Queens, NY – Assemblyman Sam Berger hosted a Senior Appreciation Day on Tuesday, October 13th, 2026, at Pomonok Senior Center, bringing together local seniors for an afternoon of music, community, and appreciation featuring a live performance by the Townsend Harris High School Band. The event was held in partnership with the New York State Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance, Queens Community House, NYC Department for the Aging, and NYC Department of Social Services.

Senior Appreciation Day provided an opportunity for older adults in the community to come together, connect with one another, and enjoy an afternoon of live music performed by talented student musicians from Townsend Harris High School. The event highlighted Assemblyman Berger’s continued commitment to engaging with and supporting seniors throughout the community.

“Bringing generations together is an important part of what we do at Queens Community House,” said Ben Thomases, CEO of Queens Community House. “It was wonderful to see students from Townsend Harris High School share their musical talents with members of our Pomonok Older Adult Center. Events like this create meaningful connections between young people and older adults, reminding us that everyone, regardless of age, has something valuable to contribute to their community.”

“All students and staff at Townsend Harris High School take an oath: ‘I shall not leave my city any less but rather greater than I found it,’ said Thomas Larocca, Music Teacher at Townsend Harris High School. “For our music students, performing for the community is part of upholding that oath! Myself, Mr. Lee and our students were so happy to be a part of the Senior Appreciation Day event and we would like to thank Assemblyman Berger for inviting us to participate.”

“Today was a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the seniors who are such an important part of our community,” said Assemblyman Sam Berger. “They have given so much to their families, neighborhoods, and to our state, and they deserve to feel appreciated and valued. Seeing everyone come together, enjoy the music, and share a few smiles reminded us how important it is to create spaces where our seniors can connect and feel supported. I am grateful to all of our community partners and the wonderful students from Townsend Harris High School who helped make this afternoon so memorable.”

"Queens has a vibrant senior citizen community, and we are taking time to show our love and appreciation for our super seniors who have done so much to build up our community,” said State Senator John C. Liu. “Many thanks to Assemblymember Sam Berger, Townsend Harris High School, and all the members of the Pomonok Older Adult Center for giving back to our seniors and making sure they know we are here for them just as they have been here for us."

Assemblyman Berger remains committed to ensuring that seniors have opportunities to stay connected, engaged, and supported in their community. He looks forward to continuing to work with local senior centers, community organizations, and residents to provide programs and resources that enrich the lives of older adults throughout the district.