Many local dignitaries, including Mayor Michael Bloomberg, marched in the parade, which featured singer Marc Anthony as this year’s Grand Marshal. Accompanying him was his wife, Jennifer Lopez. As these two superstars walked up Fifth Avenue, the crowds whooped and cheered and waved countless Puerto Rican flags.

Once again, Health Plus, the Medicaid managed care organization, was a proud sponsor of the parade.  The company’s float -- decked with elaborate balloon designs representing the company’s colors, light blue and white, and with green palm fronds fashioned from balloons -- was surrounded by an army of flag-waving staff members and volunteers. On deck, was the musical group Rondalla Allegro.  This group of children from Humacao, a village in Puerto Rico, plays a traditional guitar-type instrument known as El Cuatro.  The full effect was like carnival in old San Juan.

The company also had a presence at the famed 116th street festival the day before the parade where they distributed giveaways and enrolled qualified attendees into their free or affordable health insurance plans. 

“This parade really demonstrates the unity of the Puerto Rican Community,” said Ada Rodriguez, Chief Marketing Officer at Health Plus, herself a native-born Puerto Rican.  “From where I sit,” she continued, perched on the viewing stands at 69th Street and Fifth Avenue, “this is one of New York City’s greatest sights and experiences. I’m always happy that Health Plus can be a part of the day, supporting such a positive event for the Puerto Rican community and all of New York.”