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Contact: Sofia Tidman/William Reyes
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908-820-4124

November 28, 2006

HERITAGE VILLAGE SENIOR BUILDING OPENS
IN ELIZABETHPORT

ELIZABETH -- Mayor Chris Bollwage, Councilwoman-at-large Patricia Perkins-Auguste, and Councilman William Gallman hosted a City Wide Pre-Thanksgiving Open Arms Feeding Celebration for the elderly and the needy. At the event Mayor Bollwage presented free turkeys to the residents in attendance.

“The City Wide Pre-Thanksgiving Open Arms Feeding Celebration Is a wonderful family event that focuses on giving back to the members of our community,” Said Mayor Chris Bollwage. “I am happy that so many great sponsors from both the private and public sector participated to help us make this event a success.”

The festive pre-Thanksgiving event was held at the Stephen Sampson Senior Citizens Center on 800 Anna Street. The people in attendance were treated to a pre-Thanksgiving meal catered by Rio 22 Restaurant. Attendees also enjoyed music by a live band, dancing, and a raffle.

One of the many families enjoying the event at the Sampson Center was the Andrade-Alcazar family. The family of four, mother Patricia, daughters Elisa and Louisa, and granddaughter Natalia Reyes, all relocated to Elizabeth from New Orleans after hurricane Katrina. The family has found a new and permanent home in Elizabeth and was enjoying the pre-thanksgiving celebration along with many other Elizabeth residents.

“This event kicks off the holiday season in the City of Elizabeth and it helps create a wonderful sense of community for the residents who participate,” said Fifth Ward Councilman William Gallman. “I am very happy to be a part of organizing a celebration that brings out the good efforts of businesses and organizations to help make the holidays a little brighter for the residents of Elizabeth.”

At the event 100 turkeys were given to elderly and needy residents of Elizabeth. The event was catered by Rio 22 Brazilian Steakhouse and Sushi Bar on Route 22 in Union. Sponsors of the event also include Pathmark Supermarket, Shop Rite/Wakefern Corporation, Stop and Shop Supermarket, Shack’s BBQ, BDLF Corporation, and Elizabeth Development Company.

“Thanksgiving is a time when we all can open our hearts to be more caring and giving,” said Councilwoman Patricia Perkins-Auguste. “It is a blessing to work with Mayor Bollwage and Councilman Gallman on this effort to give freely to the Elizabeth community. I truly want to thank all the supporters for their generosity and in assisting us in spreading hope through-out our city. Happy Holidays to All.”