Commmunity leaders honored at MLK celebration

Last month several community leaders were honored at a Martin Luther King Jr. celebration at the Jamaica Center for Arts and Learning in Queens on Jan. 13. The event honored about eight men and women who exemplified Martin Luther King’s dream in the work they do for their community.

Honoree’s included Donald Atkins, founder of The Eagle Academy, Carl Clay, founder of the Black Spectrum Theater, Jacques Le’Andre, coach of the Rosedale Jets, Adrienne Strother-Brown, founder of Dance Explosion, Jessica Douglas, the Queens borough director, and Reverend Doctor Phil Craig from the Greater Spring Field Community Church.

Presented with the outstanding community service award were Paul Coty of Young Lyfe and Kenny Carter, the founder of Fathers Alive in the Hood.

Assemblyman Clyde Vanel (D–Cambria Heights) speaks to guests at the MLK Honors.

Photo by Taylor Balkom

Founder of the Black Spectrum Theater Company (BSTC), Carl Clay, says a few remarks in honor of Martin Luther King.

Photo by Taylor Balkom

Honoree Jacques Le’Andre speaks after recieving an award for his work with the Rosedale Jets sports teams.

Photo by Taylor Balkom

Also honored was Kenny Carter, founder of Fathers Alive In The Hood. He was the recipient of the Outstanding Community Service award.

Photo by Taylor Balkom

Fathers Alive In The Hood founder Kenny Carter, talks to guests after receiving his honor at the MLK Honors event on Jan. 13.

Photo by Taylor Balkom