DiResto Eying Pheffer's Assembly Seat by Toni Cimino - Queens Courier

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Retired NYPD Lieutenant Glenn DiResto may be throwing his hat in the ring for Audrey Pheffer’s empty Assembly seat.

At least one person may be throwing his hat in the ring for Audrey Pheffer’s empty Assembly seat.

Retired NYPD Lieutenant Glenn DiResto said he decided to explore the possibility of running for the seat after Pheffer’s former chief of staff, Jo Ann Shapiro, decided not to run.

“Jo Ann has a tremendous amount of experience and would have been a great candidate. However, with her not running it makes the race more appealing,” said DiResto.

DiResto was a former City Council candidate in the 2009 Special Election that was won by Eric Ulrich.

“I am interested in the position because the problems that face our neighborhoods are the same as they were two years ago,” said DiResto. “We really need someone who understands the problems of the neighborhoods and has the personal, professional and civic experience to help solve those problems.”

DiResto has said he does not expect to get an official party line designation and notes he “hopes to be making a final decision in the next couple weeks” as to whether or not he will run.

“As a constituent, I believe everyone has an opportunity to run,” said County Clerk Pheffer. “There are many people who are very involved, and those who run must be responsive to the community.”

The 23rd Assembly district encompasses areas of Ozone Park, Howard Beach and the Rockaways. Pheffer told The Courier that the biggest challenge for whoever fills the seat will be the budget.

“He or she needs preparation to learn the process and make decisions,” she said. “The budget process is tough, and there’s still a deficit.”

Governor Andrew Cuomo has not yet set a date for the Special Election.

Genting is on the Right Track - Op/Ed by Anthony J. Gellineau -Leader-Observer

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When I hear so-called “LEADERS” of South Queens rail about the lack of job creation by companies like Genting, I think back to the days when quite a few people would prey upon the ignorance of those in earshot to bring attention to THEMSELVES. These are people who thrive in the midst of those who are less fortunate, taking advantage of their fears by casting something as the bogeyman that is out to get them. These same “leaders” do nothing to improve the life condition of the people they are talking at – they produce no results other than the temporary mental satisfaction of those who feel someone is standing up for them, only to have those same people leave in the same way in which they came.


True civic organizations fight daily to improve the quality of life of the residents in our communities. We meet with entities in our communities to address issues; we bring decision-makers to our meetings with our members to get their questions answered. We spend an inordinate amount of hours researching, communicating and disseminating information to our constituents. We teach our constituents to fish, and we don’t expect anyone to give us a fish.


My civic association, together with other civic associations that surround the Aqueduct racetrack have been fighting for close to 20 years, looking forward to the reconstruction and revitalization of the track. We have been in discussions with Community Board 10, Borough Presidents Schulman and Marshall, Assemblywoman Pheffer, deceased Assemblywoman Pauline Rhodd-Cumming, and Senators Maltese and Addabbo; we have worked on several different plans and we have lived through several different disappointing fits and starts. When Genting was awarded the right to build their casino, we all felt a sense of relief and optimism. And to their credit, Genting has been working with us in partnership, alerting our constituents to their opportunities, answering all of our questions – all the while becoming acclimated to our community. The relationship thus far could not be better.


Despite the feelings of optimism for many, there are some that believe that the selection of Genting brought disenfranchisement. You would think that it would be those who sought the rights to build the casino but were not selected. In this case however, it is a community of people who thought they were initially awarded the rights in a previous process, only to be disappointed when that process was deemed invalid. Some decided to own the previous process as if they were investors. They had built a sense of ownership with the belief that they were going to be intricately involved in the development of the project. Rightly or wrongly, the invalidation of that process left some people feeling as if they lost a significant stake in the development of the racetrack. These people, led astray by the supposed previous winners, are ripe for exploitation by the misguided and their cohorts who are more than eager to accommodate.


Before Genting was even chosen to develop the racetrack, a group of people, led by MISGUIDED LEADERS held a protest in front of the racetrack in June of 2010 to protest the bidding process. Illustrating a severe lack of understanding of the procurement process, THEY denounced the state’s RFP and it’s “lack of inclusion”. Since then, THEY have continued to lead people astray with poorly conceived assertions and sound bites. Those of us who live next to Aqueduct have been simply baffled by these tactics. They continue to antagonize our community without consulting those that live here – promulgating mistruths along the way. Simply put, it needs to stop.


