On Friday, March 7, Sport Club Português experienced a historic and deeply emotional moment with the ceremony to name the Proverbo Room “Glória de Melo & João Saraiva Martins.” This initiative, approved by the club’s General Assembly in October, honors two fundamental pillars of culture within SCP – Glória de Melo and João Martins, the founders of Proverbo, the club’s art and literature department.
Since its foundation in 2002, Proverbo has been the cultural heartbeat of Sport Club Português, promoting arts, literature, and the appreciation of Luso-American identity through creativity and talent within our community. There could be no more fitting recognition than to immortalize the names of its visionary founders in the very room that continues to host events and exhibitions today.
The ceremony began at 6:30 PM, with the room filled with friends, family, and admirers of Glória and João, as well as members and leaders of SCP. Dr. Luís Sequeira, Consul of Portugal in Newark, had the honor of unveiling the new plaque bearing the room’s name, officially marking this special tribute. Guests were then invited inside, where they could appreciate an art exhibition featuring works by João Martins, celebrating the artistic legacy of the honorees.
The event was attended by important figures from the club’s recent history, including former presidents Helena Vinhas, Nuno Ferreira, and Silvia Rodrigues, along with several members of previous boards of directors who had the privilege of working alongside Glória and João over the years. Many of these past leaders made a point to be present, paying tribute to the duo who contributed so much to SCP’s cultural life.
The evening continued with speeches highlighting the profound impact of Glória and João on the club’s history. Jack Costa, President of the General Assembly, opened the program by praising their dedication and invaluable contributions to SCP’s growth. This was followed by heartfelt words from Ana Martins, Proverbo Coordinator, and Baldomiro Soares, both of whom expressed their deep appreciation. Consul Luís Sequeira emphasized the importance of this legacy for the Luso-American community, and the program concluded with remarks from East Ward Councilman Michael Silva, who surprised the honorees by presenting them with an Official Proclamation from the City of Newark.
The evening ended with a dinner gathering, where all present could celebrate this unique moment in Sport Club Português’s history. This tribute not only acknowledges the past and the legacy of Glória de Melo and João Martins, but it also ensures that their cultural impact remains a living reference within the club and the community.
May this room continue to be a space of inspiration, creativity, and artistic exchange – just as its founders always dreamed.
