Precinct Council Lights Up Austin Street With Holiday Party

The Community Council had its annual holiday party on Thursday night, complete with the Auxiliary Police Jazz Band, contest winners, prizes and more.

The event was designed to be a thank you to the community and a celebration of the communication between the local precinct and its neighbors in Forest Hills in Rego Park.

Held at, the night kicked off with some music from the 14-piece jazz band and a buffet catered by local restaurants.

With dozens of residents packed into the cafeteria at the school, went talked about the importance of making sure there is a constanct connection between the police and the people who live in the precinct.

"Our biggest thing is police-community relations, and it helps on everything," Chain said. "If the people feel they can come and talk, and to have a party and have everybody be able to interact together, we feel is a very positive thing."

Chain introduced a special guest from Patrol Borough Queens North and handed out some well-earned gifts to the members of the precinct council.

"I'd just like to express to everybody here our thanks on behalf of patrol borough Queens North for all the help and support that we've gotten throughout the whole year from everybody here, especially Heidi and the council," Deputy Chief Patrick Conry of Patrol Borough Queens North said. "Thank you very much … and Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everybody."

As Chain wrapped up the evening, she passed out plaques to the winners of the precinct's poster contest, an annual tradition which draws entries from students all over the community.

The Precinct recognized Kevin Li, Amanda Talerro, Dennis Lo, Sarah Kwack, Suyash Sau and Ally Guralnik for the artwork they produced on the theme "tolerance." Students also received a cash prize for their efforts.

All in all, Chain said, the night, as with previous years, had been a big success.

"To have the chief from the patrol borough come and see that people in this neighborhood care, that really helps."