JON S. CORZINE
Governor

Nina Mitchell Wells
Secretary of State

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 19, 2007

Contact: Shawn Crisafulli
609.777.4413

NEW JERSEY CELEBRATES NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH WITH FESTIVE SIGHTS, SOUNDS AND EVENTS

The New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism Encourages Visitors to Come Experience the Hispanic History and Culture Showcased Throughout the State
from September 15 - October 15

Trenton, NJ—The New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism is celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month – and honoring the state’s rich cultural makeup – with an exciting array of festive offerings across New Jersey. From traditional foods to stimulating performances, residents and visitors can immerse themselves in a host of exhibits and events that honor and preserve the diverse traditions, experiences, achievements and contributions of Garden States residents with roots in Spain, Mexico, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Originally proclaimed "National Hispanic Heritage Week" in 1968 by President Lyndon Johnson, President Ronald Reagan extended this national observance in 1988 to span 31days – from September 15 to October 15. During this annual month of recognition, America honors individuals from more than 20 different nations around the world who share a related cultural and ethnic heritage.

With a rapidly growing Hispanic population of more than 1.2 million in New Jersey, this is a community that has embraced their culture and is practicing colorful, old-country traditions throughout the state. From Passaic County to Princeton, the Garden State has planned a diverse array of cultural festivals, exhibitions and performances to join the rest of the nation in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.

“This dedicated month provides the opportunity to place a spotlight on some of the unique sights and sounds that can be found throughout New Jersey, thanks to the state’s multicultural makeup and the practiced traditions of our residents,” notes Nancy Byrne, executive director of The New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism. “From parades and festivals to exhibits and performances, we welcome everyone to join in on the fun and create some new memories over the next month.”

A listing of historical and cultural treasures awaiting New Jersey natives and visitors planning a trip to the state during Hispanic Heritage Month can be found by contacting the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism online at www.visitnj.org, where you can order New Jersey’s Latino Visitor’s Guide.