Wednesday, April 24, 2002 Dick Clark sues QM   By Mark Edward Nero, Staff writer Dick Clark Communications has filed a lawsuit against the operator of the Queen Mary, alleging fraud and breach of contract prevented a music-themed museum from being built. In the lawsuit, filed earlier this month in Los Angeles Superior Court, Dick Clark's Delaware-based corporation alleges that Queens Seaport Development breached an October 1999 agreement to develop and maintain "Dick Clark's Great American Music Experience." The $150 million project was to include the refurbishment of the adjacent Queen Mary Hotel and the development of nearby shops, restaurants and attractions. Under the terms of the agreement, Queens Seaport Development was to build and run the museum, and Dick Clark Communications was to receive $15,000 in monthly consulting fees for the duration of the seven-year contract and a guaranteed minimum payment of $2.6 million. The suit alleges that Queens Seaport Development defaulted on the monthly payments. According to the suit, Queens Seaport Development president and chief executive officer Joseph Prevratil acknowledged in July 2001 that his company hadn't obtained the necessary financing to build the facility. Prevratil on Tuesday declined to comment, saying he has yet to see the lawsuit. The suit asks for $2.8 million in damages plus interest, and $10 million in punitive damages. The museum was slated to be part of a planned $150 million complex around the Queen Mary. The complex also was to have a 7,500-seat events venue in the former Spruce Goose dome and a science fiction hall of fame, according to the suit.