Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
Firefighter Paul Schweit dons his bunker gear as he explains the job of a firefighter to the attendees
By Forum Staff
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
Councilwoman Ariola with two of the more than three-dozen children who attended the event.
City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) on Saturday held the first-ever Hero Story Time in Council District 32, bringing several first responders to the Howard Beach Library (92-06 156th Ave.). More than three-dozen children attended the event, which Ariola promised to be the first of many to come.
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
The heroes read to a crowded Howard Beach Library room.
“This event was so important, especially today, because it gave local kids a chance to interact with those who protect them each and every day,” Ariola said. “By getting to actually meet with firefighters, police officers, and members of the justice system, kids were able to build bridges and make connections that they might not otherwise have. There is a lot of confusing, and often negative rhetoric about our protectors, and hopefully this event will help to dispel some of that negativity.”
Photo Courtesy of Councilwoman Ariola
Retired Det. Robert Heedles lets the kids inspect his badge.
The next Hero Story Time is set for May 20 at the Seaside Library (116-15 Rockaway Beach Blvd., Rockaway Park) at 11 a.m., and the councilwoman intends to have additional events throughout the summer.
