Joseito Mateo declared Dominican Heritage in NY

Joseito Mateo declared Dominican Heritage in NY
Santo Domingo, February 27, 2014

Merengue icon and emblematic symbol of Dominican art and culture Mr. Joseito Mateo, “El Rey del Merengue” (The King of Merengue), was declared “Dominican Heritage” by the organizing committee of La Gran Parada Dominicana del Bronx (The Grand Dominican Parade of the Bronx) run by community leader Felipe Febles.

The legendary artist showed that he is still the King of Merengue. With a medley of his greatest hits, he filled the place with energy and made the entire audience dance while chanting his songs together with him during the great Dominican night.

The fourth installment of the “Dominican Heritage Awards” recognized Joseito Mateo and other great and treasured Dominicans who are prominent in different areas, as well as other friends of the community. They have all demonstrated great patriotic fervor coupled with a spirit of cooperation for the development of the Dominican community.

“Today we are celebrating our fourth installment of the “Dominican Heritage Awards”. It is one of the activities that will complete the 25th celebration of “The Grand Dominican Parade of the Bronx” in May of 2014.

“We are also celebrating the Dominican Heritage Month and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my fellow countrymen in celebrating the 170th anniversary of the month of the Dominican Independence on February 27th. All Dominicans should take the example of patriotism and service that Juan Pablo Duarte left us and use it in favor of our community wherever we are”.

“We must continue working and integrating Dominican youth to work in the community and preserve our service institutions for the future benefit of all”, said the President of the Grand Dominican Parade of the Bronx.

Since its inception on May 3rd, 1989, the Grand Dominican Parade of the Bronx has become the most prestigious Dominican event of this kind in the city of New York. Its high cultural content highlights our national values, proudly showing the new generations the origin of our roots and the importance of our folklore throughout the year.

Among the honorees are professionals from different areas, businessmen, traders, community activists, artists, and others. All of them have a vast trajectory of community life, making them worthy of the award. They include: the Dominican Consul, Luis Lithgow, represented by Vice Consul Baltasar Figuereo; Telemundo journalist Isolda Peguero; Julio Isidor, of Cibao Meat; businessman Charles Canaán, President of Salcedo Cargo Express; and the Vice Chancellor of Education, Jay Hershenson.
Other honored personalities were: Sociologist Miosotis Muñoz; Ms. Liliette López de Cuny; comedian Euclides Jiménez, whose award was accepted by international art promoter Elvin Polanco; entrepreneurs Fabio Rosario, Anthony Almonte, Luis Almonte, and the music group “Bachata Heightz”.
The winners received their award from the President of the organization, Felipe Febles, who was accompanied by the queen of the Grand Dominican Parade, Yailyn Núnez. On the big night of the Dominican heritage awards, there was an outpouring of Dominican cultural manifestation. Folk Activities: Traditional dances, diablos cojuelos (limping devils) and dance troupes, all of which celebrated Dominican patriotism, under the coordination of Maggy Garabito.

Young singer Yanet Valerio masterfully interpreted the Dominican National Anthem. Renowned sports journalist Rafael Bello, of Telemundo 47, served as the master of ceremonies.

Important personalities gathered at the event, which had the vital support of local and international media. The event was broadcast live to the Dominican Republic on channel 29, with the support of Engineer Roberto and his team. It is also important to highlight the collaboration of Ofelia Castiblanco, Director of Community Affairs for Telemundo 47 and NBC4.

Marina del Rey Caterers, was the selected stage for the glamorous Dominican gala.