By Ivan Pereira
Southeast Queens community leaders, residents and law enforcement officials came together last week to celebrate the summer and call for better safety in the neighborhood.
The 113th, 103rd and 105th precincts held large, public barbecues in various parts of the borough to recognize National Night Out Against Crime Aug. 2. The initiative was created years ago as a way for police officers and civilians to come together and form better relationships.
The 113th Precinct, which covers the neighborhoods of St. Albans, Hollis, Springfield Gardens, South Ozone Park, South Jamaica, Addisleigh Park and Locust Manor, held its party at Baisley Park and dozens of residents turned up for the food, music and games.
Deputy Inspector Miltiadis Marmara, who returned to the precinct in May with a promotion to be its commanding officer, said he enjoys spending his time with the people he protects because it helps him and his squad protect them better.
“We’re all family and we can make the community better,” he said.
Several elected officials from the area, including City Councilman Ruben Wills (D-Jamaica), state Assemblyman William Scarborough (D-St. Albans) and state Sen. Malcolm Smith (D-St. Albans), joined in the 113th Precinct’s festivities and promoted the message of peace.
“We have to protect this community. Despite all the negatives going on, we have a lot of good and wonderful people living here,” Scarborough said.
The 103rd Precinct held its Night Out celebration at Rufus King Park with a live band playing in the park’s gazebo. Anti-crime mascot McGruff the Crime Dog played with kids of all ages as the officers from the precinct cooked tasty barbecue dinners for everyone.
Queens District Attorney Richard Brown stopped by during the end of the celebration to also stay in touch with the southeast Queens community.
“It was a real nice turnout,” said Donna Clopton, president of the 103rd Precinct’s Community Council. “Everyone enjoyed themselves, especially the detectives.”
Reach reporter Ivan Pereira by e-mail at ipereira@cnglocal.com or by phone at 718-260-4546.
