Community Corner
6th Annual Spring Valley Library Fiesta Satisfies Appetites for Mexican Food, Dance, Music
Fiesta celebrates Sept. 16, Mexican Independence Day
The 6th Annual Spring Valley Library Fiesta is always something to look forward to, with live performances, authentic Mexican food, games and demonstrations. This year's event—which was held Sept. 17 but commemorates Sept. 16, Mexican Independence Day—featured Mariachi Diamente de San Diego and Ballet Folklorico Aquetzali de Lemon Grove.
A lunch of rolled tacos, beans, rice, salsa and carrots satisfied the appetites of everyone. The food was from and
In her welcome to visitors, Assistant Branch Manager Paula Soltero said that the Hispanic culture is very important to Spring Valley and nearby neighborhoods.
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Branch Manager Christine Plante noted that close to 37 percent of the nearby population speaks Spanish.
Southwest High school instructor David Rodriguez is the leader of Mariachi Diamente, one of the day's featured entertainers.
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“Seeing them perform like this is a gift that comes back to me,” said Rodriguez, who is touched by how people respond to popular mariachi songs.
“I’ve seen people get tears win their eyes. They say that the songs remind them of a loved one or someone who’s passed on,” he said.
Also performing was the Ballet Folklorico dance group from Muevete Dance Studio in Lemon Grove.
Along with food, live music and dance, there was a lowrider car display, a fire truck, games for the kids and a K-9 unit demonstration.
Spring Valley resident Esmeralda McKay best summed up the afternoon. “I love the community interaction and getting to know our neighbors.”
