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-Editorial
On a weather-friendly evening filled with music, culture, and community spirit, the Calexico Rotary Club proudly hosted its annual Grito de Independencia event at Crummet Park, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of approximately 500 attendees. This celebration of Mexican Independence Day not only honored the rich traditions of Mexico but also served as a vital fundraising effort for the Rotary Club’s mission to provide scholarships for students in the Calexico Unified School District and those pursuing higher education at San Diego State University Imperial Valley Campus.
Last year, the Calexico Rotary Club successfully raised $10,000 at their Mariachi Festival Sin Fronteras held at the SDSU Calexico Campus, and this year’s event aimed to build on that momentum. Thanks to this, the club gave scholarships to 14 deserving students from the Class of 2024.
The festivities kicked off with the enchanting rhythms and colorful costumes of Ballet Folclórico Xochipilli from SDSU, showcasing traditional Mexican dance that set the tone for the celebration.
Following the dance group, the Rondalla de Bellas Artes took the stage, delivering a melodic serenade that resonated with the crowd. Laisha Vega then graced the audience with her voice and musical variety. The Rondalla de Baja California followed, performing a delightful array of traditional songs that had attendees clapping and singing along. The night culminated in an exhilarating performance by Mariachi Acero del Valle and Grupo Relámpago Norteño, whose lively music brought the audience to their feet in celebration.
Mexican Consul Tarcisio Navarrete Montes de Oca delivered the traditional Grito de Independencia, a call to honor the heroes of Mexico’s fight for independence. He was joined on stage by Calexico Mayor Camilo Garcia and Mexicali Mayor Norma Bustamante, who emphasized the importance of the longstanding binational relationship between Calexico and Mexicali. Their speeches reinforced the shared cultural heritage and collaborative spirit that unites the two cities.
“Let’s remember our commitment as sister cities. Mexicali is part of Calexico and Calexico is part of Mexicali,” Mayor Garcia said.
The Calexico Rotary Club has had one of its most successful years, marked by impactful community projects and outstanding fundraising efforts. With membership nearing 30 members, the club’s core group has become more active and visible in the community, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing important local events. Among their notable achievements, the club has brought back the Mariachi Festival and Grito de Independencia, two beloved events that had been discontinued in previous years.
Their dedication has strengthened community ties and reinforced their mission of service, leaving a lasting positive impact on the Calexico area.
