SENATOR JEFF KLEIN AND ASSEMBLYMAN MARK GJONAJ HOST ANNUAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

BRONX, NY – State Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) and Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj (D-Bronx) held their Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Saturday at Havana Cafe. Nearly 200 people gathered to enjoy this day of celebration.

“Today we recognize the valuable contributions that Hispanic Americans have made to our community.  Their extraordinary work has enhanced and enriched our country from its earliest days right up through the present time.  Today’s honorees’ steadfast commitment to improving the quality-of-life for our residents is exemplary of true leadership,” said Senator Jeff Klein.

“It was great to celebrate Hispanic Heritage once again with Senator Klein. The honorees greatly exemplify the successes and continuous contributions from the Hispanic community and I am happy to celebrate with them during this month," said Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj.

Congressman-elect Adriano Espaillat, who is the first Dominican American set to be elected to Congress,  delivered the keynote address.

“This celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month gives us the important opportunity to reflect on the contributions Latino and Hispanic Americans have made and look forward to the contributions our young leaders will make as they begin to shape our future. Thank you to Senator Jeff Klein and Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj for bringing so many of us together to honor the rich histories and cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans,” said State Senator Adriano Espaillat.

Senator Klein and Assemblyman Gjonaj highlighted the contributions of outstanding members of the Hispanic community including: Democratic Nominee for the 31st Senatorial District Honorable Marisol Alcantara; president of 43rd Precinct Community Council; Aurora Carrion; Democratic District Leader of 85th Assembly District; Honorable Antonia Figueroa; Office Manager of Bronx Community Board #9 Maribel Mercado; Community activist and volunteer Candida Rosa;  Board of Director of Shorehaven Homeowners Association and President of Harbour Pointe Condominium Association Nelly Santiago-Rivera.

“Thank you Senator Klein and Assemblyman Gjonaj for the honor as we continue to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. As a proud Latina, it is important to me that we continue to celebrate and praise members of our communities that tirelessly contribute to our heritage, culture, and advancement,” said Honorable Marisol Alcantara, Democratic Nominee for the 31st Senatorial District.

“Being Hispanic Heritage Month, I think it is important to recognize people in the community who are not always honored.  It was a great pleasure that Senator Klein and Assemblyman Gjonaj took notice of people that are doing important work for their community.  I thank them,” said Aurora Carrion, president of 43rd Precinct Community Council.

“I am pleased, honored, and most importantly humbled to accept the honor and to be in the presence of so many whom I have long admired and respected.  A very special thank you to Senator Jeff Klein and Assemblyman Mark Gjonaj and to my great friend Marcos Crespo.  A great applause to the other Latina women who were honored as it was a proud day for all of us,” said Honorable Antonia Figueroa, Democratic District Leader of 85th Assembly District.

“I was honored receive this award and I thank Senator Klein who recognized my work.  It was a great day and event,” said Maribel Mercado, Office Manager of Bronx Community Board #9.

“I really want to thank Senator Klein for all the things he does for the seniors and veterans such as the outdoor movies and concerts, barbecues, and activities.  We enjoy these activities that really keep all of us seniors going in addition to all of his legislative work,” said Candida Rosa, community activist and volunteer.

“I am proud to be honored during Hispanic Heritage Month.  The endless hours dedicated to improving the quality-of-life in the community are acknowledged. I thank Senator Klein for his commitment and great leadership,” said Nelly Santiago-Rivera, Board of Director of Shorehaven Homeowners Association and President of Harbour Pointe Condominium Association.