The Regional Secretary of the Presidency, André Bradford conveyed yesterday to Tony Cabral the Regional Government's appraisal for the work for the work he has carried out among the emigrant communities.

Tony Cabral, a native of Pico, emigrated to the United States when he was fourteen. He has held the position of state representative at the Massachusetts House of Representatives since 1990.

Despite being defeated in the elections for Mayor of New Bedford by former prosecutor Jon Mitchell, by a short margin, André Bradford stated that "Tony Cabral is an example and a model for the entire Azorean community in the USA, through his efforts and civic commitment in defending not only the issues of their community, but also of the entire population of New Bedford, an effort whose value should be acknowledged by all."

"The Government of the Azores is proud of the Azoreans who stand out for their work and put themselves at the service of others in the pursuit of development of the region whether in their region or outside," added the Regional Secretary of the Presidency.

"We hope that Tony Cabral continues his civic, political and public commitments with perseverance, being certain that they will benefit the Azorean community and the population of Massachusetts and New Bedford. We also wish that he continues to maintain a close relation with the Azores" concluded André Bradford.