By Bill Parry
U.S. Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-Astoria) and state Assemblywoman Aravella Simotas (D-Astoria) celebrated Women’s History Month by honoring three women for achievement in community service and business.
The honorees were Ann Bruno, President of the 114th Precinct Community Council; Claudia Coger, President of the Astoria Houses Residents’ Association; and Mackenzi Farquer, owner of Lockwood Shops and managing editor of the website We Heart Astoria.
“This year is a very special one in women’s history and our nation’s history, as it marks the centennial of women’s right to vote in New York,” Simotas said. “Today’s honorees, and Congresswoman Maloney, are an inspiration for me. They inspire me to continue my focus on serving the needs of my community and putting my heart and soul into that work, as each of them has done in their own unique ways.
“Throughout our nation’s history, women have fought for justice, equality and the well-being of their communities and these special women motivate me to continue that fight for as long as I can.”
The three Astoria women were honored during a luncheon at the Astor House last Friday.
“Stong women, powerful women, engaged women are the backbone of a thriving community and provide the inspiration for our next generation of leaders,” Maloney said. “Each of them embodies the highest ideals of the movement for women’s equality in the United States. Mackenzi Farquer, Claudia Coger and Ann Bruno work tirelessly, day in and day out, for the betterment of western Queens, and each of them embodies the highest ideals of the movement for women’s equality in the United States.”
Reach reporter Bill Parry by e-mail at bparr
