News Release - City to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month

City of Rochester

News Release

(Friday, Sept. 17, 2010) – The City of Rochester kicked off its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month today with a traditional flag ceremony featuring flags from 23 Hispanic countries, song performances by two Latinas from the community and a DVD presentation of previous celebrations held at City Hall. A joint proclamation from Mayor Robert J. Duffy and City Council President Lovely A. Warren was presented by Assistant to the Mayor Darryl Porter and Councilmember Jacklyn Ortiz. The event also featured Ms. Belleza Latina International 2011, Sandra Meléndez.

The theme for National Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from Sept. 15 to Oct.15, is Orgullo Latino: Celebrating Our History and Heritage.

Other events hosted by the City’s Hispanic Heritage Committee include:

• Children, Youth & Adult Latino Art Exhibit & Historic Artifacts Display, Sept. 15-Oct. 15, City Hall Link Gallery
Enjoy the work of local artists as well as contributions of art from Latin countries from around the world.

• Latino Cinema - Lunch & Learn I, Sept. 22, noon - 1 p.m., City Hall, Room 208A
Bring your own lunch and enjoy a short film. Limited seating. RSVP at 428-7620 or 428-7515.

• Latino Cinema - Lunch & Learn II, Oct. 6, noon - 1 p.m., City Hall, Room 208A
Bring your own lunch and enjoy a short film. Limited seating. RSVP at 428-7620 or 428-7515.

• Hispanic Heritage Youth Art and Academic Excellence Celebration, Oct. 7, 5:30-8 p.m., Stardust Ballroom, 41 Backus St.
RCSD Latino Academic Scholars will be honored, as well as local community artists. There will be poetry recitation, a folkloric dance special and Spanish cuisine.

• Children's Performance, Oct. 13, 11 a.m.-noon, City Council Chambers
Be delighted with the performance of students from the largest bilingual elementary school in the Rochester City School District: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. School No. 9.

• Closing Gala & Recognition, Oct. 15, 5:30-8 p.m., City Hall Atrium
Savor the heart and soul of this month-long celebration. Rejoice with us as we acknowledge the success of an influential Hispanic community leader. Come and experience Spanish delicacies, great music, local performances and great camaraderie.


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News Media: For more information, contact Kamahria Hopkins at 428-6678.