¡Viva México!

Save some energy this Labor Day weekend, because next weekend the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center will be celebrating Mexican Independence Day with two gallery exhibit openings and a party with live music and dance in remembrance of the late Anthony Ortiz Jr, a local musical prodigy who died of cancer last year at just 24 years old. The performances include the Roy Lozano Ballet Folklórico dancers, Juan Diaz on accordion, and Lesly Reynaga, an up-and-coming ranchera singer. The Ortiz family will also perform: Mariachi Corbetas will be playing some of Anthony’s favorite Mexican songs, and Eric Ortiz, a 10-year-old accordionist following in his late brother’s footsteps, will make a special appearance. Join the celebration on Saturday, Sept. 15, from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be on-premise free parking, as well as shuttle bus service from 5 to 9 p.m. at Sanchez Elementary and Martin Middle School.