City of Rochester
News Release
(Monday, Sept. 16, 2013) – Mayor Thomas S. Richards, City Councilmember Jacklyn Ortiz and members of the Hispanic Heritage Committee today hosted a ceremony at City Hall kicking-off a celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month in Rochester. Students from Joseph C. Wilson Foundation Academy unfurled 23 national flags of Latin America from the mezzanines overlooking the Atrium.
“Rochester is blessed to be home to such a strong and vibrant Hispanic population whose contributions continue to play a vital role in this region’s growth and success,” said Mayor Richards. “I encourage all of our citizens to take an opportunity during National Hispanic Heritage Month to reflect on the richness of Latino traditions and culture and recognize their profound impact on our entire community.”
The theme of this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month is “Building America’s Future Today.” The month will feature an array of events in City Hall and at other locations to celebrate Rochester’s Hispanic community. The complete schedule of events is as follows:
• Lunch & Learn: Wednesday, Sept. 18, noon to 1 p.m., City Hall Room 208A (registration required). Guest speaker and author, Julio Vazquez will describe his life as Latino and his career as educator.
• Honoring our Abuelitos: Thursday, Sept. 26, 6 to 8:30 p.m., St. Michael’s Church, 869 N. Clinton Ave. A Latino senior will be recognized for accomplishments in the community. Dinner, live music and dancing.
• 3rd Annual Latino Student College Fair: Friday, Oct. 11, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Blue Cross Arena. High school students and college freshmen will have the opportunity to meet with representatives from local colleges and agencies.
• Dancing to Latino Rhythms: Tuesday, Oct. 15, noon to 1 p.m., City Hall Council Chambers.
• Art Exhibit and Awards Ceremony: Friday, Oct. 18, 5 to 8 p.m. at the Edgerton Community Center, 41 Backus St. Youth who submitted artwork on display at the City Hall Link Gallery and Visitors’ Lobby will be recognized at an award ceremony.
• Latino Art Link/Documentary with Norma Holland: Wednesday, Oct. 16, 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., City Hall Atrium. See historical photographs of Hispanic families, paintings and crafts from local students, live music.
• Latino Youth Performing Arts Expo: Friday, Oct. 18, 5 to 8 p.m., Edgerton Community Center, 41 Backus St.
• Latino Gala: Friday, Oct. 25, 6 p.m. to midnight, 155 N. Chestnut St. (Tickets: $30)
For more information please visit www.cityofrochester.gov/hhm.
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News Media: For more information contact Communications Bureau at 428-7135.