The NAACP is this country’s foremost civil rights organization, and using its legacy to back a misguided campaign devalues its meaning to all of us. The redevelopment of Aqueduct means a lot to all of us, and inappropriately calling a company racist because it has not “consulted” any one self-appointed “leader” is unjust. While holding true to our values of fairness and community, have maintained a high level of communication with Genting and we have met their efforts to hire locally with vigor and anticipation, not cynicism. We have publicized their many opportunities and we have encouraged our constituents to respond. We will continue to reciprocate the same respect the Genting officials and representatives have shown to us. We will continue to urge those who have the community’s interest at heart to do the same. We ask those with PERSONAL agendas to go elsewhere.


Anthony J. Gellineau is president of the South Ozone Park Civic Association West.

Audrey Pheffer Aide's Out Of Assembly Race by Lisa L. Colangelo -| New York Daily News

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The scramble to fill the seat of former Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer has taken another turn, with her longtime aide announcing she will not run for the post.

Our Lisa L. Colangelo reports:

That clears the deck for Phillip Goldfeder, an aide to U.S. Sen. Chuck Schumer. Goldfeder is being touted as the Queens Democratic Party's pick to replace Pheffer, who recently stepped down from her legislative post to become the Queens County Clerk.

The district includes parts of Ozone Park, Howard Beach and the Rockaways.

"I've been very blessed being able to work with Audrey for all those years," said Joann Shapiro. "It allowed me to serve at a certain level, and I think I did it well."

Shapiro said she made the decision not to run after having discussions with her family. "I don't plan on leaving the community," she said. "I will continue to serve in a different capacity and am looking forward to it."

Goldfeder, a Far Rockaway native, has worked for both Republicans and Democrats, including a stint on Mayor Bloomberg's 2005 campaign and City Councilman Simcha Felder's unsuccessful campaign for state Senate. He could not be reached for comment yesterday.

The seat will be filled by a special election, possibly on Primary Day in September.

The four Democratic district leaders - Shapiro, Frank Gulluscio, Lew Simon and Geraldine Chapey - will decide who runs on the party line for that race.

Former Police Officer Jane Deacy is the likely candidate on the Republican ballot.

Supporters said Goldfeder's connections in Far Rockaway could help bring out the important Jewish vote.

Others said he has few community ties outside of Far Rockaway and only recently started attending local civic and political club meetings.

"I think Jane's chances have gotten better," said City Councilman Eric Ulrich, a Republican who is touting Deacy as a candidate. "Outside of Far Rockaway, Phil is virtually unknown."

And he pointed out that political connections can only go so far during an election.

"At the end of the day, political capital is not transferrable," Ulrich said. "They don't care who you work for and who you know. They will vote for the candidate who will do the best job."

South Queens Democratic Club - Meeting at Carosello Restaurant on May 25th - 7:30pm

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Audrey Pheffer Resigns District Leader Position - Long Time Chief of Staff Jo Ann Shapiro Voted in By 23rd AD Committee

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Assembly Member Audrey I. Pheffer resigned her position as female District Leader last night during a meeting of the 23^rd Assembly District Committee held at Carosello Restaurant in Howard Beach. She will accept the position of Queens County Clerk on May 12th.

A new female District Leader, Jo Ann Shapiro was elected by an unanimous decision by the Committee.

The committee was chaired by Assembly Member Vivian Cook, and Queens Democratic Party officials Michael Reich and Frank Bolz, Jr..

In attendance and speaking in favor of Shapiro's nomination were state committee member for the 23^rd, Joseph P. Addabbo and, male District Leader Frank Gulluscio.

Also in attendance were City Council members Leroy Comrie and Ruben Wills.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Welcomes Student Yvonne Morel for Shadowing Program

 Yvonne Morel and Assemblywoman Pheffer

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to welcome Yvonne Morel, an 11^th grade student who attends Nightingale-Bamford School in Manhattan and is a resident of Ozone Park. Miss Morel was chosen to take part in a shadowing program sponsored by the League of Women Voters of New York State Education Foundation, Inc. The program “Students Inside Albany Conference” was held April 10-13, 2011 – allowing the students to experience firsthand the daily activities of New York State Senate and Assembly Members.

Community News & Notes from Assembly Member Audrey I. Pheffer...

Assemblywoman Pheffer Announces Kingsborough Community College - My Turn Program

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) is pleased to announce the Kingsborough Community College My Turn Program – an educational opportunity for individuals 60 years or older.

