72nd Precinct thanks National Night Out volunteers

At its first meeting of the season, the 72^nd Precinct Community Council gave certificates of appreciation to those who helped during National Night Out.

Captain James Grant, commanding officer of the 72^nd Precinct, said that the Night Out was the “best one ever attended,” and would not have been possible without the assistance of these volunteers.

Eduardo Artica of the Fifth Avenue Sunset Park Business Improvement District received the first award for constructing the stage and assisting with anything needed.

“Since I was a little kid, I have always liked to do this kind of stuff,” Artica said. “It’s great to give back.”

The next awardee was Tony Gentile of Lonestar Bar and Grill. Although located in Bay Ridge, Gentile donated all of the barbecued food at National Night Out, including thousands of hot dogs and hamburgers.

Last but not least was Abraham Rosenberg, of U.S. Chocolatier who is also the 72^nd Precinct’s clergy liaison.

“He was instrumental in providing Officer [Dean] Hanan assistance with the event,” Grant said, noting that Rosenberg is present at every community council meeting and has donated countless hours of his time to the precinct.

Grant also spoke about the uptick of burglaries and grand larcenies in the community, mostly due to people leaving doors unlocked or windows open.

“They [burglars] go right for the bedroom and closet, taking small items that they can conceal and go,” Grant explained. “It’s nothing alarming but something we should keep our eye on.”

Grant also talked about a surge in auto break-ins.

You would be amazed if I showed you what people leave in their vehicles,” he said, noting that wallets are often left in glove compartments. “It’s an epidemic citywide…low-level drug users walking around trying to get anything they can.

“If you see something, say something,” Grant went on. “Call 9-1-1 or if it’s a quality of life issue, call 3-1-1. The way we correct these problems is that if something gets measured, something gets done.”

The next meeting of the 72^nd Precinct Community Council will take place on Tuesday, October 8 at 7:30 p.m. at the stationhouse located on Fourth Avenue between 29^th and 30^th Streets.