PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The National Liberty Museum in Old City is known for annually shining a light on heroes in the Delaware Valley and beyond. This year, their focus is educators.
10 outstanding educators were honored for motivating students through a life-changing year, including one local character who made a big splash in the community.
Tony Royster, also known as Mr. Y Not, is the mastermind behind a beloved local icon - Philly Elmo and Positive Movement Entertainment. As he explained, this was a win he needed.
"I'm super-excited and I'm so thankful," he said. "Through this pandemic, it's been very hard."
During an incredibly challenging year, Royster uplifted youth and communities around the city by leading a drumline through Philly streets, bringing smiles and positive energy, along with the bass.
"Our pledge is, we strive to keep positive minds to decrease negative reactions to bring unity to our community and enjoy life abundantly, avoiding negativity," he said.
"And why do we do this? To bring smiles to the hearts of our neighbors and to be role models to others."
He believes that same pledge and positivity is what brought him recognition from the National Liberty Museum.
"I'm looking ahead and it's not always going to be like this, especially everyone getting their shot," he said. "I'm looking forward to a better and brighter future."