Senator Klein Hosts Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration

Annual Awards Luncheon honors Bronx Hispanic Leaders who embody the

Spirit of Service in their Communities

BRONX, NY - State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) joined by Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda (D-Bronx), Assemblyman Marcos Crespo (D-Bronx), Assemblyman Michael Benedetto (D-Bronx), Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) and Councilman James Vacca (D-Bronx), honored distinguished Hispanic members of the 34th Senate District Saturday. The award presentation took place at Klein’s Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration luncheon, which was attended by more than 200 community members and residents.

“I am delighted to celebrate the rich history, culture and contributions of the Hispanic community in the 34th Senate District and throughout the Bronx and New York State. This year's honorees exemplify the powerful and positive change that comes from one's dedication and tireless commitment in service to their fellow New Yorker and greater community,” said State Senator Jeff Klein.

"During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the customs, histories, and achievements of those from the Latino community. As a legislator and a member of the Hispanic community, it is an honor and a privilege to do work that ensures the continued advancement of the Latino community for generations to come. I would like to thank Senator Klein for hosting this event and for recognizing the importance of the Hispanic community. Let us take this time to reflect on how far we have come as a people while remaining vigilant to what needs to be done to build a better future. Que sigan adelante (keep moving forward)," said Assemblyman Luis Sepulveda.

“Hispanic Heritage Month is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate Hispanic culture and honor the service of Hispanic leaders in our community. I am proud to join in honoring the great work of our honorees and saluting all the Hispanic community contributes to our city and country,” said Bronx Council Member James Vacca.

At this year’s event, themed “Hispanics: A Legacy of History, a Present of Action and a Future of Success,” Bronx County Acting Supreme Court Justice Doris Gonzalez delivered the keynote address.

This year’s honorees were: Gus Danolis, Waterfront Gardens Community Association President; Anderson Torres, Ph.D, LCSW-R, R.A.I.N. Chief Executive Officer; Israel Morales, Castle Hill Homeowners Association President; and Marjorie Velazquez-Lynch, Democratic District Leader.

“I am proud to be honored during Hispanic Heritage Month. It shows that all the hard work and dedication given to improving the quality of life in my neighborhood did not go unnoticed,” said Gus Danolis.

“In the Bronx, we are lucky to have such a diverse community where we can all join together and celebrate in the rich cultural traditions. Senator Klein’s commitment to serving the diverse interests of not only Hispanics, but everyone in his district, is what makes him a great leader,” said Marjorie Velazquez-Lynch.

Hispanic Heritage month, which runs from September 15th - October 15th, celebrates the history, culture and contributions of Americans of Spanish, Mexico, Caribbean and Central and South American descent.