Thursday, August 5, 2010
Arrest Made in Fatal Stabbing at Woodhaven Subway Station
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| A memorial set up at the 85th Street train station where the stabbing took place is marked with flowers, candles, and messages from loved ones. |
By Patricia Adams
The deadly attack occurred on Friday night when the victim’s mother asked Dario Paiva to go to the aid of his younger brother Khristian. Norma Paiva had been on the phone with her younger son who had called her after returning some films to a neighborhood video store. During the conversation it became apparent that Khristian was in trouble. He told his mother someone had hit him. "I was like, 'Oh my God, Dario. They're hitting Khristian,” said the 60- year-old mother. “So he run, he run like he never did."
When he came upon his brother at Jamaica Avenue near 85th Street, the attackers had headed for the elevated train at 85th Street and Forest Parkway. Paiva followed them up the stairs. Police officials say there could have been as many as four men and two women.
The band of thugs allegedly turned to Paiva and flashed yellow and black beads—a sign they were members of the Latin Kings gang—before they rushed him with knives. Benjamin Moreira is believed to be the attacker who delivered the fatal stab wound to his neck.
"My brother was trying to keep them away from me, and when we got to the top of the stairs, they stabbed him," a tearful Khristian Paiva told reporters. “I tried my best to save him. I did everything I could.” Dario Paiva was taken to Jamaica Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
The victim was working in construction and had plans to transfer from a community college to attend Queens College—the same school as his brother. He dreamed of becoming a lawyer according to a friend who stopped at the flower memorial erected at the foot of the train station entrance. “I know him for almost six years. He was all about his family. He was a good brother, a good son—a good man.”
Friends of the family say it will be very hard for Dante and Norma Paiva to overcome this tragic loss, especially since another sibling was killed in a car accident in recent years.
A funeral mass will be held at the church of Holy Child Jesus in Ozone Park at 9:45 a.m. on Friday.
Cracking Down on Commuter Vans: Law Aims to Better Regulate Growing Industry
By Eric Yun
Many residents searching for transportation options in areas underserved by the MTA have found commuter vans ready to fill the void. Most of the vans, however, are run illegally.
Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) introduced legislation at last Thursday’s City Council meeting in an at- tempt to curb the illegal vans. The bill requires the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) to train the NYPD on the laws about commuter vans and how to properly identify illegal vans. It will also create a “digest of laws” so police understand the licenses, signage, and other materials a licensed and legal commuter van must have.
With MTA service being cut throughout the city, commuter vans are becoming an important part of transportation services.
Mayor Bloomberg recently announced a pilot program that would allow commuter vans to operate on some of the bus routes that were discontinued by the MTA.
But in an overly entrepreneurial spirit, illegal van operators have overtaken the routes of licensed vans. There are approximately 300 legal vans that operate throughout the city. It is unknown how many hundreds operate illegally.
Crowley was joined by Council Members Karen Koslowitz and Dan Halloran at a press conference last Thursday to announce the news to the community. The event was held in Maspeth, which is one neighborhood that has been hit particularly hard by this issue.
“This is first and foremost a public safety issue,” said Crowley. “Illegal and unlicensed commuter vans are operating off the radar of the TLC and the NYPD; they’re not being inspected for safety and they’re not being held accountable. If illegal commuter vans want to continue to operate in this city, they have to abide by the law or else face the consequences. This new bill will strengthen the laws against illegal commuter vans and enforce licensed, regulated, accountable and safer van services.”
“Requiring the Taxi and Limousine Com- mission to train the NYPD to identify the difference between legal and illegal commuter vans is a common sense safety measure that I strongly support,” said Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills), “Commuter vans provide a needed service and we in the council need to make sure that they are safe, legal, and reliable.”
There appears to be bipartisan support for Crowley’s legislation. Halloran (R-Whitestone) was at the press conference pledging his support. “We encourage competition but the competition has to be on a level playing field,” Halloran said.
Roe Daraio, president of Communities of Maspeth & Elmhurst Together (COMET), said the legislation is a “good start” to curb the problem. She noted illegal vans were picking up passengers even as Crowley was holding the press conference. The civic group has long called for better enforcement of commuter vans, which are also a major problem in Elmhurst.
Daraio questioned the need for commuter vans at all in her neighborhood. “We don’t need them here,” she said. One of the biggest concerns for COMET members is reducing traffic in their already congested neighborhoods. “On Grand Avenue alone, there are 500 trucks,” Daraio said. “Getting rid of illegal vans will help alleviate some of the traffic problems.”
Many residents searching for transportation options in areas underserved by the MTA have found commuter vans ready to fill the void. Most of the vans, however, are run illegally.
Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) introduced legislation at last Thursday’s City Council meeting in an at- tempt to curb the illegal vans. The bill requires the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC) to train the NYPD on the laws about commuter vans and how to properly identify illegal vans. It will also create a “digest of laws” so police understand the licenses, signage, and other materials a licensed and legal commuter van must have.
With MTA service being cut throughout the city, commuter vans are becoming an important part of transportation services.
Mayor Bloomberg recently announced a pilot program that would allow commuter vans to operate on some of the bus routes that were discontinued by the MTA.
But in an overly entrepreneurial spirit, illegal van operators have overtaken the routes of licensed vans. There are approximately 300 legal vans that operate throughout the city. It is unknown how many hundreds operate illegally.
Crowley was joined by Council Members Karen Koslowitz and Dan Halloran at a press conference last Thursday to announce the news to the community. The event was held in Maspeth, which is one neighborhood that has been hit particularly hard by this issue.
“This is first and foremost a public safety issue,” said Crowley. “Illegal and unlicensed commuter vans are operating off the radar of the TLC and the NYPD; they’re not being inspected for safety and they’re not being held accountable. If illegal commuter vans want to continue to operate in this city, they have to abide by the law or else face the consequences. This new bill will strengthen the laws against illegal commuter vans and enforce licensed, regulated, accountable and safer van services.”
“Requiring the Taxi and Limousine Com- mission to train the NYPD to identify the difference between legal and illegal commuter vans is a common sense safety measure that I strongly support,” said Koslowitz (D-Forest Hills), “Commuter vans provide a needed service and we in the council need to make sure that they are safe, legal, and reliable.”
There appears to be bipartisan support for Crowley’s legislation. Halloran (R-Whitestone) was at the press conference pledging his support. “We encourage competition but the competition has to be on a level playing field,” Halloran said.
Roe Daraio, president of Communities of Maspeth & Elmhurst Together (COMET), said the legislation is a “good start” to curb the problem. She noted illegal vans were picking up passengers even as Crowley was holding the press conference. The civic group has long called for better enforcement of commuter vans, which are also a major problem in Elmhurst.
Daraio questioned the need for commuter vans at all in her neighborhood. “We don’t need them here,” she said. One of the biggest concerns for COMET members is reducing traffic in their already congested neighborhoods. “On Grand Avenue alone, there are 500 trucks,” Daraio said. “Getting rid of illegal vans will help alleviate some of the traffic problems.”
Two Guilty in Plot to Destroy JFK Airport
By Eric Yun
The two men accused of plotting to destroy John F. Kennedy International Airport were convicted on numerous charges Monday in a Brooklyn Federal Court. They now face a possible maximum sentence of life in prison.
Russell Defreitas and Abdul Kadir planned a crippling attack on the airport that they boasted “even the Twin Towers can’t touch,” according to court documents. The target of the attack was the Buckeye Pipeline, an underground system that transports fuel and other petroleum products to JFK Airport.
Defreitas is a Guyanese immigrant and a former cargo worker at JFK Airport. Kadir is a Guyanese national who was once a member of the Guyanese parliament. They were arrested in June 2007 while they were still formulating their plot.
Abdul Nur, a third defendant, pleaded guilty to lesser charges and faces up to 15 years in prison.
Federal prosecutors claimed that, with the help of a FBI informant, they caught Defreitas plotting to destroy JFK Airport and attempting to recruit members of militant Muslim groups.
Defreitas was caught conducting video surveillance on the airport and boasting about the destruction his attack would cause.
Lawyers for the defendants argued that without the informant, there would have been no case. Defreitas was characterized as all talk but no action. It was only through the help of the informant, they argued, that Defreitas started moving forward with the plan. The informant purchased and taught Defreitas how to use a camera to conduct surveillance on the airport.
“I think [Defreitas] is a guy who likes to talk to make himself seem important,” said Mildred Whalen, Defreitas’s lawer, according to a report from the New York Daily News.
On the other hand, Kadir might have had the resources and connections necessary to pull off the attack. Federal prosecutors accused Kadir of being an Iranian spy.
Kadir’s lawyer, Kafahni Nkrumah, claimed his client was faced with an impossible task of fighting “the atmosphere of fear in the country” about Muslims and terrorism, according to a report in the New York Times.
Both men plan to appeal.
The two men accused of plotting to destroy John F. Kennedy International Airport were convicted on numerous charges Monday in a Brooklyn Federal Court. They now face a possible maximum sentence of life in prison.
Russell Defreitas and Abdul Kadir planned a crippling attack on the airport that they boasted “even the Twin Towers can’t touch,” according to court documents. The target of the attack was the Buckeye Pipeline, an underground system that transports fuel and other petroleum products to JFK Airport.
