COVID-19 heroes honored during Black History Month celebration at Terrace on the Park – QNS.com
Councilwoman Moya along with the president of the East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association, Larinda Hooks, hands over quotes and praise to Niobe Jones for her extraordinary work in the neighborhood. (Photo courtesy of Emil Cohen / NYC Council)
Hometown heroes from East Elmhurst and Corona were recognized for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic as Black History Month drew to a close.
Mayor Eric Adams joined Councilman Francisco Moya and Assemblyman Jeffrion Aubry at Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows Corona Park on Thursday, February 24 to honor outstanding members of the community.
Among those honored was Pastor Patrick Young of First Baptist Church, who received a proclamation from New York City; pastor Peter Heron of Leverich Memorial Church; Pastor Michael Johnson of Southern Baptist; and youth volunteer Niobe Jones.
“This event in honor of Black History was precisely the opportunity to celebrate and thank our faith leaders and volunteers for their leadership, tireless work, and indelible support for so many in our neighborhood,” Moya said. “I can not imagine what it would be like to endure this pandemic without their leadership and solidarity. I thank everyone who attended this joyous occasion and our NYC Mayor Eric Adams for acknowledging the work of our community.”
The event was held with East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association President Larinda Hooks.
“This celebration was an opportunity to acknowledge and thank our faith leaders and a young volunteer for uplifting and supporting many families after two very difficult years,” Hooks said. “Getting through this pandemic would not have been possible without the guidance and support of Assemblyman Jeff Aubry and Councilman Francisco Moya. Specifically, with Councilor Moya, he embodies what it is to be a community, no matter where we come from.”
The celebration included the participation of members of Community Board 3, First Baptist Church food pantry volunteers, LeFrak City Tenants Association, Neighbors of the American Triangle, as well as Queens Borough President Donovan Richards and State Senator Jessica Ramos.
“It was a pleasure and an honor when we came out of this pandemic to meet in person for the East Elmhurst Corona Civic Association Black History event,” Aubry said. “We honored members of the ministry and an extraordinary young lady who has supported so many in our neighborhood. It was a wonderful party and we hope to do it again next year.”