Portales celebrates culture

PORTALES — Fun and sun weren't the only reasons to celebrate Saturday. Many of those who came out for Portales' Cinco de Mayo celebration felt pride in their Hispanic culture.

The City Park gathering featured food and music and made Orlando Acosta's sense of cultural unity swell.

"The community comes together ... I think that's nice. I came to take my little brother," said Acosta. "We're celebrating our culture. We get to feel like we do have a hope."

Ruben Rodriguez, Acosta's 8-year-old brother, said he enjoyed the car show the most.

The event also brought Juanita Bara and her friend Glorie Urioste.

"It's a cultural thing. We're Hispanic, both of us, so I guess it's something cultural," said Bara.

"Cinco de Mayo, it's always been on the north side of town, but this year they came and brought it to this side. Maybe it will bring all of the community a little closer, come and enjoy the day," she said.

Because attendees appeared to be relaxing and enjoying themselves, Portales Cultural Affairs Chair Oscar Robinson declared the event a success.

"People are chilling. That's all that's necessary," Robinson said.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over French forces on May 5, 1862. It is celebrated annually in honor of Mexican-American culture.