Group picture with City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr. (c.) and FIAOQ President Joseph DiPietro holding granddaughter Angelina, are flanked by camp counselors. The Federation of Italian American Organizations of Queens, Inc. hosted its annual Summer Soccer Camp, made possible with funding from City Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr.

Sixty neighborhood children, ranging in age from 5 to 13, participated in this year's summer program. The camp is held on the FIAOQ Soccer Field located at 20th Avenue and 32nd Street in Astoria. Despite the summer heat, the children were unfailing in their enthusiasm and overall love for the sport of soccer. They were instructed in the fundamentals of soccer playing as individuals and as a team. Careful consideration was given to proper nutrition, hydration and overall good health.

The FIAOQ President Joseph DiPietro said, "The purpose of this activity is to create future players, give them the skill and ability and the enthusiasm will do the rest."

Vallone has always maintained that the future is our children, and it has been a pleasure to sponsor this worthy program over the years.