The Bronx Young Democrats led by President John Zaccaro Jr. hosted a meet and greet for candidates at the Bronx Ale House last night. All Democratic candidates were invited to come and speak to the Bronx Young Democrats, and the BYD's were taken up by several Democratic candidates.
While the event started at 7 PM things quickly got going when Mayoral candidate Anthony Weiner arrived. Weiner could only stay a short time due to other events citywide going on, and Weiner was headed to an event in Rockaway Queens.
Bronx Borough President and candidate for re-election this year spoke to the large crowd that had gathered. Diaz told the story of a young District Leader from the Soundview section of the Bronx who then became an assemblyman, and now was the Bronx Borough President. Diaz said it took a lot of hard work to climb the ladder, and that he still has some steps to go. Bronx Democratic Councty leader Assemblyman Carl Heastie echoed BP Diaz's words about working hard, and praised the BYD's for the forum.
Many others that came to the BYD's forum included Mayoral candidate John Liu who came at the end and was having a ball with some patrons in the establishment. Public Advocate candidate Letitia James, City Council candidates Andrew Cohen 11th district, Albert Alvarez 15th, Joel R. Rivera 15th district, 86th A.D. special election candidate Victor Pichardo, State Senator Gustavo Rivera, Councilman Oliver Koppell, Assemblyman Jeffrey Dinowitz, many district leaders and state committee members, as well as the many others who showed up. It was very dark so click on the photo to enlarge it.
Left - Term limited Councilman Oliver Koppell talking to BDCC Chairman Assemblyman Carl Heastie. Could it be about a rumored possible run for the 34th State Senate seat?
Right - Bronx BP Ruben Diaz Jr. addresses the BYD.
Left - A photo of the crowd.
Right - Some proud BYD leaders.
Left - 15th City Council candidates Albert Alvarez and Joel R. Rivera.
Right - Public Advocate candidate Letitia James with 80th A.D. District Leader Kenny Agosto.
Left - John Desio of BP Diaz's office (left), Nivardo Lopez Bronx Director of Community Affairs for the Mayors Office (center), Andrew Sandler Aide to Councilman Oliver Koppell (right).
Right- State Senator Gustavo Rivera with 86th A.D. special election candidate Victor Pichardo (Chief of Staff to Senator Rivera).
Left - Senator Gustavo Rivera (a supporter of Speaker Christine Quinn) points to Mayoral candidate John Liu.
Right - Two patrons of the Bronx Ale House pose with Mayoral candidate John Liu.
