FOR BREAKING NEWS VISIT www.queenscourier.com october 16, 2014 • The queens Courier 29 SCOTT BARON’S STAR OF QUEENS brought to you by SCOTT BARON & ASSOCIATES, P.C. Attorneys & Counselors at Law 1-866-WAS-HURT (866) 927-4878 718.738.9800 star OF queens Ed Shusterich president Pullis Farm Cemetery Historical Landmark COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Ed Shusterich is the founder and president of Pullis Farm Cemetery Historical Landmark, a nonprofit organization that handles the upkeep of the Pullis Cemetery in Juniper Valley Park, Middle Village. Shusterich founded the association in 1993 to transform the decrepit site into a beautiful garden, firmly believing “we could do better than what we have.” Over the years, he planted trees and other foliage on the barren wasteland and even built a utility house. He believes that it is part of the culture and heritage of the community and it is the community’s civic duty to improve it. Most of the volunteers involved in the project are above 50 years of age. Shusterich said that one of the unintended benefits of the project is that it also helps senior citizens connect with each other. On Oct. 18, his organization is holding a drive, calling volunteers of all ages to plant more flowers in the park. BACKGROUND: Shusterich was born to Slovenian immigrants in Brooklyn but moved to Queens more than 50 years ago. He was in the army for two years during the Korean Conflict before working in the private sector. He lives in Middle Village. BIGGEST CHALLENGE: “Getting funding and support from local elected officials is the biggest challenge,” said Shusterich. “They support us but it takes time. Sen. Joseph Addabbo Jr. has been a great supporter.” GREATEST ACHIEVEMENT: Shusterich recalled, “I had a flag pole installed in 2003. It cost us $17,000. On the occasion I dedicated the flag pole and the plaque to the heroes and victims of 9/11. I invited the fire department, veterans and the general public to the installation.” INSPIRATION: “Self-inspiration,” laughed Shusterich. “I am a self-starter.” BY ASHA MAHADEVAN FLOWERS FOR EVERY OCCASION Call Now to Reserve Your Holiday Party Arrangement • Bridal Packages Available-Call for Special Rates • VERY large selection of roses and fl owers • Over 10,000 Roses Available • Bouquet Deliveries • Beautiful Floral Arrangements Also perfect for Bar Mitzvahs, Communions, Sweet 16s, Funerals, and all your Special Occasions. 10% Off Your Order when you Mention this ad exp 11/15/2014 Call to place Your Order 718-264-3111 646-642-6118 BosmatFlowers.com Bosmat Flowers 186-11 Union Turnpike Fresh Meadows, NY 11366 CALL ANYTIME Flowers
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