On the brief side...
More Taxi Medallions For 'Green' Cars

The taxi medallion sale scheduled for next month will now include 254 alternative fuel and hybrid medallions, up from a previously scheduled 62, Mayor Michael Bloomberg announced.

The City Council had urged more medallion cabs using alternative fuels because these new technology vehicles consume less gasoline and emit less pollution.

"Clean air and fuel-efficient cabs are in the best interests of all New Yorkers," said the mayor. "Alternative fuels and hybrid taxis are three times more fuel-efficient than regular taxis and have close to zero emissions. By encouraging alternative fuel and hybrid taxis, New Yorkers get cleaner air, drivers have lower fuel costs and we all become less reliant on foreign oil."

Currently, 10 car models using this technology have been approved for use as taxicabs by the Taxi and Limousine Commission (TLC).

"The mayor has taken a great step towards turning yellow cabs green," said Marcia Bystryn, executive director of the New York League of Conservation Voters, before which organization the mayor made the announcement. Urge Clear Timetable For Tram's Return

Citing the continued delays in restoring the Roosevelt Island tram to service, Councilmember John Liu has called for a clear timetable for getting it working again. "Roosevelt Island seniors and those with disabilities in particular are feeling trapped," Liu said, noting that some have left the island since the tram stopped operating.

Liu (D-Flushing), chairman of the council Transportation Committee, said the tram is a vital means of transportation and it is disappointing to hear service restoration is still months away. Street Renamed For Fallen Firefighter

The corner of 30th Avenue and 49th Street in Astoria has been renamed "Firefighter Richard Sclafani Way" in honor of Sclafani's brave actions in rescuing several children who had been celebrating at a birthday party in a building at that location when the building caught fire.

The event took place on May 7, which would have been Sclafani's 39th birthday. City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr. officiated at the street renaming. Sclafani grew up in Astoria and graduated from Bryant H.S. 'Achievers Award' To Queens Woman

A New York Senate Achiever's Award, which recognizes an individual's ability to overcome personal physical challenges and honors their accomplishments for their community, was presented to Theresa Danadio of Queens in Albany yesterday.

Danadio, who attends the Queens Centers for Progress Day Habilitation Program and also volunteers twice a week, was nominated by state Senator Frank Padavan (R-C, Bellerose) for the award. He described Danadio as "an exceptional woman who wins over everyone she meets with her wonderful personality and cheerful manner." CUNY Colleges In $1 M Training Program

Four City University of New York (CUNY) colleges have received a $1 million grant to provide English language skills and job training to immigrants interested in seeking jobs in the retail and food industries.

The colleges-LaGuardia Community College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, New York City College of Technology and Kingsborough Community College-will serve a total of 240 entry-level and existing workers. Each program will provide English language instruction as well as vocational training.

Partners of the consortium, which includes Queens Center Mall retailers in Elmhurst, will each recruit 60 to 80 of their employees to participate in the program. Additionally, 60 people presently not employed in the industries will be trained and placed in jobs in retail stores and eating establishments.

The National Retail Federation Foundation, the research and educational arm of the National Retail Federation, will be a consultant to the consortium. Gennaro Grant Funds $100G Lab At Edison

Edison H.S. in Jamaica has a new $100,000 computer lab thanks to a City Council grant in that amount secured by Councilmember James Gennaro (D-Fresh Meadows).

Gennaro cut the ribbon opening the lab at a recent parents' night at the school at 165-65 84th Ave. Gennaro was joined at the event by Principal Ilana Posner, students and parents.