CONCORD - Marking the first day of Hispanic Heritage Month, Gov. John Lynch today issued an Executive Order creating the Governor's Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs.

"New Hampshire is becoming increasingly diverse and our Latino community now one of the fastest-growing communities in our State. This growing diversity is strengthening our communities, our economy, our culture, and our state," Gov. Lynch said.

"I cannot think of a better way to mark the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month then by launching an effort to ensure that our state can take full advantage of all that our Latino residents bring to the table, and to ensure that all of our residents have the opportunity to be full participants in all facets of New Hampshire life," Gov. Lynch said.

The commission will serve as a resource to the Governor, state agencies and the legislature in helping them understand the needs of the Latino community; recommending policies that will promote and advance economic, social and political equality for Latinos; and recommending policies that will serve and enhance the health, safety and welfare of Latinos in New Hampshire.

Gov. Lynch said that New Hampshire has a long and rich history of welcoming new generations of immigrants.

"With this commission, we are recognizing the changes in our state's population, and recognizing that a commitment to embracing this change will enhance our state ' s economy and culture, and the lives of all our citizens," Gov. Lynch said.

Rep. Hector Velez of Manchester will serve as the chair of the 19-member commission.

The other members are:

Eli Rivera, Keene
Estaban Lopez, Goffstown
Sara Varela, Concord
German Ortiz, Hooksett
Hector Fabio Urrea, Nashua
Diana Garcia-Varas, Nashua
Eduardo Ibarra, Manchester
Diane Padilla, administrator, Weare
Aida Cases, Amherst
Leticia Ortiz, Bedford
Susanna Yordan-Middleton, Nashua
Carlos Gonzalez, Manchester
Xiomara Santamaria, Chester
Margarita Fernandez, Manchester
Ramon Andrade, Goffstown
Lillye Ramos-Spooner, Epping
Madeline Delegado, Nashua
Rubero Adorno, Nashua

EXECUTIVE ORDER NUMBER 2005-6