(L. to r.); Constantinides, District Leader Carolyn Scarano, Kaufman Astoria Studios President Hal Rosenbluth, Poveromo, Schwab and Marshall. Photos Jason D. Antos Love and romance were celebrated at Central Lounge in Astoria as the United Community Civic Association held its first annual “Community Love- In” in anticipation of Valentine’s Day.

Many elected officials and community leaders were present at the February 8 event where guests enjoyed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres in the restaurant’s romantic setting.

“Though we had a community love-in, everyone was dressed and we all had an enjoyable evening,” UCCA President Rose Marie Poveromo said.

Making an appearance that evening were Queens Borough President Helen Marshall accompanied by her husband, Assemblymember Aravella Simotas, Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr., District Leaders Costa Constantinides and Carolyn Scarano, Irene Stathatos Vasilakos representing state Senator Michael Gianaris, Mount Sinai Queens Executive Director Caryn A. Schwab, Pat and Ed Babor and Donna Furey, UCCA board member Jamie Dovico and Rose Anne Alafogiannis and Al and Maureen Santora.

(L. to r.); UCCA President Rose Marie Poveromo, District Leader Costa Constantinides, Queens Borough President Helen Marshall and Assemblymember Aravella Simotas. Music was provided by “Something Special” who performed the hits of Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett.

“It was a lovely evening enjoyed by a close community gathering,” Poveromo said.

–Jason D. Antos

(L. to r.); Councilmember Peter Vallone Jr., Irene Stathatos Vasilakos representing state Senator Michael Gianaris, Constantinides, UCCA board member Jamie Dovico, Al and Maureen Santora, Poveromo and UCCA board member Rose Anne Alafogiannis.