PAULA STOPERA Giving credit where it’s Due, to a True Leader 10 MANDAMIENTOS Para el Consumidor List of Latino New York State Elected Officials
2010
Year in Review by Mike Fondacaro
Photo courtesy of Joan Heffler www.joanheffler.com
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Dear readers:
Queridos Lectores:
On December 31, 2010, I retired as Director of Operations at The Desmond Hotel. It was a difficult, but necessary move for my professional life. This is an opportunity to perhaps, use the time in the fourth quarter of my life more efficiently. I promised Luisa that we will expend more quality time together although, I’m not convinced that she really believes that. My children and grandchildren have also been told the same and I am not sure that is what they want.
El 31 de diciembre de 2010, me retiré como Director de Operaciones en el Hotel Desmond. Fue una decisión difícil, pero necesaria para mi vida profesional. Esta es una oportunidad para tal vez, aprovechar el tiempo en el cuarto trimestre de mi vida de manera más eficiente. Le prometí a Luisa que vamos a pasar más tiempo de calidad juntos, aunque, no estoy convencido de que ella realmente me cree. A mis hijos y nietos también les he dicho lo mismo y no estoy seguro de que eso es lo que ellos quieren.
In this issue of Latino New York, you will begin to notice some changes and we are honored to feature, Paula Stopera, a leader, friend and mentor as our cover story. We are also introducing a list of Latino elected officials within the New State Legislature and a year in review by Michael Fondacaro. Also, please enjoy our regular features and collaborations. Have a wonderful and healthy new year!
Juan J. George Publisher
Sin embargo, esta es una oportunidad para centrarme en la familia y en mi negocio. Desde el 1 de enero de 2011, dedico toda mi atención profesional a Latino Publishing & Communications. Mi objetivo es proporcionar la clase de productos y servicios que satisfagan las metas y objetivos de nuestros socios y que hagan que nuestros amigos y la comunidad se sientan orgullosos de estar asociados con nuestra empresa. En esta edición de Latino New York, ustedes comenzarán a notar algunos cambios, y nos sentimos honrados de presentar como nuestro tema de portada a Paula Stopera, una verdadera líder, amiga y mentora. También estamos presentando una lista con los funcionarios latinos electos en la Legislatura del Estado de Nueva, asi como la compilación del año 2010 por parte de Michael Fondacaro. Igualmente, disfruten de nuestros artículos y colaboraciones regulares. Les deseo un Año Nuevo maravilloso y saludable!
Juan J. George Editor
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Photo: Golden Boy statue by Charles Gardet.
Nevertheless, this is an opportunity to focus on family and my business. As of January 1, 2011, I am devoting my entire professional attention to Latino Publishing & Communications. My goal is to provide the type of product and services that will meet the goals and objectives of our partners and will make our friends and community proud of being associated with our company.
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2011 ORGANIZE, SPEAK UP & SPEAK OUT •MARÍA NEIRA Organizarnos, hablar y hacernos oír
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10 MANDAMIENTOS PARA EL CONSUMIDOR • NYS CONSUMER PROTECTION BOARD
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TAINA ASILI Una Rebelde Musical y Social • MICHAEL FONDACARO
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COVER: PAULA STOPERA GIVING CREDIT WHERE IT’S DUE, TO A TRUE LEADER
• JUAN GEORGE Dar credito a quien debido ... a una Verdadera Líder
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A BELVEDERE THANKSGIVING • DAN IRIZARRY
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CHRISTMAS LUNCHEON AT BELVEDERE
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LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
• JUAN GEORGE
If have any comments or suggestion please send them to jgeorge@latinonewyorkmagazine.com or by calling at: (518) 438-2875 Si desea enviarnos sus comentarios o sugerencias, por favor envíelos a jgeorge@latinonewyorkmagazine.com o llamando al telefono (518) 438-2875
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he recent failure of the U.S. Senate to pass the DREAM Act – which would have ensured that immigrant children who grow up here receive a good education — was as dispassionate as it was shortsighted. It threatens the future of millions of young Latinos who are poised to make a positive impact on this country. As saddened and disappointed as we may be, it is important to keep in mind that while the DREAM Act may have been deferred — at least for the time being — the dream this bill represents remains very much alive and we must continue fighting to make it become a reality. Under what was officially known as the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors Act, qualified students who come to the United States Spanish version on Pag. 9
before age 16 would have been eligible to gain legal permanent status if they earned a college degree or completed two years of military service.
You are never too young to make a difference. Age — or lack thereof — is not a hindrance. In fact, young people bring to the table unique views, values and skills.
This bill reflected a deeply held union belief embedded in NYSUT’s “Principles for Defining Excellence” that every student should have access to a quality education.
In the days leading up to the Senate vote, it was young Latinos who led in advocating for the DREAM Act’s passage. They flooded Capitol Hill with tens of thousands of phone calls and took to social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter to push their message.
The fight for the rights contained under the DREAM Act is very simply a fight for civil rights. And, like those who fought for civil rights in the 1960s, Latinos must now take the adversity they have encountered and use it to become more united and determined. This will require leadership — especially on the part of our young people, whose futures are still waiting to be written.
Their passion, despite the outcome, continues to burn, as evidenced by the words of Julieta Garibay, a young activist and daughter of immigrants who is eyeing a career in nursing: “We did not lose. (The Senate) just ignited our fire
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to keep on fighting because it is not fair. We’re tired. We’re fired up, and we will not take it anymore.” The Latino community is a growing political force in this country and we have seen what is possible when we make our voices heard. Our community, for instance, was instrumental in electing our nation’s first president of color in 2008, sending two-thirds of our votes to Barack Obama. Yes, we encountered a setback. But the Senate failure is behind us and we must move forward. Now is the time to organize, to speak up and speak out. In order for our strength and influence to matter, we must exercise it.
Now is the time to lead.
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l reciente fracaso en el Senado de los EE.UU. para aprobar la Ley DREAM - que hubiera asegurado que jóvenes inmigrantes que crecen aquí, recibieran una buena educación - careció de pasión como de visión. Esta decisión amenaza el futuro de millones de jóvenes latinos que pueden hacer un impacto positivo en este país.
2011 Organizarnos, hablar y hacernos oír
Fue triste y decepcionante, pero es importante tener en cuenta que mientras que la Ley DREAM ha sido diferida por lo menos por el momento - el sueño por este proyecto de ley sigue estando vivo y tenemos que seguir luchando para que llegue a convertirse en una realidad.
“Principios para la definición de excelencia,” el hecho de que todos los estudiantes deberían tener acceso a una educación de calidad. La lucha por los derechos contenidos en la Ley DREAM es sencillamente una lucha por los derechos civiles. Y al igual que aquellos que lucharon por los derechos civiles en la década de 1960, los latinos deben ahora tomar las adversidades que han encontrado y utilizarlas para mantenerse más unidos y decididos. Esto requerirá un liderazgo - sobre todo por parte de nuestros jóvenes, cuyo futuro está aún a la espera de ser escrito.
