The blazing hot weather invited thousands of Dominicans to come out to 6th Ave. to celebrate their culture, music, costume, and contribution to the fabric of NYC. The 34th version of the sizzling parade was not without controversy though. After parade VIPs and delegates from the Dominican Republic ushered in the start of the parade, NYS Governor Andrew Cuomo was cheered with a loud welcome. Following the Governor was his rival of late, NYC Mayor DeBlasio. He was not welcomed as much. Mostly for his comments on the recent decision by the Dominican government to begin the expulsion of Haitians even if the illegal immigrant has been there for many generations. Mayor DeBlasio denounced the decision as “immoral” and “racially motivated”. Dominicans tend to follow government policies as something personal. If you criticize the government you are criticizing them. DeBlasio was attempting to maintain a balancing act as there are also many Haitian voters living in the city. After the booing faded the fun began when a group of merengue dancers made their way up the parade route from 38th to 52nd Sts. A crowd favorite of masked devils cracking whips really got the crowd worked up.
Folkloric Dancers
Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez
A few Dominican born celebrities had some fun taking selfies. The two Parade Marshalls really got the most ovation. Recent MLB Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez was loving all the Pedro chants. Even I got in on it..a devout Yankee fan that I am chanted Pedro a few times. No worries. I drove right by Yankee Stadium later on just to get grounded again…whew. Musical giant Johnny Ventura was on another float blaring some of his biggest hits. Many more diablos marched up the parade route getting lots of hugs from revelers. The Goya float had a great band playing typical music of the Dominican Republic. The crowd went nuts for one group that had the best float in the parade. It was great to see smiles galore and traditions passed on from one generation to the next.
Mi Patria
NYC Parade Life 
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