Defreitas is a Guyanese immigrant and a former cargo worker at JFK Airport. Kadir is a Guyanese national who was once a member of the Guyanese parliament. They were arrested in June 2007 while they were still formulating their plot.
Abdul Nur, a third defendant, pleaded guilty to lesser charges and faces up to 15 years in prison.
Federal prosecutors claimed that, with the help of a FBI informant, they caught Defreitas plotting to destroy JFK Airport and attempting to recruit members of militant Muslim groups.
Defreitas was caught conducting video surveillance on the airport and boasting about the destruction his attack would cause.
Lawyers for the defendants argued that without the informant, there would have been no case. Defreitas was characterized as all talk but no action. It was only through the help of the informant, they argued, that Defreitas started moving forward with the plan. The informant purchased and taught Defreitas how to use a camera to conduct surveillance on the airport.
“I think [Defreitas] is a guy who likes to talk to make himself seem important,” said Mildred Whalen, Defreitas’s lawer, according to a report from the New York Daily News.
On the other hand, Kadir might have had the resources and connections necessary to pull off the attack. Federal prosecutors accused Kadir of being an Iranian spy.
Kadir’s lawyer, Kafahni Nkrumah, claimed his client was faced with an impossible task of fighting “the atmosphere of fear in the country” about Muslims and terrorism, according to a report in the New York Times.
Both men plan to appeal.
State Lottery Approves Genting's Aqueduct Proposal
Project Now Awaiting OK from Governor and Senate
By Eric Yun
After ten years, it appears that Aqueduct racetrack will finally receive a vendor to operate 4,500 video lottery terminals (VLTs). New York Lottery strongly recommended approval of lone remaining bidder Genting New York to Governor David Paterson on Tuesday.
Genting New York is a subsidiary of Genting Malyasia Berhad, which owns and operates some of Asia’s largest casinos and resorts. They just finished building a $4.4 billion Universal Studios resort and casino in Singapore.
“It is with genuine enthusiasm that the Committee unanimously recommends Genting New York as the winning vendor,” wrote Lottery Director Gordon Medenica to Governor Paterson. “Our strong recommendation, based on the merits of the proposal, was vastly reinforced by Genting’s financial offer of $380 million as an upfront licensing fee.”
In a statement, Genting New York said, “We hope the lottery’s recommendation will be endorsed by the Legislature so we can immediately get to work creating jobs, preventing layoffs and delivering more than $15 billion in economic benefits to New York over the next 30 years.”
New York Lottery was able to move forward with their recommendation when State Supreme Court Justice Barry Kramer dismissed the lawsuit from Aqueduct Entertainment Company (AEC) last Thursday.
AEC (formerly Aqueduct Entertainment Group) sued the state’s lottery division in June to reclaim the “racino” project at Aqueduct racetrack. The company was awarded the bid in January, but the state disqualified them after questions about the group and the bidding procedure. A temporary restraining order was placed, which prevented the state to award the bid to another company.
Representatives from Aqueduct Entertainment Company had unsuccessfully claimed the state changed rules midway through the process, and disqualified their company in an “arbitrary and capricious” manner. The judge saw things differently. Justice Kramer said the January selection of Aqueduct Entertainment Company was not legally binding because the company was still in the vetting process at the time.
With the Lottery’s recommendation, it is now up to Governor Paterson and the State Assembly and Senate to approve the bid.
There is strong support from local elected officials to move forward and approve Genting New York. Genting officials impressed many when they unveiled their plans to the community at a public hearing last month.
“I am very pleased that NY Lottery has unanimously selected a winning vendor for Aqueduct,” said City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park). “This has been a long and drawn out process for the community, but I am happy that it is finally going to reach the finish line.”
Local State Assembly Members and Senators are urging their fellow members to move quickly to approve Genting’s proposal.
“I have already spoken with Speaker Silver and now strongly urge Governor Paterson and Senate Democratic Conference Leader Sampson to move quickly to approve Genting’s proposal,” said Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer (D-Ozone Park). “Be assured, I will demand that community concerns and input continue to be included in all future planning. We must work diligently to bring the jobs, employment opportunities and economic stimulus that Aqueduct will provide to our local community and economy,” she added.
Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) is excited about the possibility of additional jobs for his constituents. “Selecting a bidder for Aqueduct is an important step towards alleviating our high unemployment rate and our shortfall in state revenue,” Miller said. “I feel that Genting will prove to be a good choice because they are responsive to community concerns. They will make efforts to hire locally, and will cover their own security.”
If Genting is approved, it would provide more than 1,300 jobs to the community through the long-awaited revitalization of the Ozone Park racetrack. Senator Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) is happy not only about the installation of VLTs, but the fact New York Racing Association will be able to continue horse races at the track.
“I look forward to working with Genting and the community as we move forward with building Queens’ newest tourist at- traction that will provide 1,300 construction and post-construction jobs, financial benefits to the state, and long-term benefits to my constituents,” Addabbo said. “I will also continue to stress those issues that need to be addressed by Genting, particu- larly traffic patterns and public safety.”
For many in the community, New York Lottery’s recommendation of Genting was met with optimism. But after the problems in previous rounds of bidding, including the disqualification of Aqueduct Entertainment Company and the previous failure of Delaware North to generate the promised upfront funds, the enthusiasm is tempered.
“Only when the ink is dry, I’ll believe it,” said Betty Braton, chairperson of Community Board 10. She looks forward to future interactions with Genting, and disseminating information to the community as she receives it. “It’s time to get this done,” she said.
By Eric Yun
After ten years, it appears that Aqueduct racetrack will finally receive a vendor to operate 4,500 video lottery terminals (VLTs). New York Lottery strongly recommended approval of lone remaining bidder Genting New York to Governor David Paterson on Tuesday.
Genting New York is a subsidiary of Genting Malyasia Berhad, which owns and operates some of Asia’s largest casinos and resorts. They just finished building a $4.4 billion Universal Studios resort and casino in Singapore.
“It is with genuine enthusiasm that the Committee unanimously recommends Genting New York as the winning vendor,” wrote Lottery Director Gordon Medenica to Governor Paterson. “Our strong recommendation, based on the merits of the proposal, was vastly reinforced by Genting’s financial offer of $380 million as an upfront licensing fee.”
In a statement, Genting New York said, “We hope the lottery’s recommendation will be endorsed by the Legislature so we can immediately get to work creating jobs, preventing layoffs and delivering more than $15 billion in economic benefits to New York over the next 30 years.”
New York Lottery was able to move forward with their recommendation when State Supreme Court Justice Barry Kramer dismissed the lawsuit from Aqueduct Entertainment Company (AEC) last Thursday.
AEC (formerly Aqueduct Entertainment Group) sued the state’s lottery division in June to reclaim the “racino” project at Aqueduct racetrack. The company was awarded the bid in January, but the state disqualified them after questions about the group and the bidding procedure. A temporary restraining order was placed, which prevented the state to award the bid to another company.
Representatives from Aqueduct Entertainment Company had unsuccessfully claimed the state changed rules midway through the process, and disqualified their company in an “arbitrary and capricious” manner. The judge saw things differently. Justice Kramer said the January selection of Aqueduct Entertainment Company was not legally binding because the company was still in the vetting process at the time.
With the Lottery’s recommendation, it is now up to Governor Paterson and the State Assembly and Senate to approve the bid.
There is strong support from local elected officials to move forward and approve Genting New York. Genting officials impressed many when they unveiled their plans to the community at a public hearing last month.
“I am very pleased that NY Lottery has unanimously selected a winning vendor for Aqueduct,” said City Councilman Eric Ulrich (R-Ozone Park). “This has been a long and drawn out process for the community, but I am happy that it is finally going to reach the finish line.”
Local State Assembly Members and Senators are urging their fellow members to move quickly to approve Genting’s proposal.
“I have already spoken with Speaker Silver and now strongly urge Governor Paterson and Senate Democratic Conference Leader Sampson to move quickly to approve Genting’s proposal,” said Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer (D-Ozone Park). “Be assured, I will demand that community concerns and input continue to be included in all future planning. We must work diligently to bring the jobs, employment opportunities and economic stimulus that Aqueduct will provide to our local community and economy,” she added.
Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) is excited about the possibility of additional jobs for his constituents. “Selecting a bidder for Aqueduct is an important step towards alleviating our high unemployment rate and our shortfall in state revenue,” Miller said. “I feel that Genting will prove to be a good choice because they are responsive to community concerns. They will make efforts to hire locally, and will cover their own security.”
If Genting is approved, it would provide more than 1,300 jobs to the community through the long-awaited revitalization of the Ozone Park racetrack. Senator Joe Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) is happy not only about the installation of VLTs, but the fact New York Racing Association will be able to continue horse races at the track.
“I look forward to working with Genting and the community as we move forward with building Queens’ newest tourist at- traction that will provide 1,300 construction and post-construction jobs, financial benefits to the state, and long-term benefits to my constituents,” Addabbo said. “I will also continue to stress those issues that need to be addressed by Genting, particu- larly traffic patterns and public safety.”
