Cinco de Mayo Fiesta fun for the whole family

It was a festive celebration of Cinco de Mayo organized by St. John the Evangelist Parish Catholic Church on Sunday. Over 500 people attended the event.

The afternoon was one of traditional Mexican foods like tamales, tacos, pozole and menudo. There was a variety of live music and a presentation of Aztec dancing.

Enevy Lopez is the second runner-up princess for the church. She said it was an excellent opportunity for the community to get together and enjoy the celebration of Cinco de Mayo.

"The best part was the music. It got everyone dancing and out here on this sunny day. I liked the banda that played Mexican songs."

She said the food and drinks were good, and the people who made it happen were hardworking.

"They put much effort and love in this for our community and church."

Father Guillermo Preciado said he held this event to celebrate Cinco de Mayo and El Dia Del Niño (day of the child), a Mexican tradition.

There were games for the kids, aguas frescas, fruit and other Mexican treats.

Preciado has been with the church for two years and feels the congregation members have made it very active through spiritual events and personal motivation.

"This is one of my favorite events because you see how each church group participates to seek unity and good communication between us."

Councilmember Gilberto Reyna, a long-time church member and instrumental in organizing the special celebration, said, "This is an event that is meant to bring families together to have some fun, enjoy great food and have a nice time."

Joe Dominguez is a 43-year member of the church's Knights of Columbus. His group sold French fries, chili fries and cheese fries.

"We had an excellent turnout. I didn't expect people to like them as much, but we sold out early. The money raised is going back to the church for expenses."

Gloria Benitez came with her husband, Jose Luis. She said that the event shows the spirit of Mexican culture.

"We are here today to help the church and to be with our community."

Veronica Perez has been a member of the church since the early 2000s.

"I always volunteer for the events. My husband works with the confirmation class and was here playing games with the kids."

Dora Velasquez has lived in Wasco for more than 49 years and said she comes out every year for the Cinco de Mayo festival.

"I come to hear the music. I like everything about it, especially to eat. There is a variety of delicious food. It is always well organized and brings out many people."

Ulises Bautista of Banda Los Luceros de Michoacan donated his time.

"We played different genres of Mexican music. It was a nice day because people came to watch us and participate in the church."