Essex County Honors 4 Residents For Hispanic Heritage Month

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County’s annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration returned last week after a year’s hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 2021 celebration, which was held remotely, honored four local community members who have each made unique contributions to the county. They were:

• Carlos Gonzalez - Newark Councilman At-Large
• Martha Felix - Director of Therapeutic Recreation of Spring Hills Acute Care in Livingston
• Miguel Rodriguez - President of the Hispanic American Foundation of Essex County
• Jose Aviles - Principal of Barringer High School in Newark

Essex County Commissioner Robert Mercado and Commissioner President Wayne Richardson each offered a hearty congratulations to this year’s recipients.

“As a Latino, I am certainly proud to celebrate today,” Mercado said. “The Latino community is defined by its rich culture, our history, our pride, music, food, and of course our diversity.”

“Today, the board honors four Latinos who have worked hard, are successful and have been a beacon in their community,” Mercado continued. “We salute you.”

Richardson said this year’s honorees are a reflection of the outstanding people of Hispanic descent who have done great things in Essex County.

“We know that because of your contributions, we are all better as a community,” Richardson said. “Thank you for all that you do.”

Here’s why each honoree earned an award this year, according to a news release from the commissioner board:

CARLOS GONZALEZ - The Honorable Carlos Gonzalez has served on the Newark City Council for 15 years. Commissioner Patricia Sebold introduced Councilman Gonzalez and applauded his leadership on the Council, as well as his successful business endeavors including his time as an accounting auditor and the establishment of a successful law firm in Newark which has served the community since 1996.

MARTHA FELIX - Martha Felix was acknowledged by Commissioner Vice President Carlos M. Pomares. She is the Director of Therapeutic Recreation at Spring Hills Acute Care in Livingston, NJ. She has been working in the field of Therapeutic Recreation for over 25 years providing activities that help with patients’ psychological, social and physical wellbeing. She was a Committee Member for the Department of Health for 3 years, Chairwoman for the Beautification Committee - where she helped plan and implement many projects to enhance the beauty of Bloomfield, NJ, and served on the Democratic County Committee for over 12 years.

MIGUEL RODRIGUEZ - Miguel E. Rodriguez, introduced by Commissioner President Richardson, currently serves as President of the Hispanic-American Foundation of Essex County. He is in charge of economic development, community resources, multi-cultural marketing, executive management and diversity. He is also a founding member of some of the most successful community organizations within the Hispanic community of Newark including; FOCUS, La Casa de Don Pedro, CIMA International Awards, and the Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce of Essex County. He has been a resident of the City of Newark since 1960 and has earned the distinguished title of "Don Mike", due to his dedication and commitment to the Hispanic Community and contributions to the community at large.

JOSE AVILES - Dr. Jose Aviles, introduced by Commissioner Mercado, is the respected Principal of Barringer High School. Upon becoming Principal, he was determined to influence students to excel. During his tenure at Barringer, test scores, attendance and graduation rates have increased while suspensions and dropout rates decreased. In addition to serving students as an educator for over twenty years, he is a mentor for Big Brothers and Big Sisters and is constantly searching for new ways to touch the hearts of those he serves. “Seeing (my students) faces each day, I understand the enormity of my job.” Dr. Aviles stated. “We know the obstacles they face, but my goal is to let them know I love each and every one of them.”

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