For many in the community, New York Lottery’s recommendation of Genting was met with optimism. But after the problems in previous rounds of bidding, including the disqualification of Aqueduct Entertainment Company and the previous failure of Delaware North to generate the promised upfront funds, the enthusiasm is tempered.
“Only when the ink is dry, I’ll believe it,” said Betty Braton, chairperson of Community Board 10. She looks forward to future interactions with Genting, and disseminating information to the community as she receives it. “It’s time to get this done,” she said.
Local Man Arrested for Graffiti Spree
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| L-R: Responsible for the investigation and the arrest are Sgt. Brian Goldberg, PO Frank Calafiore, Capt. Craig Adelman, PO Joseph Osolin and PO Frank Reina. Not pictured is PO Michael Baio. |
By Patricia Adams
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| Kevin Harold’s car remains at the 106 Pct. impound lot after it was positively confirmed to have been used in several of the incidents. |
Kevin Harold, a 28-year-old NYC Sanitation worker, was arrested at his Lindenwood home and charged with 14 separate counts including Making Graffiti and Criminal Mischief with Intent to Damage Property.
An aggressive investigation into Harold’s graffiti spree through Howard Beach and nearby communities has been ongoing since June, when the tagging started.
Captain Craig Adelman, Executive Officer of the 106, is in charge of traffic and graffiti within the confines of the precinct and has spearheaded efforts in the investigation. Following the arrest, the Capt. Adelman praised the efforts of his officers and the community throughout the investigation.
“This was a great job by everyone involved. Our cops really put every effort into this investigation, but we would not have able to bring this case to an end without the help of the community,” said Capt. Adelman.
Police Officer Frank Reina, who has long been responsible for investigating the area’s graffiti, viewed more than 50 surveillance videos in connection with the crime. He was joined on this case by the precinct’s Nighttime Conditions Unit, which is responsible for community policing and quality of life issues.
Sgt. Brian Goldberg, who heads up the Conditions Unit, says his guys were on it morning, noon and night. “We had some good leads and cooperation from the community and we had the dedication of the officers on the case.”
Leads had started to accumulate as anger built in the community with tags cropping up in prominent locations in Howard Beach, including Ragtime Gourmet and Blockbuster in addition to the side walls along avenues and underpasses. But the level of community outrage and frustration reached its peak when Harold allegedly left his mark along a wall of the former Bernard Fineson Center on 156th Avenue, tagging the word “retard”.
“That [Fineson Center tag] took this thing to a whole new level,” said Police Officer Frank Calafiore of the Conditions Unit. “The community was really outraged and so were we.” Fellow officers Joseph Osolin and Michael Baio worked with PO Calafiore, Sgt. Goldberg and PO Reina to bring the situation to a close.
Officer Reina explained how the team nailed Harold. “We had a general physical I.D. from some videos but we didn’t know who he was.” Reina said that the Conditions Unit received information from a man they questioned near the hospital site. The man gave police a license plate number of the individual he said was responsible for the tag.
In addition to Harold’s admitting to the crimes, the most damaging piece of video evidence came from the surveillance equipment at My Mothers Italian Ices on Rockaway Boulevard and Centreville Street. Those cameras showed Harold tagging the underside of the serving counter with a marker as he was ordering an Italian ice.
Community Affairs Officer Kenny Zorn says that there are other factors that should be taken into consideration with this arrest. “People tend to think of graffiti as more of a nuisance but few realize the broader implications of crime like this.” Zorn noted that the exhaustive amount of police resources that went into this investigation diverted attention away from other serious concerns within the precinct. “In his own way, this guy put a lot of people in jeopardy by tying up police personnel and diminishing other services. It’s just another big reason to continue to eradicate graffiti.”
Harold was released on his own recognizance following his initial appearance in a Queens County Court, has no prior arrests and will appear before a judge on September 23.
Maspeth Boy Killed by Gas Truck
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| The remains of 12-year-old Frederick Endres’ bicycle near the intersection of Fresh Pond Road and Eliot Avenue after it was struck by a tanker truck. |
12-year-old struck at Eliot Ave and Fresh Pond Road
By Patricia Adams
Frederick Endres would have celebrated his 13th birthday on Thursday. Instead, his family will spend the day grieving with friends and loved ones after the boy was struck and killed on Monday afternoon.
Police at the 104th Precinct said the 12-year-old was trying to cross the intersection of Fresh Pond Road and Eliot Avenue on his bicycle when he was hit by a large tanker truck about 1:30 p.m.
The 18-wheel truck was making a wide right turn from Eliot Avenue onto Fresh Pond Road and ran over the boy with its rear wheels.
Witnesses at the busy Maspeth intersection were horrified by the events and say the driver did not see the boy crossing.
An employee at the Citgo gas station at the intersection ran to help. “He wasn’t moving,” a visibly shaken Ron Digi told reporters at the scene. “He wasn’t speaking. He looked gone the moment I got over there.”
According to Digi and other witnesses, the driver pulled over and got out of the truck to see what had happened and proceeded to make several phone calls. Police say the accident investigation is still ongoing. The driver was issued three summonses at the scene—one for driving off a truck route and two for equipment violations.
Frederick Endres was immediately rushed to Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead on arrival.
He had been biking to meet his best friend, Joseph Larosa, in front of nearby Pet Palace on Fresh Pond Road when he was hit. The boys, known throughout the neighborhood as Freddy and Joey, were inseparable. They knew each other since kindergarten and their moms also share a close friendship. Having met at the store nearly every day to ride together around the neighborhood and Juniper Valley Park, Joey Larosa is heartbroken over the loss of his best friend. “We did everything together. We hung out almost every day.”
Freddy’s mother, Frances Endres told reporters her son had just started to be allowed away from their home on his own. The devastated mother said, “He was my baby. My soul is gone without him. My heart is broken.”
A memorial of flowers, candles and birthday balloons now marks the scene of the tragic accident, just a short distance from his home. People arriving at the makeshift memorial stopped to read the messages left there by friends and loved ones. “Freddy was different,” said one woman gathered, “He made you laugh all the time. He was a great kid.”
A handwritten card affixed to a bouquet of tulips left a tender message from a family who knew Freddy well: “May God bless you and your family. You are in our prayers. You were a beautiful young boy and you will be missed so much. Sabrina will miss you dearly. We all will baby. Rest in peace sweetheart. With all our love.”
Glenridge Center Shuts Doors Due to Funding Woes
By Eric Yun
It appears that the jubilation over last month’s successful effort to keep the Glen- ridge Senior Center open is short-lived. After Councilwoman Diana Reyna allocated funds to keep the center open, its operations were suspended on July 30 because it failed to receive an advance loan from the city Department for the Aging (DFTA).
The saga began when the DFTA was forced to end contracts with multiple senior centers throughout the city, including Glenridge, due to the city’s current economic woes. Five days before Glenridge, which serves about 100 local seniors, was set to close, it received an operational grant from Reyna (D-Ridgewood). Getting the money to the center, however, is a long bureaucratic process.
“There’s nothing that can be done to expedite the discretionary funding process,” said Bennett Baruch, Reyna’s chief of staff. He stressed, however, the Council- woman’s office has been in frequent communications with Glenridge Senior Center, and they are doing everything they can to help.
In order to keep the center operational while they waited for the grant money to arrive, they asked the DFTA for an advance on the funds they were set to receive. This request was denied.
Chris Miller of the DFTA explained the reasoning: “Glenridge is one of 46 senior centers that no longer have a contract with the city, and it is our policy not to give advanced loans to centers without contracts,” he said. The DFTA is still the dispersal agent for the Council money, but without a contract, it cannot advance the loan to Glenridge Senior Center.
Albert Juszczak, director of the Glenridge Senior Center, was sad the center had to suspend operations. However, there was little he could do without incurring additional financial costs the center could not afford. There is a possibility the center could receive a bridge loan to open its doors before the arrival of the grant money. If that doesn’t happen, the center must wait for Reyna’s funding to come through in order to reopen its doors.
For now, the seniors at the center are forced to live without the center’s comforts. Juszczak and his team made sure to help them with this transition. “The seniors were well aware we might have to shut down,” he said, “And they were advised where to go for additional services.”
The Peter Cardella Senior Citizen center is one of the local centers handling some of the displaced seniors from Glenridge Senior Center. Cardella already had a working relationship with Glenridge Senior Center transporting seniors.
“I’m on good terms with Albert [Juszczak],” said Cardella Senior Citizen center director Barbara Toscano. “It’s always a pleasure to take on seniors.”
It appears that the jubilation over last month’s successful effort to keep the Glen- ridge Senior Center open is short-lived. After Councilwoman Diana Reyna allocated funds to keep the center open, its operations were suspended on July 30 because it failed to receive an advance loan from the city Department for the Aging (DFTA).
The saga began when the DFTA was forced to end contracts with multiple senior centers throughout the city, including Glenridge, due to the city’s current economic woes. Five days before Glenridge, which serves about 100 local seniors, was set to close, it received an operational grant from Reyna (D-Ridgewood). Getting the money to the center, however, is a long bureaucratic process.
