SPRING VALLEY, NY – The Village of Spring Valley commemorated Black History Month honoring members of the community with special Black History Month banners that will be displayed up and down Main Street in Spring Valley.

This year’s honorees are Rockland County Legislator Toney Earl, recently retired Spring Valley Police Officer George Johnson, former MLK Multi-Purpose Center Director and Human Rights Activist Dr. Stella Marrs, Pastor Rev. Dr. Weldon McWilliams Jr. and Spring Valley Police Det. Reginald Anderson.

“I was not only surprised, but deeply honored to be included as part of this tribute,” Legislator Toney Earl said. “I have to say, it’s fairly humbling to see your likeness on such a banner and to be considered a role model in your community.”

This is the second year that the Village of Spring Valley has displayed banners with the portraits of notable Black Americans. Honorees are from all walks of life – past and present – have been considered for the banners.

The list of honorees ranges from former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. Locals have included NAACP Spring Valley Chapter President Willie Trotman and basketball great Willie Worsley. All told, there are now more than two dozen banners on view. The banners will remain on display into early March.