On February 8, Councilmember Peter F. Vallone Jr., former City Council Speaker Peter F. Vallone Sr. joined parents and teachers for the unveiling of the new science lab at P.S. 85 in honor of the birthday of the school’s namesake, Judge Charles J. Vallone; a civil rights activist and civic leader. Young scientists at P.S. 85, 23-70 31st St., Astoria, will now have access to a lab complete with SMART Boards and various tools to inspire interest in recycling, life sciences, electricity and nature. Vallone Jr. allocated $100,000 for the project. “It’s fitting that we are here for the unveiling of the new science lab on my grandfather’s birthday. He would have been so proud of the students. Through this lab and the excellent teachers, principal and administrators, we hope to inspire our kids to become our future scientists, judges and elected officials,” Vallone Jr. said. Judge Charles J. Vallone, born February 8, 1902, founded the Astoria Civic Association, which now assists college students with scholarships each year.