Trying to Save the New Hyde Park PAL

The New Hyde Park Police Athletic League is in dire need of renovations. To raise funds and awareness the  New Hyde Park Lions and New Hyde Park North Lions clubs held a dinner, raffle and more at the Elks Lodge on Sunday afternoon.

A spring that consisted of heavy flooding has done serious damage to the multi-purpose floor at the PAL. Due to the county and statewide clampdown on spending, it has been very difficult to secure a grant. Activities for children ranging from basketball to volleyball are impossible to participate in with the currently damaged facilities. 

"We are trying to put together a nucleus of community groups who all want to help raise money for the PAL," said President of the New Hyde Park North Lions Dolores Carolan. "The Elks Lodge and Lakewood Bakery have donated all the food for the event."

While the New Hyde Park North Lions Club women were upstairs organizing the dinner and putting together prizes for a raffle, the men of the Lions Club were downstairs putting together a 50/50 of their own as well as a football-related fundraiser. 

"I've coached at the PAL for years and it's an important place for youth athletics in the neighborhood," said Don Rood, a coach and teacher at . "Many teachers at the high school have contributed money towards the fundraiser and a few even stopped by to show support."

With support coming from across the whole community, the PAL is trying to put together the funds that they need to move forward with renovation so that they continue being an important part of the New Hyde Park community.