Politicians who are lifelong Ozone Park residents, such as Councilman Eric Ulrich and State Senator Joe Addabbo, are wishing the 130-year-old community a happy anniversary this year.
The two have a strong connection to the community where they were both raised.
Addabbo made his way into politics through Ozone Park organizations. He was president of the Ozone Tudor Civic Association and was Executive Secretary of Community Board 10,which covers the neighborhood.
“Ozone Park is a great community. It consists of hard working people, small businesses that serve the area and
residents who truly care about the neighborhood,” the Senator said.
Addabbo noted that his family moved five times as he was growing up, but all five were within Ozone Park. “Ozone Park is a place where my father wanted to raise his family and that I want to raise my family.” he said.
Ulrich also came into politics through Ozone Park. He served as president of the Our Neighbors of Ozone Park Civic Association and on Community Board 9 before launching his campaign for city council.
He now serves as the councilman for District 32 that covers Ozone Park and Howard Beach.
Congressman Bob Turner (R-Queens)—who grew up in Woodhaven and Richmond Hill—is the newest addition to politics in the area, winning New York’s ninth congressional district, which covers Ozone Park.
He, too, congratulated the neighborhood.
“Over the last 130 years, Ozone Park has become one of the most storied and beautiful neighborhoods in New York City,” he said. “It is my absolute privilege to represent a community that is home to some of the finest New Yorkers. I would like to wish Ozone Park a happy 130th anniversary and nothing but continued success, growth, and prosperity for 130 more years to come.”
Addabbo is kicking off the anniversary by holding evening office hours at Queens Library at Ozone Park. He will be there from 5:30p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 2 at 92-24 Rockaway Boulevard, Ozone Park.
By Jeremiah Dobruck
j.dobruck@theforumnewsgroup.com
