November 16, 2006

WESTCHESTER LEGISLATORS TO COMMEMORATE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE HUNGARIAN REVOLUTION
--- Board Honors Hungarians’ Historic Role in the Ultimate Defeat of Communism in Eastern Europe---

Contact: George Oros at
(914) 995-2828 or (914) 997-2555

In keeping with a rich tradition of periodically recognizing the contributions of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups that make up Westchester County, the Board of Legislators will commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution at its next regular meeting on November 27, 2006 at 7:00 PM.

“The Hungarian Revolution marked the beginning of the end of communist domination of eastern Europe,” said County Legislator and Minority Leader George Oros (R-I-C, Cortlandt). “While it took another 35 years for the Berlin Wall to fall, the love of freedom and the spirit to fight exhibited by the Hungarian people in 1956 brought hope to many eastern Europeans.”

This past month, ceremonies took place not only in Budapest but in communities across the United States with sizeable Hungarian American populations, such as Washington, DC, commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Hungarian Revolution, the October 1956 uprising in which Hungarian people fought to free themselves from communist domination. The revolution was crushed as the Soviet Union sent tanks and troops into Hungary killing many patriots.

Oros speaks with pride of his 100% Hungarian ancestry and of the contributions that Hungarians have made not only on the world stage but locally as well.

“Hungarian immigrants played a huge role in the development of the City of Peekskill around the turn of the last century,” noted Oros. “Indeed, today, Hungarian heritage is marked in Peekskill by street names, such as Kossuth Street. Kossuth was an important military figure in Hungarian history.” Oros added that Governor George Pataki, also of Hungarian descent and who is invited to the Board’s event, was born in Peekskill and that his late father Louis Pataki was very active in the 1920s, 30’s and 40’s in what was a vibrant Hungarian social scene in the city.

The special event will feature a musical performance of traditional Hungarian songs, including a csardas, by Miklos and Lehel Ujvari. The Board’s recognition will be highlighted by a visit and remarks from Hungarian Consul General Gabor Horvath who will represent Hungary in accepting a county proclamation that recognizes the courage and spirit of the Hungarian people whose stand against communism planted the seeds of freedom in eastern Europe.

Mr. Oros said he urges all Hungarian-Americans and others of eastern European descent to attend the Board’s November 27th commemoration. Oros said, “This is a great way to pay homage to those brave Freedom Fighters who 50 years ago changed the course of history and to celebrate Hungarian culture and contributions to Westchester County.”

The event will start promptly at 7:00 PM in the Legislative Chambers on the eighth floor of the Michaelian Office Building at 148 Martine Avenue in White Plains. For more information or to participate in the event, please call Legislator George Oros at (914) 995-2828 or (914) 997-2555.