place to 83rd

Avenue from a two-way operation, CB 9 members rejected the plan. Additionally, the board called for the city Department of Transportation to conduct a compre-hensive traffic study of the neighborhood, which residents said is plagued by speeding drivers.

Kew Gardens Civic Association President Murray Berger said his group was unani-mously opposed to the plan, arguing that it seemed to be more about solely expediting

traffic than “with neighborhood concerns.”Renee Levine, also of the Kew Gardens

Civic Association, agreed.“We can’t do this piecemeal,” she said of

traffic changes in the area. “We need a com-prehensive study on what’s going on with traffic in this area.”

Board members also unanimously ap-proved a speed hump on 78 Street between Rockaway and 91st avenues after a number of Woodhaven residents spoke in favor of it,

including Woodhaven Residents’ Block Asso-ciation Communications Director Alex Blen-kinsopp and Greater Woodhaven Develop-ment Corporation Executive Director Maria Thomson.

Also during the meeting, a representative from Assemblyman Mike Miller’s (D-Wood-haven) office announced that the legislator met with Queens Parks Commissioner Doro-thy Lewandowski “to make sure cameras are installed at Forest Park.”

Miller has allocated $250,000 for security cameras at Forest Park, which has been the site of a number of sexual attacks, and his rep-resentative said working with the Parks De-partment instead of the NYPD would make it easier to ensure that the money would go towards surveillance that would definitely be at Forest Park. There were concerns that the NYPD would place cameras in areas other than Forest Park.

Richmond Hill High School Parent Teacher Association President Vishnu Ma-hadeo said at the meeting that he and other parents are urging Mayor-elect Bill de Blasio to void a recent city Panel for Educational Policy vote that approved the transfer of Richmond Hill HS students from an annex to a trailer.

“We are hoping a good relationship with our new mayor will mean plans for Rich-mond Hill High School won’t go through,” Mahadeo said.

Anna Gustafson/The Forum Newsgroup Community Board 9's Tuesday night meeting at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center was the group's most orderly gathering in months.

After Months of Infighting, CB 9 Changes its Tune




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The NYPD rolled out an interactive map last weekend, allowing residents to, with a click of the mouse, see how their neighbor-hood fares when it comes to felony crimes.

The online document was released Sun-day in response to a City Council bill that passed earlier this year requiring the city to maintain a map that “visually displays the aggregate monthly, yearly and year-to-date totals for the current and most recent prior calendar years for each class of crime that is reporting to the New York City Police De-partment, or for which an arrest was made, including crimes that occurred in parks and subway stations.”

Created by the city Department of In-formation Technology and Telecommuni-cations, the map offers statistics for each precinct on seven major crime categories: Murder, rape, robbery, felony assault, bur-glary, grand larceny, and grand larceny auto.

“With unprecedented population levels, New York City is safer than ever, with homi-cides on pace this year to fall below historic lows,” NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly said in a prepared statement. “This administration has relied on data to drive its crime fighting, and this map helps enhance New Yorkers’ and researchers’ understanding of where felony and violent crime persists.”

The website provides felony crime infor-mation for the prior calendar year, current year and by month within the current year. The map was built using crime data as reported to the NYPD - crime statistics by precinct have been available on the NYPD’s website since 2003 and are updated weekly online.

The Department of Information Technol-ogy and Telecommunications “employs inno-vative technology to improve the accessibility of critical public information,” Chief Informa-tion and Innovation Officer Rahul Merchant said in a prepared statement. “The interactive crime map builds on report data and presents it visually in neighborhoods across the five boroughs, keeping the public informed about what is going on in their community.”

The public can search basic data on felony crime occurrence by address, zip code, or po-lice precinct. The map displays crimes at the nearest street segment or intersection to the report location.

So, for example, when residents search for information regarding the 106th Precinct, which covers such neighborhoods as How-ard Beach, Lindenwood and Ozone Park, the map will display that there have so far been 179 felony crimes reported in the area and that there are 1.462 crimes per 1,000 resi-dents in an area of 122,441 residents. That is higher than many of the nearby Queens pre-cincts, with the map reporting that there are 1.227 crimes per 1,000 residents in the 102nd Precinct - which covers such areas as Wood-haven, Richmond Hill and Kew Gardens. There have been 177 felony crimes docu-mented in the 102nd, which has a population of about 144,213 people.

In the 112th Precinct, which covers For-est Hills and Rego Park, the interactive docu-ment reports there are 0.5800 crimes per 1,000 residents; there have been 65 crimes re-ported so far in an area of 112,070 residents.

The 104th Precinct, which includes Mas-peth, Middle Village, Glendale, and Ridge-wood, has had 151 felony crimes reported this year, and there are about 0.89 crimes per 1,000 residents - in a precinct with 170,190 people.

To see the map, go to maps.nyc.gov/crime.

File Photo NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly, pictured at left with Mayor Bloomberg , said a new interactive crime map will make it easier for residents to access safety data about their respective neighborhoods.

NYPD Rolls Out Interactive Crime Map

A Queens school van driver has been charged with initiating and conducting an on-going sexually explicit conversations with a person he had met online and who he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, but in actuality she was a NYPD undercover detective assigned to the Vice Enforcement Division.

Elliot B. Provda, a 38-year-old Manhattan man, whose job includes driving six children – ranging in age from six to thirteen – to school in a private mini-van, has been charged with first-degree attempted dissemination of indecent material to minors and attempted endangering the welfare of a child.

Provda, an independent delivery man, was hired by several parents to pick up their children and drop them off at a private religious school in Manhattan.

According to the charges, an NYPD vice de-tective was operating in his undercover persona as a 14-year-old girl from Queens on multiple occasions between October 1, 2013, and De-cember 4, 2013, during which time he allegedly received numerous instant messages from Prov-da, who used the screen name [email protected]. Provda’s messages were allegedly graphic and sexual in nature and included an invitation to meet for sexual activity in Queens.

He was arrested after police executed a court-authorized search warrant at his residence and recovered the cell phone whose number he had allegedly provided to the undercover vice detective in his instant messages.

He faces up to four years in prison if con-victed, was ordered held on bail and will return to court on December 23, 2013.

Queens School Van Driver Charged In Internet Sex Sting


By Phil Corso

The rules were clear as Woodhaven residents filed into their block association’s public forum Monday evening.

“We want to hear from the Woodhaven residents first,” said Alex Blenkinsopp, the Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association’s communications director, as members scrawled their names onto the speakers list.

The association invited all Woodhaven denizens to the Emanuel United Church of Christ Tuesday night to sound off regard-ing proposals for a set of abandoned rail-road tracks that once ran from Rockaway to Rego Park. The debates of the night cen-tered around two key plans, which includ-ed either transforming a piece of the land along the tracks into a 3.5-mile public park, known as the QueensWay, or revitalizing the old rail line that has fallen into disrepair after the city abandoned it more than five decades ago.

“It’s a difficult situation,” Maria Thom-son, executive director of the Woodhaven Business Improvement District and the Greater Woodhaven Development Cor-poration, said during the hour-long public forum. “Security is not guaranteed because police cannot be everywhere in the pre-cinct.”

Thomson’s security concerns were echoed throughout the evening as one of the community’s most important priorities in either of the two proposals.

“Either way, I say leave Woodhaven out of the equation,” Thomson said. “It’s going to do nothing for us.”

Some of those in attendance argued that any new attraction in their enclave of south-

ern Queens would attract unwanted atten-tion and make the area less secure.

Though most residents at the meeting were steadfast against a new railway, the new park proposal seemed to garner a bit more support from some of the speakers.

Twenty-five year Woodhaven native Ru-ben Ramales was one of those speakers.

“Forest Park needs more money and could benefit from something like this,” Ra-males said of the QueensWay, which would run through part of Forest Park. “It could bring more money to the precinct and may-be more people, which is not necessarily a bad thing. We should be proud of exposing Woodhaven to other people.”

The Friends of QueensWay group has long been at the forefront of the parkland

proposal, and a spokesman said it would un-doubtedly improve the borough’s standing for the 250,000 residents in the area.

“When completed, the 3.5-mile Queen-sWay will improve quality of life, create much-needed park space and generate new economic benefits for the residents, work-ers, visitors and businesses in the borough of Queens,” said Friends of the QueensWay Steering Committee member Travis Terry.

Frank Notaro also spoke more favorably about the Queensway plan, arguing that if given an ultimatum between a new park and revived railroad line, he would go park.

“Think about it. If we lose the greenway, it’s definitely going to be a railroad,” Notaro said in front of the packed meeting room.

Blenkinsopp, however, was not as big

a fan of any new parkland. Though he re-marked about the recurring issue of neigh-borhood security acting as a common ground between both sides of the debate, he said there were other issues the city needed to address.

“I don’t see why we should expand the greenway when we already have a greenway that isn’t secured,” he said in reference to Forest Park.

Ed Wendell, the association’s president, said Woodhaven residents were promised a more official forum to voice their concerns. But what they got instead were various workshop meetings in which their ques-tions were not addressed, he said.

