Last Monday, August 4, will remain engraved in the memory of the winemaking community and of all of us who closely follow the efforts of United Bodegas of America (UBA).
In a day full of energy, pride and unity, the renowned program El Gobierno de la Tarde on Z101 FM broadcast live for the entire Dominican Republic and the United States, directly from the heart of a New York bodega: Piedra Partida Deli Grocery, located on 195th Street and Kingsbridge Rd, in the Bronx.
During more than two hours of broadcasting, the magic of radio connected thousands of listeners to the voices, stories and challenges of New York’s winemakers.
Radhames Rodriguez, president of UBA, together with the Z101 team, shared realities about the challenges facing the sector, as well as the initiatives and projects that the association promotes to defend and strengthen these small giants of the local economy.
The president, when asked if the Dominican government has taken them into account, answered that yes, in recent years the connection with the diaspora or absent Dominicans has increased.
However, he noted that there is still a need to be included in high-impact initiatives, such as housing acquisition programs for winemakers who wish to invest in the Dominican Republic.
RodrÃguez stressed that it would be of great value if they could count on assistance that would encourage them to become owners and strengthen their ties with the country where they were born.
Among the most outstanding announcements, one of UBA’s main initiatives for this year was highlighted: the project to install panic buttons in warehouses, a vital measure to combat the growing wave of crime affecting our businesses.
This program, financed with city funds, will be completely free of charge for all winemakers, reinforcing the safety of those who work day in and day out to serve their communities.
What made this event even more special was the participation of several winemakers who, microphone in hand, recounted their inspiring careers and took the opportunity to send emotional greetings to family and friends in the Dominican Republic.
The emotion was felt in every word, and the pride in their roots and their work was heard loud and clear in every corner where the signal reached.
This was a historic broadcast: for the first time a radio program broadcast live from a winery. A powerful symbol that demonstrates the fundamental role of these businesses as a meeting point, economic engine and cultural bridge between communities.
United Bodegas of America continues to write chapters full of unity and strength, and this August 4th was no exception. May many more such moments come.
United We Are More!
You can see the images of the broadcast by clicking here.