Photos By Korean Resource Center
Según la que se conoció oficialmente como la Ley para el Desarrollo, Alivio y Educación para Menores Extranjeros, los estudiantes calificados que vinieran a los Estados Unidos antes de los 16 años, habrían sido elegibles para obtener un estatus legal permanente si obtuvieran un título universitario o hubieran completado dos años de servicio militar .
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Este proyecto de ley refleja una creencia que ha sido acogida por NYSUT en sus
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Nunca se es demasiado joven para hacer una diferencia. Ser mayor en edad - o muy menor- no es un obstáculo. De hecho, los jóvenes aportan visión, valores y habilidades únicos.
Su pasión, a pesar de los resultados, sigue ardiendo, como lo demuestran las palabras de Julieta Garibay, una joven activista e hija de inmigrantes que está considerando una carrera en enfermería: “No perdimos. (El Senado) sólo enciende nuestro fuego que seguir luchando porque no es justo. Estamos cansados. Estamos entusiasmados, y no vamos a soportarlo más. “ La comunidad latina es una creciente fuerza política en este país y hemos visto lo que es posible cuando hacemos oír nuestra voz. Nuestra comunidad, por ejemplo, jugó un papel decisivo en la elección de primer presidente de color de nuestra nación en el 2008, con dos tercios de nuestra votación para Barack Obama. Sí, nos encontramos con un revés. Pero el fracaso en el Senado está detrás de nosotros y tenemos que seguir adelante. Ahora es el tiempo para organizarnos, hablar y hacernos oír.
Para que nuestra fortaleza En los días previos a la e influencia tengan imporvotación en el Senado, fueron tancia, debemos ejercerlas. los jóvenes latinos los que lideraban la defensa de la Ahora es el momento aprobación de la Ley DREAM. de liderar. Inundaron el Capitolio con decenas de miles de llamadas telefónicas y llevaron el asunto a los sitios de redes sociales como Facebook y Maria Neira, a former bilingual elementary Twitter para impulsar su school teacher, is Vice President of the mensaje. 600,000-member New York State United Teachers NYSUT.
MANDAMIENTOS Para el Consumidor
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NO ACCEPTARÁS NINGUNA OFERTA POR TELÉFONO, POR INTERNET O EN PERSONA SI NO ESTÁS 100% SEGURO CON QUIEN ESTÁS TRATANDO!
NO DARÁS TU INFORMACIÓN PERSONAL O FINANCIERA CUANDO TE LLAMEN POR TELÉFONO, TE ENVIEN UN CARTA O UN CORREO ELECTRONICO!
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NO HARÁS NEGOCIOS POR INTERNET SI TU COMPUTADORA NO ESTÁ EQUIPADA CON UN PROGRAMA DE PROTECCIÓN ANTI-VIRUS Y SPYWARE!
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NO PAGARÁS DINERO EN ADELANTADO POR NINGUNA OFERTA GRATIS, PROMESA DE EMPLEO, PROMESA DE APARTAMENTO, ETC.
NO TE DEJARÁS ENGATUZAR. SI LA OFERTA SUENA DEMASIADO BUENA PARA SER VERDAD, ES MÁS QUE SEGURO UNA ESTAFA!
3 NO FIRMARÁS UN CONTRATO SIN PRIMERO ENTENDER LO QUE ESTÁ ESCRITO Y HABRÁS TENIDO TIEMPO DE REVISARLO, NO IMPORTA LO QUE TE PROMETA EL REPRESENTANTE DE VENTAS!
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PEDIRÁS UN RECIBO DESPUES DE HACER UNA COMPRA O NEGOCIO!
Photo by Fosforix
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AVERIGUARÁS SI LA COMPAÑIA CON LA QUE ESTÁS HACIENDO NEGOCIOS ES DE REPUTACIÓN Y SI GARANTIZAN EL PRODUCTO O SERVICIO!
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10 DENUNCIARÁS A CUALQUIER NEGOCIO QUE TE TRATE DE ESTAFAR CON LA JUNTA DE PROTECCION AL CONSUMIDOR Y LA FISCALIA GENERAL DEL ESTADO!
TAINA ASILI
Una Rebelde Musical y Social
The Del Valles remain well known for their work while they were students at Binghamton University. They were the founders of the school’s Latin American Student Union. Louie was also a Latin-jazz conductor, vocalist and conguero, and Mimi an Afro-Caribbean dancer, so becoming a performer and community organizer seemed to be in the cards for Asili from birth. She says music filled her house all day long, even when she was asleep. Asili, her father and sister would even sing doo-wop at weddings and parties. Banda Rebelde’s music is a mix of AfroCaribbean, reggae, rock and hip-hop, also incorporating at various times flamenco, traditional Greek rhythms or samba, among other styles.
A graduate of of Goddard College in Vermont with a degree in Transformative Language Arts, Asili also facilitates writing workshops in various communities, including several for refugees in the Capital Region. Her workshops focus on the use of words for personal and social change. For the past ten years, whether in Philadelphia or here in the Capital Region, Asili has been involved in the movement for prisoner justice. Currently, she works with the Albany Political Prisoners Support Committee and the New York State Prisoner Justice Network. When it comes to her passions, however, nothing tops a very special person in her life.
“Lyrically our music speaks to themes love, resistance, anti-colonialism and ancestral remembrance. We see our musical work as a part of a global movement for social and environmental justice, Asili said.
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or some time it has been recognized that the most popular genres of Latin music in the Capital Region are salsa, merengue, bachata and other Caribbean styles. However, there is a shift in some sectors of the music scene. Last year we interviewed Delmar native Josh Nor who is the host of the Latin Alternative, a radio show featuring top rock en español artists. Another talent whose music does not fit traditional Latino definitions is Taina Asili. Asili, born in Endicott, NY to Mimi and Louie Del Valle, her Puerto Rican parents, fronts La Banda Rebelde, a six piece ensemble featuring members from Italy, Greece and Ghana, and even an Australian of Brazilian descent. When Asili grew up on the Southern Tier, the her parents surrounded her and her siblings with a deep sense of cultural pride.
With a musical background so diverse, it is only natural that Asili draws inspiration from myriad sources. At the age of 14, she began an eight years of classical vocal training from a Peruvian opera singer. Both her brother and sister have played roles if her development. “Incidentally, it was through this group that I met my partner and guitarist, Gaetano Vaccaro,” Asili said. Her inspirations among among well-known recording artists include Hugh Masakela, Miriam Makeba, Nina Simone, Bob Marley, Celia Cruz, Ruben Blades, Chavela Vargas, Lila Downs, Chiwoniso, Ojos de Brujo and Rage Against the Machine.