Kingsborough Community College offers seniors a great opportunity to attend college classes tuition free. NY State residents 60 years of age or older are qualified to attend classes as matriculating or non matriculating students.

More than 400 courses are available. Courses in art, music, history, computers, health education, literature and many other categories are offered. My Turn students attend classes with traditional students.

Facilities available to students include the library, gym, pool, tennis court and private beach.

Only an $80.00 registration fee is paid each semester. For further information or an application call Kingsborough Community College at (718) 368-5079 or you can visit their website.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Welcomes West Point Cadet Gerard J. Connolly II to Albany

 l-r: Cadet Gerard J. Connolly II and Assemblywoman Pheffer

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to welcome West Point Cadet Gerard J. Connolly II to Albany in celebration of West Point Day on April 6, 2011.

Cadet Connolly II is the son of Gerard and Joanne Connolly and the grandson of Mrs. Frances Russo and Mr. & Mrs. Patrick and Breda Connolly all of Howard Beach. Patrick Connolly is Commander of VFW Bernard J. Coleman Post #2565 in Howard Beach. 

Sunscreen... When in doubt, throw it out!

Spring is upon us and Sunny weather is soon to follow. Whether you are planning a holiday vacation, marching in a parade, sunbathing at Rockaway Beach, or enjoying a trip to the ballpark, it is important to protect yourself from the elements of the sun.

According to the American Cancer Society, over 800,000 new skin cancer cases of highly curable basal cell cancers are diagnosed every year. Furthermore, because of the link between severe sunburn in childhood and a greater risk of melanoma in later life, children should be protected from the sun.

Sunscreen is very important in protecting you and your family from damage caused by sun exposure. Many people, however, are unaware that sunscreens can lose their effectiveness over time. Most sunscreens have a lifespan of one to three years and after three years the active ingredients can deteriorate thereby decreasing protection.

Unfortunately, because sunscreen products are not required to have an expiration date most consumers would not know when to replace their sunscreen. As a precaution and a rule of thumb, throw out your old sunscreen and replace it every one to two years.

The New York State Assembly has repeatedly passed legislation, which would require sunscreen products to be labeled with expiration dates. In addition to passing this legislation, the Assembly has passed a resolution calling on Congress to enact federal legislation to require all sunscreen products to be labeled with expiration dates and storage requirements. The Food and Drug Administration is currently developing new regulations for sunscreen labels, including a requirement that they list their effectiveness in blocking UVA rays.

Being safe while enjoying the outdoors can be achieved by following a few simple guidelines supplied by the American Medical Society;

• Choose a sunscreen product with SPF 15 or greater.
• Look for sunscreen products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Avobenzone, Zinc Oxide and Titanium provide protection against UVA rays.
• Replace your sunscreen supply regularly to ensure active ingredients are effective. “WHEN IN DOUBT – THROW IT OUT”
• Apply and reapply.

These tips are useful in protecting against the harmful effects of the sun. Alternatives include wearing protective clothing or taking a break from the sun by going inside or in the shade. Remember, be safe, use your sunscreen, and enjoy the beautiful weather.

News from Assembly Member Audrey Pheffer...

Assemblywoman Pheffer Welcomes Queens County American Legion to Albany - March 24, 2011

(Pictured l-r: James Casey, Past NYS Department Commander; Assemblywoman Pheffer; Denis McEneaney, Past Department of NY Vice Commander and John Severa, Commander 10^th District)

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to welcome the Queens County American Legion members to Albany to discuss their legislative agenda for 2011.

The Queens County American Legion members were in Albany as part of the New York State American Legion Legislative Day.

Statement from Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer Regarding Recent Incidents of Bias - March 24, 2011

“I am dismayed and saddened upon learning of the incidents of bias that have occurred in the area over the past two days. It is disheartening to see such acts of prejudice that demonstrate a complete disregard for the struggles and sacrifices endured by others. I am confident that the officers of the 106^th Precinct will do all that is in their power to identify and bring to justice those responsible for these despicable acts,” said Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Congratulates Regent Kathleen M. Cashin - March 14, 2011

(Pictured l-r: Regent Kathleen M. Cashin and Assemblywoman Pheffer)

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to congratulate Regent Kathleen M. Cashin on her recent election to the Board of Regents. Regent Cashin has served the students of New York City for over 40 years prior to her election. Regent Cashin was the regional superintendent for Region 5 which included Community School District #27. She will serve as a Regent for the 2^nd Judicial District.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Joins with Senator Flanagan To Provide Women With The Tools Needed For Early Detection Of Breast Cancer - March 9, 2011

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) is pleased to announce that she has joined with Senator John Flanagan to introduce legislation that would provide stronger preventative health care for women. The legislation requires insurance companies to cover the cost of supplemental screening for women who have dense breast tissue or who are at greater risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer.

