Victoria Chavez wearing the famous “Money Hat” that is the grand prize of the raffle. The Monterey Park/Morelia Sister City Association uses the raffle funds to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Monterey Park.

The sound of Mariachi music filled the air in Barnes Inflatable Water Slide Park on May 3 as residents and their guests celebrated the battle of Puebla. The Mexican soldiers won this battle that marked the beginning of the end of the French occupation of Mexico.

The amphitheater stage was decorated with piñatas and paper flowers that filled clay and straw pots.

Members of Mariachi Jalisco joked with the audience and took requests for their favorite folk songs.

Several people decided to dance to the beat that included some little dancers.

Mayor Mitch Ing welcomed all to this celebration. He was happy to celebrate the Mexican culture in our city. He reminded the residents that Louis Napoleon was too busy trying to control Mexico that he failed to send money to the Confederate government during our Civil War. He stated that the South lost their battle at Gettysburg just four months after the French lost the battle at Puebla.

He said that Councilmember Frank Venti and City Manager June Yotsuya were not able to attend this event. He asked everyone to enjoy the event.

Mayor Pro Tem Anthony Wong greeted the residents in Spanish and English. He stated that Monterey Park is known for its diversity. It is a wonderful place to live and raise your family because of you. He wished everyone a Happy Cinco de Mayo!

Councilmember Betty Tom Chu greeted everyone in Spanish and English. Viva Cinco de Mayo! The rest is history. This celebration is important because a small group of people rose to fight for their rights. Keep the taxes low. Take pride in your culture and all of the cultures in Monterey Park.

Councilmember David Lau said it was his pleasure and honor to join with the Southern California community to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. It’s a celebration of the history and the desire to be independent. We must be united in harmony and work together. He asked God’s blessing on the residents, Monterey Park and America.

City Clerk Dave Barron greeted the residents in Spanish and English. He welcomed them and thanked them for coming. He suggested that people move to Monterey Park. It’s a great city. Cinco de Mayo is party time! Enjoy today!

City Treasurer Joseph Leon greeted the guests in Spanish and English. He thanked them for celebrating with us. Have a great day!

Assemblymember Mike Eng had a Proclamation of Appreciation presented to the Cinco de Mayo Committee.

Alesandro Pelayo from the Mexican Consulate Cultural Affairs addressed the audience in Spanish.

Senior Senator Song Park welcomed all to this special event.

Members of the Ballet Folklorico Esperanza performed several folk dances dressed in the finery of the Mexican states.

Conjunto Campo Verde, Mauricio Herrera and Mariachi Juvenil Relampo also performed to the delight of the audience.

A delicious array of Mexican foods and beverages were sold through out the event. They did a booming business.

Residents and their guests enjoyed an afternoon of Mexican culture in Barnes Park.