Published October 22. 2024 12:21PM
Area Chileans and others celebrated the 214th anniversary of Chile’s independence Sept. 15 at Payrow Plaza in Bethlehem. It was the 3rd annual event with Bethlehem resident Cesar Cordova leading the program.
Over 50 attended and celebrated by dancing the traditional La Cueca, viewing various Chilean cultural items, and raising the Chilean flag as they sang the Himno Nacional de Chile (Chilean national anthem).
Bethlehem’s Olga Negron, executive director of Gov. Shapiro’s Commission on Latino Affairs read a proclamation from the Governor recognizing Latino Heritage Month and City Council President Michael Colon read a proclamation from Mayor J. William Reynolds declaring Chilean Independence Day in Bethlehem.
The Chilean community gathered at South Mountain Park for additional festivities after the ceremony.
America Aguayo Schamo peruses a Chilean cookbook prior to the celebration’s start.
Bethlehem resident Olga Negron delivers a proclamation from Governor Josh Shapiro that recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month.
Yehizon Ramognini and his daughter Antonella begin to hoist the Chilean flag during the ceremony. They live in Trexlertown.
Cesar Cordova and his wife Anna Smith dance a traditional Chilean dance, La Cueca.
Cousins Alonso Romignini and Elias Vial watch the festivities from the Bethlehem City Hall porch.
PRESS PHOTOS BY DANA GRUBBParticipants dance the La Cueca on Payrow Plaza. Insert: Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds forwarded this proclamation, which was read by City Council President Michael Colon.
Bethlehem Mayor J. William Reynolds forwarded this Proclamation which was read by City Council President Michael Colon.