The work I do as a musician, community organizer and workshop facilitator is intimately connected to my work as a parent. I have a 7 year old child who is my primary source of inspiration. His generation, and those yet to arrive are the reasons why I seek to create a more loving, healthy and just world, Asili said. Asili is constantly on the road performing, and has just released her debut album “War Cry.” For information on her latest ventures, please visit www.tainaasili.com.
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Year in Review by Michael Fondacaro MAY 8- Second Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival in Fleischmanns (Delaware County)
JUNE 14
- Batavia Daily News reporter Tom Rivers standing with copies of his book Farm Hands at the Finger Lakes Migrant Health Care Project’s annual Farmworker Health Conference in Liverpool.
A spring, summer and fall filled with pictures and events. Mike was all over Upstate New York as well as in Connecticut and Massachusetts in the past few months. Here is a recap in pictures of where he went
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- Lia Muniz, an Australian of Brazilian descent, who came to Albany to teach a Samba/Zumba class.
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Mohawk Valley Latino Association President Sonia Martinez at Utica’s annual Latin festival.
SEPTEMBER 18- Mike at the First Brazilian Expo of New England with organizer Suely DiBara.
JULY 17- The
Family of Markus and Shanna Jones at the Annual Guyanese Family Fun Day in Schenectady’s Central Park
JULY 10 - Participants in Binghamton’s Annual Latino Picnic
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Hartford Mayor Pedro Segarra at the city’s Brazilian Independence Day Celebration.
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Eddie and Norma Ramirez of R&M Promotions prior to the start of Kingston’s Latino Festival
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- Performers at the Festival Latino de los Berkshires in Lee, MA.
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Mike with Karen Mejia from Rep. Maurice Hinchey’s office, before a Latino Public Officials Forum sponsored Gateway to Entrepreneurial Tomorrows in Newburgh. Mike was the moderator
JULY 18- Holyoke City Councilman Diosdado Lopez
and Massachusetts Latino Chamber of Commerce President Carlos Gonzalez at the Western Massachusetts Puerto Rican Parade Breakfast
AUGUST 8- Saugerties Latin Festival
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Rutgers University student Miguelina Rodriguez, who is studying Dominican Migration, with Binghamton University Professor Mark Reisinger, Ph.D. at the Fifth Race, Ethnicity and Place Conference in Binghamton.
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- Krystle and Dorothy Nowhitney at the Vision Findraiser for the Latino Community Advocacy Program in Saratoga P. 14
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DECEMBER 5- Liga Filipina at the University at
Albany holding its annual Simbang Gabi Christmas Celebration. Mike poses with Liga’s e-board, who gave him a Liga Hoody during the event.
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OUR COVER STORY P
Ed Gilligan, Chairman of CAP COM Board of Directors, added this about Paula: “Paula’s leadership skills have served CAP COM members, staff, management team and volunteers very well over the past several years. For any financial institution to grow as we have recently and still maintain the support of the member and staff is a tribute to the leader of that business.” Paula’s leadership continues a culture of service and quality which has its roots in the “old” Ma Bell system. Formed by several New York Telephone employees in 1953, CAP COM has cultivated a work culture that has won
Giving Credit Where It’s Due, to a True Leader LNYM: How do you balance family and work? Paula: I schedule four weeks vacation every year. It is the beginning of January and I already know my vacation plans. On my vacation, I surround myself with my favorite people and laugh and laugh. I never stay home where I can always find something to clean and answer the phone.
rofessionally, Paula is the President/CEO of CAP COM Federal Credit Union, a position she has held since 2004. CAP COM is the second largest credit union in Capital Region and has been ranked as one of its fastest growing companies. Although I am a member of this credit union, I didn’t meet Paula until I joined the Board of Directors of the Capital Region YMCA in 2006. It was here that I was able to see her work as a volunteer both as the Chair of the Finance Committee and, more recently, as the Chair of the Board. As noted by David Brown, President/CEO of the Capital District YMCA: “Paula Stopera is a vital part of the YMCA movement. The YMCA’s Black and Latino Achievers program has grown by leaps and bounds over the past eight years, largely in part to the support that we receive from Paula and CAP COM.”
Paula Stopera
Latino New York Magazine is proud to honor Paula Stopera in our cover story for January. This month’s magazine is dtevoted to leadership and recognizes individuals in our community who not only are consummate professionals but also use their leadership positions to support activities that improve the lives of others. Paula has distinguished herself as one such individual.
Paula with a group of children receiving backpacks successive Best Places to Work awards and national recognition by the Raddon Financial Group for quality service and member awareness. Paula is recognized by her peers and the community at large as an accomplished professional. Her counsel is sought from within the credit union industry and from the local business and not-for-profit community. As Mary Beth Murphy, Albany Community Action Partnership’s Head Start Assurance Coordinator, noted: “For the past two years, Paula Stopera through her CAP COM FCU programs has supplied backpacks filled with school supplies to ACAP Head Start children throughout Albany County. Backpacks are distributed to children who otherwise would have no backpack for carrying their belongings back and forth to our Head Start program every day. By affording these young children this brand new backpack, Paula Stopera has helped very young children take their first steps on their road to a good education with pride.”
PAULA IN HER OWN WORDS LNYM: Tell us about yourself. Paula: I grew up in Cohoes, New York as the fourth of five children. My dad and mom raised us to believe in family and faith as our most important priorities. I went to high school and college locally, paid my way through HVCC and then attended Russell Sage in the evenings. LNYM: Tell us a little about your family. Paula: I live in Latham with my husband Frank and my two children. Amanda is a senior in college and Alex is a freshman in college. As a working mom, I think I only missed one or two soccer and basketball games and tournaments in my kids’ lives. These memories and the times we spent together on the road and off, provided the foundation to get through the good times and the bad.
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LNYM: How did you decide on your profession? Paula: I started out in college to be a teacher. Due to some stress on finances, I went to work in the banking industry and ended up being recruited by a former manager to join CAP COM Federal Credit Union. The rest is history. LNYM: From your perspective, what is a leader? Paula: A leader is someone who must demonstrate passion for what they believe in. A great leader is a communicator and someone who is selfless. A great leader must be able to make decisions and not fear the repercussions. A great leader never lets anyone see them sweat. A great leader is fair and honest has confidence in handling conflict with respect and diplomacy. And, most importantly, leaves the ego at the door and treats everyone as an equal. Also, if you say you are going to do something, your reputation will be built on whether you can do that or not. Not meeting deadlines or commitments will stifle your career.
