NEW ORLEANS - District "E" Councilwoman Cyndi Nguyen is applauding all the families who have set up drive-thru graduation celebrations or car parades, and schools who have found ways to ensure students still get their diplomas and the recognition they deserve during COVID-19. Even local churches have honored seniors in their congregation, and now several businesses are also stepping up to congratulate this year's graduates.
"Graduation is an important time in anyone's life, but especially for seniors at this time. We can't let them forget how big of an accomplishment it is, and I applaud all of the various ways that schools, churches, families, and businesses have found to show their appreciation in a safe and socially distanced way," said Councilwoman Nguyen.
PJ's Coffee located at 5733 Read Blvd. is hosting a graduation ceremony for its employees in the parking lot this Sunday, May 31, at 1 p.m. Event organizers will ensure the safety of guests, customers and staff by enforcing social distancing and allowing a limited number of family members to attend. Additionally, the drive-thru will remain open for business.
Councilwoman Nguyen continued, "For graduates at this time, many of them had Hurricane Katrina drastically affect their lives when they were first entering the school system, and now a pandemic during their graduation year. The resilience of this class of students should not go unnoticed. I can't wait to see what they will accomplish. It is important to acknowledge that these jobs are essential for our city to continue functioning. Safety and quality of life are always priorities for these departments, and this is a way to show our appreciation."