“It’s so important that we have a public forum like this,” he said. “You need to hear what other people have to say.”

And now that some residents were given what Wendell deemed an adequate avenue to express their concerns, WRBA members were left hoping they were being listened to.

Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Wood-haven) sat alone near the back of the room for most of the evening but left about half-way through the hour-long forum.

Earlier this year, Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Beach) an-nounced an impending a feasibility study with help from the Queens College Urban Studies Department. The college agreed to provide grant money to conduct the study along with anywhere between $50,000 and $100,000 from the state.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo also rolled out an additional $467,000 in grant money, giving the go-ahead to the Trust for Public Land to conduct a study of its own, though that study will focus solely on the greenway.

Phil Corso/The Forum NewsgroupWoodhaven Residents' Block Association President Ed Wendell addresses the crowd gathered for his group's meeting Monday on the proposals for the long abandoned Rockaway Beach Rail Line.

Woodhaven Speaks Up Against Railway Plans

By Phil Corso

Dominick Totino has been living life behind the lens for more than 20 years, but he had to step in front of one this time around after some of his iconic Queens photos were fea-tured at Resorts World Casino New York City in South Ozone Park.

The Rockaway Boulevard ca-sino unveiled the new photo exhibit last Wednesday dubbed, “Iconic Queens: Nature and Culture Col-lide,” showcasing Totino’s work from across the borough.

A sprawling display of 16 dif-ferent shots inside the building’s Times Square Casino Level atrium shed the spotlight on some of the area’s most visual heavy-hitters in-cluding the famous Queens Uni-sphere, Jamaica Bay wild refuge, the Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge, the Rockaways, shots of the U.S. Open and more.

Totino walked up and down the wall showcasing his work tell-ing friends and admirers how he never expected to see his pictures showcased in such a way at the new southern Queens casino.

“I just thought they were look-ing for pictures Queens,” he said. “Next thing I know, I’ve got an ex-hibit going on. You just look at it and you know you’re in Queens”

But it seemed as if they picked the right guy for the job, seeing as two of his more recent photography jobs included the likes of Queens Borough presidents Claire Shulman and her successor Helen Marshall.

“I’ve worked with Danny for

years,” said Resorts World Public Relations Director Michelle Stod-dart. “I knew he had all these im-ages to offer and thought it would be great to feature them.”

Resorts World staffers said Toti-no’s love for the borough was easily translated through his photography after growing up in Queens. The photographer said he started shoot-ing professionally in 1990 and nev-er looked back. His work has since

made its way across the borough, city and beyond.

He even said he has a gigantic picture of the Queensboro Bridge lining the wall of room 200 inside of Kew Gardens’ Borough Hall.

“It never dawned on me that I was going to be a photographer,” Totino said. “Now I can say I’ve covered crisscross the entire bor-ough a thousand times.”

Now a Whitestone resident, To-

tino was seen hard at work – even at his own exhibit – shooting the new Resorts World holiday display near its front entrance.

“I like shooting. I like putting it all out there,” Totino said. “I do what I do because I love it.”

Stoddart said the exhibit would remain on display until February to make way for another upcoming display in honor of Black History month.

Resorts World Puts Boro Photographer in the Spotlight

Phil Corso/The Forum Newsgroup Dominick Totino's photos at a newly unveiled exhibit at Resorts World help to tell the story of Queens.

The photos displayed in the "Iconic Queens: Nature and Culture Collide" exhibit include shots of the iconic World's Observation Fair Towers in Flushing Meadows Corona Park and Citi Field.


By Bianca Fortis

While planning out presents this month, consider making a special gift to one of the many local charities that are working to bring happy holidays to individuals in need.

Food PantriesFood pantries are always in

need of food. But recently the fed-eral government cut funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, meaning more families are visiting the pantries. Considering donating to one of the many pantries located in Queens to help curb food insecurity during the holidays.

The River Fund riverfund-ny.org 718-441-1125 89-11 Lefferts Blvd., Richmond Hill, N.Y. 11418

Hour Children hourchildren.org718-433-4724 13-07 37th AveLong Island City, N.Y. 11101

Apostolic Christian Fellowship Temple: 718-337-1671, 333 Beach 32nd St., #1d - Queens, NY - 11691

ToysCatholic Charities Brooklyn

and QueensCatholic Charities is collecting

toys and gift cards at its community

centers. New unwrapped gifts can be dropped off in Queens at 23-40 Asto-ria Blvd. in Astoria. Cash donations are also accepted and can be submit-ted online or can be mailed to:

Catholic Charities Toy Drive, Office of Development191 Joralemon StreetBrooklyn, N.Y. 11201Catholic Charities is also working

to provide warm clothing, food and other support to those in need during the holidays.

Secret Sandy Claus Project

For the second year in a row, the Secret Sandy Claus Project is working to deliver toys to New York children who were affected by Hur-ricane Sandy. More than 1,000 kids have signed up to received presents. For more information, visit www.go-fundme.com/sandyclaus. The cam-paign is working to reach a goal of $12,000 and is currently at just over $10,000. Tax-deductible donations can be submitted through the web-site or mailed to:

Secret Sandy Claus Projectc/o Michael Sciaraffo, 2227 East

1st Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11223

Toys may be dropped off at the Kew Gardens Cinemas at 81-05 Lefferts Blvd., Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder’s offices at 108-14 Cross Bay Blvd. or 214 96 St. in Rockaway, Councilman Eric Ulrich’s offices at 93-06 101 Ave. in Ozone Park or 115-06 Beach Channel Drive in Rockaway, and state Sen. Joe Addabbo’s offices at 159-53 102 St. in Howard Beach or 66-85 73rd Pl. in Middle Village.

WIC ProgramToys for small children are being

collected for low-income families who are enrolled in the Women and Infant Children Food Assistance Program. The toys will be handed out to infants and children up to age 5 at their holiday party on Dec. 20 at 857 Onderdonk Ave. Gifts should be wrapped and include a note indicat-ing whether the gift is for a boy or girl and an age range.

Coats and ClothingDress for SuccessThis international organization

provides economically disadvantaged women with business attire and ca-reer development training. Dress for Success accepts clothing and mon-etary donations.

The Queens Branch of Dress for Success

is located at: 114-14 Jamaica Avenue, Richmond Hill, N.Y. 11418, 718-805-2488, dressforsuccess.org

Warm Coats & Warm Hearts DriveEach year the Burlington Coat

Factory holds its annual Warm Coats & Warm Hearts Drive in partnership with ABC’s Good Morning America and the non-profit organization One Warm Coat. Coats are collected and distributed to help make sure every-one stays warm during the winter.

Burlington Coat Factory96-05 Queens Blvd.Rego Park, N.Y. 11374

PetsMayor’s Alliance for NYC’s AnimalsNow through Dec. 31, donations

made to the Mayor’s Alliance Wheels of Hope initiative, which works to save pets from euthanasia, will be matched dollar for dollar by two anonymous foundations.

Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals animalalliancenyc.org212-252-2350244 Fifth Ave., Suite R290New York, N.Y. 10001

Photo Courtesy Secret Sandy Claus ProjectThe Secret Sandy Claus Project is collecting toys for children affected by Hurricane Sandy.

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FORUM CHRISTMAS:YOUR PETS

Giving Pets As GiftsGood Choice or Not?

Page 16

All Dressed Up Readers Share Holiday Pet Shots

Page 17

And The Winner Is...Page 18


As the holiday season draws closer and kids of all ages begin working up their wish lists, parents are commonly greeted with requests for a family pet – everything from lizards and rats to dogs and cats. Th ere’s no doubt that pets can be fantastic holiday gift s for children. In fact, research shows that having animals in the house reinforces children’s self-esteem, pro-motes social skills and helps them to develop responsibility, nurturance and competence.

While animals can have a positive impact on the entire family, the decision to introduce a pet – even a single goldfi sh – to the household re-quires careful thought and thoughtful planning. In fact, many animal shelters and pet stores do not allow pets – particularly cats and dogs – to be adopted or purchased during the holiday season because so many of them end up being returned when the novelty wears off and the on-going responsibilities become obvious.

If you’re considering purchasing or adopt-ing a pet for your children this holiday season, start by asking yourself two basic, but essential questions: Are the children ready to have an animal in the household? And are the adult members of the household able and willing to provide for the animal’s needs?

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASP-

CA), children under age 10 may love the idea of having a pet, but are too young to be given responsibility for their care and feed-ing. Younger children tend to do bett er with smaller pets, such as guinea pigs, gerbils and goldfi sh – animals that don’t bite and require relatively litt le att ention. Older children – preteens and teens – are not only very inter-ested in animals, but are ready to handle the responsibility of seeing that their needs are met. However, parental oversight is still re-quired to ensure that older children are fol-lowing through on their responsibilities and that pets have adequate food and water, and that their cages or litt er boxes are clean.