“There’s nothing that can be done to expedite the discretionary funding process,” said Bennett Baruch, Reyna’s chief of staff. He stressed, however, the Council- woman’s office has been in frequent communications with Glenridge Senior Center, and they are doing everything they can to help.
In order to keep the center operational while they waited for the grant money to arrive, they asked the DFTA for an advance on the funds they were set to receive. This request was denied.
Chris Miller of the DFTA explained the reasoning: “Glenridge is one of 46 senior centers that no longer have a contract with the city, and it is our policy not to give advanced loans to centers without contracts,” he said. The DFTA is still the dispersal agent for the Council money, but without a contract, it cannot advance the loan to Glenridge Senior Center.
Albert Juszczak, director of the Glenridge Senior Center, was sad the center had to suspend operations. However, there was little he could do without incurring additional financial costs the center could not afford. There is a possibility the center could receive a bridge loan to open its doors before the arrival of the grant money. If that doesn’t happen, the center must wait for Reyna’s funding to come through in order to reopen its doors.
For now, the seniors at the center are forced to live without the center’s comforts. Juszczak and his team made sure to help them with this transition. “The seniors were well aware we might have to shut down,” he said, “And they were advised where to go for additional services.”
The Peter Cardella Senior Citizen center is one of the local centers handling some of the displaced seniors from Glenridge Senior Center. Cardella already had a working relationship with Glenridge Senior Center transporting seniors.
“I’m on good terms with Albert [Juszczak],” said Cardella Senior Citizen center director Barbara Toscano. “It’s always a pleasure to take on seniors.”
First Jabs Thrown in State Senate Showdown
By Eric Yun
The first jabs have been thrown in the race between Republican challenger Anthony Como and incumbent State Senator Joseph Addabbo as the battle for the 15th Senate District seat begins.
The New York City Campaign Finance Board (CFB) fined Como $500 and determined he must return $12,484 of unspent camaign funds. The infractions were from Como’s unsuccessful campaign against City Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) in the 2008 general election.
The CFB released its aduit on July 22nd. According to the report, Como and campaign treasure Laura Schreiner must repay the board by August 25th or risk civil action.
The $500 penalty was the result of two infractions. Como’s campaign purchased a $100 advertisement from the Holy Child Jesus Teen Drama Club in September, and then spent more than $6,000 in impermissible post-election expenditures for office equipment and phone and Internet services.
Como’s campaign contends the spending, which occurred at the tail end of the campaign, was necessary because both companies only offered long-term contracts. However, the CFB determined that portions of these contracts were impermissible.
Como’s Campaign Attorney Grant Lally reiterated to The Forum that the contracts were only available a year at a time and downplayed the issue. “At the end of the day, it’s just $500 in fines,” he said, adding that Como was very cooperative furnishing reports, and the unspent funds and fines will be paid.
This didn’t stop New York Democrats from jumping at the opportunity to take shots at Como.
“The recent Campaign Finance Board decision fining Anthony Como $12,484 for violating campaign finance law is yet another example of this career politician’s utter disregard for the law and New York’s overburdened taxpayers,” said Eric Blankenbaker, spokesman for the New York State Democratic Senate Campaign Committee.
Como fired a shot at Addabbo’s campaign as well this week. He Filed a challenge against signatures Addabbo’s campaign collected to land him on the Working Families Party (WFP) ballot line.
The WFP is a progressive party that fights for middle and working class families. They support universal health care, affordable transportation, good jobs and fair taxes. Under a request from Como’s campaign, the Board of Elections’ clerks examined Addabbo’s signatures for the WFP line.
Addabbo received 30 signatures, but under a review from the clerks, seven signatures were invalidated. A total of 24 signatures are needed to be listed on the party line, which left Addabbo one signature short.
The clerks’ report was examined by a non-partisan group to ensure its accuracy before being sent to the Board of Elections commissioners for a vote. According to Como’s campaign, this process was conducted twice because of complaints from Democrat Commissioners, but ther clerks’ report was still eventually sent for a vote.
The Board of Elections Commissioners voted 5-4 in favor of accepting the report, but a total of six votes were needed. Five Republicans voted in favor, and four Democrats voted against. As a result, Addabbo is allowed to remain on the WFP ballot line in November.
“I have been practicing Election Law for many years and never witnessed a refusal to accept the clerk’s report,” Lally said. “This decision is politically motivated and ignores Board of Elections protocol. I look foroward to having our argument heard in a court of law.”
Addabbo contends he had enough signatures, and this is just a common election game from Como to shift focus away from real issues. “I didn’t challenge any of his signatures,” Addabbo said. “I’m focusing on the quality of life issues that serve my communities.”
MTA Unveils 2011 Budget Plan
Changes Planned for Unlimited Cards
Straphangers who depend on the city’s subways and busses will soon pay extra for their daily rides, especially if they use the unlimited Metro Cards. The MTA, which is facing a deficit of more than $800 million, recently announced a plan that includes cost-cutting measures and fare hikes.
Public hearings are expected to be held in September on the plan, which is expected to be finalized in December.
Under the plan, the MTA honored its 2009 agreement with the state legislature and kept fare hikes at 7.5 percent. Base rides will remain $2.25, but the MTA proposed various increases on other types of MetroCards.
Unlimited Metro Cards received the brunt of the changes. The 30-day unlimited card would cost $99 dollars and be capped at 90 rides. Another option discussed was a $104 unlimited card with no cap restrictions. The 30-day unlimited card is currently $89. Similarly, the 7- day unlimited cards would have a 22-ride cap for $28 or an unlimited card for $29.
The MTA argued even with the increased price, riders would receive significant discounts. “A rider taking 90 rides in a month would pay $1.10 per ride under the $99 option, or $1.16 per ride under the $104 option,” the MTA said in a press release.
Other changes to unlimited cards include the elimination of the 14-day unlimited and the “one-day Fun Pass.” According to the MTA, the two cards account for just 2.9 percent of trips.
Other cost-cutting measures included charging customers a one-dollar “green fee” for buying new Metro Cards. The MTA spends $13 million each year printing new cards. The initiative would reduce litter if more people refilled existing cards, and the surcharge would not apply to cards sold at outside retailers.
The MTA also proposed sacrifices for their labor force. The company already eliminated more than 3,400 jobs to help close their 2010 deficit. Another 210 station agent jobs are eliminated in this year’s plan. Furthermore, the MTA proposed freezing wage increases unconnected to productivity. Subsequently, non-union employees, for the second straight year, will not receive a cost of living raise, according to the MTA.
“The foundation of this plan is the most aggressive and comprehensive overhaul in the history of the MTA,” MTA CEO and Chairman Jay Walder said. “These actions have allowed us to hold true to our commitment regarding fare increases while maintaining the quantity and quality of service that New Yorkers rely on every day. The State’s ongoing fiscal crisis is one of many risks to the plan, but with continued hard work and the participation of our labor unions I believe that this plan can be achieved.”
Straphangers who depend on the city’s subways and busses will soon pay extra for their daily rides, especially if they use the unlimited Metro Cards. The MTA, which is facing a deficit of more than $800 million, recently announced a plan that includes cost-cutting measures and fare hikes.
Public hearings are expected to be held in September on the plan, which is expected to be finalized in December.
Under the plan, the MTA honored its 2009 agreement with the state legislature and kept fare hikes at 7.5 percent. Base rides will remain $2.25, but the MTA proposed various increases on other types of MetroCards.
Unlimited Metro Cards received the brunt of the changes. The 30-day unlimited card would cost $99 dollars and be capped at 90 rides. Another option discussed was a $104 unlimited card with no cap restrictions. The 30-day unlimited card is currently $89. Similarly, the 7- day unlimited cards would have a 22-ride cap for $28 or an unlimited card for $29.
The MTA argued even with the increased price, riders would receive significant discounts. “A rider taking 90 rides in a month would pay $1.10 per ride under the $99 option, or $1.16 per ride under the $104 option,” the MTA said in a press release.
Other changes to unlimited cards include the elimination of the 14-day unlimited and the “one-day Fun Pass.” According to the MTA, the two cards account for just 2.9 percent of trips.
Other cost-cutting measures included charging customers a one-dollar “green fee” for buying new Metro Cards. The MTA spends $13 million each year printing new cards. The initiative would reduce litter if more people refilled existing cards, and the surcharge would not apply to cards sold at outside retailers.
The MTA also proposed sacrifices for their labor force. The company already eliminated more than 3,400 jobs to help close their 2010 deficit. Another 210 station agent jobs are eliminated in this year’s plan. Furthermore, the MTA proposed freezing wage increases unconnected to productivity. Subsequently, non-union employees, for the second straight year, will not receive a cost of living raise, according to the MTA.
“The foundation of this plan is the most aggressive and comprehensive overhaul in the history of the MTA,” MTA CEO and Chairman Jay Walder said. “These actions have allowed us to hold true to our commitment regarding fare increases while maintaining the quantity and quality of service that New Yorkers rely on every day. The State’s ongoing fiscal crisis is one of many risks to the plan, but with continued hard work and the participation of our labor unions I believe that this plan can be achieved.”
