Mayor DeBlasio kicked off the night with a heartfelt speech, thanking the 103rd Precinct and local residents for working together to keep Jamaica safe. "Neighborhood policing is the key to making New York the safest big city in America," DeBlasio said.
Comrie, Hyndman, and 103rd Pct. Inspector John G. Cappelmann followed with remarks of their own.
All speakers were received well by attendees of the event. The diverse crowd erupted in applause at the conclusion of each speech, and especially at the end of Assemblywoman Alicia Hyndman's emotional remarks.
"You always have choices. As young as you are, as old as you are, you have choices. Make those choices good choices. Lift up the people around you. Violence separates communities and families. On National Night Out, we have to remember that violence is never the answer. Loving one another is," Hyndman proclaimed.
The climax of the evening was reached when community leader, Anthony Subraj took the stage beside Inspector Cappelmann to receive the community leader award. Zara helps keep the Jamaica community safe by providing safe, secure residential housing for many Jamaica residents. Zara has also donates time and money to local health and education institutions.
"Zara Realty is proud to be in partnership with NYPD & the 103rd Pct. and sponsoring National Night Out. Private public partnership has helped make the Jamaica community better by reducing crime in Jamaica and in NYC," said Subraj.
"I hope we can find more reasons to come to this beautiful park to celebrate family style," said Senator Comrie.
The 103rd Pct. ended the speeches by thanking the community residents and businesses for doing their part in keeping Jamaica safe.