THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS

MAYOR DOMENIC J. SARNO

HOME OF THE BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME

ProclamationW h e r e a s, the City of Springfield takes great pride in flying the Puerto Rican flag to celebrate the culture, history and achievements of the Puerto Rican Community; and

W h e r e a s, the Puerto Rican community in Springfield was established in the 1940’s and is now home to about 50,000 Puerto Ricans and their descendants who have worked hard establishing businesses and home ownership; and

W h e r e a s, 2014 marks the twenty-eighth anniversary celebration of Puerto Rican Heritage Month in Springfield and especially recognizes the positive impact that the Puerto Rican community has had upon the social, cultural and economic development of this city, state and nation; and

W h e r e a s, members of the Puerto Rican community demonstrate a strong work ethic and tremendous perseverance that have enabled them to realize many accomplishments and find continued success. Such diligence has enabled them to improve their lives and communities, making our city and state a better place for all to live; and

W h e r e a s, Puerto Ricans have long made ultimate sacrifices and have served their nation and homeland by their participation in World War I, World War II, Korea, the Vietnam War and all major conflicts, especially the 65th Infantry Regiment .

Therefore, I, Domenic J. Sarno, MayorOf the City of Springfield, do hereby proclaim

Wednesday, November 19, 2014 as

“Puerto Rican Heritage Day”in the great City of Springfield, and I urge all our citizens to be aware of this flag raising event sponsored by the Puerto Rican Cultural

Center and participate fittingly in its observance.

City of Springfield • 36 Court Street • Springfield, MA 01103-1687 • (413) 787-6100

___________________________________________DOMENIC J. SARNO, MAYOR