Addabbo Hosts 16th Annual Veterans BBQ Thanking Local Veterans September 2025

It was truly a festive and celebratory occasion as Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr. hosted his 16th Annual Veterans BBQ at the Howard Beach Motor Boat Club on Saturday, September 6, welcoming veterans to enjoy an afternoon of free food and entertainment as a small way of thanking these local veterans for their sacrifices to protect the country and its freedoms.

The surprise guest entertainment featured acclaimed band Squeaky Clean, who played a number of hit songs from across the decades, including “Rhinestone Cowboy,” “Hit the Road Jack,” “Kansas City,” and “Rock Around the Clock.” They had the crowd clapping, singing and dancing along. Also featured was local Forest Hills resident and former America’s Got Talent contestant and harmonica virtuoso Jiayi He.

The entertainment was emceed by Richie D’Auria. There was bagpipe playing by Pete McMahon, and trumpet playing by U.S. Army veteran Johnny Christ. Nick the Balloonatic provided balloon centerpieces for decorating the tables and Deacon Alex Breviario from Our Lady of Grace gave the blessing.

Senator Addabbo presented Certificates of Recognition to Squeaky Clean band members Suzanne C. Smithline and Glenn Paul Manion, Jiayi He, Pete McMahon and Johnny Christ for their dedication to providing entertainment to the veterans. 

“As I often remind people, every day honors our veterans, and we should extend our gratitude and appreciation beyond just a few designated days,” Addabbo stated. “That’s why my team and I host this gathering annually, to express our thanks to local veterans and their families for their sacrifices in defense of our country and its freedoms. It’s the very least we can do to honor them.”

Senator Addabbo would like to thank: All-American Bagel & Barista II, Bruno Ristorante, C & C Italian Deli, Carlo’s Pizzeria, Cross Bay Diner, The Cottage, Danny’s Szechuan Garden, DiVino Pizzeria, Gino’s Pizzeria, Kandela, La Villa Pizzeria, Lenny’s Clam Bar, Matteo’s/HB, McDonald’s (Cross Bay Boulevard), Neir’s Tavern, New Park Pizza, Old Country Bagel, Roma View, Russo’s on the Bay, Sal’s Pizzeria (Woodhaven), Souvlaki Spot, Sugar Bun Bakery & Café, Etto Coffee Co. and Sweet Lil Sweets for donating the food for the event.

Senator Addabbo would also like to give a big thanks to LauraLee Pullara and Richie D’Auria for obtaining raffle prizes from Bruno Ristorante, Vetro Restaurant & Lounge, Howard Beach Dads / PJ Marcel, Trackside Auto / PJ Marcel, Old Country Bagel, Esquire Realty / Brina Ciaramella, Lenny's Clam Bar / Joe & Doreen DeCandia, Reach for the Stars / Frances Scarantino, Sammy Lee Creations / Samantha Pullara, and Cross Bay .99 & Up, who generously provided the door prizes won by the veterans at the event.

“No single person could pull off an event this large, and I’m grateful to many individuals who helped make this year’s barbecue a major success for our veterans,” Addabbo said. “Beyond the supportive local businesses that contributed to a wonderful afternoon, I want to thank the Howard Beach Motor Boat Club for welcoming us again, Pat Connelly, and, of course, my staff for coordinating everything before the event and ensuring everything went smoothly for the veterans. Thank you all, and I’m already looking forward to next year’s event!”