THURSDAY, MAY 6, 1999

Cinco de Mayo celebration a hit

By Michelle Devera

On-Line Forty-Niner

More than 100 hundred students and faculty attended Wednesday afternoon's festive Cinco de Mayo celebration, sponsored by La Raza Student Association.

The event, held in front of The Nugget, featured traditional Mexican food, music and contests. Student Roger Acala won the chili eating contest, and Steve Nader belted out the best "grito," a high-pitched celebratory scream.

"The purpose is to promote Mexican culture and, more specifically, to celebrate the battle of Puebla," said Lizzet Alvarez, event coordinator. "That is when Mexico defeated the French."

Although no one from La Raza spoke about the history of Cinco de Mayo at length, historical fliers were distributed.

"I'm very glad we had this event, because a lot of people confuse May 5 with Mexican Independence Day," said Rosa Carillo, University Outreach and School Relations transfer services coordinator. "I hope everybody looks into the history of what Cinco de Mayo is and appreciates it."

Although Cinco de Mayo festivities have ended, La Raza members look forward to yet another celebration Friday known as "Dia De Los Ninos," a day which honors children.