Queens, NY – Assemblywoman Nily Rozic (D,WF-Fresh Meadows) and Council Member Paul Vallone (D-Bayside) expressed their warmest congratulations to Commissioner Bill Chong on his appointment as the New York City Commissioner for the Department of Youth and Community Development (DYCD). Rozic and Vallone invited Commissioner Chong to visit Middle School 158’s Beacon Program supported by DYCD funding to explore ways to sustain and expand its local programming.

“Mayor de Blasio’s progressive agenda to improve the lives of children and families is clearly reflected in his recent appointment of Commissioner Chong,” said Assemblywoman Rozic. “I want to congratulate the Commissioner and look forward to working closely with the administration to continue providing for the youth in our community. Council Member Vallone and I are eager to expand innovative DYCD programming in Bayside and ensure that our students continue receiving the very best.”

“I also extend my sincerest congratulations to Bill Chong for his appointment to his appointment as Commissioner for the NYC Department of Youth and Community Development,” said Council Member Vallone. “As someone who understands the importance of providing quality programming for our youth and their families, I look forward to working with Mr. Chong and my fellow elected officials to ensure the DYCD is able to sustain and expand its programs throughout my district.”

Last year, M.S. 158’s Beacon Program was threatened for closure after its funding was cut during the budget process. Funding was later restored by the City Council after advocacy by community members and local leaders.

The Beacon Community Center and many other DYCD programs are important to Northeast Queens. More than 300 students use the Beacon as an after school program, while another 150 attend its summer camp, and several hundred participate in its basketball league.