Food, Music, Fun and Education
at the Latino Expo

Secaucus, New Jersey, April 24, 2008—The fourth annual Latino Issues Convention and Business Exposition closed this evening at the Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus.

Thousands of high school students, parents, senior citizens, and interested visitors shared this grand event which included the Latino Parent Education Conference and the “Nuestros Niños” Award Breakfast, the expo-consumer show, and the Latino College Fair. Over 400 parents attended the conference and close to 2,000 students, came from neighboring high schools, and from a little far, including large delegations from the Perth Amboy’s and Long Branch high schools, participated on Wednesday’s activities. Entertainment was provided by Mariachi de Oro, Trio Crystal and Gamali Zounds.

On Thursday, April 24th, the AARP hosted its second summit on Health Issues for Latinos, entitled Salud, Dinero y Familia. Over 400 seniors attended the summit.

The Unity Luncheon, with 600 delegates, was also held on Thursday. The luncheon included folkloric presentations, a fashion show featuring native dresses from Latin America, and tropical musical entertainment with Orquesta Organización.

The luncheon was the highlight of the event on Thursday and the Institute saluted and honored the Latino entrepreneurial spirit in New Jersey, by recognizing five outstanding business leaders who make us proud in the Latino community. These are Samuel Delgado, Vice-President, Verizon; Betty M. Manetta, President and CEO, Argent Associates; Cid Wilson, Director of Equity Research, Kevin Dann & Partners LLC; Marino Roa, General Manager of La Fe Food Products; and Bob Medina, President and CEO, Medina Associates.

Armina Díaz, a community activist from Bayonne, expressed the sentiment of those in attendance: “This event shows the talent and dedication of the Latino peoples. It is great because it includes all of us, and no one is left out. I love the flags, the food, the dancing, and the music. Next year I am coming back with all my family.”

The convention featured a large number of exhibitors, including commercial entities, institutions of higher education, school districts, government agencies, non-profit community groups, arts and crafts artisans, and food vendors.