It’s important to remember that even when a pet “belongs” to a child, parents are the ones who buy the pet food, pay the veteri-nary bills and are ultimately responsible for the pet’s well-being.

If your child has his or her heart set on a pet this holiday season, but you’re not sure the timing is right, the ASPCA and the Humane Society of the United States suggest a two-stage process. First, purchase some of the sup-plies the pet will need (feeding bowls, toys, a pet bed, etc.) to give your child as gift s. Th en, when everyone is ready and there is a plan in place for the animal’s care, the family can choose their new pet together.

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It’s the time of year when people make resolutions to be a better and healthier version of themselves. So why not make resolutions that will mutu-ally benefit you and your pet? Here are some ideas to help you and yours have the best year yet.

• Eat more fresh food. This may seem like an easy resolution. However, it takes time and preparation. For hu-mans, this means incorporating more fruits and veggies into your diet while for pets this means ensuring that their pet food uses ingredients such as fresh turkey, salmon and duck, fresh omega 3 and 6 oils (from coconuts and canola), wholesome berries and fruits and veg-etables like peas, spinach and carrots. Now Fresh premium petfood by Pet-

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• Get more exercise. Did you know pets can decrease our blood pres-sure and cholesterol levels and increase our opportunities for exercise, outdoor activities and socialization? Exercising together will not only help optimize your health but also allow you to spend more time together.

• Use that agenda. This doesn’t seem like a resolution, but sometimes making a plan is the only way reso-lutions will come to life. Most of us schedule time for other appointments and meetings, so why not set aside some priority time for pets too?

Dressed Up PetsReaders share photos of their festive pets

The Forum was very happy to see all the photos sent in by our readers for the “Dress Up Your Pet” contest. It was very hard to choose a winner and unfortunately, there could only be one. But we felt that all of our furry friends deserved some limelight! Thanks again to all our participants.

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By Patricia Adams

For nearly 20 years the Little North Pole has been lighting up the streets of Neponsit and the faces of children of all ages. This year was no dif-ferent as a crowd of thousands assembled them-selves for an evening of food, fun, entertain-ment, a sea of lights and extravagant Christmas decorations and, of course, Santa.

Mrs. Santa arrived before her hubby this year, aboard her own brand of sleigh–a 2014 Fire Red Mercedes Benz CLA-250–auctioned off and won by one lucky participant in the raf-fle benefitting the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation ( JDRF), the charity at the heart of the event.

Joe Mure, a criminal defense attorney from Neponsit who also heads up the fundrais-ing for JDRF in Brooklyn and Queens, began transforming his home to help sick kids almost 20 years ago. “Every year it just seems to get more special,” Mure said, “but what never changes is the magic. It’s always there.”

And indeed it may seem like magic–the an-nual fundraiser has netted as much as $175,000 in a year–with all the money being turned over to JDRF. “Everything that you see here rep-resents the generosity of others toward these kids who need us so much.” Mure says that because all of the decorations are supplied by donors, the event is pure profit for the charity.

A host of entertainers took to the stage for a three hour production that included singers and dancers from local sources as well as guest appearances from notable ce-lebrities. Famed radio hosts Joe Causi and Goumba Johnny returned to their posts as emcees for the yearly event.

A cheering crowd welcomed Santa who arrived on the flatbed of a toy truck surround-

ed by elves who threw bag after bag of plush stuffed toys out into the crowd. After climb-ing up onto the stage, Santa took a seat in his big rocking chair and posed for photos and to give out toys to hundreds of kids that waited on line patiently.

And in the end, after the lights had gone down, the music had stopped and the crowds had gone home there remained evi-

dence that Santa really does exist. He had left behind a crew of elves, some on their hands and knees, collecting garbage left by the masses. “Gotta keep the neighbors happy,” elf Joe Mure said with a big smile. And when asked if his efforts and those of his tremendous volunteer force were worth it, he answered, “I have two words for you…Merry Christmas.”

The Little North Pole Lights Up The NightCharity event celebrates 18 years

The Lousie Benes Dancing Studio was among several local dance studios who performed at the event. Steps Ahead and Fazio Dance Studio were also on hand to donate their time.

Photos by Patricia AdamsJoe Mure sits among the thousands he brought together to raise money for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation—still running the show from his cell.

Italian tenor Christopher Macchio showed up to lend a hand. He was joined on stage by the lead singer for the Current Affair for a stirring rendition of The Prayer.

Big Ang and crew stopped by to lend a little holiday cheer. Here they are joined by Annemarie Gurino and daughter Kristina. The Gurino family is one of the local families impacted personally by the disease and are leading supporters of year long efforts to raise money.

Thousands of children of all ages stood in the cold for hours enjoying the entertainment and the spectacular show of lights.

All eyes were upon Joe Mure’s house for the countdown to light up the display which included a Christmas Carousel and a life sized Nativity.

Julie Fazio checks in with DJ Adam to make sure everything was running smoothly.

Mrs. Claus arrived in style on a Mercedes sled. The car was later raffled off as a prize after tickets were sold to raise money for JDRF.

Thousands flocked to witness the neighborhood spectacular entering its 18th year as a fundraising source for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The event is considered one of JDRF's leading fundraisers in the race to find a cure.


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Holiday cheer filled the streets of Wood-haven last Saturday, when the “Welcome Santa to Woodhaven” parade rolled down Jamaica Avenue.

Th e Woodhaven Business Improvement District sponsored the annual event, which drew residents from throughout the neighbor-hood – and beyond – to cheer on Santa and Mrs. Claus, who arrived in their tried and true sleigh, Frosty the Snowman, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. Th e parade, which be-gan at noon, ran along Jamaica Avenue from 100th Street to Dexter Court.

Others marchers included Woodhaven BID Executive Director Maria Thomson, the Franklin K. Lane High School ROTC,

members of the 102nd Police precinct, St. Luke’s Nursery School, and the Forest Park School, among other neighborhood orga-nizations.

The Woodhaven BID has a variety of upcoming holiday activities. Everyone is in-vited to take free pictures with Santa Claus and friends at the Forest Parkway Plaza area on Saturday, Dec. 14, and on Dec. 15 there will be a free trolley ride traveling Jamaica Avenue from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The WBID will again take free pictures with Santa and friends from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Dec. 21.

For more information about the events, visit www.woodhavenbid.com or call (718) 805-0760.

Oh the weather outside was frightful but dozens of residents braved the cold and rain to join in the festivities at the Woodhaven Christ-mas Tree Lighting on Friday evening. Nothing would stop the Woodhaven BID from bring-ing holiday cheer to those brave enthusiasts who were treated to free Santa hats and the fi rst glimpse at a fully lit Christmas tree. Volunteers passed out red and white glow sticks in the crowd, later used in a tribute to all the troops

unable to be home with their families for Christ-mas. Maria Th omson and Stephen Esposito, president of the Woodhaven BID, were joined by elected offi cials on the stage and entertained the crowd with Christmas Caroling and a read-ing of ‘’Twas the Night Before Christmas.”

Santa and Mrs. Claus were also on hand joined by the Christmas Mouse, the Christmas Rabbit, Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.

Woodhaven Lights Tree

Maria Th omson led fellow BIDders and elected offi cials in a Woodhaven rendition of Jingle Bells.Santa and Mrs. Claus braved the rain and got a warm welcome fr om a cold and wet crowd.

Patricia Adams/Th e Forum NewsgroupFinally, the moment everyone was waiting for…

Rain wasn’t enough to dampen the spirits of families who crowded under umbrellas waiting for the countdown to light the tree.

Cheering on Christmas with Woodhaven Parade

Photo Courtesy Giedra KregzdysTh e Woodhaven Residents’ Block Association held a parade watching party to celebrate Saturday’s festivities.

Photos Courtesy Josephine WendellSanta and Mrs. Claus wave to parade goers.Students fr om the Forest Park School march down Jamaica Avenue. St. Luke’s Nursery School got many cheers along the parade route.


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The International Society of SS Cosma and Damiano hosted their annual Christmas Breakfast over the weekend. The well-attended event has members sharing a breakfast buffet and brings smiles to children with special holi-day entertainment and of course, some per-

sonal tie with Santa for a photo and a chance to submit their Christmas list in person.

Each year the Society holds a toy drive in conjunction with the breakfast and distrib-utes all toys collected to children in hospi-tals for Christmas.

By Anna Gustafson

For the hundreds of people who gathered for New York Families for Autistic Children’s annual holiday party in PS 232 in Lindenwood Sunday, the afternoon of festivities was about more than sitting on Santa’s lap and downing cookies: It was a celebration of family.

“It’s about a time we can all come togeth-er and celebrate our children,” said NYFAC President Andrew Baumann said of the 16th annual holiday fete that drew more than 350 people from throughout Queens, as well as other parts of the city.

For much of the afternoon, parents, caretak-ers, and children munched on holiday treats, got their faces painted, gasped at a magician’s tricks – and spent time with hundreds of people whose lives have been touched by NYFAC. A Howard Beach-based nonprofit, NYFAC runs numerous programs for people with autism – a developmental disorder that is often character-ized by social interaction impairment and a gen-eral difficulty with communication. According to federal statistics, about one in 100 children will be diagnosed with autism this year.

