New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said he was pleased to be with his friends from Jackson Heights. He mentioned his very cordial and personal relationship with the veteran businessman and community leader Shiv Dass.

Mayor de Blasio spoke at length about his achievements, to the loud applause from a 100 persons at the Jackson Diner where the Mayor was hosted on Wednesday, June 22. Councilmember Daniel Dromm was the co-host with Jackson Heights Merchants’ Association.

Introducing the Mayor, Mr. Dromm said here was the best Mayor who has done so much for New York City and its residents. He said surely Mayor deserves another term.

Earlier, welcoming the Mayor Shiv Dass appealed to the Mayor to declare Diwali a holiday in the City at par with the religious days of other communities including Jews and Muslims. The Mayor gave a smile and Shiv Dass has interpreted it as the Mayor’s willingness to consider the request.

A large number of traders and community members were present at the event.