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LNYM: What is the secret to your success? Paula: It’s all about communication and a love for people. Since I was a young girl, I could strike up a conversation with anyone at anytime. After meeting most people I know a lot about what is important to them. I have a photographic memory and can remember dates, names and key information. I have made people my No. 1 priority in life. After some interesting first jobs, I made a promise to myself that if I was ever given an opportunity to lead others, I would transform the workplace into a place where people could love what they do. Work would not have to be a fourletter word that we do not look fondly upon, but rather a place and a piece of our hearts. Each of us is unique. My role was to find the right spot in our organization for each person’s individual talents. I learned that my attitude and actions mattered every single day. If you are a leader and a spouse and parent, you need to learn how to balance your work life, with your home life and carve out time for yourself if you are to be good at all of these demanding roles. Finally and most importantly, I treat everyone as an equal. I make sure that the people in my organization and in my family know how important they are to me and I live this commitment every day. LATINO NEW YORK
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LNYM: What can you say to our readers to encourage them to lead? Paula: I believe in Servant Leadership. Lose the ego is the number one message. We all have a role in our workplace. Respect that. My role as a leader has been one of the greatest opportunities in my life. LNYM: What are some of your immediate plans for the future? Paula: My goal is to continue to be in a position to grow my credit union. Safety and soundness is a big concern in the financial industry. CAP COM Federal Credit Union will show the world how this is done. Continuing the mission of our credit union to serve the underserved communities is another focus of ours as is the growth and continued efforts of CAP COM CARES Foundation. This was my dream to create a formal Foundation to streamline and organize our community efforts and every day that dream becomes more vivid as we change lives for the better. LNYM: And your long term plans? Paula: I have a vision for what our Credit Union will look like and the impact our Foundation will have on our community when I retire. Although I have 10 years to go, time is flying. My hope is that through community partnerships we will one day provide the means to make a quality education a reality to every single child who has a dream. That education will result in community health and financial stability.
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Children from ACAP Head Start Program holding backpacks LNYM: Do you have some suggestions for people to get more involved in the community? Paula: If someone wants to get more involved there are some great local organizations that are always looking for volunteers. I would look at the not for profits in our region and start there. You can also talk to leaders that are connected and ask them for advice. Another great way to get connected and find out who might be looking for help is through your local Chamber of Commerce. LNYM: What are some of the things our community needs the most? Paula: Our communities need hope. When people have a means to support their families, their outlook changes dramatically. In our schools, we have to recognize that every child doesn’t learn through lecture. We have to find a way to insure that every child can read and write. This may seem obvious but we have children who are at middle school level who still can’t read because they may not learn through traditional methods. Finally, we can’t turn our backs on those in need. Every time we give someone employment or help a child attend an organized
after school program or just give them a book to read, we may be changing a life forever. LNYM: Do you think the economy will improve this year? Paula: I would say that 2011 is going to be another difficult year. People in our community who lost jobs have run out or are running out of unemployment benefits, retirement savings are gone and desperate times are hitting those who were surviving previously. Our state has some changes that need to be made and we will all need to make sacrifices to get there. I think we, as residents of the Capital District and of New York State are looking for hope and are willing to make the sacrifices if there is a plan at the end of the road. We need strong leadership right now more than ever. LNYM: Is there anything else you would like to add? Paula: Being a leader in our community and at CAP COM Federal Credit Union has been the greatest journey that I could have imagined as a career.
Spanish version on Pag. 21
NUESTRA PORTADA
Paula Stopera
Dar credito a quien es debido ... a una verdadera líder Latino New York Magazine se enorgullece en honrar a Paula Stopera en nuestra portada de enero. Este mes está dedicado al liderazgo y reconocemos a los individuos de nuestra comunidad, que no sólo son profesionales consumados, sino también utilizan sus posiciones de liderazgo, para apoyar las actividades que mejoran la vida de los demás. Paula se ha distinguido en esta labor. Paula es la Presidente y Directora General de CAP COM Federal Credit Unión, cargo que ocupa desde 2004. CAP COM es la unión de crédito número dos en la región y ha sido clasificada como una de las empresas de mayor crecimiento en el área. Aunque soy un miembro de esta cooperativa de crédito, no conocía a Paula hasta que me uní a la Junta Directiva de la YMCA de la Región Capital en 2006. Fue aquí donde tuve la oportunidad de ver su trabajo voluntario, tanto en calidad de Presidente del Comité de Finanzas y, más recientemente, como Presidente de la Junta. Como señaló David Brown, Presidente y Director General de la YMCA del Distrito Capital: “Paula Stopera es una parte vital del movimiento del YMCA. El YMCA’s Black &Latino Achievers Program, el cual ha crecido a pasos gigantescos en los últimos ocho años, en gran parte, por el apoyo que recibimos de Paula y de CAP COM.“ P. 20
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Ed Gilligan, presidente de la Junta Directiva de CAP COM, comentó lo siguiente acerca de Paula: “Paula tiene habilidades de liderazgo que han servido a los miembros de CAPCOM, el personal, equipo directivo y los voluntarios muy bien durante los últimos años. Para cualquier institución financiera crecer como ha sucedido recientemente y aún así mantener el apoyo de los miembros y el personal es un tributo al líder de ese negocio. “ El liderazgo de Paula sigue una cultura de servicio y calidad que tiene sus raíces en el “viejo” sistema de Ma Bell, formado por varios empleados de New York Telephone en 1953. La CAP COM ha cultivado una cultura de trabajo que ha ganado sucesivos reconocimientos como uno de los mejores lugares para trabajar, así como premios y reconocimientos nacionales por el Grupo de Raddon Financiero de la calidad del servicio y el conocimiento de sus miembros. Paula es reconocida por otros profesionales y la comunidad en general como una profesional consumada. Sus consejos se buscan dentro de la industria de cooperativas de crédito, empresas locales y organizaciones sin fines de lucro en la comunidad. Como Mary Beth Murphy, de Albany Community Action Partnership’s Head Start Assurance Coordinator, señaló: P. 21
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Paula and her son Alex
“Durante los últimos dos años, Paula Stopera a través de sus programas de la CAP COM FCU ha suministrado mochilas llenas de útiles escolares a niños de Head Start en todo el condado de Albany. Las mochilas son distribuidas a los niños que de otro modo no las tendrían para llevar sus pertenencias a nuestro programa de Head Start todos los días. Un gran aporte para los niños por parte de Paula Stopera, quien ha ayudado a los niños a dar sus primeros pasos en su camino hacia una buena educación con orgullo. “
Paula en sus propias palabras LNYM: Cuéntanos un poco acerca de ti. Paula: Yo crecí en Cohoes, Nueva York la cuarta de cinco hijos. Mi papá y mamá nos enseñaron a creer en la familia y la fe en nuestras prioridades más importantes. Fui a la escuela secundaria y a la universidad local, pagué mis estudios en HVCC y luego asistí a Russell Sage en las noches.