“The things they’ve helped me with have made my life so much simpler,” said Maribel

Ramos, who has two sons – Juan and Eze-quiel Cuevas – with autism and who has been involved with NYFAC for about 14 years. “It’s helped my sons to be independent – and helped me to find resources. Being a single par-ent with two sons with autism can be very dif-ficult, and they really helped me.”

Michael McKeon, of Lindenwood, and his wife, Barbara, have also worked with NYFAC for the past 14 years – since their son, Michael, was born.

“They’re very caring,” McKeon said of Bau-mann, Baumann’s wife Pamela – who also helps to run NYFAC, and the other employees at the

nonprofit. “They’ve done a lot with me and my family. Andrew is like a giant Santa Claus.”

More than 30 businesses and organiza-tions helped with the nonprofit’s holiday party, including the Southwest Queens Rotary Club – members of which served the food at the event, Cross Bay Diner, Frank Russo, Jr., Lenny’s Pizzeria, Angelo Gurino of Ragtime Deli, Aldo’s, Ohlert-Ruggiere, the Ozone Park Civic Association, the Queens County Savings Bank, Sapienza Deli, Sugar Bun Bakery, Tony Modica of La Bella Vita, and Girl Scout Troop 4993, among others.

Photos by Anna Gustafson

At NYFAC Holiday Party, A Celebration of Family

Breakfast with Santa International Society of Cosma and Damiano hosts annual event

Juan Cuevas, fron right, and his brother, Ezequiel Cuevas, spend time with Santa, NYFAC President Andrew Baumann, back left, at the nonprofit’s annual holiday party.

Kimberly Gulley and her 4-year-old twin sons, Markus and Markem, have fun at the festivities at PS 232.

Katana, 11, left; Geneva; Briyanna, 10; and Jada, 3, Dunning said they were thrilled to attend the party for NYFAC, for which Geneva works as a receptionist.

Michael McKeon, front left, 14, and Nicholi Constantine, 16, spend time with their families at the holiday party.

NYFAC President Andrew Baumann, front left, NYFAC Program Director Leo Compton, front right, and other revelers ring in the holiday season with Santa.

Patricia Adams/The Forum NewsgroupThe DeCandia family continues to sponsor the International Society of Cosma and Damiano Christmas breakfast at Roma View. Every year, toys are collected and donated to children’s hospitals as part of the Society’s efforts to help children through illness. Pictured are: (back row) Joe, Doreen, Jillian, ( front row), Juliet, Joseph, Santa and Annabelle the Clown.

Annabelle the Clown brought Christmas cheer and surprises to a delighted and captive audience.

The Twelve Days of Christmas came alive with the appearance of Christmas doves.

Although Gianna came with Grandma Teresa, it looks like she’s going home with Rudolph.

THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • December 12, 2013 | 25THE FORUM NEWSGROUP • December 12, 2013 | 25

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By Anna Gustafson

A cold rain could not drive away the holi-day cheer that erupted from the crowd outside the Community United Methodist Church of Middle Village and Forest Hills last Friday, when a tree lighting ceremony drew revel-ers of all ages to usher in the holiday season with Christmas carols, Santa, and a chance to make military troops’ lives brighter.

Dozens of people gathered under tents set up near the Christmas tree in the church’s courtyard at 75-27 Metropolitan Ave. in Middle Village for the festivities sponsored by the Middle Village Chamber of Commerce, the Middle Village Kiwanis Club, and the United Methodist Church of Middle Village and Forest Hills.

As families laughed together under the tents, area Girl Scouts, including Daisies Troop 4412, Brownies Troop 4413, Ju-niors Troop 4943, Cadettes Troop 4611, and Seniors Troop 4742, sang beloved Christmas carols before Santa Claus ar-rived – sans reindeer – for the official tree lighting.

Those who attended the event also do-nated items for military troops as part of Queens Metropolitan High School’s “Op-eration Give Back” program.

“We want those serving us to know they’re remembered,” said Samantha Vi-dal, a Woodhaven resident and Queens Metropolitan senior who launched the Operation Give Back program when she was a freshman.

As part of the initiative, students col-lect everything from body wash and books to canned foods and movies for troops sta-tioned here and abroad.

“We make them cards and decorate their boxes,” said Vidal, who noted she was inspired to start the program in part because she has family members in the U.S. Navy and Marines.

Vidal and her fellow students welcome donations year-round. To find out more information about donating, email Vidal at [email protected].

With Santa and Song, Reveling in Holiday Cheer in Middle Village

Th e crowd sings many a Christmas carol during Friday’s festivities.

Anna Gustafson/Th e Forum NewsgroupGirl Scouts, and residents from throughout Middle Village, gather with Santa for the annual tree lighting ceremony last Friday.

Queens Metropolitan High School senior Samantha Vidal helped to collect donations for military troops at the tree lighting for the program “Operation Give Back,” which she founded as a fr eshman.

Santa spends time handing out goodies and cheer to youngsters thrilled to catch a glimpse of the North Pole resident.


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Th e Christ the King community celebrated the Christmas season at their annual tree light-ing ceremony, which drew more than 200 peo-ple to last Th ursday’s festivities.

Santa was on hand for pictures, and fami-lies enjoyed an indoor “winter wonderland” that was fi lled with games, activities, bouncy castles, and hot chocolate.

Christ the King’s musical theater group entertained the crowd with Christmas carols, and the Christ the King drum band and choir performed as well during the event that many deemed a magical event.

Christ the King Kicks Off Christmas Season with Tree Lighting Ceremony

Photos Courtesy Christ the King High School


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By Anna Gustafson

U.S. Rep. Grace Meng, along with House of Representatives members from New Jersey and Texas, introduced legislation at the end of last week that aims to reduce the number of fraudulent phone calls and texts that millions of Americans constantly receive.

As part of the scheme, false names and phones numbers are displayed on the recipi-

ents’ caller IDs in an attempt to trick them into answering the phone or replying to text mes-sages.

Known as “spoofing,” the practice has been widely used by scammers and unscrupulous telemarketers. By disguising numbers and iden-tities to make the calls appear legitimate, the fraudsters can then obtain personal or financial information by misrepresenting themselves as, for example, government agencies, hospitals, banks, pharmacies, and credit card companies.

The problem has plagued people across the country, and police in Queens have noted it is quickly becoming a big problem in the borough.

“The purpose of caller ID is to know the identity of the person who is calling or texting you, but all too often, then name and number that is displayed is not the actual name and number of the caller or texter,” said Meng, who introduced the Anti-Spoofing Act along with U.S. Reps. Joe Barton (R-TX) and Leonard Lance (R-NJ). “Unfortunately, it’s often some telemarketers attempting to pull a fast one or con artists trying to rip off unsuspecting recipi-ents, especially seniors. It’s time to finally stop this outrageous and deceitful practice, and our legislation would go a long way toward putting an end to it.”

In 2009, Congress passed the Truth in Call-er ID Act, which prohibits caller ID spoofing when it is used to defraud or harm Americans. However, spoofing technology has evolved since the law was enacted and criminals have found ways to circumvent it.

File Photo U.S. Rep. Grace Meng is sponsoring legislation that would crack down on phone scammers attempting to access personal or financial information by misrepresenting themselves as, for example, government agencies or banks.

Meng Bill Targets Phone Scammers

The Lions Club International conducted a training for about 40 teachers from 10 schools last Thursday and Friday at La Bella Vita Ca-terers in Ozone Park as part of an effort help young people develop positive commitments to their families, schools, peers, and communi-ties.

Known as the city schools Lions Quest teacher training, the program also focused on how to encourage students to live healthy, drug-free lives.

The free training was provided through a grant from Lions Club International Districts 20-K1 and 20-R2 to help schools meet un-funded mandates from the state.

The Lions Quest curriculum began after the Queens Pride Lions Club convinced the

city Department of Education to work with Lions Clubs - community service groups that do a wide variety of volunteer work through-out the world - to conduct the training and get it funded.

From forming positive decision making and citizenship skills to cultivating an ethic of service to others, the curriculum also assists schools in meeting the requirements of the Dignity for All Students Act - legislation that went into effect in July 2012 which intends to give students an educational environment free from discrimination and harassment. It protects against all forms of harassment, par-ticularly those based on a student’s race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, disability, sexual orientation, or gender.

Photo Courtesy The Lions QuestAbout 40 public school teachers gathered at La Bella Vita in Ozone Park last week to undergo training sponsored by The Lions Club International.

Lions Club Sponsors Teacher Training

in Ozone Park



WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

OUR CHRISTMAS DINNER MENU All dinners include a Glass of Wine, Choice of Appetizer, Cup of Soup, Choice of Caeser, Tossed or Greek Salad, Potato, Fresh Vegetable, Coffee, Tea or Soda and Dessert.

