City’s anniversary comes at a time of financial hardship

City of Calexico kicked off its 110 th Anniversary on Tuesday. Organizers said the city might be broke, but a week long party could be good for everyone.

Council Member Bill Hodge said, “It brings back hope. It brings back goodwill, good feeling. You have to have hope. And yes, we are in dire straits, as far as our city. But, you have to have to be optimistic.”

Organizer Carmen Durazo said the anniversary is a matter of city pride.

“Let people know how proud we are of Calexico, what a rich history we have, and the mural is part of that history in the sense of belonging,” Durazo said.

City Mayor Maritza Hurtado said Friday’s mural renovation project, the first in the series of week long anniversary activities, was symbolic of border city friendship.

“The unity with our neighbors because this mural back then when it was first painted, it was painted as a huge project with the city of mexicali and Calexico.”

She said the anniversary also had historical significance.

“We’re providing a collection of photography opportunities, to come and see, and other items for example, we’ll be having a historical tour of the historical buildings on historical road which is here on Heber avenue,” Hurtado said.

Council Member Jesus Eduardo Escobar wanted people to know the party is not costing the city any money.

“The funding is being made one hundred percent by the sponsorships available for this 110th celebration of our livelihood – of our city’s livelihood,” Escobar said.

Organizers said the festivity might come at a tough financial and political time, but it represents the love people have for their city and each other.

“As long as you love something, you will get it better, just have to keep working at it, not give up,” Durazo said.

This is the list of activities for Calexico’s 110 th Anniversary:

Tuesday, April 10 th , 6 p.m.: Mural project renovation at 218 Heffernan Avenue.

Tuesday, April 10 th , 8 p.m.: Art exhibit at Carmen Durazo Cultural Arts Center.

Wednesday, April 11 th , 6:30 p.m.: Mayor for the Day and Spirit Parade Downtown.

Thursday, April 12 th , 3p.m. – 8 p.m.: Historic Sites Tour. Starts at City Hall and ends at the Women’s Improvement Club.

Thursday, April 12 th , 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.: Historical Photo Exhibit at SDSU Steppling Art Gallery.

Saturday, April 14 th , 6 p.m.: 110 th Anniversary Dinner & Dance at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Hall.

Sunday, April 15 th , 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.: Family Day at Rockwood Plaza Park. There will be music, jumpers, water slides and food booths.

Monday, April 16 th , 6 p.m.: State of the City address at City Hall.