LNYM: Cuéntanos un poco acerca de tu familia. Paula: Yo vivo en Latham con mi esposo Frank y mis dos hijos. Amanda en su último año de universidad y Alex estudiante de primer año en la universidad. Como una madre que trabaja, creo que sólo perdí uno o dos partidos de fútbol, de baloncesto y torneos en la vida de mis hijos”. Estas memorias y los tiempos que pasamos juntos, son la base para superar los momentos buenos y malos. LNYM: ¿Cómo decidiste esta profesión? Paula: Empecé en la universidad para ser maestra. Debido a cierta tensión económica, me fui a trabajar en la industria bancaria y terminé siendo contratada por un ex gerente de CAP COM Federal Credit Union. El resto es historia. LNYM: Desde tu perspectiva, ¿Qué es un líder? Paula: Un líder es alguien que tiene que demostrar la pasión por lo que cree. Un gran líder es un buen comunicador y una persona que es desinteresada. Continúa en la Pag. 22
Paula Stopera Dar credito a quien es debido ... a una verdadera líder
Union le mostrará al mundo cómo se hace esto. Continuar con la misión de nuestra cooperativa de crédito, en servir a las comunidades marginadas, otro enfoque es el crecimiento y también continuar los esfuerzos constantes de CAP COM’s Cares Foundation. Este ha sido mi sueño, el crear una fundación formal de racionalizar y organizar nuestros esfuerzos hacia la comunidad y todos los días ese sueño se hace más realidad, a medida que ayudamos a cambiar vidas.
CapCom staff as they were honored in 2010 as one of the Best Places to Work in the Capital Region. (Photo courtesy of Business Review)
Un gran líder debe ser capaz de tomar decisiones y no temer las consecuencias. Un gran líder nunca deja que nadie le vea sudar. Un gran líder es justo, honesto y tiene confianza en el manejo de conflictos con respeto y diplomacia. Y, lo más importante, deja el ego en la puerta y trata a todos con igualdad. Además, si va a hacer algo, lo hace ya que si lo prometió su reputación se basa en si puede hacerlo o no. No cumplir lo prometido ahogará su carrera. LNYM: ¿Cómo equilibra su familia con su trabajo? Paula: Yo programo cuatro semanas de vacaciones cada año. Es el comienzo de enero ya conozco mis planes de vacaciones. En mis vacaciones, me rodeo de mis personas favoritas y reír
y reír. Nunca me quedo en casa donde siempre puedo encontrar algo para limpiar y teléfono que contestar. LNYM: ¿Cuál es el secreto de su éxito? Paula: Se trata de la comunicación y el amor por la gente. Desde que era joven, podía entablar una conversación con cualquier persona en cualquier momento. Después de conocerles era más fácil acercarme a ellos. Tengo una memoria fotográfica y puedo recordar fechas, nombres e información clave. He hecho a la gente prioridad número 1 en mi vida. Después de unos primeros trabajos interesantes, hice una promesa a mí misma, que si algún día tuviera la oportunidad de dirigir a otros, transformaría el sitio de trabajo en un lugar donde la
gente puede amar lo que hacen. El trabajo no tendría que ser una palabra de muchas letras que no se aprecian, sino más bien un lugar y un pedazo de nuestro corazón. Cada uno de nosotros es único. Mi papel era encontrar el sitio correcto en nuestra organización para los talentos individuales de cada persona. Me enteré de que mi actitud y mis acciones eran lo que más importaba todos los días. Si usted es un líder, esposo o padre, tiene que aprender a equilibrar su vida laboral, con su vida hogareña y sacar tiempo para usted mismo, si va a ser bueno en todos estos puestos. Por último y lo más importante, es tratar a todos igual. Me aseguro de que la gente de mi organización y en mi familia P. 22
sabe lo importante que es para mí, yo vivo este compromiso todos los días. LNYM: ¿Qué puede decir a nuestros lectores para animarles a liderar? Paula: Yo creo en Siervo de Liderazgo. Perder el ego es el mensaje primordial. Todos tenemos un papel que jugar en nuestro trabajo. Respeto eso. Mi papel como líder ha sido una de las mejores oportunidades en mi vida. LNYM: ¿Cuáles son algunos de sus planes inmediatos para el futuro? Paula: Mi objetivo es seguir en una posición para ayudar al crecimiento de CAP COM Federal Credit Union. Seguridad y solidez es una gran preocupación en la industria financiera. CAP COM Federal Credit
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las personas tienen un medio para mantener a sus familias cambia la perspectiva radicalmente. En nuestras escuelas, tenemos que reconocer que cada niño no aprende a través de conferencias. Tenemos que encontrar una manera de asegurar que cada niño pueda leer y escribir. Esto puede parecer obvio, pero tenemos niños que están en la escuela inter- media que aún no pueden leer porque no pueden aprender a través de métodos tradicionales.
LNYM: ¿Y sus planes a largo plazo? Paula: Tengo una visión de lo que nuestra unión de crédito será y el impacto que nuestra fundación tendrá en nuestra comunidad cuando me jubile. Aunque tengo 10 años por delante, el tiempo vuela. Mi esperanza es que a través de asociaciones comunitarias algún día proporcionar los medios para que una educación de calidad sea una realidad para cada niño que sueña. Que la educación tendrá como resultado la salud de la comunidad y la estabilidad financiera.
Por último, no podemos dar la espalda a los necesitados. Cada vez que damos empleo a alguien o ayudamos a un niño asistir a programas organizados después de las clases o simplemente les damos un libro para leer, podríamos cambiar una vida para siempre. LNYM: ¿Cree usted que la economía mejorará este año? Paula: Yo diría que 2011 va a ser otro año difícil. La gente en nuestra comunidad que han perdido su trabajo, han agotado o se están quedando sin beneficios de desempleo, ahorros para la jubilación se han ido y aquellos que sobrevivían anteriormente ahora están desesperados. Nuestro estado tiene algunos cambios que tienen que hacerse y todos tendrán que hacer sacrificios para llegar allí. Creo que nosotros, como residentes en el Distrito Capital y del Estado de Nueva York buscamos esperanza y estamos dispuestos a hacer los sacrificios necesarios, si existe un plan al final del camino. Necesitamos un liderazgo fuerte en este momento más que nunca.
LNYM: ¿Tiene usted algunas sugerencias para que personas se involucren más en la comunidad? Paula: Si alguien quiere participar más, hay algunas grandes organizaciones locales que están siempre en busca de voluntarios. Yo buscaría por organizaciones de no lucro en nuestra región y empezar por ahí. También puede hablar con los líderes que están conectados y pedirles consejo. Otra gran manera de conectarse con su Cámara de Comercio local.
LNYM: ¿Hay algo más que quieras agregar? Paula: Ser una líder en nuestra comunidad y en CAP COM Federal Credit Union, ha sido la jornada más grande que yo hubiera podido imaginar como una carrera.
