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-Editorial
The Imperial Valley Mall came alive on September 4 as the community gathered for the much-anticipated event “Flavors Without Borders”, an evening dedicated to celebrating history, culture, and culinary traditions from both sides of the U.S.–Mexico border. Kicking off at 6 p.m. at the mall’s southwest entrance, adjacent to the former Sears, the event offered residents and visitors alike a chance to experience the vibrant tapestry of the region.
This year’s celebration carried special significance, marking the 10th anniversary of the sister city relationship between Imperial Valley and Mexicali. Over the past decade, this partnership has fostered meaningful connections, bridging communities, families, and businesses. Attendees enjoyed an immersive experience, sampling regional culinary offerings, craft beer, and wines from local producers, while being entertained by live performances that highlighted the richness of the region’s culture.
Former El Centro Mayor Efrain Silva, who championed the sister city agreement during his tenure a decade ago, reflected on the milestone with pride. “It’s truly important. We’re neighbors—we share not just a border, but culture, families, and friendships,” Silva said. “When we signed that agreement with Mayor Jaime Díaz of Mexicali, it felt like the natural thing to do. Out of that effort came events like El Grito, binational conferences, and cultural celebrations. I was very proud to lead that initiative then, and as we celebrate 10 years today, I hope we continue to nourish this relationship with our brothers and sisters across the border.”
A standout moment of the evening was the presentation of the prestigious Ohtli Award, granted by the Mexican government to individuals whose work has significantly benefited the Mexican community abroad. This year’s honoree, César Guzmán, has dedicated over five decades to education, community service, and mentoring youth throughout the Imperial Valley.
Guzmán, who arrived in Brawley in the 1960s after growing up in a modest family in Colorado, described the recognition as both humbling and deeply personal. “I read about the award, and I know how prestigious it is. I never imagined I would receive it,” he said, reflecting on a life devoted to helping others succeed.
Guzmán was joined on stage by past Ohtli Award recipients Lupe Quintero, Efrain Silva, and Eduardo Garcia, sharing in the celebration of his achievements. Head Consul of the Mexican Consulate in Calexico, Rocío Vázquez, praised Guzmán’s decades of unwavering service, calling him “a board member, a student advocate, a coach, a mentor, and above all a guide.” She highlighted his work teaching citizenship classes at Imperial Valley College since 1989, noting the profound impact he has had on helping countless individuals achieve U.S. citizenship—a contribution she described as “astonishing and profoundly important for the community.”
Flavors Without Borders was made possible through the collaboration of the Consulado de México, COTUCO (Mexicali’s Tourism and Conventions Committee), Chicali Brewers, CANIRAC, IMACUM, and the Gobierno de Mexicali. The evening also showcased local talent, including the Tres Tenores, who brought musical vibrancy to the event, creating a celebration that honored the enduring bonds of friendship, culture, and shared heritage that define the Imperial Valley and Mexicali region.
Through this celebration, attendees were reminded that connections transcend borders, and that food, music, and community serve as powerful bridges—honoring the past while inspiring a future built on collaboration and unity.