Once again, managed healthcare organization Health Plus was present, proud sponsor of the event, a fun-filled night in tribute to merengue -- the national dance of the Dominican Republic. 

Fans were given bandanas and “thunder sticks” – courtesy of Health Plus – which tinged the stands of Shea Stadium with the red, white, and blue colors of the Dominican flag. Shouts of “Viva la Republica Dominicana” -- where merengue was born and later established, under the reign of President Rafael Trujillo in the 1930s, as the official dance of the Dominican Republic -- rang out throughout the night.

Merengue Night is one of a series of heritage nights organized by the New York Mets to celebrate the cultural diversity present in the New York community and Queens, in particular.  Always one of the most popular heritage nights, this year’s Merengue festivities welcomed well-known artists Hector Acosta (also known to fans as “El Torito”) and Johnny Ventura, among others.

“Partnering with the New York Mets for Merengue Night is a pleasure that we look forward to each year,” says Ada Rodriguez, Chief Marketing Officer for Health Plus, from her seat in the bleachers at Shea.  “Not only is it a great event to be part of, but it also allows us to reach out and meet people from the many communities we serve.  Tonight we’re proud to be here to support the traditions and culture of the Dominican community.”