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Hispanic Awards Ceremony

October 08, 2008

Senator Serphin Maltese & Councilman Anthony como hosts 2nd annual Hispanic Heritage Awards Ceremony

Senator Serphin R. Maltese (Queens) and City Councilman Anthony Como honored six local community leaders with the second Annual Hispanic Heritage Awards to recognize the contributions, diverse cultures and traditions of all Hispanic Americans.

“I am pleased to have this opportunity to publicly recognize these Hispanic Americans who have distinguished themelves locally,” said Senator Maltese. “America’s cultural diversity has always been a great strength of our nation. The Hispanic American community has a long history of commitment to our nation’s core values and the contributions of this community have helped make our country great. They represent some of the best and brightest in our community, providing positive role models for people of all backgrounds.

“The Hispanic Heritage Awards ceremony is a great way to admire and recognize the valuable contributions Hispanic-Americans have provided this great nation. The honorees chosen epitomize the great accomplishments and wonderful successes achieved by Hispanic-Americans. I would like them for their dedication, commitment and devotion to our community,” said Councilman Como.

Representing excellence in all areas of community life, the honorees include:

Educational Activism Honoree:
Zoila Bofill, Queens Library Hispanic Media Associate

Small Business Honoree:
Tania Broschart, President of the Middle Village Chamber of Commerce

Cultural Honoree:
Rafael Castillo, Chief Marketing Officer for Christ Tabernacle Church

Leadership Honoree:
Felix Martinez, Jr., Queens Assistant District Attorney

Community Honoree:
Carlos Mercado, President of the P.S. 87 Parent/Teacher Association

Entrepreneur Honoree:
Walter Sanchez, Publisher and Editor of the Queens Ledger

The event included entertainment by the Christ Tabernacle Singers, directed by Pastor Steven Carey.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15th through October 15th. During this month, America celebrates the traditions, ancestry, and unique experiences of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the countries of Central and South America, and the Caribbean.

During National Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the many achievements of Hispanic Americans and recognize their contributions to our country. Today, the Hispanic culture continues to be a growing and essential facet of the American experience.

Pictured (l-r) standing are Hispanic Coordinator Hector Almendarez, Rafael Castillo, Walter Sanchez, Councilman Como, Senator Maltese, Carlos Mercado and Felix Martinez. Seated (l-r) are Community Affairs Assistant Stephanie Almache, Zoila Bofill, Mrs. Constance Del Vecchio Maltese, Tania Broschart and Bibiana Buitrago, Senator Maltese’s Hispanic Community Liaison.

Victoria Vattimo
Chief of Staff for Senator Maltese
Room 413 Capitol, Albany, NY 12247
518-455-3281