31st Annual Event Unites Members of Congress To Honor Hispanic American Contributions
Cong. Solomon P. Ortiz, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, Jose E. Serrano, and Brigadier General Ricardo Sanchez (Ret.) and Actress Rosie Perez to Receive Awards

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI) announced that presidential candidates Senator John McCain of Arizona and Senator Barack Obama of Illinois will address a crowd of more than 2,300 including as many as 40 Members of Congress at the CHCI 31st its 31st Annual Awards Gala on Wednesday, September 10, 2008 at the Washington DC Civic Center.  This year’s theme, The Power to Make the Difference, commemorates the vast contributions Hispanic Americans have made to this country and celebrates the historic opportunity it has to impact the future of the United States.

Lieutenant General Ricardo Sanchez (Ret.) and actress Rosie Perez will be presented with the CHCI Medallion of Excellence for Leadership and Community Service Awards.  Sanchez is only the second Hispanic four-star general in Army history with more than 33 years of military service. This year’s Chairman’s Award, selected by CHCI Chairman Joe Baca (CA-43), will be presented to three pioneering Members of Congress, Reps. Solomon P. Ortiz (TX-27), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (FL-18), and Jose E. Serrano (NY-16).  

Perez is an Oscar nominated actress, who has dedicated her life to giving back to the community through her work to combat AIDS and promote arts education for underprivileged children.The event will be emceed by Tony Plana, star of ABC’s hit comedy “Ugly Betty,” with gala entertainment provided by Grammy award-winning artists Los Lonely Boys.  Gala Reception entertainment will be provided by Mariachi Sol de Mexico® de Jose Hernandez.  Gala Host Toyota joins in supporting CHCI’s leadership development programs for Hispanic youth, along with Premiere Sponsor Comcast.