LNYM: ¿Cuáles son algunas de las cosas que nuestra comunidad necesita más? Paula: Nuestras comunidades necesitan esperanza. Cuando LATINO NEW YORK
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”
NUESTRA PORTADA
Every time we give someone employment or help a child attend an organized after school program or just give them a book to read, we may be changing a life forever! Realize that we, meaning you and I, can actually change lives….. together, one day, one person at a time
”
Paula with husband Frank, daughter Amanda and son Alex
A BELVEDERE Thanksgiving H
ow many times in our lives have we said, or heard someone else say, ‘you don’t know what you have until you lose it?’ This might seem like a cliché to some, but its veracity is borne out time and again when it comes to our relatives, friends and neighbors who fall victim to brain injury. Few will ever fathom the significance of those words more than the staff at Belvedere of Albany Home Healthcare and Brain Injury Services and the courageous individuals they serve. And no one understands the randomness of such an injury, or the turbulent arc of pain and recovery that ensues, better than a young man by the name of Tony. Let me explain. I met Tony at Belvedere recently during their annual Thanksgiving Eve hullabaloo, where he served as MC and spokesperson for the program participants. (Holidays are a big deal at Belvedere, as I’ve come to find out.) His personal testimony provided a poignant, yet powerful touch to the proceedings. According to Tony his parents were determined to provide a decent quality of life for their family, so they traded life in the big city for the safety and security of Gloversville, New York. They could never have imagined what lay in store for their son one winter’s day on the road between Amsterdam and Schenectady, and how a patch of ice would change their lives forever. The day before Thanksgiving fifteen years ago, Tony lost control of his Jeep, careened into oncoming traffic, and struck another car head-on. Two weeks later, he
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awoke from his coma and learned that part of his skull was missing, along with his ability to perform some of the most basic tasks. As is the case with many braininjured persons, Tony lost a great deal of cognitive ability as he “went from having the cognition of a 19 year-old to that of a three year-old.” If he wanted to lead a “normal life,” he would have to relearn the most basic daily functions – from tying a shoe, to reading a sentence. Fortunately for him, he found Belvedere and its dedicated staff. I was invited to the festivities by a dear friend and colleague, Midgdalia Jimenez, who serves as Belvedere’s Director of Health Care Services. Micky – as she is affectionately known to her friends and co-workers – is the energizer bunny of the company and the main reason why I serve on its community advisory committee. In my own personal opinion, on that particular afternoon there was not a happier, more festive and caring atmosphere in the entire Capital District. In keeping with the theme of the season – at Micky’s urging, I bet—staff wore a mixture of
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Pilgrim and Native American hats and headdresses; mountains of turkey with all the trimmings and deserts of every kind were served; but best of all, there was an abundance of joy and enthusiasm on display. Micky says Tony’s case is miraculous. And she knows a thing or two about miracles – after all, she has been a nurse and an administrator for more than 25 years. During Micky’s tenure, Belvedere has grown its capacity and its footprint in the Capital District, with part of their marketing newly targeted to the Hispanic community. She is representative of the type of commitment to program participants that the staff of Belvedere and its president, John McCooey, shares. “We are about the individual and their particular needs; it’s our responsibility to evaluate the level of care each person who walks through our doors requires – from recreation to rehabilitation, and everything in between,” Micky explains.
“Our approach is about customizing the care each participant receives in order to ensure the most positive outcomes. Once in a while – though certainly not always – you arrive at an outcome like Tony’s, which was a long and winding journey.” After lunch, the karaoke machine was turned on and the dancing began – let’s just say that many a groove thing was shaken. Those who stuck around were treated to a knock-out performance of Chaka Khan’s 1970’s anthem, ‘I’m Every Woman,’ delivered by Joyce. Every woman and man present was deeply thankful for the wonderful work of an outstanding staff of consummate professionals on behalf of a very special group of people in our midst. Note: Found out that Belvedere is Italian for ‘beautiful view’ – which is precisely what this particular Thanksgiving festival afforded me: a beautiful view of our shared humanity.
John McCooey, President of Albany Belvedere Program, presents plaque to Bill Gagen’s Family
Bill Gagen’s Family
Kara, Vera and Joe Gagen
Vera and her mother Maria Dibenedetto
Micky Jimenéz leads the Gingerbread Houses Contest
One of the winning houses
Groups of participants
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LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
Latino Members of the New York State Senate
Jose R. Peralta (Senate District 13) Counties: Par of Queen District: 32-37 Junction Blvd 1st. fl, East Elmhurst, NY 12247 Albany: 944 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: jperalta@senate.state.ny.us Phone: (718) 205-3881 (518) 455-2529
Ruben Diaz (Senate District 32) Counties: Part of the Bronx District: 900 Rogers Place, Bronx, NY 10459 Albany: 307 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: diaz@senate.state.ny.us Phone: (718) 991-3161 (518) 455-2511
Reverend Rubén Díaz was elected to the New York State Senate in November 2002 in the 32nd Senate District in South Bronx, including the communities of Castle Hill, Clason Point, Hunts Point, Longwood, Melrose, Morrisania, Parkchester, Pelham Parkway, Soundview, and Union Port. Rubén Díaz was born on April 22, 1943 in Bayamón, Puerto Rico and attended the Miguel Such Vocational School in Río Piedras. In 1960, he joined the U.S. Armed Forces and proudly served in the Army until he completed his tour of duty with an honorable discharge in 1963.
Name: Martin Malave Dilan ( Senate District 17) Counties: Part of Kings District: 786 Knickerbocker Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11207 Albany: 811 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: dilan@senate.state.ny.us Phone: (718) 573-1726 (518) 455-2177
Elected to the New York State Senate in November, 2002, Martin Malave Dilan is serving his fourth term in the 17th Senatorial District. In an unusual twist for a Senate freshman, Senator Dilan was appointed the Assistant Minority Leader of Conference Operations. In 2007, Senator Dilan was appointed Chairman of the Minority Conference. Continuing his role as a leader, in 2009, Senator Dilan was appointment Senior Assistant Majority Leader. As a Senator representing Brooklyn, Senator Dilan continues his extraordinary career in public service. The 17th Senate District encompasses the North Brooklyn communities of Bushwick, Williamsburg, Greenpoint, Cypress Hills, City-Line, East New York, Bedford-Stuyvesant, and Brownsville. Senator Dilan grew up in the community of Bushwick where his parents, Esther and Gilberto, who migrated from Puerto Rico in 1947, instilled in him the importance of community service and cultural heritage.
José Peralta is a first-generation DominicanAmerican, elected to the New York State Senate in a Special Election that took place March of 2010. Like so many before them, Peralta’s parents came to the United States in search of the American dream and a better life for their children. His parents worked hard to sustain their family on the wages of entry-level positions: his father a bank teller and his mother a seamstress at a sweatshop. They struggled to ensure that their children received a quality education that would provide them with opportunities and would teach them the importance of public service. Peralta has lived in Queens for over 25 years. Peralta is a product of the public school system in Queens – having attended elementary school PS 14, Intermediate School 61: Leonardo Da Vinci, Flushing High School, and finally Queens College.
