GILROY
– There’s still a few days before Cinco de Mayo celebrations
begin, but Gilroy Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center resident Eva
Patterson is ready to go.
GILROY – There’s still a few days before Cinco de Mayo celebrations begin, but Gilroy Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center resident Eva Patterson is ready to go.
Clad in her white, embroidered dress, a purple sash is tied around her waist and ribbons adorn her hair in anticipation of Wednesday’s festivities.
The center traditionally has marked the fifth of May with a simple potluck, but this year it will celebrate the 1862 Mexican triumph over French expeditionary forces with a day-long program beginning with a Parade of Colors, followed by presentations, exhibits, music, food and entertainment for the entire family.
It is especially appropriate for the residents and staff at the center – a facility dedicated to rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapy – to commemorate Cinco de Mayo, Executive Director Gerald Hunter said.
“It’s a celebration of self-determination,” he said.
In addition, a large portion of the residents and staff are Latino, giving the holiday an added cultural resonance.
“It’s important because we live in California … to have an understanding and appreciation of all the cultures,” Hunter said. “Learning about different cultures makes us better people.”
For Patterson, the celebration brings her back to her childhood in Chihuahua, Mexico. Growing up on a ranch, she remembers mariachi bands, firecrackers and standing next to her father while he gave a speech on stage. This year she can look forward to a small parade, a mariachi group and Folklorico dances performed by the center’s own staff at the celebration, which has attracted the attention of Mayor Al Pinheiro, who is expected to attend.
Even residents who do not have direct ties to Mexico can relate to the celebration. The holiday reminds resident David Yeoman, 45, of his longtime friend, Ricky, whom he’s known since elementary school. It’s a day that connotes piñatas, firecrackers, sopes, moles and empanadas, shared with friends and family.
Celebrations begin at 9:30 a.m. and end at 4 p.m. All are welcome. For more information, call 842-9311.