APPETIZERS • FRIED CALAMARI • ZUCCHINI STICKS • STUFFED CLAMS • STUFFED MUSHROOMS • FRESH FRUIT SALAD • MOZZARELLA STICKS • BUFFALO WINGS • SHRIMP COCKTAIL $5.95 EXTRA

ENTREES • ROAST TURKEY White Meat over Apple and Raisin Stuf ng covered with Creamy Turkey Gravy .................$26.95 • ROASTED LEG OF LAMB with oven brown potatoes & vegetables ......................................$26.95 • ROAST LOIN OF PORK. ...............................$25.95 • ROAST PRIME RIB OF BEEF........................$30.95 • VIRGINIA HAM STEAK HAWAIIAN STYLE..$25.95• YANKEE POT ROAST with potato pancakes & red cabbage ..................................................$25.95

SEAFOOD• BROILED FILET OF SOLE ...........................$28.95 • BROILED SCROD .........................................$28.95 • BROILED WHOLE FLOUNDER ....................$28.95

• BROILED TWIN LOBSTER TAILS (8 OZ). ...$45.95 • BROILED FILET OF TILAPIA .......................$27.95 • BROILED OR POACHED FILET OF SALMON ...$28.95 • BROILED DEEP SEA SCALLOPS................$28.95 • BROILED JUMBO SHRIMP SCAMPI .............28.95

PASTA & SAUTEE DISHES • CHICKEN TORTELLINI Sautéed Chicken Breast with Mushrooms Cheese Tortellini in a Cream Sauce .................$26.45 • CHICKEN FRANCAISE Breast of Chicken in White Wine Sauce ...........$26.45 • CHICKEN MARSALA Sautéed Breast of Chicken with Fresh Sliced Mushrooms in a Marsala Wine Sauce .............$26.45 • CHICKEN CORDON BLEU Breast of Chicken with Imported Prociutto, Swiss Cheese Sautéed in a Creamy White Wine Sauce .............$26.45 • CHICKEN TERIYAKI Breast of Chicken with Onions, Peppers, Zucchini, Broccoli, Watercress, Baby Corn, Sliced Carrots in a Teriyaki Sauce ..................................................$26.45 • VEAL MARSALA Sautéed Veal with Mushrooms in a Marsala Sauce .. $27.95 • VEAL CORDON BLEU Veal with Imported Prosciutto, Swiss Cheese Sauteed in a Creamy White Wine Sauce ........................$27.95 • VEAL PICCATA Sautéed Veal with Artichokes, Capers in a White Wine Sauce .....................................$27.95

• SEAFOOD FRA DIAVLO Sautéed Shrimps, Scallops, Mussels and Calamari in a Spicy Red Sauce ........................$32.95 • FILET OF SOLE FRANCAISE Sautéed in a Lemon Butter White Wine Sauce ....$28.95 • LOBSTER TAILS (2) Fra Diablo in a Spicy Red Sauce,over your choice of Pasta .................................$45.95

– Whole Wheat Pasta Available –

STEAKS & CHOPS • CERTIFIED ANGUS BROILED NY Cut Sirloin Steak. ........................................$33.95 • CERTIFIED ANGUS Rib Eye Steak ...................................................$35.95 • CERTIFIED ANGUS Porterhouse Steak ............................................$36.95 • CERTIFIED ANGUS Char-Broiled Roumanian Steak ........................$30.95 • BROILED PORK CHOPS (2).........................$24.95 • CHAR-BROILED SPRING LAMB CHOPS (3) .............................$33.95

CHILDREN’S MENU Burger w/Fries, Chicken Fingers w/Fries, Grilled Cheese w/Fries, Spaghetti w/Meatball, Hot Dog w/French Fries, Mac and Cheese, Roast Turkey or Roast Beef w/Mashed Potatoes.

All Children’s menu items include Small Beverage and Choice of Any Dessert $12.95

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Ave Maria Catholic Academy's

Christmas 2013 EventDecember 15th and 19th

9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Featuring items from the following vendors:

For information please contact Doreen DeCandia 718-757-2728 or Michelle Soriano 917-304-9924,

Ave Maria Catholic Academy, 158-20 101st Street • Howard Beach

• Bella Beads• Tracies on line Boutique• Salon 57 Boutique• Sorelli Designs• Victoria Cake Pops• Tastefully Simple• Baby G's• Unique Boutique• Red Gems• Marilenas Pampered Chef

• Itty Bitty Posh• Kaaj• Mac Makeup by Terri• Many Masons.com• Oragami Owl• Stella and Dot• The Sugar Body Shop • Fran Amores Creations• Jessicas Coffee• Vitas Precious Creations

• Kristens Bags and accessories• Debbi Best and Co.• Tellili Bowtique• AMCA Christmas Shop• Sylvanias Gifts• Esthetics by Sandra Velandia• Chic n Shine • Michelle's Body Wrap

By Bianca Fortis

The New York City Council on Tuesday ap-proved a plan to rezone 530 blocks in Ozone Park, giving the final stamp of approval need to implement far-reaching and long-awaited changes that area leaders and residents said will help to maintain the neighborhood's character while funneling business to the appropriate cor-ridors.

The plan, which updates zoning maps that have not been altered since 1961, was undertak-en in response to concerns raised by Commu-nity Boards 9 and 10 and others that the current zoning does not reflect existing building pat-terns. It is the second largest rezoning approved during the 12 years that Mayor Bloomberg has led the city.

Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park), an Ozone Park native who has been at the fore-front of the rezoning, said he was proud to vote Tuesday.

“The new zoning enacted into law today will protect Ozone Park from overdevelopment and help create a more livable neighborhood,” he said in a statement. “It will also spur new mod-est development, especially in the commercial districts, thereby creating jobs and increasing property values.”

According to the Department of City Plan-ning, recent building trends have lead to the de-molition of traditional detached one- and two-family homes.

In their stead developers have built semi-

detached, attached and multi-family buildings.Current zoning rules also do not separate

major corridors from residential streets, so re-cent development has not occurred in commer-cial areas.

The area to be updated is bounded by Rock-away Boulevard, Atlantic Avenue and 101st Av-enue to the north; the Queens-Brooklyn border to the west, the Belt Parkway to the south; and the Van Wyck Expressway and Lefferts Boule-vard to the east.

There are three goals for the changes: re-

inforce the residential character and current building patterns in the neighborhood, direct some new resident and mix-used development to major corridors and mass transit hubs and prevent commercial encroachment into resi-dential areas.

Some increased development is expected along the three commercial corridors included in the rezoning: Rockaway Boulevard, 101st Av-enue and Liberty Avenue.

Ulrich has previously said city planners painstakingly studied the neighborhood block

to block to make sure the proposed rezoning ac-curately reflected the area.

The City Council’s approval marks the final stage in a months-long review process that in-volved Community Boards 9 and 10, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and the City Planning Commission.

"The City Council's approval of our rezoning plan for Ozone Park is the culmination of an ef-fort that has been long sought by the local com-munity, and it will provide a framework for more orderly and sustainable growth for the neighbor-hood," Bloomberg said in a prepared statement. "This important milestone, which represents the second largest rezoning initiative we have under-taken in the last 12 years, punctuates our tremen-dous efforts to ensure development is consistent with the character of neighborhoods, while at the same time fostering new business and hous-ing opportunities near mass transit links."

On Tuesday Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica), who also represents part of the rezoned area, said the plan takes a balanced ap-proach to ensure the one and two-family dis-tinctive characters native to South Ozone Park remain in place.

“Out-of-character structures and overde-velopment has become far too common in our communities,” he said. “That is why it was important that we undertook these aggressive measures to protect the integrity of our neigh-borhoods.”

Marshall said the rezoning will help protect vulnerable blocks within the neighborhood.

Photo Courtesy William Alatriste/NYC CouncilCouncilman Eric Ulrich speaks about the massive Ozone Park rezoning that was approved by the City Council on Tuesday - the final step needed in order for the plan to be implemented.

Massive Ozone Park Rezoning Lands Stamp of Approval from City Council


SOLUTIONS FROM LAST WEEK'S PUZZLE

TRIVIA

Answers from Last Week: 1: 'The Ballbreaker Suite.' 2: Angels with Filthy Souls. 3: A one-year subscription to a jelly-of-the-month club. 4: Syrup.

SUDOKU

CROSSWORD

1. Which country was the first to use the tradition of Christmas trees?

2. Which American President banned Christmas trees in The White House? 3. Which popular Christmas food was an American invention?

