The NYPD and city officials partook in more than 70 citywide events for National Night Out Against Crime this past Tuesday, August 1.
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships to help make our neighborhoods safer places to live. It seeks to strengthen the relationship between neighbors and law enforcement, fostering a true sense of community.
Kosher pizza courtesy of Naomi's Pizza and Falafel was given out by Jennifer and Brad Martin, along with fresh fruit provided by Aron's Kissena Farm. Hot dog and hamburger buns were given to all thanks to Season's Supermarket, and other donations were provided from other Main Street locations. Special thanks go out to Community Affairs Police Officers Kevin McCarthy and Tim Gorman, who arranged the donations, as well to the 107's Community Council President Carolann Foley, who arranged for a bounce house, face painting, and great fun activities.
A handful of community leaders present were NYC Council Member James Gennaro, Shimi Pelman and Meshulem Lisker of Community Board 8, Rabbi Hayim Schwartz, Yaakov Serle, Alan Sherman, many Queens Borough Safety Patrol - Shmira members, and NYS Assembly candidates Sam Berger and David Hirsch. Offices of DA Katz and Representative Meng were acknowledged by personnel, Kehilat Food Pantry under the direction of Rabbi Shlomo Nisanov, the Queens Public Library, Vision Zero, FDNY, and others were amongst personnel from the precinct all on hand to interact with neighbors, community members, and local businesses with the common goal of partnership and safety.
Like Foley, Shmira is another bridge between police and the community. Both work closely with the precinct’s deputy inspector, Kevin Chan (who was away on vacation), community affairs officers, crime prevention officers, and sometimes the lieutenant of special operations to enhance the partnership between residents and the police.
By Shabsie Saphirstein
