Mangu before the march
Story by Erik Cuello and Adrian Cabreja
Photos by Erik Cuello
It’s hard to compete with the view at La Marina in the early morning.
The stately Palisades rise fast beside a sun-dappled Hudson River, and the glistening steel arc of the George Washington beckons.
But this past Sun., Aug. 11th, the picturesque scene was nearly upstaged by the colorful balloons, flags and banners that heralded the uptown breakfast celebration held just before the Dominican Day Parade.
Hundreds gathered to fuel up with heaping plates of mangu, scrambled eggs, and cheese and to hear from elected officials, community leaders and special guests including salsa legend Willie Colón and singer-songwriter Lesley Grace.
The event was hosted by State Senator Adriano Espaillat and the United Federation of Teachers (UFT), and brought together a constellation of Northern Manhattan figures, including Congressman Charles B. Rangel, Assemblymembers Keith Wright and Gabriela Rosa, Councilmembers Ydanis Rodríguez and Melissa Mark-Viverito, and District Leader Mark Levine. Also present was former Community Board 1 Chair and candidate for Manhattan Borough President Julie Menin.
“The parade and breakfast are a terrific chance to look back at the events and achievements that have shaped our community in the past year,” said Senator Espaillat to guests as they prepared for the mile-long trek along Sixth Avenue.
“When I am elected Mayor,” said former City Comptroller and Democratic candidate Bill Thompson, “I will serve this community and its people, together with all the residents of this great city.”
“We’ve come a long way!” said Sen.