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Medical Facility Opens At JFK Airport
By Eric Yun
JFK Advanced Medical held a grand opening ceremony for a new 4,800 square-foot facility at John F. Kennedy Airport. The ribbon cutting celebrated the opening of the facility, which occurred several weeks ago, and commemorated JFK Advanced Medical’s new part- nership with the MediSys Health Network, which in- cludes Jamaica and Flushing Hospitals.
At the ceremony, Dr. David Rosenthal, Practice Manager of JFK Advanced Medical, thanked the community and airport staff for supporting the facility. He also thanked his employees for “making [the center] run like its been running for 15 years.”
Michael Hinck, associate director of Jamaica Hospital, said he is happy with the partnership. “We're very happy to support them, and we'll help provide what- ever services they can't.”
There aren't many things JFK Advanced Medical can’t handle. It comes equipped with an emergency room and seven examination rooms. The medical equipment includes digital X-ray machines, electrocardiogram (EKG) machines and other devices.
The two practice managers, Dr. Rosenthal and Dr. Raymond Kayume, have years of medical experience at JFK Airport. Both worked with the previous medical center at JFK, which was affiliated with St. Vincent's and St. John's Hospital.
Located at the airport, the majority of the services offered will help the employees of JFK. Physicals and drug and alcohol testing is offered. The center also boasts physical therapy and rehabilitation services for injured workers.
Travelers will also find uses for JFK Advanced Medical. With JFK Airport being a major hub of international travel, a wide variety of travel immunization and medicine services are of- fered. Immigration physicals are also given at the facility.
With medical facilities closing because of the current economic climate, the doctors are thrilled they were able to open a center that can help a large amount of people each day.
“I'm happy we can help not only the airport but the surrounding community as well,” Dr. Kayume said. “We rightfully should be in the airport.”
City to Appeal 9/11 Memorial Ruling
By Patricia Adams
Captain James J. Corrigan served with the FDNY for 25 years before retiring in March 1994. Following his retirement, he accepted the position as Fire and Life Safety Coordinator at the World Trade Center.
On September 11, 2001, Corrigan led the excavation of children from a day care center at the Trade Center and then offered his help to the FDNY. He was last seen working alongside Battalion Chief Joseph Grezelek in the South Tower trying to establish communications and instruct FDNY units to evacuate when the tower collapsed.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Corrigan’s wife Marie and her two sons, Sean and Brendan, attempted to get her husband listed under FDNY in The National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Center Foundation. The FDNY’s refusal to that request came as a great shock to the family.
The department argued that because Corrigan was not on active duty, he was not entitled to the same honors as active firefighters.
A legal battle ensued centering on a 2002 law allowing the families of retired firefighters who died at the World Trade Center to be given the same economic benefits as active duty firefighters. Also, the law states that retired firefighters like Corrigan were “as of Sep- tember 11, 2001 to have been fully reinstated to full active employment status, at their highest achieved rank and status.”
Marie Corrigan and her sons believe that since the legislation reinstated her husband as an active duty firefighter, he is entitled to the same merits and awards as other firefighters who tragically lost their lives on 9/11.
The FDNY contends retired firefighters who died in firerelated activity have never been honored in the same manner as active duty personnel. Furthermore, they believe the law is being misinterpreted: it was passed to provide economic benefits, not awards or merits—or memorials.
But on Monday afternoon, Queens Supreme Court Justice Augustus Agate ruled that Corrigan’s name belongs on the memorial.
“While this court hesitates to become embroiled in the internal decisions of the FDNY regarding a matter of such a sensitive nature,” Agate wrote. “There is simply no rational basis for the FDNY’s position herein given the circumstances of Captain Corrigan’s death, the legislation enacted thereafter, and the FDNY’s own manner of honoring and acknowledging his sacrifice.”
Agate noted many instances where FDNY treated Corrigan as a firefighter who died under active duty. Corrigan is listed on the FDNY’s website’s 9/11 memorial page, and his name was included in the FDNY Memorial Service in Madison Square Garden on October 12, 2002.
And when Corrigan’s sons both left their private sector jobs to take the FDNY entrance exam after their father’s death, they were given a legacy credit on their exams, which is only given if a parent is killed during active duty.
Given the circumstances, Agate ruled the FDNY’s decision to not include Corrigan in their memorial was “arbitrary and capricious,” and ruled he should be listed under FDNY.
From her home in Bayside, Marie Corrigan told The Forum what the decision means to her and her family. “This decision allows us to move forward. I think Justice Agate got it right on.” She went on to say that the judges ruling addressed all the critical points of the issue especially in responding to the FDNY’s view on the matter.
But the Corrigan family’s temporary relief was halted on Tuesday afternoon when Mayor Michael Bloomberg told reporters that he planned to appeal the judge’s decision.
"We're not going to reopen this. We'll fight this in court," Bloomberg said. The decision made by Justice Agate could reverse years of negotiations on how to list victims’ names. Now, Bloomberg says the plans for a Ground Zero Memorial set to open on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in 2011 could be delayed. "If you want to delay the memorial for a couple of years, you start opening it up and revisit everybody. You're never going to make everybody happy."
Speaking about the city’s decision to appeal Justice Agate’s decision, Marie Corrigan said, “Obviously I’m very disappointed. But we will continue to go forward and do whatever we have to.” Continuing on she said, “One of the most important things involved here is that my husband was returned to active duty status in 2002. The refusal to recognize that is a clear violation of an existing law.”
Marie Corrigan was quick to respond to the mayor’s remarks about the possible delay to the opening of the memorial,. “It’s the city’s choice to contest the decision that was made. We’ve already been to court. A 2002 law supports us. The judge has ruled in our favor. Any delay has nothing to do with the court’s decision-- it has to do with the city. The ball is in their court.”
R. James DeRose III, an attorney for Marie Corrigan, also spoke out about the mayor’s decision. "We urge Mayor Bloomberg and the heads of the FDNY to give Captain Corrigan the honor he is due as a hero who gave his life for the city, rather than insisting that they do not need to follow the law of New York state, the decision of the New York courts and what is morally correct,"
Former City Councilmember Tony Avella says he has worked with the family for years. “I'm flabbergasted he [Bloomberg] and the city continue to fight this. The city's continued refusal is baffling. Bloomberg fails to un- derstand, in my opinion, the basic needs of the average New Yorker. He has no compassion."
Officials at the FDNY say they are looking into the court’s decision but declined further comment.
Captain James J. Corrigan served with the FDNY for 25 years before retiring in March 1994. Following his retirement, he accepted the position as Fire and Life Safety Coordinator at the World Trade Center.
On September 11, 2001, Corrigan led the excavation of children from a day care center at the Trade Center and then offered his help to the FDNY. He was last seen working alongside Battalion Chief Joseph Grezelek in the South Tower trying to establish communications and instruct FDNY units to evacuate when the tower collapsed.
In the aftermath of the disaster, Corrigan’s wife Marie and her two sons, Sean and Brendan, attempted to get her husband listed under FDNY in The National September 11 Memorial and Museum at the World Trade Center Foundation. The FDNY’s refusal to that request came as a great shock to the family.
The department argued that because Corrigan was not on active duty, he was not entitled to the same honors as active firefighters.
A legal battle ensued centering on a 2002 law allowing the families of retired firefighters who died at the World Trade Center to be given the same economic benefits as active duty firefighters. Also, the law states that retired firefighters like Corrigan were “as of Sep- tember 11, 2001 to have been fully reinstated to full active employment status, at their highest achieved rank and status.”
Marie Corrigan and her sons believe that since the legislation reinstated her husband as an active duty firefighter, he is entitled to the same merits and awards as other firefighters who tragically lost their lives on 9/11.
The FDNY contends retired firefighters who died in firerelated activity have never been honored in the same manner as active duty personnel. Furthermore, they believe the law is being misinterpreted: it was passed to provide economic benefits, not awards or merits—or memorials.
But on Monday afternoon, Queens Supreme Court Justice Augustus Agate ruled that Corrigan’s name belongs on the memorial.
“While this court hesitates to become embroiled in the internal decisions of the FDNY regarding a matter of such a sensitive nature,” Agate wrote. “There is simply no rational basis for the FDNY’s position herein given the circumstances of Captain Corrigan’s death, the legislation enacted thereafter, and the FDNY’s own manner of honoring and acknowledging his sacrifice.”
Agate noted many instances where FDNY treated Corrigan as a firefighter who died under active duty. Corrigan is listed on the FDNY’s website’s 9/11 memorial page, and his name was included in the FDNY Memorial Service in Madison Square Garden on October 12, 2002.
And when Corrigan’s sons both left their private sector jobs to take the FDNY entrance exam after their father’s death, they were given a legacy credit on their exams, which is only given if a parent is killed during active duty.
Given the circumstances, Agate ruled the FDNY’s decision to not include Corrigan in their memorial was “arbitrary and capricious,” and ruled he should be listed under FDNY.
From her home in Bayside, Marie Corrigan told The Forum what the decision means to her and her family. “This decision allows us to move forward. I think Justice Agate got it right on.” She went on to say that the judges ruling addressed all the critical points of the issue especially in responding to the FDNY’s view on the matter.
