Independence for Mexican Arts Organization

ith more than 7,500 square feet, the location, “offers further growth in potential partnerships, fundraising events, dance classes, exhibits, education and a coffee shop,” envisioned Gracie Madrid Treasurer of the Center.

www.bilingualweekly.com | by Sarah Lippincott

 (bw) STOCKTON,C A  — Reflecting in a Mirror at the Mexican heritage Center’s dance hall, Angelique Grijabla- a dance instructor for children, practices her dance moves. It is both a look into the future for the Mexican Heritage Center and a figurative look into the past.

The MHC&G has provided services at the Eden Square building located at 30 E. Acacia Street since May of 2009. The Center on Acacia Street has been a partnership with Reflections Dance Group; a private dance company owned and operated by Eduardo Retiz.

“I have, and continue to, support the Mexican Heritage Center, I understand that they need to grow in order for its membership to reach their goals.” said Retiz who served as board member last year, “I wish them good luck in their future home and I look forward for the continual collaborations.”

The new location, 111 Sutter Street, is at the corner of Sutter and Market Street on the first floor of the Masonic Temple Association. “We are looking forward to having MHC&G as our tenant,” said John Baker, President of the Masonic Association of Stockton. “The Masonic Association is always looking for ways to support our community and especially downtown Stockton,” added Baker highlighting that the arts center is an improvement for downtowns revitalization.

MHC&G may fill a void of loneliness lived downtown Stockton during the evenings, “the centers committed volunteers, members and guests will add to downtown’s continued renaissance,” shared Joel Reyna Jr. interim Director of the Center.

With more than 7,500 square feet, the location, “offers further growth in potential partnerships, fundraising events, dance classes, exhibits, education and a coffee shop,” envisioned Gracie Madrid Treasurer of the Center.

“The Masonic Association building offers the right venue for this organization to provide education at every level while maintaining its self-sufficiency,” said Gene Acevedo, President of MHC&G as he appreciated the continual support of the community.

The presently the organization inaugurated “Homeworks IV” an exhibit by teachers which is expected to be the closing exhibit at the Acacia facility. The community will have an opportunity to experience the first exhibit at the new location during the Dia de los Muertos 2011, “Bailando con los Muertos,” exhibit. The event will open on October 21, 2011.■

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