4. Who helps Santa Claus in making his gifts?

ACROSS1. Fire or passion6. *Yule firewood9. Winston Churchill's "_ ___ Coun-try"13. France's longest river14. 401(k) alternative15. Squirrel's stash16. Wake Island, e.g.17. Official18. Indian restaurant yogurt staple19. *Cratchit's boss21. *Typical holiday guests23. Duffer's goal24. *"Go ____ it on the Mountain"25. Prime time ruler28. It can be crunched30. Pass on35. Caught outside?37. "Cheers" regular39. Ma Bell, e.g.40. Backward arrow command41. Iraqi money43. Andean land44. Utopian46. Drawn in sand47. Petitions48. Sluggish50. Back talk52. "Comprende?"53. "Gee!"55. Flightless and down under57. Potpourri bag60. *Pan-African celebration64. Sober Ness65. Tropical American cuckoo67. Walk clumsily68. Mother ____, pl.69. Summer glow70. Vasily Alekseyev's weight71. ____ a cold72. Finish73. Investment

DOWN1. "Sad to say..."2. Campus military org.3. Last name in fashion4. Lowest deck5. Load again6. Italian money, 1861-20027. Bauxite, e.g.8. Blooper9. Smoothie berry10. *Popular tinsel material in 20th Century11. Bohemian12. Biochemistry abbr.15. Arm decoration20. $1,00022. Matterhorn, e.g.24. Sully25. *Holiday cake filler26. "No ___ __"27. *Hot serving, archaic29. Hard work31. Sales force32. Intestinal obstruction33. Rocks at mountain base34. *Gingerbread sculpture36. Sold in bars38. Supernatural life force42. Stitch again45. *Hanukkah's eight49. *Rudolph's Clarice, e.g.51. Slaps54. HI, e.g.56. Without illumination57. ___ gin fizz58. Campaign worker59. College girl60. Warm-hearted61. "J'accuse" author62. Run ____63. Cathedral area64. *Holiday shelf watcher66. A Bobbsey twin

FORUM FUN & GAMES


Thursday, December 12Our Lady of Guadalupe Art Show

Gear Art Gallery 61-08 Myrtle Ave., Glendale10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

All are welcome to this free art show from outsider artist Joseph Gagliano, whose work often has religious themes.

For more information, please call (718) 386-2812.

Howard Beach Senior Center Art Class

155-55 Crossbay Blvd.The Howard Beach Senior Center will offer art classes with a certified teacher from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., as well as from

12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.All individuals age 60 and older are welcome to attend.

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

Exercise at Ridgewood Older Adult Center

59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Seniors age 60 and older are welcome to attend the one-hour Richard Simmons exercise activity each Thursday beginning at

10:30 a.m. For more information, please call Karen at the center at (718) 456-2000.

Friday, December 13Howard Beach

Senior Center Bridge155-55 Crossbay Blvd.

The Howard Beach Senior Center offers a variety of bridge playing experiences. There is supervised bridge on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and duplicate bridge is offered on

Fridays from 12:45 p.m. to 2:45 p.m.The Howard Beach Senior Center is now located across from Waldbaums on Cross Bay Boulevard and is open to anyone 60

or older.For more information, call (718) 738-8100.

Yoga in Howard BeachHoward Beach Senior Center

155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend yoga with

Charlie Roemer every Friday morning.For more information, call the center at (718) 738-8100.

Yoga at Ridgewood Older Adult Center

59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Seniors age 60 and older are welcome to attend a yoga class

with Rosemarie Augoustatos every Friday.For more information,

please call Karen at the center at (718) 456-2000.

Saturday, December 14Santa Visits Ozone Park

Ozone Howard Little League Hall97-14 135 Dr., Ozone Park 11 a.m.

The Ozone Park Civic Association invites everyone to come take pictures with Santa and receive a free gift. Don’t forget to bring

your own camera.Those attending should use the entrance on Centreville Street

and 149th Avenue.For more information, call (646) 298-7575.

Pictures with Santa in Woodhaven

Forest Parkway PlazaJamaica Avenue and Forest Parkway 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The Woodhaven Business Improvement District invites everyone to take free pictures with Santa Claus and his holiday friends at

the Forest Parkway Plaza area.For more information,

visit www.woodhavenbid.com or call (718) 805-0760.

Sunday, December 15Ave Maria Catholic Academy

Christmas Fair158-20 101st St., Howard Beach 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Finish off your holiday shopping at Ave Maria’s Christmas fair, which will feature a wide variety of items from dozens of vendors. The following vendors will be at the event: Bella Beads, Tracies online Boutique, Salon 57 Boutique, Sorelli Designs, Victoria Cake Pops, Tastefully Simple, Baby G’s, Unique Boutique, Red Gems, Marilenas Pampered Chef, Itty Bitty Posh, Kaaj, Mac Makeup by Terri, Many Masons.com, Oragami Owl, Stella and Dot, The Sugar Shop, Fran Amores Creations, Jessicas Coffee, Vitas Precious Creations, Kristens Bags and Accessories, Debbi Best and Co., Tellili Bowtique, AMCA Christmas Shop, Unlimited Boutiques by C&J, Esthetics by Sandra Velandia, Chic n Shine,

and Michell’s Body Wrap.For information, please contact Doreen DeCandia

at (718) 757-2728 or Michelle Soriano at (917) 304-9924.

Free Woodhaven trolleyJamaica Avenue, Woodhaven 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Woodhaven Business Improvement District is sponsoring a free trolley to take holiday shoppers up and down Jamaica

Avenue. For more information, visit www.woodhavenbid.com or call (718) 805-0760.

Holiday Flea Market9 a.m. to 4 p.m. St. Nicholas of Tolentine ChurchParsons Boulevard and Union Turnpike, Jamaica

More than 80 vendors will sell various items at great prices. There is ample parking in the school yard, and the kitchen will

be open all day.

Christmas ConcertThe First Presbyterian Church of Newtown

Queens Boulevard at 54th Avenue, Elmhurst 8 p.m.The First Presbyterian Church of Newtown, newly listed on the National Register of Historic Places, will host an annual Christmas Concert. The church choir will perform with the Harmonious Chorus. Victor Lui and Jonathan Breit will direct, and piano accompaniment will be by Yang Yang and Shirley Ou.There is no charge, but a donation will be collected for badly needed repairs to the church’s present buildings, which date from

1895. The church was founded in 1652.

‘Messiah’ and Christmas FavoritesOur Lady Queen of Martyrs Church

110-06 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills 4 p.m.The Sacred Music Society joins with the Oratorio Society of Queens to perform a concert featuring highlights from the

Christmas portion of Handel’s “Messiah” and other songs of the season. Tickets are $25 for general admission and $10 for

children ages 12 and under.For more information, visit www.queensoratorio.org.

Discussion on Muslim-Jewish Relations

Forest Hills Jewish Center106-06 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills 2 p.m.

Rabbi Marc Schneier and Imam Shamsi Ali will discuss their new book, “Sons of Abraham,” as part of an event titled “Stepping Out

of Comfort Zones: A Discussion on Muslim-Jewish Relations.”Tickets are $15 ahead of time and $20 at the door.

For more information, visit www.cqy.org.

Monday, December 16Share Election Day Experiences

New York Organ Donor Network460 West 34th St., 15 floor, Manhattan 5 p.m.

NYC Votes is calling on city voters to share their 2013 Election Day experiences at the annual public hearing of the Voter

Assistance Advisory Committee.The hearing is intended to solicit feedback that can be used to help improve the voting experience in the city in future elections.To testify, please contact Sabrina Juarez at [email protected] or (212) 306-7417. If you cannot attend in person, you may

submit written testimony to [email protected] hearing will be streamed live online at www.nyccfb.info/live.

Exercise at Ridgewood Older Adult Center

59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Seniors age 60 and older are welcome

to attend the one-hour Richard Simmons exercise activity each Monday beginning at 10:30 a.m.

For more information, please call Karen at the center at (718) 456-2000.

Jewelry Making in RidgewoodRidgewood Older Adult Center

59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.Seniors age 60 and older are welcome to attend a jewelry making

class every Monday.For more information,


Computer Class for SeniorsRidgewood Older Adult Center

59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.Seniors age 60 and older are welcome to attend a computer

class every Monday.For more information,


Tai Chi in Howard BeachHoward Beach Senior Center

155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend the tai chi

classes, taught by Elaine Fleischman.For more information, call the center at (718) 738-8100.

Howard Beach Chair AerobicsHoward Beach Senior Center

155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.All seniors, ages 60 and over, are welcome to attend chair

aerobics with Charlie Roemer.For more information, call the center at (718) 738-8100.

Game Night at Richmond Hill Library118-14 Hillside Ave., Richmond Hill 5 p.m.

Children ages 6 to 12 and their families are invited to the

THE HAPPENINGS

‘A Christmas Carol’ Musical Performance

Christ the King Regional High School 68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 2 p.m.

Christ the King will perform the beloved musical version of “A Christmas Carol,” based on Charles Dickens’ famous novella that tells the story of the miserly Ebenezer Scrooge and his transformation following visits by the Ghosts of

Christmas Past, Present, and Future. For more information,

please visit www.CTKNY.org or call (718) 366-7400.

Saturday, Dec. 14Sunday, Dec. 15


Richmond Hill Library’s game night htat is held every Monday evening. There will be board games, puzzles and Legos.

For more information, call the library at (718) 849-7150.

