(L to R) Puerto Rican Political Activist Peggy Anastos, Councilman Fernando Gonzalez, Acting Fire Chief Ed Mullen, Councilman Joel Pabon, Assemblywoman-Elect Yvonne Lopez, Acting Police Chief Roman McKeon, Mayor Wilda Diaz, Mayor of San Sebastian Javier Jimenez Perez, Felix Lassalle Toro, (Puerto Rico) District #16 Representative (Camara de Representantes) Newark Deputy Mayor of Community Engagement Jacqueline Quiles, Paterson City Council Vice-President Luis Velez, Dianne Roman from the Office on Aging, Business Administrator Adam Cruz. *Photo by Katherine Massopust

PERTH AMBOY – Javier Jimenez Perez, Mayor of San Sebastian, Puerto Rico, and Felix Lassalle Toro, (Puerto Rico) District #16 Representative (Camara de Representantes) visited Perth Amboy City Hall to give a first-hand account on the relief efforts in Puerto Rico.

Mayor Wilda Diaz made opening remarks. She stated, “It’s been 12 weeks since Hurricane Maria struck Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. A lot of the electricity is still out, and water is still needed. This is a humanitarian crisis. When Congressman Frank Pallone and other representatives came back from their visit, they were alarmed at the dire need that still exists. My mother and sister were in Puerto Rico when Maria hit. Much is still needed. I want to thank our Human Services Department, the Police, Public Works and my staff who helped to gather 2000 lbs. of goods. This also included hygiene products. The Puerto Rican Congress also helped. The Celebrate Perth Amboy Committee sent over $45,000 worth of supplies. Over 100 families were relocated to Perth Amboy. Each of you care about these families, and that’s why you’re here. I also want to recognize Paterson City Council Vice President Luis Velez and other New Jersey Politicians for their help.”

After Mayor Diaz spoke, Mayor Javier Jimenez Perez of San Sebastian came forward to make remarks. He spoke mostly in Spanish which was translated into English by Dianne Roman. “I have been Mayor since 2005. I thank everyone for being here. Maria was devastating. There are many days that we were without electricity and water. There was a lot of sadness, but I thank the many people like Mayor Diaz and others. We will take away with us the gratitude you have shown us. It is my satisfaction to help people. I was a CPA for 20 years, and Mayor for 13 years. Life is helping others rise up. You have done this for us. Many Puerto Ricans have imigrated here, but have never lost their roots. They are proud of their roots from childhood. I’m also glad to see someone sitting in the audience that I haven’t seen for 30 years. We are rising in Puerto Rico, but still have many challenges. 400 families lost everything. I’m very proud that Mayor Wilda Diaz is working with us.”

Felix Lassalle Toro, (Puerto Rico) District #16 Representative spoke next. He thanked Mayor Diaz for supporting all the Districts in Puerto Rico. “We come from a small island with a large heart. Puerto Ricans in this country are proud  of where they are from. I also want to let people know that Mayor Jimenez Perez went for days without resting. The supplies that you have provided has helped these small towns. We are rising, but can’t be negative. There are still many without water and electricity. I believe in God Almighty. With God you can move mountains. Nature has now started to turn green and green means hope. We will become better than ever.”

Mayor of San Sebastian Javier Jimenez Perez (R) with his good friend, Benny (L) *Photo by Katherine Massopust

A question and answer period was next.

Q: The Amboy Guardian asked: “Could you update us on the situation of trucks with supplies, but not enough drivers to distribute the goods?”

A: Jimenez Perez answered, “We had organized groups that went door to door. Remember, no supermarkets or banks were open in the beginning. 400 families lost everything. We made sure that those who really needed those supplies got it. I personally saw to it.”

Mayor Diaz followed up, “Monetary donations can be made through PRAHD, The Red Cross, and the Boys & Girls Club.”

Another News Outlet asked: Q:How was the response from President Trump?

A: Jimenez Perez answered, “We received a lot of aid from FEMA. Trump came to visit. Remember, we have no rights for representation. President Trump’s visit was significant. It would be unfair to say that Trump has turned his back. He came. On behalf of our residents, I thank him.

The same reporter who asked that question responded, “This is quite a different response from Mayor of San Juan Carmen Yulín Cruz Soto.”

A: Jimenez Perez answered, “I have no comments on what other mayors say about Trump. We have been getting water, and our debris has been picked up. Electricity is slowly coming along. The Federal Agencies have been helping. Complaining and crying reflects the capabilities of those mayors.”

Felix Lassalle Toro then added, “Those who take advantage politically will be judged at their own specific time. Regarding federal aid, it’s also what you do for your town.”

Mayor Diaz concluded the press conference by stating, “Puerto Rico still needs our help. I can’t do my job without the people behind me. The people of Perth Amboy always come together when the need arises.”