But the Corrigan family’s temporary relief was halted on Tuesday afternoon when Mayor Michael Bloomberg told reporters that he planned to appeal the judge’s decision.
"We're not going to reopen this. We'll fight this in court," Bloomberg said. The decision made by Justice Agate could reverse years of negotiations on how to list victims’ names. Now, Bloomberg says the plans for a Ground Zero Memorial set to open on the 10th anniversary of 9/11 in 2011 could be delayed. "If you want to delay the memorial for a couple of years, you start opening it up and revisit everybody. You're never going to make everybody happy."
Speaking about the city’s decision to appeal Justice Agate’s decision, Marie Corrigan said, “Obviously I’m very disappointed. But we will continue to go forward and do whatever we have to.” Continuing on she said, “One of the most important things involved here is that my husband was returned to active duty status in 2002. The refusal to recognize that is a clear violation of an existing law.”
Marie Corrigan was quick to respond to the mayor’s remarks about the possible delay to the opening of the memorial,. “It’s the city’s choice to contest the decision that was made. We’ve already been to court. A 2002 law supports us. The judge has ruled in our favor. Any delay has nothing to do with the court’s decision-- it has to do with the city. The ball is in their court.”
R. James DeRose III, an attorney for Marie Corrigan, also spoke out about the mayor’s decision. "We urge Mayor Bloomberg and the heads of the FDNY to give Captain Corrigan the honor he is due as a hero who gave his life for the city, rather than insisting that they do not need to follow the law of New York state, the decision of the New York courts and what is morally correct,"
Former City Councilmember Tony Avella says he has worked with the family for years. “I'm flabbergasted he [Bloomberg] and the city continue to fight this. The city's continued refusal is baffling. Bloomberg fails to un- derstand, in my opinion, the basic needs of the average New Yorker. He has no compassion."
Officials at the FDNY say they are looking into the court’s decision but declined further comment.
Editorial: Acknowledging Heroes
A sense of relief and closure after a long-awaited court decision turned bittersweet this week for the family of a retired veteran firefighter who gave his life at the World Trade Center.
On September 11, 2001 Capt. James J. Corrigan was working as the Fire and Life Safety Coordinator of the entire Twin Towers complex. In that capacity he per- sonally led the evacuation from the onsite day care center, guiding some 20 children to safety.
When he finished with that, Capt. Corrigan reported for duty with the FDNY in the South tower. Along with brother firefighters, he tried to establish commu- nication lines to evacuate the FDNY from the towers.
The debate between the city and the Corrigan family lies in the petition to allow Corrigan’s name to appear on the FDNY portion of the Memorial to be built at Ground Zero. His family says Corrigan died as a firefighter FDNY says he was retired.
A law passed in 2002 reinstating Capt. Corrigan to full active employment status should have set any debate to rest but the FDNY has persisted with tiresome ne- gotiations that have resulted in planning to place Capt. Corrigan’s name apart from the Bravest on the Memorial.
This week, Queens Supreme Court Justice Augustus Agate ruled in favor of the petition to include Capt. James J. Corrigan’s name to be etched with the names of his firefighter brothers. After reading the justice’s decision it becomes apparent that there is nothing that would even approach rationale in the denial of this request.
Yet on Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Bloomberg an- nounced his intentions to have the city appeal the court ruling. Even more absurd than the FDNY’s objections to the petition is the contesting of the current ruling by NYC.
Bloomberg says the reason the city will seek to overturn the decision is because the FDNY acted reasonably in this matter, continuing on to say that there was no way for everyone to be happy in this situation. We agree with you there Mr. Bloomberg. You can’t ever make everyone happy but you can always do the right thing.
To the mayor we say that the only people acting without reason in this situation are those who object to having Capt. Corrigan’s name where it belongs. With the other firefighters who lost their lives on that fateful day.
While Capt. James J. Corrigan may have retired from the department, obviously he did not retire his commitment to risk his life for others.
We hope to see his name where it belongs. On the wall of the Memorial yet to be built in the same place as all others who lived as firefighters and died as firefighters.
On September 11, 2001 Capt. James J. Corrigan was working as the Fire and Life Safety Coordinator of the entire Twin Towers complex. In that capacity he per- sonally led the evacuation from the onsite day care center, guiding some 20 children to safety.
When he finished with that, Capt. Corrigan reported for duty with the FDNY in the South tower. Along with brother firefighters, he tried to establish commu- nication lines to evacuate the FDNY from the towers.
The debate between the city and the Corrigan family lies in the petition to allow Corrigan’s name to appear on the FDNY portion of the Memorial to be built at Ground Zero. His family says Corrigan died as a firefighter FDNY says he was retired.
A law passed in 2002 reinstating Capt. Corrigan to full active employment status should have set any debate to rest but the FDNY has persisted with tiresome ne- gotiations that have resulted in planning to place Capt. Corrigan’s name apart from the Bravest on the Memorial.
This week, Queens Supreme Court Justice Augustus Agate ruled in favor of the petition to include Capt. James J. Corrigan’s name to be etched with the names of his firefighter brothers. After reading the justice’s decision it becomes apparent that there is nothing that would even approach rationale in the denial of this request.
Yet on Tuesday afternoon, Mayor Bloomberg an- nounced his intentions to have the city appeal the court ruling. Even more absurd than the FDNY’s objections to the petition is the contesting of the current ruling by NYC.
Bloomberg says the reason the city will seek to overturn the decision is because the FDNY acted reasonably in this matter, continuing on to say that there was no way for everyone to be happy in this situation. We agree with you there Mr. Bloomberg. You can’t ever make everyone happy but you can always do the right thing.
To the mayor we say that the only people acting without reason in this situation are those who object to having Capt. Corrigan’s name where it belongs. With the other firefighters who lost their lives on that fateful day.
While Capt. James J. Corrigan may have retired from the department, obviously he did not retire his commitment to risk his life for others.
We hope to see his name where it belongs. On the wall of the Memorial yet to be built in the same place as all others who lived as firefighters and died as firefighters.
Iconic Stadium Faces Potential Sale
By Tamara Best
During its storied history, Forest Hills Tennis Stadium has played host to many historic events, including the inaugural U.S Open in 1968, when Arthur Ashe became the first African-American man to win a grand slam title.
The iconic stadium, which is part of the West Side Tennis Club, has been seldom used since the U. S. Open was moved to Flushing Meadows in the late 1970s and has deteriorated over the years. And now, it may disappear forever as the club weighs whether or not to sell it.
The club dates back to 1892 and includes 38 courts. The main stadium, which seats 15,000, opened in 1923. In addition to tennis, the stadium has hosted notable musicians including Frank Sinatra, The Beatles, Diana Ross and The Who.
An informational meeting on the proposal to sell the club’s main stadium will be held on August 10, with members set to vote on August 19th. The club would retain ownership over the other facilities and courts on the 14- acre property, which is located near Austin Street.
Attempts to reach the clubs officers were unsuccessful, but members weighed in on the possibility of the stadium being sold.
Susanna Hof, a longtime member and co-founder of Terrace Sotheby's International Realty in Forest Hills, said she has concerns over the timing of the meeting and vote.
“The time of planning is short and in the summer, which means some of the members won’t be there,” she said. “This announcement was brought to the membership with two weeks notice. Long-term members feel like it’s a travesty.”
Hof said there has been discussion over the last decade about selling the stadium with proposals for a hotel, townhouses and a tennis hall of fame among other considerations. Building more residential developments would create added congestion to the area, which is already heavily populated, she said.
A longtime member of the club, who asked not be named, said that discussion and voting centers on one offer— but members won’t know who is making the offer until the informational meeting. Two-thirds of members must vote to approve any sale of the stadium. In an e-mail sent to members this week, leadership clarified rules in the bylaws that decides who can vote, based on their level of membership, according to a longtime member who asked not to be named. Under the rules, some members of the club would not be eligible to vote.
Christine Schott, who has been a club member for years, said she hopes that voting on a potential sale will be placed on hold until the fall.
“I think the membership feels that one week’s time is not enough to make an important decision,” she said. “To just tear it down would make the West Side Tennis Club into just a tennis club, instead of a world renowned tennis club.”
Hof said that before any discussion of selling the stadium takes place, an independent structural report to be completed.
According to Joseph Gulino of Structural Engineering Systems PLLC in Bayside, which isn’t involved in this project, engineers examine deficiencies such as cracks, settlement problems, corrosion, rust and other issues when assessing a stadium.
“We do a visual and look for characteristics of structural deficiency,” he said. “From there, depending on what you see, you may do a detailed model in 3D to analyze the structure. Sometimes renovating a structure that size could prove not to be worth the investment,” he said, adding that correcting structural problems could costs millions for a structure the size of the stadium.
Despite the potential cost, Hof said these issues need to be explored.“ The structural integrity of the stadium is important,” she said. “From a place in American history, it is an important place. If you could find a use to the stadium that would still bring in money and preserve it that should be an option.”
Michael Perlman, of the Rego-Forest Preservation Council, is calling for the stadium to be designated as a landmark.
“There isn’t anything else quite like it in the country,” he said. “It helped tennis to become the national sport that it is.”
