Photo: Danza Azteca Coyolxauhqui

Strong winds brought some relief from the unseasonably warm temperatures on Sunday as about 1,200 people gathered in the Sonoma Plaza to celebrate Sonoma’s Mexican heritage and raise money for college scholarships.

The season’s first major Plaza event chased away the rainclouds and filled the park with the tantalizing aroma of spicy foods, the sounds of Mariachis and visions of Aztec Dancers in dramatic headdresses. Proceeds from the event pay for college scholarships and awards to younger students for achievement in learning English.

“At this time when the debate on immigration policy reform is heating up, it is good to take a step back and say, ‘Thank you’ to the Mexican immigrants who have helped to build this country,” said Director, Ellen LaBruce.

“We are grateful to Frank Howard Allen Realtors for their sponsorship of the fiesta this year and are pleased to announce that because of the success of the event we will be able to offer $5,000 in college scholarships this fall.”

For more information about the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta for Education, please call the La Luz office, 707-938-5131.