Board Celebrates Albanian American Heritage Month
The Westchester County Board of Legislators celebrated Albanian American Heritage Month on Monday night with a ceremony recognizing two exemplary community leaders: Jacqueline Kapaj-Vieira,Founder and Executive Director of the Albanian American Educators Association, and Edi Dedi, restaurateur and educator behind Zuppa Restaurant & Lounge in downtown Yonkers.
The honorees drew a laugh from attendees when Kapaj-Vieira revealed that she and Dedi are cousins—a discovery they made only after receiving their invitations and realizing they’d be honored on the same night.
Board Chairman Vedat Gashi (D–New Castle, Ossining, Somers, Yorktown) welcomed guests and said, “This celebration holds deep personal meaning for me. As an Albanian American, I am proud of my heritage and forever grateful to this country—and to American democracy—for embracing my family and me years ago. Tonight, we honor two remarkable individuals, Edi Dedi and Jacqueline Kapaj-Vieira, whose stories of dedication, service, and success inspire us all. Ours is a close-knit community, each of us shaped by stories of hardship and triumph. This evening, we celebrate not only where we came from but also the many ways we contribute to Westchester County and beyond.”
Legislator David J. Tubiolo (D–Yonkers, Mount Vernon) said, “I am delighted to honor my good friend Jacqueline Kapaj-Vieira as we at the County Board of Legislators celebrate Albanian American Heritage. As the executive director of the Albanian American Educators Association, Jacqueline dedicates her time and energy to preserving and promoting the Albanian culture in our community not only for Albanians but for all Americans. I cannot thank her enough for all that she does to ensure that the contributions of the Albanian American community remain a vital part of our great American tapestry.”
Minority Whip James Nolan (R–Yonkers, Eastchester, Bronxville) said, “Edi Dedi exemplifies the best of the Albanian American experience: a life defined by hard work, cultural pride, and service to community. Born and raised in Shkodra, one of Albania’s most storied cities, Edi carries forward the deep traditions of Albanian hospitality, respect, and generosity. His story reflects the journey of many immigrants who bring their heritage to new shores and use it to enrich the communities around them.
Edi’s path from Albania to the United States mirrors the spirit of perseverance that defines the Albanian diaspora. After completing his education in Italy, where he was shaped by Jesuit values of discipline, reflection, and service, he came to New York determined to build a meaningful life through hard work and purpose. Through his work founding and developing acclaimed restaurants, Edi has helped transform the local dining scene by fostering community and creating opportunities for others.”
View Monday night’s event program here.
Immediately following the celebration, the Board of Legislators convened a regular meeting.
Watch the full meeting here.