National Night Out – Queens Gazette

Folks, don’t try this at home – leave it to the kids’ entertainer Payasito Chiquitin. Photo Walter Karling

The 111th Precinct held its National Night Out on Tuesday evening, August 4, at the Douglaston Shopping Center, at Horace Harding Boulevard and Douglaston Parkway. The event attracted a strong turnout, with residents filling the shopping center and partici­pating in the evening’s activities. Residents of the local community came together for the annual event designed to strengthen the rela­tionship between neighborhood residents and the police officers who serve them.

Hosted by the New York City Police Department, National Night Out provides residents with an opportunity to meet local officers, learn about public safety, and become better acquainted with the people who work to protect their neighborhoods. The free event also featured games, food, and information from city agencies, elected officials, and local community organizations.

Local community leaders and elected officials were on hand to greet residents and join in the festivities. Representatives of various city agencies and community organizations also provided informa­tion about the services and programs available to local residents.

Crowds at 111th Precinct National Night Out. Photo Catherine Tsounis

The evening featured plenty of food and entertainment, with long lines forming for hamburgers and refreshments. Families, neighbors, and community members gathered in a relaxed atmosphere, creating an opportunity for people to meet one another while getting to know members of the 111th Police Precinct.

NYPD officers were present throughout the event, helping to maintain order and ensure the safety of the large crowd. Their presence also reinforced one of the central purposes of National Night Out: building trust and communication between the police and the com­munity.

National Night Out continues to demonstrate the importance of cooperation between law enforcement and residents. Events such as this provide an opportunity to put faces to the uniforms, share infor­mation, and strengthen the partnership that helps make the community a safe and welcoming place to live.

Greeting the park goers (l. to r.): Community Affairs PO Rosemary Wanzer; Joe DiPietro, the President of the Federation of Italian American Organizations of Queens (FIAOQ) which co-sponsored the event; Ted Psahos, President, 114th Precinct Community Coun­cil; Inspector Seth Lynch, Commanding Officer of the 114th Precinct; Angie Markham, Executive Director of the FIAOQ; event coordinator Diana Turek; and George Rivera, Vice President of the 114th Precinct Community Council. Photos by Walter Karling

For information about participating city agencies and community organizations, residents can contact the 111th Police Precinct through its official Facebook page to obtain a complete list of participating or­ganizations.

The 111th Police Precinct encompasses St. Nicholas Greek Or­thodox Church, which serves one of the largest Greek communities outside of Athens. The 111th Police Precinct has played a vital role in maintaining the safety, security, and quality of life that residents and visitors have come to value. Through its dedicated service and com­mitment to public safety, the Precinct has contributed significantly to preserving the strong and vibrant character of this community. Addi­tional photos see page 3––Catherine Tsounis

Representing Community Board #1: Gio William, Jean Marie Dalleva, and Emy Kandinova.

The NYPD marching band played the national an­them and other familiar tunes.

Partying with the beloved Chicken Dance.

Rabbi Jonathan Pearl who gave the Invocation re­ceived a certificate of community appreciation from Inspector Seth Lynch.

The 114th’s Auxiliary Police bid everyone a fond adieu. See you next year!