Perlman added that the general public should not be “shut out” of the discussion because the stadium is part of the community, not just the club.
“People should write to the Landmark Preservation Committee so that future generations can cherish something that is truly remarkable. Queens is fortunate to have it— it’s an icon.”
In a feature piece this week, Ed McGrogan, assistant editor for TENNIS.com, suggested that the stadium be renovated if possible and re-used.
“Many fans have clamored for more tennis on turf, as the current grass-court “season” is just five weeks long for the men and four weeks for the women,” he said. “But there’s no reason it has to end after Wimbledon. Another grass showcase in the U.S. in mid-July, right after fans have gotten into grass during Wimbledon, would attract viewers both at the club and on television.”
Despite not wanting to see the stadium disappear, Hof said the club must ultimately ex- plore its options to help generate revenue. “From a business perspective you have to look at all the options. You can’t have your head in the cloud.”
Warehouse Plans Unveiled for St. Savior's but Fight Continues for Parkland
By Tamara Best
A plan to build warehouses on the former St. Saviour’s property suffered a temporary setback this week when the city rejected site plans, leaving the future of the Maspeth site up in the air.
Property owner Maspeth Development LLC recently unveiled plans and applied to the city for permits needed to construct four one-story units on the 1.5-acre property at 57th Road and 58th Street.
According to city Department of Building records, a plan exam for the property was rejected on Monday. A department representative said a rejection of plans generally results in a series of meetings between the applicant and examiner’s office so that necessary changes can be made.
Area civic leaders and elected officials were hoping the land would be converted into much-needed greenspace for area residents.
“Maspeth has about 12 acres of parkland in total for about 40,000 residents and that is really not adequate,” said local activist Christina Wilkinson. “And the ones we do have are more geared toward active recreation, where the Maspeth site could be passive. I think this would be a good opportunity for the city to plan a park for the site. We don’t need anymore warehouses, we have plenty.”
Wilkinson said she hopes that the owner will consider “coming to the table” to talk with the city about selling the property.
“I'm willing to work with anyone, but we're moving forward,” property owner Scott Kushnick, recently told the New York Daily News. “The city cannot come up with the money, and I have my back against the wall.”
Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) allocated $500,000 towards acquisition of the land, in addition to more than $1 million from Borough President Helen Marshall.
“Maspeth has been under served when it comes to park space and we need to seize on this opportunity to invest in open space for the residents of Maspeth,” said Crowley. “I hope the owners of the property see this commit- ment and begin negotiations to sell the prop- erty to the city as soon as possible.”
Dan Andrews, spokesman Marshall, said the borough president is committed to trying to acquire the land for park use.
“It’s an ongoing process, it’s been give and take,” he said on Wednesday in reference to attempts to acquire the land from the current developer.
It is unclear how much Kushnick would ask for the property and attempts to reach him were unsuccessful this week.
The Juniper Park Civic Association (JPCA) previously rallied to save the church from being demolished, securing funding from the offices of Marshall and Crowley. The church was dis- mantled and is currently in storage until it can be rebuilt, either at land in Middle Village donated by All-Faiths Cemetery, or back at its original home in Maspeth.
At a July 2009 civic meeting, JPCA President Bob Holden, told members, “St. Saviour’s was just minutes – literally minutes – from demolition... We were all out there preparing for the worst, and then the miracle happened.”
And civic leaders like Wilkinson said they are once again hopeful that another miracle occurs and the land will be saved.
Overcrowding, Budget Cuts Focus at CEC 24 Meeting
Representatives from the offices of Senator Joseph Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) and Assemblyman Mike Miller (D-Woodhaven) expressed that the legislature is hoping to avoid budget cuts to the education system.
Nick Comaianni, president of CEC 24, had a simple message for the elected officials as they return to Albany. “No bargain, no cuts to education,” he said.
Comaianni also asked that both Miller and Addabbo take time moving forward to talk to education councils and parents before voting on legislation concerning new charter schools. “They are private schools funded with public money. More oversight is needed,” he said.
Jeff Gottlieb from Senator Addabbo’s office said that in addition to avoiding cuts to education, there needs to be an examination of after school programs such as The Boys & Girls Club that are also suffering from overcrowding.
The problem of overcrowding continued to be a hot issue among parents.
“[PS] 153’s population is starting to grow and it’s rumored that Ferrara Lumber is moving,” said parent Joann Berger.” Development in the neighborhood [Maspeth] is something we need to keep an eye on.” She added that the community must take advantage of available property that could be used for a school.
Comaianni said that the CEC will continue to monitor the amount of students at schools, particularly PS 87, which is to receive an annex, to alleviate overcrowding. “We’re going to look at the numbers and if we have x amount of seats, we’ll rezone and bring more kids into 87,” he said.
Parents once again raised concerns about the lack of seats in gifted and talented programs for children entering kindergarten and six grade who pass tests to be admitted.
Superintendent Madeline Chan reported that 84 percent of principals responded to a Principal Satisfaction survey saying that they are satisfied with the help that they are receiving from the Department of Education. This year’s standardized test scores are expected to be released the week of August 19th and round two of pre kindergarten applications are now open on the Department of Education website.
Parents will also have a chance to provide input about what and how their children are taught with the preliminary New York State Teaching Standards document now available on the DOE website. The deadline for public comment of the New York State Teaching Standards is August 16th.
Local Crime, State Budget and Parks Discussed at CBR Meet
By Tamara Best
At the Citizens for a Better Ridgewood meeting Tuesday, the state budget, voting, crime in the 104th Precinct and issues at local parks were among key discussions.
State Senator Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) addressed the audience briefly to discuss the state budget, trains hauling garbage through the area and the upcoming election.
“I want to go back to Albany to finish off what we should have before July 4,” he said, adding that he continues to express frustration over this year’s process and hopes to restore money to areas where it has been lost due to budget cuts.
“As the budget gets cut, the District Attorney loses money for prosecutions,” he said in reference to repeat offenders and curbing crime.
Members of the audience also raised concerns about the MTA, the lack of the M train running on the weekend and the possibility of fares being raised. Addabbo said he is hopeful that an independent audit being done of their practices will be complete by the year’s end.
“I’m not convinced that they’re good at math or lose money,” he said, adding that the M line is “critical” to the area and hopes that the MTA will be able to “restore service to the levels we deserve.”
Addabbo also reassured residents that though efforts at trying to pass legislation on a hard covering for the railcars transporting waste was unsuccessful, he plans on pushing for stronger laws again during the next legislative session.
With elections this fall, he also took a minute to remind residents of the new electronic voting machines and urged them to have patience.
“This new year starts a new era in voting,” he said. “Be prepared for longer lines and to spend a little more time voting this year. We don’t want people to go home, if you can stand a little frustration it is worth your time.” When asked why he voted against gay marriage, he said that the majority of correspondence from constituents asked that he not vote in favor of it.
“I see 300,000 people jammed into my seat in the chamber,” he said of the way he votes on issues, adding that “accessibility and conversation is important to the progress we need to make.”
Community Affairs Officer Tommy Bell of the 104th Precinct provided an update on crime for the year. Crime is up so far, with 990 incidents so far this year as opposed to 928 at the same time last year. Felony assaults have spiked from 96 last year to 128 for the year to date. With auto theft plaguing the community, Bell said the precinct is remaining proactive and vigilant, employing the latest technology to help them combat this type of crime in the area.
Bell also encouraged residents to try and deter burglars from breaking into their home by securing air conditioning units, having a crime prevention officer visit the home to offer a free assessment and by closing their windows, even if they are only leaving their home briefly. Residents who need help removing graffiti can contact GCop, the 104’s Civilian Observation Patrol, at (718) 497-1500.
With recently renovated Grover Cleveland Park now open once again for area residents to enjoy, Steve Fiedler, chairman of Community Board 5’s Parks Committee, said there have been no major problems thus far. However, the lack of goalposts for the soccer fields, exits near gardens and double parking are issues that need to be addressed to improve the park’s condition.
Fiedler also spoke briefly about the state of the Ridgewood Reservoir, noting that the state Department of Environment Conservation is considering designating the area a wetland. The department’s decision would complicate the city’s current plan, prohibiting the beginning of phase one until a decision is made.
“We don’t want the Parks Department to build phase one the way they have it designed,” he said, adding that the planned removal of 160 trees is “unacceptable.”
Fiedler told the audience that several local high schools and colleges have expressed interest in using the potential wetland for educational purposes, furthering the need for it to be preserved. Fiedler said three contractors have entered their name to be considered for the project.
At the Citizens for a Better Ridgewood meeting Tuesday, the state budget, voting, crime in the 104th Precinct and issues at local parks were among key discussions.
State Senator Addabbo (D-Howard Beach) addressed the audience briefly to discuss the state budget, trains hauling garbage through the area and the upcoming election.“I want to go back to Albany to finish off what we should have before July 4,” he said, adding that he continues to express frustration over this year’s process and hopes to restore money to areas where it has been lost due to budget cuts.
“As the budget gets cut, the District Attorney loses money for prosecutions,” he said in reference to repeat offenders and curbing crime.
