Assembly Resolution No. 1292

BY: M. of A. Ramos

CELERATING Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend, August
25-26, 2018

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body, in keeping with
its time-honored traditions, to recognize and pay tribute to those
events which foster ethnic pride and enhance the profile of cultural
diversity which strengthens the fabric of the communities of New York
State; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
celebrate Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend, August 25-26, 2018; and

WHEREAS, SUMAQ 2018 will also take place during this same weekend at
the Cradle of Aviation Museum in Garden City, New York; for eight years,
the SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival has enticed Long Islanders and visitors
with the tantalizing aromas of Peruvian Gastronomy; and

WHEREAS, Under the luminous leadership of Director Vicky Diaz, the
SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival has become one of the most anticipated
events of the year, attracting food enthusiasts from all over the United
States; and

WHEREAS, Peruvian cuisine reflects local practices and ingredients,
including influences from the indigenous population including the Inca
and cuisines brought in with immigrants from Europe (Spanish cuisine,
Italian cuisine, German cuisine), Asia (Chinese cuisine and Japanese
cuisine) and West Africa; and

WHEREAS, Without the familiar ingredients from their home countries,
immigrants modified their traditional cuisines by using ingredients
available in Peru; the four traditional staples of Peruvian cuisine are
corn, potatoes and other tubers, Amaranthaceaes (quinoa, kaniwa and
kiwicha) and legumes (beans and lupins); the Spanish added rice, wheat
and meats (beef, pork and chicken); and

WHEREAS, Many traditional foods, such as quinoa, kiwicha, chili
peppers, and several roots and tubers have increased in popularity in
recent decades, reflecting a revival of interest in native Peruvian
foods and culinary techniques; and

WHEREAS, The Festival and APEGA, Peru's gastronomic association,
strives to help diffuse Peruvian cuisine and culture in New York, and
showcase the diversity of Peruvian gastronomy as well as talented chefs
who are innovating and taking ancient flavors to a new level; over 20
food vendors will participate in this year's festival, offering the
highest quality and variety of Peruvian food; and

WHEREAS, Some of the 20 vendors include La Caja China de Juan
Talledo, Tamales de Magaly Silva, and Kankachos Tinajani; Chefs Jose
Luis Chavez, Miguel Aguilar, Ezequiel Valencia, and Jose Lujan will
share their talents and skills during cooking demonstrations; and

WHEREAS, In addition to sampling delicious Peruvian food, festival
attendees will also enjoy musical performances, Peruvian folk dancing,
Salsa and Bachata lessons, artisan vendors and a Fun Zone featuring El
Sapito; and

WHEREAS, A cherished event, the SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival
provides a uniquely warm environment that attracts all different types
of people who come to taste the authenticity of Peruvian food and enjoy
its heritage; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize
those important events which remind us of the rich and diverse heritage
of our great State and Nation; and

WHEREAS, Events which celebrate diversity and peace contribute to
fulfilling our Nation's great legacy of equal opportunity for all, and
do so profoundly enhance our shared commitment to freedom and justice;
now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
celebrate Peruvian Gastronomy Weekend, August 25-26, 2018; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Vicky Diaz, Director, SUMAQ Peruvian Food Festival.