Distinguished Brooklynites Honored at City Hall

Among the honorees was the popular New York City radio personality, Ann Tripp, who currently provides the twice hourly "news and views" on the nationally syndicated Steve Harvey Show on WRLS. She has entertained and educated literally millions of radio listeners and has earned the devotion of her audience and the respect of her colleagues, all of whom are inspired by the quality of her work and her dedication to her profession. Tripp has been and continues to be a mentor to countless young people, providing them with the benefit of her wisdom, insights and vast professional experience. "God doesn't say that you have to be successful," Tripp said as she accepted her award, "but He does say you have to try. Thank you very much for saying that I try."

Also honored was Dr. Bob "The Voice" Lee from WBLS radio, who has worked very closely with Ann Tripp for many years. He, too, has utilized his position in broadcasting to involve himself in community service at a grassroots level. "Dedicating myself to others has always been and always will be an important part of my life," he noted.

Another equally deserving recipient was Carrie Nation Jones, from the New York City Housing Authority Choir, who has given her life to God and to the singing of gospel music. This has enabled her to work with many seniors in Central Brooklyn. "I am grateful that my love for music and strong faith has enabled me to contribute to my community," she said.

"When I think of a small-business woman who is going to make great strides and do wonderful things, I think of Aurora Brown," commented Council Member Boyland as she introduced the next honoree. While Brown is now starting a new cleaning business, she still makes time to mentors neighborhood youth and to donate toys to local daycare centers.

Receiving proclamations as well were local music promoters Darryl Kemp and Patrick Mativier, who, for the past eight years, have been instrumental in the success of Council Member Boyland’s annual intergenerational festival that brings out tens of thousands of people. Both Kemp and Mativier spoke movingly of what it has meant to them "to be on the Boyland team." Mativier thanked Tracy Boyland for giving him the opportunity to do that work. "She's always been there for me when I was down and out and trying to make my way," he concluded.

As each of their proclamations make clear, these men and women have truly enriched the lives of their fellow human beings, and it was with "the deepest gratitude of this legislative body" that they were honored for their "outstanding contributions to the City of New York."