Queens Gazette

United Community Civic Association’s Tree Lighting Celebration


In celebration of life and a brighter tomorrow. United Community Civic Association Annual Tree Lighting in Astoria.

In celebration of life and a brighter tomorrow. United Community Civic Association Annual Tree Lighting in Astoria.

The United Community Civic Association held their annual Tree Lighting Celebration on Monday, December 13, at McManus Memorial Park on 81st Street and the Grand Central service road. As has been the tradition in celebration of life and the community, the well-attended event was a success.

United Community Civic Association President RoseMarie Poveromo introduced District Attorney Melinda Katz and Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani, as well as the 114th and 115th Precinct Commanding Officers. Deputy Inspector Ray Jenkins, the Commander of the 114th Precinct, spoke as did Captain Jamiel Altaheri, Commander of the 115th Precinct and Joseph Nocerino representing Borough President Donovan Richards. George Stamatiadis, President of the Dutch Kills Civic Association and the Central Astoria LDC also spoke as did Tony Barsamian, the Publisher of the Queens Gazette. Additionally, Christina Callahan representing the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, the co-sponsors of the event with the United Community Civic Association, was also a speaker at the ceremony.

United Community Civic Association’s annual Tree Lighting Celebration at McManus Memorial Park. Photos Tony Barsamian

United Community Civic Association’s annual Tree Lighting Celebration at McManus Memorial Park. Photos Tony Barsamian

Former City Council Member Costa Constantinides with Clara Burke, a 12-year-old student, led the countdown to the tree lighting. Joe DiPietro was there to help the LaGuardia Airport Pipe Band and the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts band in song and musical performance. Hot chocolate, cookies and brownies as well as coffee, were donated by the Bel Aire Diner from Broadway and 21st Street in Astoria.

RoseMarie Poveromo, the United Community Civic Association President, opened the event, saying, “I am delighted to welcome you all to the United Community Civic Association’s annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Celebration Of Life, a magical, beautiful season that brings families and friends together bonded in love, united in community, together with our co-host the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Christina Callahan, the Deputy General Manager at LaGuardia Airport.”

Poveromo, who closed the ceremony, said, “Our heartfelt thanks to you out there for joining us and our always generous donors. Good night, God bless and happy holidays to all.”

Joe DiPietro with the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts band.

Joe DiPietro with the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts band.

District Attorney Melinda Katz.

District Attorney Melinda Katz.

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani.

Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani.

Former City Council Member Costa Constantinides with Clara Burke, a 12-year-old student, led the countdown to the tree lighting.

Former City Council Member Costa Constantinides with Clara Burke, a 12-year-old student, led the countdown to the tree lighting.

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