Forum Photo by Patricia Adams
Members of the City Fire Department Color Guard provided the flags for the event.
By Michael V. Cusenza
Family members, community leaders, and fellow elected officials joined City Councilwoman Joann Ariola (R-Ozone Park) at Russo’s on the Bay Sunday in Howard Beach as she took her ceremonial Oath of Office.
Forum Photo by Patricia Adams
The Hon. Augustus Agate leads Councilwoman Joann Ariola in the Oath of Office Sunday at Russo’s on the Bay.
Long-time friend the Hon. Augustus Agate (ret.) led Sunday’s ceremony. Members of the City Fire Department Color Guard provided the flags for the event.
“Everyone in the room was a part of getting me to this day,” Ariola said. “It is an honor to serve in the New York City Council and to represent District 32.”
Sunday’s ceremony arrived just three months after Ariola routed Democrat Felicia Singh, 68 percent to 31 percent, in the general election in November. Ariola and Singh ran to succeed Eric Ulrich, who represented the 32nd District for 12 years.
Forum Photo by Patricia Adams
Ariola’s late father, Paul, was present—and proud—in spirit.
“The people have spoken, the torch has been passed,” Ulrich said in November. “I’m not saying this as a politician, but as a parent: This is a victory for our community. I feel so relieved and personal pride and happiness to pass this to her. Our community is in good hands.”
Ariola beamed in November and on Sunday.
“I don’t pick and choose who I’ll represent. I will represent each and every one of you,” she told supporters.