Members of the audience also raised concerns about the MTA, the lack of the M train running on the weekend and the possibility of fares being raised. Addabbo said he is hopeful that an independent audit being done of their practices will be complete by the year’s end.
“I’m not convinced that they’re good at math or lose money,” he said, adding that the M line is “critical” to the area and hopes that the MTA will be able to “restore service to the levels we deserve.”
Addabbo also reassured residents that though efforts at trying to pass legislation on a hard covering for the railcars transporting waste was unsuccessful, he plans on pushing for stronger laws again during the next legislative session.
With elections this fall, he also took a minute to remind residents of the new electronic voting machines and urged them to have patience.
“This new year starts a new era in voting,” he said. “Be prepared for longer lines and to spend a little more time voting this year. We don’t want people to go home, if you can stand a little frustration it is worth your time.” When asked why he voted against gay marriage, he said that the majority of correspondence from constituents asked that he not vote in favor of it.
“I see 300,000 people jammed into my seat in the chamber,” he said of the way he votes on issues, adding that “accessibility and conversation is important to the progress we need to make.”
Community Affairs Officer Tommy Bell of the 104th Precinct provided an update on crime for the year. Crime is up so far, with 990 incidents so far this year as opposed to 928 at the same time last year. Felony assaults have spiked from 96 last year to 128 for the year to date. With auto theft plaguing the community, Bell said the precinct is remaining proactive and vigilant, employing the latest technology to help them combat this type of crime in the area.
Bell also encouraged residents to try and deter burglars from breaking into their home by securing air conditioning units, having a crime prevention officer visit the home to offer a free assessment and by closing their windows, even if they are only leaving their home briefly. Residents who need help removing graffiti can contact GCop, the 104’s Civilian Observation Patrol, at (718) 497-1500.
With recently renovated Grover Cleveland Park now open once again for area residents to enjoy, Steve Fiedler, chairman of Community Board 5’s Parks Committee, said there have been no major problems thus far. However, the lack of goalposts for the soccer fields, exits near gardens and double parking are issues that need to be addressed to improve the park’s condition.
Fiedler also spoke briefly about the state of the Ridgewood Reservoir, noting that the state Department of Environment Conservation is considering designating the area a wetland. The department’s decision would complicate the city’s current plan, prohibiting the beginning of phase one until a decision is made.
“We don’t want the Parks Department to build phase one the way they have it designed,” he said, adding that the planned removal of 160 trees is “unacceptable.”
Fiedler told the audience that several local high schools and colleges have expressed interest in using the potential wetland for educational purposes, furthering the need for it to be preserved. Fiedler said three contractors have entered their name to be considered for the project.
After 10 Years of Lobbying, PS 87 to Finally Receive Annex
By Tamara Best
After 10 years of waiting and pleading their case, parents and students of PS 87 have a reason to celebrate.
On Tuesday, City Schools Chancellor Joel Klein announced that the Middle Village school would receive a new annex, creating room for 120 seats and a gymnasium.
“I am happy to report that the feasibility study has been completed and it is the determination of the [Department of Education] and [Schools Construction Authority] to move forward with an annex at PS 87,” Klein said in a letter to Nick Comaianni, president of Community Education Council 24. The design will phase will begin in the coming weeks, followed by a timeline for the project’s completion.
Parents, educators and community leaders say the annex will provide much needed help to the school.
“I really want to thank everyone for pushing this extension through, it’s a miracle,” said Caryn Michaeli, principal of PS 87. “The parents are grateful and the children are eternally grateful—and it’s about the children.”
PS 87 has approximately 600 students in kindergarten through 8th grade in addition to special education. As one of the first schools in the district to be converted into a K-8 nearly a decade ago, it is the only that has not yet received an expansion.
Though new schools have been built in recent years, District 24 is considered to be the most over-crowded in the city.
In the past, officials have argued that the school did not warrant the upgrades because it was not overcrowded like others in the area.
“Especially given the city’s difficult economic circumstances, it is essential that we prioritize school construction for the neighborhoods that need it most,” a DOE spokesman told The Forum last year. Because the school is not overcrowded, the DOE had planned to address concerns “without the construction of a costly and unnecessary addition.”
But, parents and educators say the expansion is needed, and it appears that the DOE has changed its stance on the need for one, based on Klein’s letter.
“Originally when we were asked to go to [pre] K-8 we were promised an extension, but that never happened,” parent Bernadette Beninati told The Forum in August 2009. “It’s not luxuries we’re looking for, it’s necessities for our kids... During the swine flu out- break children were lined up to get into the bathroom, it’s just crazy.”
Tuesday evening, when the announcement of the annex was made at the CEC meeting, Beninati clapped and cheered along with other parents.
“We’re thrilled, we’ve been fighting for this,” she said.
Despite not being as crowded as other schools, PS 87 still faces issues in need of attention.
The cafeteria can only hold 100 people at a time and occasionally doubles as a gym. Additionally, the second floor only has two toilets, something Michaeli called “completely inadequate for the amount of people” in a 2008-09 Building Condition Assessment of the school by the DOE.
Last year, Councilwoman Elizabeth Crowley (D-Middle Village) led Klein on a tour of the school in effort to bring added attention to the conditions. She called the annex “a big victory for our community and, most importantly, for our students.”
At this time it unknown how long it will take to build the annex, where it will located and how much it will cost.
Still, Comianno praised the announcement. “This is very good news,” he said. “This is what happens when we work together.”
Auto Theft, Domestic Violence on the Rise in 104th Precinct
By Tamara Best
Crime is on the rise in the 104th Precinct, with the area ranked number one in the city for auto thefts. In addition, there has been a major spike in felony assaults, which are up 61 percent for the year.
Lt. James Lombardi and Detective Kevin Weber spoke to residents and members of several local civic groups at last Wednesday’s meeting, which was hosted by Communities of Maspeth and Elmhurst Together (COMET) in Maspeth Town Hall.
The Toyota Forerunner and Highlander, Dodge Caravan and Honda Pilot are among popular vehicle targets for thieves, according to police. Lombardi said the NYPD’s auto larceny unit is being sent to the area at nights in an effort to help curb auto thefts.
“We were doing very well and then we got hit a few weeks ago and it hasn’t stopped,” he said, adding that the crime is not clustered in a particular area but spread throughout the precinct.
Lombardi said the rise in assaults can be attributed to an increase in domestic violence in the area.
Area civic leaders and residents expressed frustration over repeat offenders being released let out of prison, only to commit more petty crimes.
“It’s a revolving door, the district attorney has got to protect us,” said Bob Holden, president of the Juniper Park Civic Association. “We need to write a few letters, make a few phone calls.”
Former City Councilman and current State Senate candidate Anthony Como told the audience that while he understood their frustration with the District Attorney’s office, punishment and deterring criminals is not solely at the discretion of the DA.
“Part of the problem is judges not setting bail high enough,” he said, which allows individuals who commit petty crimes to return to the streets quickly.
Roe Daraio, president of COMET, encouraged the audience to get involved with court watch programs and protest if needed to make their voices heard by the courts.
Lombardi did offer residents some positive news. The precinct is up more than 200 percent in graffiti arrests for the year, an issue that last long plagued neighborhoods within the confines of the 104.
Still, with the uptick in crime, Lombardi encouraged residents to remain alert.
“If something doesn’t look right— call.”
Crime is on the rise in the 104th Precinct, with the area ranked number one in the city for auto thefts. In addition, there has been a major spike in felony assaults, which are up 61 percent for the year.
Lt. James Lombardi and Detective Kevin Weber spoke to residents and members of several local civic groups at last Wednesday’s meeting, which was hosted by Communities of Maspeth and Elmhurst Together (COMET) in Maspeth Town Hall.
The Toyota Forerunner and Highlander, Dodge Caravan and Honda Pilot are among popular vehicle targets for thieves, according to police. Lombardi said the NYPD’s auto larceny unit is being sent to the area at nights in an effort to help curb auto thefts.
“We were doing very well and then we got hit a few weeks ago and it hasn’t stopped,” he said, adding that the crime is not clustered in a particular area but spread throughout the precinct.
Lombardi said the rise in assaults can be attributed to an increase in domestic violence in the area.
Area civic leaders and residents expressed frustration over repeat offenders being released let out of prison, only to commit more petty crimes.
“It’s a revolving door, the district attorney has got to protect us,” said Bob Holden, president of the Juniper Park Civic Association. “We need to write a few letters, make a few phone calls.”
Former City Councilman and current State Senate candidate Anthony Como told the audience that while he understood their frustration with the District Attorney’s office, punishment and deterring criminals is not solely at the discretion of the DA.
“Part of the problem is judges not setting bail high enough,” he said, which allows individuals who commit petty crimes to return to the streets quickly.
Roe Daraio, president of COMET, encouraged the audience to get involved with court watch programs and protest if needed to make their voices heard by the courts.
Lombardi did offer residents some positive news. The precinct is up more than 200 percent in graffiti arrests for the year, an issue that last long plagued neighborhoods within the confines of the 104.
Still, with the uptick in crime, Lombardi encouraged residents to remain alert.
“If something doesn’t look right— call.”
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