Serrano Honors Distinguished Individuals At Celebration Of Black History

State Senator Serrano and Congressman José E. Serrano, as part of their annual event celebrating Black History Month, honored three outstanding members of the community on Monday, February 15.

The honorees were: Dean Meminger, Bronx Reporter for NY1 News; Dr. Samuel J. Daniel, President and CEO of North General Hospital; and Iran Barkley, former Middleweight boxing Champion of the World.

Mr. Meminger, a graduate of Cardinal Spellman High School in the Bronx, has worked as a news reporter and anchor for NY1 since 1997. During that time, he has covered some of the city's biggest stories, including the 9/11 terrorist attacks and the police shooting deaths of Amadou Diallo and Sean Bell.

"It gives me great pleasure to watch Dean's news reporting on NY1. He brings a fine mix of knowledge and eloquence to our television screens," said Senator Serrano. "He also inspires great confidence. There is no better coverage of the Bronx, and the whole city, than from a journalist who was raised and educated here."

Dr. Samuel J. Daniel was the Medical Director and Chairman of Medicine at North General Hospital before being appointed President and CEO. He has held numerous academic position and is the distinguished member of several boards.

Dr. Daniel was recognized as one of the city's best physicians by New York Magazine in 2000, and he continues to maintain an active practice in Gastroenterology in the Harlem community.

"Upper Manhattan comprises an important part of my Senate district, and I know first-hand the incredible role that Dr. Daniel has played in enhancing quality and access to healthcare for my constituents," said the Senator. "In particular, he is an inspiration to young people and future doctors in our community."

Iran Barkley was born, raised and continues to live in the South Bronx community. In 1988, against strong odds, he defeated Thomas Hearns by TKO to become the Middleweight Champion of the World.

"He embodies the strength and resilience of the Bronx," said Senator Serrano, a lifelong boxing fan and Ranking Member of the Senate's Tourism, Recreation and Sports Development Committee. "Iran is no stranger to hardship, and yet time and again he has been able to fight back and win – both inside and outside the ring."

In recent years, Mr. Barkley has given back to his community. He was honored in October 2007 by the World Boxing Council, during the first anniversary of its World Boxing Cares initiative, for his positive impact on local children and families.

"We are thrilled to recognize Iran for his contributions to boxing and the Bronx as part of this fabulous celebration of Black History," said the Senator.