Adriano Espaillat (Senate District 31) Counties: Manhattan’s Upper WestSide District: 5030 Broadway NY, NY 10034 Albany: 1 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: Espaillat@senate.state.ny.us Phone: (212) 544-0173
J. Gustavo Rivera (Senate District 33) Counties: Part of the Bronx District: N/A Albany: Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: jrivera@senate.state.ny.us Phone: N/A
A trailblazing community activist, Senator Espaillat made history in 1996 when he became the first Dominican-American elected to a state legislature. Espaillat quickly distinguished himself as a reformer and bridge builder who stood up for working families and small businesses. Espaillat graduated from Bishop Dubois High School in 1974. In 1978, he earned his B.S. degree in Political Science from Queens College, and later completed postgraduate courses in Public Administration at the New York University and Rutgers University Leadership for Urban Executives Institute. Following a successful tenure in the New York State Assembly, Espaillat was elected to the Senate in November 2010, where he will represent the 31st district. This uniquely diverse and dynamic district stretches from Manhattan’s Upper West Side through Washington Heights and includes Riverdale, Marble Hill, Inwood, and Hamilton Heights.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Gustavo Rivera has lived and worked in our community for over a decade. Along the way, he has distinguished himself by working for progressive candidates and public officials at the local, state and national level. Rivera has spent his career in New York working to change the way business is done. For the last seven years, he has dedicated his time and talent to building a Democratic majority in the New York State Senate. He worked for progressive candidates who want to shake up the old-school politics. He helped José M. Serrano in his successful campaign to oust 28-year incumbent Republican. Rivera also worked on both of Andrea Stewart Cousins’ campaigns, securing a win for her in 2006, and going on to serve as her Chief of Staff.
Jose M. Serrano (Senate District 28th.) Counties: Part of the Bronx & New York District: 157 East 104 Street, Ground Fl, NY 10029 Albany: 848 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: Serrano@senate.state.ny.us Phone: (212) 828-5829 (518) 455-2795
Senator José M. Serrano, a lifetime South Bronx resident, was elected to the New York State Senate in November of 2004. He is Secretary of the Majority Conference, and currently serves as Chair of Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation. His other committee assignments include: Aging; Crime Victims, Crime and Correction; Education; Elections; Environmental Conservation; Higher Education; and Rules. Senator Serrano learned the importance of public service at an early age from his father, U.S. Congressman José E. Serrano. After graduating from Manhattan College with a B.A. in Government, Senator Serrano joined the New York Shakespeare Festival, a non-profit cultural institution. At the Shakespeare Festival, Senator Serrano deepened his appreciation for the arts and dedicated himself to using it as a vehicle for community empowerment and economic revitalization.
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LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
Latino Members of the New York State Assembly Carmen Arroyo Counties: Part of the Bronx District: 900 Rogers Place, Bronx, NY 10459 Albany: 307 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12247 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 991-3161 (518) 455-2511
Carmen E. Arroyo was born in the beautiful mountainous town of Corozal, Puerto Rico. She graduated from Corozal High School and Sixto Febus Business School, where she received her Secretarial-Bookkeeper degree. In a special election in February 1994, Carmen E. Arroyo became the first and only Puerto Rican/ Hispanic woman elected to the NYS Assembly. Carmen is also well known for her talent as a passionate poetry reciter and poetry writer. Because of Carmen’s extensive track record of community involvement, as well as her many accomplishments, Assemblywoman Carmen E. Arroyo is one of the most highly respected female leaders in the state and nation.
Nelson L. Castro (86 District) Counties: Part of Bronx District: 2488 Grand Concourse Room 310-11 Bronx, NY 10458 Albany: 921 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 933-6909 (518) 455-5511
Nelson L. Castro was born January 25, 1972 in Santo Domingo, in the Dominican Republic. After briefly attending the New York City public school system, his family relocated to the state of Michigan. After graduation from Andrews University Nelson Castro returned to New York City. It was evident that Nelson was destined to become a public servant of the people. He served as Chief of Staff for Adriano Espaillat, State Assemblyman for the 72nd District. It was this opportunity that paved the way for his in depth knowledge and experience that motivated him to become entrenched in helping resolve cases involving immigration, housing, domestic violence and many other issues
Guillermo Linares (72 District) Counties: Part of New York District: 210 Sherman Avenue New York, NY 10034 Albany: 456 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (212) 544-2278 (518) 455-5807
concerning the community. This demonstration of democratic spirit developed a call to service which was substantiated when he became the first Dominican American elected to public office in the borough of the Bronx.
Guillermo Linares, Ed.D has the historic distinction of being the first Dominican born elected to public office in the United States in 1991. He served from 1992 to 2001 in the New York City Council, where he advocated for quality education, vital health services, affordable housing and immigrant rights. On November 2, 2010, Dr. Linares was elected as a member of the New York State Assembly, 72nd District, representing Washington Heights, Inwood and Marble Hill in Northern Manhattan.
Marcos A. Crespo (85 District) Counties: Part of the Bronx District: 1163 Manor Ave. Bronx, NY 10472 Albany: 323 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 893 -0202 (518) 455-5514
Peter D. Lopez (127 District) Counties: Schoharie & Greene Counties District: 45 Five Mile Woods Rd. Ste. 3 Catskill, NY 12414 113 Park Place Suite 6 Schoharie, NY 12157 Albany: 429 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (518) 943-1371 (518) 295-7250 (518) 455-5363
Marcos A. Crespo was born in Guayama, Puerto Rico, on July 29th 1980, one of four children of Ivette Fontanez and Alberto Crespo. At a young age, Marcos moved with his family to New York City, were he began his elementary studies in the New York City Public Schools System. In 2004, after receiving his Bachelor of Arts degree from John Jay College, Marcos accepted a full-time position as the Assistant to New York State Senator Rev. Rubén Díaz, Sr. Marcos served as the personal assistant for Senator Díaz. Marcos’ experience included handling and managing many areas of the office’s work which included scheduling, event coordinating, legislative matters, correspondence, and traveling to Albany for session days as well as working on constituent matters in the district office. Marcos A. Crespo represents the 85th Assembly District, which includes: Soundview, Bronx River, Hunts Point, Clason Point and Harding Park.
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The son of a working class family, Pete scrubbed floors, stocked store shelves, baled hay and scraped fish -- all in the hope of funding his college education and building a future in New York State. Pete has served as Schoharie County Clerk since 2004 and previously served on the staff of the New York State Legislature for 21 years, where he worked with a broad range of public and private interests at the federal, state and local levels to improve the quality of life for the people of New York State.
