Pereira recognized by president of Portugal

Rebecca Klar
Mineola Deputy Mayor Paul Pereira, seen here at the Portugal Day parade, was recently honored by the President of Portugal. (Photo by Rebecca Klar)

Members of the Mineola Board of Trustees congratulated Deputy Mayor Paul Pereira at last Wednesday’s meeting on his recent recognition by the president of Portugal.

Pereira was given the Order of Merit at an event in Newark, New Jersey.

“It was completely unexpected and really very, very humbling to receive it,” Pereira said.

Pereira said he received the honor in the name of his friends and family in Mineola.

“It wouldn’t have been possible without all of you, so thank you, because it’s really not about me,” Pereira said. “… I happen to be in a position where I guess the recognition is more visible, but I know there are many more people that are as worthy, if not more worthy, of this.”

Although Pereira was quick to pass the glory on to others, Trustee Paul Cusato said the award “could not have gone to a more deserving resident.”

Pereira said he was also proud to receive the honor on behalf of his parents, who immigrated to America more than 30 years ago and made sacrifices to give Pereira and his brothers the American dream.

Pereria was recognized not only for his service as a trustee, but for his work as a teacher, running a soccer organization and as a member of the Lions Club, among other things, Mayor Scott Strauss said.

“You’ve made Mineola proud,” Strauss added.

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