On Thursday, June 24, 2021, Bronxites and visitors from all over the region joined Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. and New York City Council Member Mark Gjonaj as they hosted the borough’s official kickoff to this year’s Independence Day Celebrations, the annual “New York Salutes America” boardwalk festival and fireworks extravaganza at Orchard Beach.
The event was sponsored by Montefiore Health System and The Bronx Chamber of Commerce. The event was produced by The Bronx Tourism Council, The Bronx Overall Economic Development Corporation, and Business Initiative Corporation of New York. In addition to a fireworks show by the world-famous Grucci, spectators also enjoyed music and entertainment by DJ Ralphie Mercado.
“The annual ‘New York Salutes America’ boardwalk festival and fireworks extravaganza at Orchard Beach is one of our jewel events, and is a great way to kick-off our city’s July 4th celebrations,” said Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr. “After the trying year we have had, I was proud to once again join Council Member Mark Gjonaj in bringing our neighbors together in-person to celebrate America, at one of my favorite places in the world, Orchard Beach. I want to thank Montefiore and The Bronx Chamber of Commerce for making this event possible.”
“I am proud to again sponsor the New York Salutes America firework celebration with Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr.. Now more than ever, it is important that we celebrate the resilient nature of our community and its residents. This event is not only a great opportunity for Bronxites to come together and enjoy an amazing fireworks show but it is a salute to that unique “can do” Bronx spirit that has enabled us to persevere and excel in the face of challenges,” said Council Member Mark Gjonaj.
“Montefiore is proud to serve as a sponsor for this year’s The Bronx Salutes America Fireworks Extravaganza. This event is a true example of community which comes at a time when we are safely starting to come back together again,” said Marcos Crespo, Senior Vice President, Community Affairs, Montefiore Health System. “We were proud to be on site sharing critical community health information and salute Bronx Borough President Diaz on his final Fourth of July celebration.”
“After a year like no other, the Bronx Chamber was delighted to partner with BP Diaz and CM Gjonaj to help make this celebration possible,” said Lisa Sorin, President of the New Bronx Chamber of Commerce. “While our primary focus is connecting local businesses with vital pandemic recovery tools & growth resources and representing the Bronx business community in government, we were proud to support this event at our treasured ‘Bronx Riviera,’ which provided so much enjoyment for our Bronx families.”