Tuesday, December 17Pharmacist Seminar in Howard BeachHoward Beach Senior Center

155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 10:30 a.m.Frank Pantina, the pharmacist and owner of Cross Bay Chemist, will conduct a seminar at the Howard Beach Senior Center on

herbs, vitamins and drug interaction.All seniors age 60 and over are invited.

For more information, please call Rosalie at the senior center at (718) 738-8100.

Howard Beach Holiday PartyHoward Beach Senior Center

155-55 Cross Bay Blvd. 1 p.m. All seniors are invited to the Howard Beach Senior Center’s

annual holiday party. There will be dancing to DJ Walter.For more information, call (718) 738-8100.

St. Margaret’s Boy Scout Troop 119 Meeting

St. Margaret’s Parish Hall66-05 79th Place, Middle Village 7:30 to 9 p.m.

St. Margaret’s Boy Scout Troop 119, the oldest boy scout troop in New York City, is looking for new members to join this nearly 70-year-old organization. Boys ages 8.5 through 17 years old are

welcome to join.The troop meets every Tuesday evening from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information, please call Charles Krzewski at (718) 894-4099.

Chess ClubHoward Beach Library 92-06 156th Avenue 4 p.m.

Join fellow chess players each Tuesday at the Howard Beach Library. All ages and levels are welcome.

For more information, call (718) 641-7086.

Zumba Dance Fitness for KidsRichmond Hill Library

118-14 Hillside Ave., Richmond Hill 4:30 p.m.Children and their families are welcome to come to this Zumba dance activity at the library. Another Zumba dance class will be

held Tuesday, December 17 at 4:30 p.m.For more information, call the library at (718) 849-7150.

Wednesday, December 18Massage Therapy in Ridgewood

Ridgewood Older Adult Center59-14 70th Ave., Ridgewood 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

Seniors age 60 and older are welcome to attend massage therapy every Wednesday.

For more information, call Karen at the center at (718) 456-2000.

Game Day in Howard BeachHoward Beach Library 92-06 156th Avenue 4 p.m.

Every Wednesday, teens are welcome to enjoy friendly competition with a variety of board games, including Monopoly,

checkers, Scrabble, and more.For more information, call (718) 641-7086.

Toddler TimeHoward Beach Library 1:30 p.m.

92-06 156th AvenueJoin us for stories and fun

for children ages 12 months to 36 monthsand their caregivers.

For more information, call (718) 641-7086.

Thursday, December 19Richmond Hill South Civic

Association MeetingKnights of Columbus Hall

135-45 Lefferts Blvd. 7:30 p.m.All are welcome to attend the Richmond Hill South Civic Association’s monthly meeting, at which the group will hold their annual Christmas party. Please bring an $8 gift that will be included in the grab bag. Santa Claus may even make an

appearance.

Christmas Blood DriveChrist the King Regional High School

68-02 Metropolitan Ave., Middle Village 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.The blood drive will be held in Christ the King’s high school

gymnasium. Walk-ins are welcome.For more information, please call (718) 366-7400.

Angry Birds CraftsRichmond Hill Library

118-14 Hillside Ave., Richmond Hill 5 p.m.Children and their families are invited to learn how to make Angry Birds crafts at the library. The library will also host an ornaments craft event on Thursday, December 12 at 5 p.m., a cookie snowman craft event on December 19 at 5 p.m., and a paper

pom poms craft event on December 26 at 5 p.m.For more information, please call (718) 849-7150.

Ave Maria Catholic Academy Christmas Fair

158-20 101st St., Howard Beach 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.Finish off your holiday shopping at Ave Maria’s Christmas fair, which will feature a wide variety of items from dozens of vendors. The following vendors will be at the event: Bella Beads, Tracies online Boutique, Salon 57 Boutique, Sorelli Designs, Victoria Cake Pops, Tastefully Simple, Baby G’s, Unique Boutique, Red Gems, Marilenas Pampered Chef, Itty Bitty Posh, Kaaj, Mac Makeup by Terri, Many Masons.com, Oragami Owl, Stella and Dot, The Sugar Shop, Fran Amores Creations, Jessicas Coffee, Vitas Precious Creations, Kristens Bags and Accessories, Debbi Best and Co., Tellili Bowtique, AMCA Christmas Shop, Unlimited Boutiques by C&J, Esthetics by Sandra Velandia, Chic n Shine,

and Michell’s Body Wrap.For information, please contact Doreen DeCandia

at (718) 757-2728 or Michelle Soriano at (917) 304-9924.

Saturday, December 21 Christmas Caroling in Richmond Hill

Holy Child Jesus Church86th Avenue and 111th Street 5:30 p.m.

Come join the Richmond Hill Historical Society for Christmas caroling. They will meet in front of the church before the 5 p.m. mass lets out. Victorian hats and other vintage attire is most

welcome.

Pictures with Santa in WoodhavenForest Parkway Plaza

Jamaica Avenue and Forest Parkway 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.The Woodhaven Business Improvement District invites everyone to take free pictures with Santa Claus and his holiday friends at

the Forest Parkway Plaza area.For more information,

visit www.woodhavenbid.com or call (718) 805-0760.

Sunday, December 22Holiday Flea Market

St. Nicholas of Tolentine ChurchParsons Boulevard and Union Turnpike, Jamaica

9 a.m. to 4 p.m.More than 80 vendors will sell various items at great prices. There is ample parking in the school yard, and the kitchen will

be open all day.

Wednesday, December 25Missa Cantata

St. John Cemetary Middle Village 9 a.m.Sung Traditional Mass in Latin

*This will also be held on Wednesday, January 1.

Friday, December 27Thai Rock Benefit Concert

Thai Rock375 Beach 92 St., Rockaway Beach 8:30 p.m.

Queens band Plastic Soul will play a benefit concert at Thai Rock, which was devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Thai Rock’s owner, Robert Kaskel, also had extensive damage sustained to his home, which is still uninhabitable. He and his wife currently live upstairs from Thai Rock, which recently reopened. All are welcome to come support Thai Rock with classic rock tunes from the 1960s and 70s, as well cuisine prepared by the restaurant.

For more information, call the restaurant at (646) 455-3991.

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

The Nutcracker Ballet at Maspeth High School

Maspeth High School54-40 74th St., Maspeth 7 p.m.

The much beloved Nutcracker Ballet will be performed at Maspeth High School. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., and the show

will begin at 7 p.m.Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for students and children.

Friday, Dec. 20Saturday, Dec. 21


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

DATE WRITE LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 8/28/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: James Swierczewski, 79-17 Pitkin Ave., Ozone Park, NY 11417. General Purposes.

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Legal Notices

Notice of Formation of MAY SQUARED REAL ESTATE LLC. Arts of Org. filed with NY Secy of State (SSNY) on 4/24/13. Office: Queens. SSNY is designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to The LLC, 255-07 61st Avenue, 1st Floor, Little Neck, NY 11362. Purpose: any lawful activity.

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

Majestic Realty Prestigious Homes And Estates LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 1/5/12. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 71-27 Myrtle Ave., Glendale, NY 11385. Purpose: General.

Notice of Formation DEM NY-NC ASSOCIATES LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 10/09/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC: 217-15 136 Road, Springfield Gardens, NY 11413. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: VAGAST HOLDING I LLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 11/06/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, c/o Vasiliki Vagenas, 147-34 7th Avenue, Whitestone, New York 11357. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

Notice of Formation of P&R ASTORIA, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/06/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 154-50 12th Rd., Whitestone, NY 11357. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 1128 DECATUR STREET, LLC Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/05/13. Office location: Queens County. Princ. office of LLC: 210 Hollywood Ave., Douglaston, NY 11363. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to the LLC at the addr. of its princ. office. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation AUGUSTINE GOLD CPA PLLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 07/29/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC: 153 Oakwood Road, Huntington, NY 11743. Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

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Notice of Formation (LLC). Name: SEMPERIDE LLC Articles of Organization filed with NY Dept. of State on 10/25/13. Office location: Queens COUNTY. NY DOS shall mail copy of process to: 9153 79TH STREET, WOODHAVEN, NY, 11421 Purpose: Any lawful activity

Notice of Formation of 11-11 CLIFFS, LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with the SSNY on 11/14/2013. Office location: QUEENS County. SSNY has been designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 167-41 147TH AVENUE JAMAICA NY 11434. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

Communikate Media, LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 09/05/13. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC: 133-43 85th Street, Ozone Park, NY 11417. General Purposes.

TRI FUTURE VISION LLC Arts of Org. filed NY Secy of State (SSNY) 10/9/13. Office:Queens Co. SSNY design. agent of LLC upon whom process may be served and shall mail copy to 5822 Hewlett St. Little Neck NY 11362. Purpose: any lawful activity.

Notice of Formation of 118-12 101 LLC, a domestic LLC. Arts. of Org.filed with the SSNY on 09/03/2013.Office location: QUEENS County.SSNY has been designated as agentupon whom process against the LLCmay be served. SSNY shall mail acopy of process to: 81-15 138th Street, Briarwood, NY 11435. Purpose: Any Lawful Purpose.

