Grand opening for vendors who lost their business in the Santo Tomas fire

Calexico vendors from the now closed Santo Tomas Swap Meet said they have a new hope, a new start and a grand opening on Friday.

Alberto Alvizu , vendor, said, ” We’re surprised. Truly, it’s the magic of wanting to accomplish something, to work to accomplish something and to make it happen. ”

Twelve vendors re-started their business dreams at the Garcia Plaza on Grant Street – an indoors location this time – ideal for the current weather.

” Very happy. It feels great because after being practically on the ground without having a vision and suddenly you wake up and you say, let’s fight for this, and we do it. It’s a great satisfaction making this dream happen, ” Alvizu said.

The city supported the move and promised to do all they can to help.

Mayor Bill Hodge was present at the grand opening and said, ” I admire greatly. I commend them for their determination, perseverance to get back up on their feet. I think a dream came true for some of the vendors. ”

However, the city worries about the rest of the vendors who haven’t found a place to do business.

” I don’t know what we can do. I don’t know if we can find a place, but I’m going to keep going and supporting them, see what the outcome can be. I’m happy for these vendors, but I’m not going to forget about the others, ” Hodge said.

The Calexico Indoor Swap Meet is for some a dream born out of the ashes. It’s open weekdays with an open-air bazaar in the weekends.