By Nan Price, Content Manager, MetroHartford Alliance
MetroHartford Alliance Digital Executive Assistant/Office Manager Bernice Perez enjoys the diversity in Hartford and is proud to call Hartford home.
Why Hartford?
BERNICE PEREZ: I was born and raised in Hartford and my choice was fairly easy to stay. I live in the “Behind the Rocks” part of the city, where everything from local markets to diverse cuisine and city life are just a minute away.
How have you become a part of Hartford and how has Hartford become a part of who you are?
BERNICE: Growing up in Hartford, I visited markets in Little Italy on Franklin Avenue, attended the annual Italian festivals, enjoyed Spanish food from Las Delicia’s on Park Street, celebrated my heritage with pride at the Puerto Rican Parade, shopped downtown, and went to many concerts at the Hartford Civic Center.
I went to school in Hartford attended the University of Hartford and I have a catering business in Hartford. Most of my friends and people I’ve work with are here in the city—business owners, restauranteurs, etc. I’ve made good friends with people here and I love it here. So, I intend to stay here for quite a long time.
What impact do you hope to make in the Hartford Region through the MHA?
BERNICE: I’d like to help create a deeper understanding of the community. I know each community has its own needs and assets, as well as its own culture and social structure. As part of this community, I intend to help others gain the knowledge they need or direct to the MHA for additional resources.
What do you enjoy the most about living and working in Hartford?
BERNICE: I love the diversity and the culture. I love being able to go down the street and within a couple miles I can eat Italian food or Indian food or Jamaican food or Spanish food or Bosnian food. That’s what’s helped me shape the way I view the city of I live in.
Hartford has evolved into a thriving, strong city compared to what I remember as a kid, and I’m looking forward to seeing it continue to grow and experiencing all the hidden gems the city has to offer. I enjoy walking in Goodwin Park, listening to jazz on a Monday night at Bushnell Park, or taking in a Hartford Yard Goats game with my family. I truly feel that Hartford has it!