By Michael V. Cusenza
Every day is Veterans Day, State Sen. Joe Addabbo, Jr. (D-Woodhaven) often reminds his constituents. And every year, the long-time South Queens elected official organizes a charcoal-hued event to honor said service members.
That long-standing tradition continued Saturday.
Over 100 former Marine, Army, Navy, Air Force, and U.S Coast Guard vets and their families the packed Howard Beach Motor Boat Club last weekend for Addabbo’s 14th Annual Veterans BBQ.
It was an afternoon filled with delicious food donated by the generous businesses in the area. There was fun and entertainment provided by LauraLee & Rich D’Auria, youth singers from Sunshine Studios, comedy by Rockn Randy, bagpipe playing by Peter McMahon, and trumpet playing by Army veteran John Christ. Nick the Balloonatic provided the balloon centerpieces for decorating the tables, and the Rev. Dominick LaPorte from Our Lady of Grace gave the blessing.
Photo Courtesy of Sen. Addabbo
Over 100 veterans, families, and friends attended Saturday’s event.
“[W]e should never hold back our respect and thanks to our nation’s veterans to only a few days a year,” said Addabbo, a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security and Military Affairs. “That is why my staff and I hold this event each year, to say ‘thank you’ to our local veterans and their families for their sacrifice defending our nation and our freedoms. It is the least we can do in their honor.”
The senator later noted that “an event of this size could not be done alone,” and thanked All-American Bagel & Barista II, Bruno Ristorante, C & C Italian Deli, The Cottage, Carlo’s Pizzeria, Rosa’s Pizza, Cross Bay Diner, Danny’s Szechuan Garden, DiVino Pizzeria, Gino’s Pizzeria, La Villa Pizzeria, Lenny’s Clam Bar, McDonald’s (Cross Bay Boulevard) Neir’s Tavern, New Park Pizza, Russo’s on the Bay, Sal’s Pizzeria (Woodhaven), and Sugar Bun Bakery & Café for donating the food for the event. He also praised LauraLee and Richie for obtaining raffle prizes from A&B Discount (Dollar Store) and Sammy Lee Creations who generously provided the door prizes won by the veterans at the event.
“Besides the great local businesses who pitched in to give the veterans a great afternoon, I want to thank the Howard Beach Motor Boat Club for having us again, Pat Connolly, and of course my staff for getting everything together before the event and for making sure everything ran smoothly for the veterans,” Addabbo added. “Thank you all; and I look forward to another great event next year!”