The legislation would also require that every report a radiologist issues to a patient following a mammogram include information on breast density and information on the availability and usefulness of further screenings. This information will empower women to be more informed about their own medical situation so that they are better equipped to speak with their physicians and make decisions about their own health care.

According to leading medical studies, breast cancer is five times more likely in women with dense breast tissue but mammograms alone miss up to 40% of tumors that are present in women with dense breast tissue. By requiring insurance companies to cover supplemental screening tools and doctors to notify their patients of increased risk associated with dense breast tissue, it is believed that this will lead to earlier detection and greater survival rates.

“Breast Cancer has touched the lives of so many New Yorkers. It is important that we enact this legislation to ensure that women have access to the life-saving tools available, and are armed with all the information possible to fight against this disease,” said Assemblywoman Pheffer.

The legislation was spurred when the legislators were contacted by Ms. JoAnn Pushkin of Dix Hills, a breast cancer survivor turned advocate and co-founder of D.E.N.S.E. (Density Education National Survivors’ Effort). Ms. Pushkin’s cancer was diagnosed later than necessary as her annual mammograms were unable to detect a tumor through dense breast tissue. Ms. Pushkin worked closely with Senator Flanagan’s office to write the legislation and continues to work with him to make sure that the measure becomes law in New York State.

“JoAnn has been a tireless advocate for this legislation and I look forward to working with her and others to get this legislation passed in New York State,” said Senator Flanagan. “Women throughout our state should have the right to access all relevant medical information and our state has an obligation to make sure that those rights are protected.”

“When women aren’t told about their own breast density, and its inherent risk, we are denied the opportunity and choice to protect and advocate for ourselves. If early detection saves lives is still the golden rule, it is a safety net often denied women with dense breasts. It’s hard to protect yourself against what you haven’t even been told is a threat. It’s impossible to begin a dialog about additional screening tools if you don’t even know you should be asking about it. No one, especially any doctor involved in my health care, should have the option to keep any pertinent health information about me, from me. New York women owe much to Senator Flanagan and Assemblywoman Pheffer for bringing public awareness to this issue and for their efforts in introducing this groundbreaking legislation,” said Ms. Pushkin.

The State of Connecticut is currently the only state in the nation that requires this coverage. “With this life-saving legislation, the state of New York will be joining Connecticut to ensure that women are informed of their breast density for the early detection of breast cancer. A recent Harris Interactive survey found that 95% of women do not know their breast density even though it is a risk factor, and, only one in 10 women find out about breast density from their physician. With this legislation women will now receive critical information about their breast density and have access to reliable screening tools to find cancer when most treatable and the survival rate is high. The women of D.E.N.S.E. and I never had that opportunity,” added Dr. Nancy M. Cappello, President and Founder of Are You Dense, Inc. (www.areyoudense.org), co-founder of D.E.N.S.E. and the inspiration behind Connecticut’s legislation.

Assemblywoman Pheffer Welcomes Persaud Family to Albany – March 11, 2011

(Pictured l-r: Mr. & Mrs. Persaud, Assemblywoman Pheffer, Nadia Persaud and her Grandmother)

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to welcome to Albany Nadia Persaud from M.S. 137-Q in Ozone Park, NY accompanied by her parents and grandmother on March 2, 2011. Nadia was selected by the New York Art Teachers Association to be a part of the 21^st Statewide Legislative Student Art Exhibit.

Also selected was Chistopher Poveda of M.S. 137-Q who was unable to make the trip to Albany. The Art Teacher who submitted their art work is Rose Aranya.

Assemblywoman Audrey Pheffer Congratulates Regent Kathleen M. Cashin

(Pictured l-r: Regent Kathleen M. Cashin and Assemblywoman Pheffer)

Assemblywoman Audrey I. Pheffer (D-Queens) was pleased to congratulate Regent Kathleen M. Cashin on her recent election to the Board of Regents. Regent Cashin has served the students of New York City for over 40 years prior to her election. Regent Cashin was the regional superintendent for Region 5 which included Community School District #27. She will serve as a Regent for the 2^nd Judicial District.