Monterey Park Councilmember Peter Chan and his wife, Jenny Chan, introduced members of Ching Fung Dance Group as a salute to Mexico’s Diversity.

Dave Barron welcomed everyone to this special afternoon for the city’s celebration of our Mexican heritage on May 4. He introduced Peter Chan to the audience. Mexico is also the home to a large Chinese community. This is a good day to share the cultures. Mr. Barron said that he agreed to sharing our cultures with Mr. Chan. Hopefully we can enjoy Mexican folk dances and Mariachi music at the next Chinese New Year’s celebration

They dancers performed folk dances describing homemakers doing chores around their homes.

Lupita Infante, who is the granddaughter of the famous Pedro Infante, delighted the guests by singing many old favorite songs in Spanish.

Roger Del-Norte, a friend of Ms. Infante, also sang several songs in Spanish. He lives in East LA now but he was born and raised in Japan.

Former Congressmember Hilda Solis welcomed everyone to this special day. She spoke about the Battle of Puebla where the underdogs succeeded in overthrowing the French occupation of Mexico. The Mexican people still fight for justice. She was happy of be home. Gloria Molina is retiring from office and she is running for her seat on the Board of Supervisors. She asked God to bless everyone.

Congressmember Judy Chu said she was happy to be here to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. She thanked the committee. We celebrate the victory of Puebla. Latinos have contributed to this country, especially in the military. She is working hard in Washington, DC to take care of all of the immigrants. Their families must stay together.  She presented a proclamation to the Cinco de Mayo Committee.

Assemblymember Ed Chau wished everyone a Happy Cinco de Mayo! He recalled that at the time of the Battle of Puebla the United States was having our Civil War.

He thanked the committee and presented them with a proclamation.

Mayor Anthony Wong, Mayor Pro Tem Hans Liang, Councilmembers Peter Chan, Mitch Ing and Teresa Real Sebastian and City Clerk Vince Chang joined in the celebration.

Mayor Wong wished the audience Happy Cinco de Mayo! You have made the USA a great country. He spoke about some of the Council’s plans to upgrade the parks, upgrade our water and sewer lines and the future plans for three hotels. The Market Place will be built soon so we will be able to shop in Monterey Park.

Mayor Pro Tem Liang welcomed the guests to our Cinco de Mayo celebration. California has a diverse culture. He spoke about the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862 where the volunteer soldiers under the leadership of Mexican General Ignacio Zaragoza won the battle over the French. They fought for justice.

Councilmember Chan said he was happy to be here. He thanked the audience, staff and committee for this event. Chinese dancers were added to this festival. Mexican dancers will be added to the Chinese New Years celebration. Enjoy the day!

Councilmember Ing welcomed everyone to Barnes Park. He thanked them for joining us today. Enjoy!

Councilmember Real Sebastian wished everyone Happy Cinco de Mayo! She is proud of her Mexican heritage. Enjoy it with your family. The Mexican culture emphasizes family, education, spirituality and respect. Enjoy this day!

City Clerk Chang said he was honored to be here to enjoy the music, dance and culture of Mexico. He reminded everyone to please vote on June 3.

Luis Enrique Castresana from the Mexican Consulate thanked the elected officials for inviting him to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Monterey Park. He addressed the audience in Spanish.

Officer Richard Louis and Maria Campos, wearing the famous Money Hat, enjoyed the party.

Folk dancers performed several regional dances from Mexico.

The event featured several food booths and information booths.

Balloon toys and hats were created for the visitors.  They also had a chance to play games at the Project NEO booth.

The entertainment also included Latin Jazz, Mariachi music and Salsa dancing.

The sounds, sights and tastes of Mexico were enjoyed by hundreds of residents and their guest at the famous Barnes Park Amphitheater.