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1446 Gates LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 05/02/13. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: The LLC: P.O. Box 640691, Oakland Gardens, NY 11364. General Purposes.

Astoria Distilling Company LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 09/10/12. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: P.O. Box 6410, 2117 Broadway, Astoria, NY 11106. General Purposes.

GREEN TARA INFINITY, LLC Arts of Org filed with NY Sec of State (SSNY) on 06/07/13. Office: Queens County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process may be served. SSNY shall mail process to: 132-35 41 Road, Apt. 2D, Flushing, NY 11355. General Purposes. Parsons Plaza Development LLC,

Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 07/22/13. Office Location: Queens County, SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to: The LLC, 37-20 Prince St., #4A, Flushing, NY 11354. Purpose: to engage in amy lawful act.

Tani’s Group Family Day Care Limited Liability Company Arts. of Org. filed with Secy. of State of NY (SSNY) on 11/4/13. Office in Queens Co. SSNY desig. agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail process to 101-15 34th Ave, Corona, NY 11368-1116. Purpose: General.

Name of LLC: 37-66 72nd Street, LLC. Arts. of Org. filed with NY Dept. of State: 11/22/13. Office loc.: Queens Co. Sec. of State designated agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served and shall mail process to: Omar Lopera, Esq., 37-21 75th St., 2nd Fl., Jackson Heights, NY 11372, regd. agt. upon whom process may be served. Purpose: any lawful act.

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY. NAME: SAYEED DEVELOPMENT ILLC. Articles of Organization were filed with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on 09/24/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY has been designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of process to the LLC, c/o BraunsteinTurkish LLP, 7600 Jericho Turnpike, Suite 402, Woodbury, New York 11797, ATT: Harry Braunstein.Purpose: For any lawful purpose.

KTG NYC LLC, a domestic LLC, filed with the SSNY on 11/14/13. Office location: Queens County. SSNY is designated as agent upon whom process against the LLC may be served. SSNY shall mail process to Todd V. Lamb, Esq., 424 W. 49th St., Ste. 4B, NY, NY 10019. General Purpose.

Notice of Formation. Name: UNPLUG KIDS LLC Articles of Organization filed with NY Dept. of State on 10/29/13. Office location: Queens COUNTY. NY DOS shall mail copy of process to: The LLC 39-08 44th Street, Sunnyside, NY 11104. Purpose: Any lawful activity.

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By Anna Gustafson

Howard Beach’s new senior hous-ing facility brings much needed af-fordable units to an area that is home to one of the largest population of older residents in the entire city, Catholic Charities officials, legisla-tors and residents said at last week’s dedication ceremony.

The $31 million Catholic Chari-ties Peter J. Striano Residence at 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd., which opened earlier this year but which was of-ficially dedicated last Wednesday, includes 96 rental units - 80 percent of which are studio or one-bedroom apartments reserved for low- to mod-erate-income senior citizens over the age of 55. The other 20 percent of the units are one- to two-bedroom apart-ments reserved for individuals with developmental disabilities.

“This project truly allows us all to uphold our commitment to provid-ing older adults with the highest qual-ity housing right in their own neigh-

borhoods, while at the same time integrating an on-site senior center and services for persons with devel-opmental disabilities,” Robert Siebel, CEO of Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens, said at the dedication ceremony that was also attended by Rev. Nicholas DiMarzio, the bishop of Brooklyn; Msgr. Alfred LoPinto, the pastor of St. Helen’s and the vicar for human services at the Diocese of Brooklyn; area legislators; and the facility’s namesake Peter Striano, the chairman and CEO of Unity Interna-tional Group and a longtime member of the Board of Trustees of Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens.

A native New Yorker, Striano has made community revitalization ef-forts and charitable giving a priority in his life. For more than a decade, he has hosted and sponsored the Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan Memorial Golf Classic, which raises funds in support of Catholic Charities and its more than 160 human service programs.

In addition to the apartments, the

facility includes a well-lit lobby with large windows; community, pool table, computer, and art rooms; and a community kitchen. Each floor is decorated with a specific theme, in-cluding the beach, flowers, and the park. The senior center will also in-corporate wellness, education and fit-ness classes, as well as other program-ming geared towards older adults.

The site is “the kind of transfor-mative project that is key to revital-izing communities and bettering the lives of the most vulnerable,” said Darryl Towns, commissioner and CEO of the state Homes and Com-munity Renewal.

Many of those attending Wednes-day’s festivities stressed how difficult it can be for seniors - many of whom are living on fixed incomes - to land homes for which they can pay.

“Finding housing that is safe, de-cent and affordable can be a challenge for many New Yorkers, especially those on a fixed income like many of our senior citizens,” said city Depart-

ment of Housing Preservation and Development Commissioner Ruth-Anne Visnauskas. “... It is my sincere hope when people pass through the doors of the Peter J. Striano Resi-dence and think of the mission and purpose of this building, they’ll be reminded of a man who was commit-ted to community development, to his neighbors, and to serving those most in need.”

Area legislators and civic leaders too touted the facility, saying it is a step in the right direction for provid-ing affordable housing.

“While keeping financial and economic independence and, most importantly, remaining in their own backyard, our growing senior popu-lation can finally achieve the quality housing they deserve,” Assemblyman Phil Goldfeder (D-Rockaway Park) said. “This residence will not only provide a centralized location for our diverse senior community to meet under one roof, but it also serves as a symbol of our recovery after Super-

storm Sandy and sends a strong mes-sage that our community is coming back better than ever.”

Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park) said the project “will have a positive impact on the Howard Beach community for generations to come.”

“Our seniors deserve the oppor-tunity to stay in their own neighbor-hood and look forward to their gold-en years knowing that there will be a safe and affordable place they can still call home,” he said.

Addabbo also stressed the grow-ing senior population in the area.

“This part of my district has one of the highest senior populations not only in Queens, but possibly in New York City, and it’s growing,” he said. “The residents are enjoying all the amenities under one roof, including the relocated Howard Beach Senior Center and a Meals-on-Wheels pro-gram, while being close to banks, shopping, healthcare facilities, public transportation, and restaurants.”

As South Queens' Senior Population Grows, An Affordable Place for Older Residents to Live

Photo Courtesy Catholic Charities Elected officials and Catholic Charities representatives gathered for the ribbon cutting on the new affordable housing for seniors on Cross Bay Boulevard last week.

Although the job title sounds benign enough, the meat and potatoes of what his every day is comprised of is clearing roadways of ex-plosives so that troops can pass through safely.

His unit is the first to step into unchartered territory in search of bombs that can be any-thing from small homemade bombs to 500 lbs. of prime explosives designed to take out every-one in sight. In fact, the unit has cleared enough roadway to wrap around the equator twice.

He recalls stepping on a land mine, “It was defective. I remember thinking, this must have been one of the cheap ones,” he shrugs his shoulders, “It just failed to work.”

His uncle, Anthony Buonopastore, was not so lucky. He stepped on a land mine in Vietnam, 1968—it took everything from the waist down and one of his arms. “My uncle is a hero,” DiS-tefano says.

But the joy of coming home for leave is not without painful complication.

A recent mission took the life of friend and mentor Sgt. FC Ricardo Young, 37, who re-

placed DiStefano on a mission into the moun-tains. He was killed in a fire fight and the unit had to retreat quickly, leaving his body behind. “The worst thing was not being able to do any-thing. You don’t leave a soldier behind. You just don’t do that.”

The conversation pauses while he rolls up

his sleeves. Pointing toward his name or initials in tattoos on both arms, he explains, “I have these identifiers on all my extremities, and here, he rolls down his bottom lip to expose the mark-ing inside, “If anything happens, they will be able to identify whatever they find. My mother will get something to know I came home.”

And so for the man who arrived to fanfare and a well deserved hero’s welcome, including the presentation of the U.S. flag flown in his honor over the nation’s capital, at the request of Congressman Hakeem Jefferies, there is an un-deniable air of bittersweet.

He talks of the good and he talks of the bad. The best, he says, are those care packages from his mother and everyone she gets to send them. “It’s so great to get mail––especially mail with sausage in it,” he laughs.

Despite the conditions faced in every 16-hour-average day–– he remembers the hot-test temperatures he saw,145 degrees in Iraq and 138 in Afghanistan, despite the inability to sleep because of rats crawling over you or the difficul-ty in climbing mountains with a minimum of 65 pounds of equipment and weapons, or the lack of adequate food, clean water and medicine––despite all of it, Di Stefano unhesitatingly an-swers the most obvious question––Why would you?

“In no other place in life can you be both a mentor and a student of such consequence in life at the same time. And in the end if you have protected freedom and saved lives, you did your job. You helped your country. For me that’s enough.”

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

A Hero Comes Home

Photo Courtesy Catholic Charities Elected officials and Catholic Charities representatives gathered for the ribbon cutting on the new affordable housing for seniors on Cross Bay Boulevard last week.


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