Waterfront Puerto Rican Festival Brings a Crowd

By Jennifer L. Warren

NEWBURGH – “With the music, heat and river view, it’s like being on an island.”
Joyce McCue of the Town of Cornwall joyously uttered this phrase while enjoying some sweet plantains and listening to live music at Newburgh’s Puerto Rican Festival, held at the Waterfront.

“I wish I could have stayed later, but I had to go to work,” added McCue. “It’s a great mix of people.”

Despite the sweltering heat and intense humidity, a large crowd turned out to enjoy a day of festive music, lively dancing, savory cuisine, craft and business vendors, and children’s activities. The event, held by R & M Promotions and including several sponsors (Morehead, Price Chopper, Empire State Bank and Ulster Savings Bank), raised critical funds, supporting the Hudson Valley Latino High School Scholarship Fund. To date, 119 deserving high school seniors have been recognized with the crucial Scholarship honors. In addition to assisting that youth academic cause, the Festival also falls during Latin American History Month, an integral time of the year for many in the community. Bringing people together of Latino descent as well as educating others about the culture, the Puerto Rican Festival served several memorable purposes.

“I’m having a wonderful time here, listening to the music, dancing and the food is really great,” said Evelyn Torres of New Windsor, as she munched on a  Bacalaito and was considering a Puerto Rican Papas Rellenas purchase. “It’s a really nice place to reuntite with friends and family, and the view of the river is amazing.”

Some of the many bands that lent their talents on the “Waterfront Stage” were; Imagen, Cuboricua, Tria Cristal, Migue Flow and Juansito y Su Grupo. Their rhythmic, energetic sounds could be heard all the way until close to sundown, as visitors showed their appreciation, clapping and dancing to the different beats.

Arelis Rodriguez of Affinity Health Plan was one of several vendors offering their services. Although many in attendance migrated to the music stage and food booths,  a sampling could be seen taking advantage of the information prvoded by such organizations as; Rodriguez,’ Affinity, Medicaid, Bath Fitter, voting registration and others.

“This has been absolutely awesome here today,” exclaimed Rodriguez, who noted how fast the food lines were continually forming. “I got some potential enrollees, and it’s just so enjoyable listening to all the bands and just being in such a peaceful and relaxing environment.”

It’s that exact type of energy that Eddie Ramirez, CEO of R & M Promotions, envisioned for the Puerto Rican Festival. He could not have been more pleased with what he  witnessed Saturday in the City of Newburgh.

“I am very grateful for the support I have received from the communities and municipalities throughout the Hudson Valley, and I vow to continue these fundraising free events that bring Latino culture to the forefront in their community,” said Ramirez, who holds several, area Latin American Festivals throughout the year. “By far, this was the best Latino Festival this year in the Hudson Valley.”