Mayor Bloomberg today hosted a reception in celebration of the Mexican holiday Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates the historic victory of Mexicans over the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.  The holiday is honored in the Mexican state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla and has become widely popular in the United States.  The celebration of Cinco de Mayo, a special time to give tribute to Mexican history, customs and contributions, has grown as a result of the dramatic increase of the Mexican community in New York City .  Joining the Mayor was Commissioner of Immigrant Affairs Guillermo Linares, Latin Media and Entertainment Liaison and Musician Willie Colón, former Congressman Herman Badillo and other distinguished guests, including, the Consul General of Mexico Arturo Sarukhán, Coors Brewing Company Brand Manager Melissa Coors, Univision reporter Nayeli Chavez, and WCBS-TV anchor Mario Bosquez. 

"Mexican New Yorkers are the second fastest growing immigrant group in New York City," said Mayor Bloomberg.  "In every borough, Mexicans are enriching New York's culture, strengthening our neighborhoods and economy, and helping us remain the most diverse City in the world.  Tonight's reception is very special as we reflect on the significance of Cinco de Mayo and honor the Mexican community's rich heritage."

"It is a great honor for me as a journalist, born and brought up in Mexico, to participate in an event which commemorates a holiday of great meaning for my people," said Univision Correspondent Nayeli Chavez-Geller. "I am also proud to see that the contributions of Latinos in New York are of such greatness that they aren't celebrated in just one event, and that the City recognizes the beautiful and rich diversity of Latinos."

"Coors Brewing Company is committed to participating in programs to support the goals vital to the Hispanic community," said Melissa Coors, Coors Brewing Company brand manager.  "We're thrilled to be the official beer of the Cinco de Mayo celebration taking place at Gracie Mansion this evening."

At the reception, Coors Brewing Company and the "norteño" music group Los Tucanes de Tijuana presented Mayor Bloomberg and the City of New York with a guitar, one of the instruments central to Mexican music. Accompanied by representatives of the Mariachi Academy of New York City, the Mayor accepted the guitar and in turn, presented it to the East Harlem-based Academy.  Other highlights of the festivities were the sounds of the Bustamante Mariachis and musicians from the Mariachi Academy as well as a sampling of Mexican foods provided by restaurants throughout the City.

Coors Brewing Company and Pepsi Cola generously sponsored the Cinco de Mayo reception.