The Throggs Neck Community Action Partnership (TNCAP) hosted the 2024 Annual Poster Contest on June 5 at Jeanne Jugan Residence. This annual event engages the youth in the Throggs Neck community to visually depict their understanding of a certain topic that is related to the prevention of alcohol and tobacco use.
This year’s theme was “How to Build a Healthy Community.” The competition was conducted throughout the local elementary and middle schools and after-school programs in Throggs Neck. Students received a lesson on what they want their community to look like. Students created poster art of their vision.
Various artwork was submitted from six school art programs, P.S. 304, P.S. 14, P.S. 72, St. Frances de Chantal School, Preston Center of Compassion after-school programs, and the P&J Beacon after-school program. The committee selected twelve winning art pieces. The winning students, their families, the art teacher, the principal, and all TNCAP coalition members, were invited to attend the in-person awards ceremony where they received certificates, goodie bags, and photo opportunities to pose with their displayed art.
“Through their amazing artwork, these students truly demonstrated their understanding of the curriculum about creating a healthy alcohol and smoke-free community,” said Christine Cavallucci, executive director of the Archdiocese of NY Drug Abuse Prevention Program, (ADAPP).
The winning students were:
- P.S. 304: Laila Jai Romero, grade 4; August Lidh, grade 4;
- St. Frances de Chantal School: Alejandro Wong, grade 5; Victoria Lobanov, grade 7;
- P.S. 14: Olivia Tong, grade 5; Irelia Estevez, grade 3;
- P.S. 72 Journie Preston, grade 3; Ben Niass, grade 3; Julia Lin, grade 3; Hyder Saad, grade 4;
- P&J Beacon After-School Program: Azarah Adams, grade 5;
- And Preston Center of Compassion After-School Program: Leyla Colon, grade 6.
Additional certificates of recognition were presented to each student on behalf of state Sen. Nathalia Fernandez’s office, Bronx Council Member Kristy Marmorato’s office, and Patrick Caruso of Bronx Community Board 10.
Program highlights included presenting each student with TNCAP certificates for their winning artwork and presenting the TNCAP Member of the Year Awards to Lakiema Alexander — program director at Phipps Neighborhoods — and Felicia Mitchell — assistant program director at Phipps Neighborhoods.
“Both women are valued members of TNCAP and exemplify steadfast dedication to the coalition and the community,” said Christine Cavallucci.
Cavallucci gave welcoming remarks, co-presented the awards, and shared resources with the adult attendees on the “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign. The “Talk. They Hear You.” campaign aims to reduce underage drinking and other substance use among youths under the age of 21 by providing parents and caregivers with the information and resources they need to address these issues with their children early and often.
For more coverage, follow us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram @bronxtimes