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Vito Lopez (Assembly District 53) Counties: Part of Kings District: 434 South 5th Street Brooklyn, NY 11211 Albany: 943 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 963-7029 (518) 455-5537
Assemblyman Vito J. Lopez (D - Brooklyn) was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York. He graduated from James Madison High School and Long Island University, Brooklyn, with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. He received his Master’s Degree in Social Work from Wurzweiler School of Social Work, Yeshiva University in 1970. He served as a part-time Adjunct Professor of Human Services at LaGuardia College and was also an Instructor at Molloy College, Empire State College, and Yeshiva University. Mr. Lopez represents a very divergent community, boasting one of the largest Latino/Puerto Rican districts in the state. Assemblyman Lopez was elected to the state Legislature in the 1984 general election and began his ninth term as Assemblyman in January 2001.
LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE Jose Rivera (Assembly District 78) Counties: Part of Bronx District: One Fordham Plaza Suite 1008 10th Floor, Bronx, NY 10458 Albany: 536 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 933-2204 (518) 455-5414
Francisco P. Moya (Assembly District 39) Counties: Part of Queens District: N/A Albany: 542 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (518) 455-4567
Francisco Moya was elected to represent the 39th Assembly District in 2010, earning him the honor of being the first Ecuadorian-American ever elected to public office in the United States. A lifelong resident of Corona, Queens, Francisco began organizing in his community at the age of 15, when he and a group of concerned neighbors started the Corona Gardens Neighborhood Association. The group started a block-watch program, organized beautification drives and tree plantings, and worked with the local Precinct to remove graffiti in the neighborhood. Building on this early activism, Francisco went on to graduate from St. John’s University and worked for two members of Congress, Congresswoman Nydia Velazquez and Congressman Brad Sherman in Washington, D.C. Felix Ortiz (Assembly District 51) Counties: Part of Kings District: 404 55th Street Brooklyn, NY 11220 Albany: 826 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 492-6334 (518) 455-3821
In 1980, Assemblyman Ortiz was the first member of his family to move from Puerto Rico to the United States. Although not yet fluent in English, he graduated from Boricua College with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration three years later. He received a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from New York University (NYU) in 1986. Upon completing his schooling, Mr. Ortiz joined the United States Army and served our country from 1986 until he was honorably discharged in 1988. He was elected to the office of New York State Assembly in November 1994, defeating a one-term incumbent. Once elected, Assemblyman Ortiz went to work for people of all ages who were in need.
For the last three decades Jose Rivera has worked relentlessly as a street activist for the people of the Bronx struggling for jobs, better housing and social justice. Assemblyman Rivera previously served on the New York State Assembly from 1982 to 1987. While in the Assembly he served as Treasurer, Vice Chair and eventually Chairman of the Black and Puerto Rican Caucus. In November 2000 he was re-elected to the New York State Assembly by a huge margin. Assemblyman Rivera currently sits on the committees for Aging, Insurance and Small Business and is on the Board for The Puerto Rican/Hispanic Task Force and the Black and Puerto Rican/Hispanic Legislative Caucus. Assembly Member Rivera was born in La Perla, Puerto Rico, educated in the public schools of New York, and hardened in the steel plants of Brooklyn. He is a role model for our children and a fighter for the common man. Rivera is living proof that you can make it, and a living reminder that you must give back to your community.
Philip R. Ramos (Assembly District 6) Counties: Central Islip District: 1010 Suffolk Ave. Brentwood, NY 11717 Albany: 650 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (631) 435-3214 (518) 455-5185
Philip Ramos (D, WFP -Central Islip) represents the 6th Assembly District, which includes portions of the hamlets of Brentwood, Baywood, Central Islip, Bay Shore, North Bay Shore, Islip and Islandia. He was elected to a newly created Assembly seat in 2002. Phil Ramos was born in the Bronx. The son of a correction officer and a registered nurse, Phil learned at an early age the value of helping people and being dedicated to your community. His family was one of the first Hispanic families to move to Brentwood in 1957. He has lived in the community for the past 50 years, raising his two children and working tirelessly on behalf of the community.
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Naomi Rivera (Assembly District 80) Counties: Part of Bronx District: 1126 Pelham Parkway South Bronx, NY 10461 Albany: 652 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 409-0109 (518) 455-5844
Assemblywoman Naomi Rivera proudly represents the 80th Assembly District. Her constituency is made up of residents from the Allerton, Eastchester Gardens, Morris Park, Norwood, Pelham Bay, Pelham Gardens, Pelham Parkway, Van Cortlandt Village, and Van Nest neighborhoods of the Bronx. Since being elected to the New York State Assembly in the fall of 2004, Naomi has worked tirelessly to improve her district. She strives to make her district one in which parents choose to raise their children; where lifelong residents want to retire; and that everyone is proud to call home. LATINO NEW YORK
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Peter Rivera (Assembly District 76) Counties: Part of Bronx District: 1973 Westchester Avenue Bronx, NY 10462 Albany: 646 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (718) 931-2620 (518) 455-5102
Peter Manuel Rivera was born in Ponce, Puerto Rico. He migrated to New York City at an early age along with his mother, Candita; his father, Victor Manuel; and his sister, Lucy. A graduate of New York City public schools, Peter was awarded a Baccalaureate degree in Business Administration from Pace College and was conferred a Juris Doctor from St. John’s Law School. Elected to serve as a member of the New York State Assembly in November of 1992, Peter M. Rivera represents the areas more popularly known in Bronx County as Van Nest, West Farms, Parkchester and Castle Hill. The highest-ranking Latino elected official in the New York State Assembly, Peter M. Rivera has maintained close ties to the community by fighting for quality in education and for strengthening bilingual education; by promoting access to health care and AIDS-related funding; and by working for the establishment of a Puerto Rican heritage center at a newly renovated Bronx office of the New York Public Library.
LATINO ELECTED OFFICIALS IN NEW YORK STATE LEGISLATURE
Robert J. Rodriguez (Assembly District 68) Counties: Part of New York District: 86 East 116th Street New York, NY 10029 Albany: 643 Legislative Office Bldg., Albany, NY 12248 E-mail: N/A Phone: (212) 828-3953 (518) 455-4781
Robert J. Rodriguez was elected to the New York State Assembly in November 2010. As an Assemblyman, Robert will focus on protecting and creating affordable housing, bringing good jobs into our community and ensuring our children get the quality education they deserve. Robert was born, raised, and educated in East Harlem. He attended P.S. 112, River East, Isaac Newton, and Cardinal Hayes High School in the Bronx. He most recently served as Chairman of Community Board 11, representing the neighborhoods of East Harlem. Robert holds a B.A. from Yale University and an M.B.A from NYU. Before being elected to the Assembly, Robert worked as a Vice President of a minority-owned public finance firm where he helped municipalities raise money for development and public works projects. Robert J. Rodriguez is also an emerging leader of the New America Alliance, and the Council for Urban Professionals (CUP) Fellow.
Every month one or two of the above mentioned Latino Elected Officials in New York State Legislature will be highlighted on the publication with additional information on important political issues.
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