It was reported in last Thursday's edition of the Transcript-Bulletin that Tooele City's celebration of Cinco de Mayo this year has been canceled because people just aren't interested.
The celebration that was funded by donations from local businesses and Tooele City hasn't garnered enough help and interest for the event to go on, despite efforts to get the word out. Bob Herrera, chairperson of this year's event, has advertised and looked for help, but nobody has come forward. Cinco de Mayo is just too much for one man to put together himself.
Although the Tooele celebration is still in its infancy, for the past two years, Veterans Memorial Park has been decked out in celebration of the Mexican culture. Colorful decorations were strung about the park, and tasty food, live entertainment and activities for young and old made the whole park buzz with excitement.
The celebration was even bigger last year than its inaugural year in 2006, when it was extended from a one-day celebration to two days. In addition, more events were added and instead of allowing just authentic Mexican vendors, everyone was welcome to participate.
Over the past few years, the celebration has brought the Hispanic community together to celebrate their culture, and has allowed others to join in and learn more about a heritage that contributes much to our community. It is disheartening to see that the citywide celebration won't happen because of a lack of community support.
While it may be too late to salvage this year's celebration, next year let's make it our goal to not have to announce the cancellation of another Cinco de Mayo. Hopefully next year, Veterans Memorial Park will once again be filled with bright colors, the smell of delicious food, and packed with people to celebrate a culture and its contributions to our community.