Dear Neighbors,

Memorial day is an importnat time to remember the incredible sacrifices that have made our country into the place that we all know and love today. Please take a moment during this long weekend to appreciate the freedoms we all have and recognize the sacrifices that safeguard them.

As we continue our work to stop the spread of COVID-19, please remember: by wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, looking after our seniors and most vulnerable neighbors, and getting tested, we can continue to stay well.

Please find below the latest news and resources to stay informed.

Thank you and stay well,

Council Member Paul Vallone
 
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Council Member Vallone Attends Memorial Day Services Across District 19

On Memorial Day, Council Member Vallone attended memorial day rememberance services in Douglaston and Whitestone. These events were to commemorate all those who made the greatest sacrifice for our country, and to center our communities on the reason for this long weekend.

"It is touching to be a part of these Memorial Day commemorations in Douglaston and Whitestone." said Council Member Vallone, "I am glad that our community recognizes the purpose fo this holiday and shows it the respect that it is due."

Cpl. John McHugh Street Conaming on D Day Anniversay, Sunday June 6

On Sunday, June 6th there will be a street co-naming ceremony in honor of Cpl. John McHugh. The City Council approved Councilman Paul Vallone’s legislation to posthumously co-name 156th Street between 14th Avenue and Cryders Lane, “CPL. John McHugh Way” on December 19th, 2019. During the war, Corporal John McHugh Sr. served in the U.S. Army’s First Infantry Division and fought at the Battle of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge. This co-naming will take place on the anniversary of D Day, Sunday June 6th.

“We as residents of Northeast Queens were blessed to have an American hero like Corporal John McHugh call our great neighborhood home,” said Vallone. “Corporal McHugh was a highly decorated veteran who fought bravely with the Allied powers at the historic Battle of Normandy and the Battle of the Bulge, major turning points in World War II. With this co-naming we will honor a true man of courage.”

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Council Member Vallone hosts Asian Business Round Table

On Tuesday May 25th, Council Member Vallone hosted an Asian Business Round Table to hear the unique needs of the Asian American business community during these difficult times.

“I am always proud to host this round table to hear the concerns of Asian-American business owners." said Council Member Vallone, "We must ensure everyone has a seat at the table as we recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and resources are devoted to minority communities by NYCSBS.

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NYPD Taru Cameras Installed in College Point Shopping Center

On Wednesday May 26th, the NYPD installed a set of TARU cameras in the College Point shopping center on 20th Avenue.

"I am glad the the NYPD is working with our community to ensure that any dangerous behavior is being monitored and prevented." said Council Member Vallone, "I will always support our police in their efforts to maintain public saftey."

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KCS Now Open to All 12+ for Walk-in Vaccinations

The Korean Community Services Center is now open to walk in vaccinations to those 12 and over!

If you know If you know someone who is 12 years or older and is still in need of a COVID vaccine, please encourage them to get vaccinated!

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Pop Up Douglaston Food Share Available for Neighbors in Need through June

Please spread the word about our pop up food pantries! All relevant information can be found on the infographics below in both Chinese and English.

Great work from the Douglaston LDC, Zion Episcopal Church, and The Community Church of Douglaston!

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Grab and Go Meals for ALL

Even when school buildings are closed, free meals are still available at NYC Schools Meal Hubs!

To find a location near you visit http://schools.nyc.gov/freemeals
or text "NYC FOOD" to 877-877.

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Open Storefronts

The Open Storefronts program has been extended through 9/30/2021!

A strong economic recovery in the wake of the pandemic means continuous creativity with our open spaces and giving our business owners every resource they need to survive and thrive. The Open Storefronts program will accomplish just that and give New Yorkers a unique way to shop local and shop safe throughout this holiday season.

Learn more and check your eligibility here!

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Food Pantry Assistance

Our local food pantries in College Point, Flushing and Whitestone are offering assistance to hundreds of families and need our help. Please donate if you are able and spread the word! Thank you CEC D25!

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College Point Residents Organize Fundraiser to Deliver Meals

As our City continues to battle the effects of COVID-19, Northeast Queens residents continue to organize and offer a helping hand. College Point residents Jennifer Shannon, Cathy Shannon, James & Kathryn Cervino, and Margaret Loughlin have stepped up and launched a fundraiser to help College Point residents who are in need of food.

Organizers write: "We have been going strong throughout the summer, helping to keep the food pantry alive at First Reformed Church in CP. Thanks to generous donations from the community, businesses, and city partners, we have been helping the community throughout these difficult Covid times...Our focus has now fully shifted from thanking workers, which was a wonderful initiative, to supporting the food pantry."

I was proud to contribute to this local effort. Please offer a helping hand if you are able!

Find more information on GoFundMe

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