Dear Editor:
This year, my annual veterans barbecue was bigger and the best yet. We had an astounding 100 veterans, both men and women, from my district come out for a Saturday afternoon in Howard Beach. This number is bigger than any number of attendees in the past, and I am thrilled my office and I were able to reach that many veterans, recognize and honor them for their service.
As the ranking member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs, I make it a priority to extend my own services to the veterans of our state and to, most importantly, show my appreciation for their dedication to our country. It was amazing to see such a wide range of people, from all walks of life and from some of history’s biggest military conflicts, come together for a casual afternoon outside my district office.
We had a local duo perform live music for the guests, including some old-time favorites that brought a few people out of their chairs to dance. To eat, in classic Italian, Howard Beach fashion, we were able to offer lasagna, penne a la vodka and more thanks to generous donations.
The conversations that could be heard around the tables as people enjoyed their lunch were some that could not be heard most places- guests reflected on their time serving in the Army, Navy and Military and swapped stories.
My thanks also to my staff, Pat Connelly and Coleman Post 2565, Fran Scarantino, Laura Lee and Richie, Roger Gendron, Mike Sarter, Howie Kemph, Riley’s Yacht Club, Howard Beach Motor Boat Club and the following food contributors- Russos on the Bay, Aldo’s Pizza, Prima Pasta, McDonalds, Sugar Bun, The Rail, Gino’s Pizza, Bruno’s Ristorante, Lenny’s Pizza, Ragtime, Frenasia, CrossBay Diner and Pasticceria la Torre bakery. Without their generosity, this event would not have been possible.
It is my hope my staff and I will be fortunate enough to keep the tradition alive and host another barbecue next summer for our nation’s bravest.
State Sen. Joseph Addabbo
15th Senatorial District
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