Presiding Officer Norma L. Gonsalves recently held the First Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at the Nassau County Legislature. The event was an opportunity to recognize four Hispanic residents that are leaders and advocates who live and work in Nassau County.
The legislature was grateful to have the Long Island Hispanic chamber of commerce (LIHCC) and the Long Island Hispanic Pastors Association (LIHPA) help coordinate the event. Their guidance in selecting the honorees ensured an interesting and inspiring program.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in the Legislature helps increase awareness of the struggles and triumphs of Hispanics Americas in Nassau County. Hispanic and Latino Americans are an important presence in the United States and we are honored to celebrate their heritage and culture: said Presiding Officer Gonsalves”
The evening honorees were: Dr. Jorge Gardyn, was keynote speaker and is honoree as “Hispanic Healthcare Advocate of the Year”. Dr Gardyn was born in Cuba and is Board Certified Internist with a practice specializing in Preventative Medicine, Occupational Medicine, Hyperlipidemia and Diabetes care. Ivan Arizaga of Aric Signs & Awnings was honored as “Hispanic Small Business person of the Year”. Mr. Arizaga a native of Ecuador is one the most popular local business providing professional signs, banners, lettering, and awnings.
Also honored was Reverend Humberto Chavez, New York Racetrack Chaplain as “Hispanic Community Advocate of the Year.” Mr. Chavez was born in Mexico and has organized recreational, educational and religious programs for families that reside at all three racetracks in New York and also served various ministries through the Metro New York District of the Church of the Nazarene.
The Hispanic Heritage Month celebration was hosted by Presiding Officer Norma L. Gonsalves and was held at the Peter J. Schmitt Legislative Chamber, 1550 Franklin Ave, Mineola NY on October 22, 2015, the event was attended by a diverse audience and local officials.
Pictured: Presiding Officer Norma L. Gonsalves, Ivan Arizaga of Aric signs & Awnings, Rev. Humberto Chavez , New York Chaplainry, Dr. Jorge L. Gardyn of Island Occupational Medical Resources, P.C