Orange County Legislature recognizes Hispanic heritage

Goshen — A committee of the Orange County Legislature passed the following resolution sponsored by legislators Noel Spencer and Michael Amo: Resolution recognizing Sept. 15 through Oct. 14, 2006, as National Hispanic Heritage month. Whereas, America’s cultural diversity has always been a great strength of our nation. Throughout our history, Hispanic Americans have enriched the American way of life and we recognize the millions of Hispanic Americans whose love of family, hard work and community have helped unite us as a people to sustain us as a nation; and Whereas, in 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage week and this observance was expanded in 1988 to a month long celebration to honor this nation’s Hispanic heritage. During this month, Americans celebrate the traditions, ancestry and unique experiences of those who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the countries of Central and South America and the Caribbean; and Whereas, during National Hispanic Heritage Month we celebrate the many achievements of Hispanic Americans and recognize their contributions to our country. For example, in 1822, Joseph Marion Hernandez became the first Hispanic to serve as a member of the United States Congress, representing the newly established territory of Florida. Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient Roberto Clemente’s athletic skills, generosity and charity made him a legend on and off the baseball field. Now therefore, be it hereby Resolved, that the Orange County Legislature recognizes Sept. 15 through Oct. 14, 2006, as National Hispanic Heritage Month for Orange County; and we commend these sentiments to every citizen of Orange County that all might reflect upon the great accomplishments of Hispanic American men and women in our society.