Senator Jeff Klein (D-Bronx/Westchester) received the 1^st Annual “Person of the Year” award by the Esperia Benevolent Society, in recognition of his “relentless work for the good of (our) community and country.”

A long time friend of the Italian American community, and a life long resident of the heavily Italian Morris Park section of the Bronx, Senator Klein sponsors Italian language classes, supports local Columbus Day Parades offering free cannolis, in addition to funding a number of Italian American community associations.

“It is my great pride to represent a community with such a well established tradition; one that pays homage to its roots while making simultaneous and significant contributions to the world we live in. I am honored to be recognized as part of that great legacy,” said Senator Klein.

The Esperia Benevolent Society was established in 1906 by a group of Italian immigrants originating from a small town named Esperia located in the Lazio region of center Italy. The intent of the organization was to serve as a support group to the incoming Italian immigrants and assist them with the integration process in the American society. Although the purpose of The Society has changed over the years, it currently still plays an important role in maintaining the connection with the native land and its culture and traditions of which the Senator is proud to play a part.