On February 3, 2011, the Staten Island community celebrated cultural diversity at the second annual Friendship Dinner of the Turkish Cultural Center of Staten Island. Distinguished guests (170) from all walks of life, including religious leaders, pillars of the community and elected representatives, gathered in the Michael J. Labetti Post, Rosebank, to celebrate the proud heritage, traditions and contributions of the Turkish-Americans who live in Staten Island. Borough President James Molinaro highlighted the long relationship between the United States and Turkey and noted that Turkey was a staunch ally of the U.S. during the Cold War.

"You are great neighbors and great friends. You make this community much, much better. We want you here, we welcome you here."

Former U.S. Representative Vito Fossella gave Turkey high marks for supporting the U.S. in the war on terror since 9/11.
Zafer Akin, president of the Turkish Cultural Center New York talked about Turkey's contributions globally such helping the Irish people during the Great Hunger to recent aid to Haiti and Pakistan.

BP James Molinaro presented a proclamation for the Turkish Cultural Center Staten Island at the event and TCC Staten honored Mr. Molinara with a plaque on behalf of the Turkish American community in Staten Island.

Bob Scamardella, who heads the Molinari Republican Club, said the presence of GOP notables from different fractions was a testament to the event's power to unite.

"The fact that people may have political differences has nothing to do with the fact that people come together over cultural, racial or other issues. ... For political differences to be worked out, other things have to come into play."