Festival goes to show that some like it hot

Puerto Rican passion - and food, song and dance - flow in a city with a rising number of islanders.

By RACHEL E.D. TUDOR for St. Petersburg Times Published October 20, 2004

PINELLAS PARK - An estimated 20,000 people attended the Puerto Rican Patron Saint Festival on Sunday, taking in salsa music and Caribbean food and dancing amid a sea of flags.

"This is a way to unite the Puerto Rican communities that are always dreaming of coming back to the island," said Sandra Acevedo, president of the festival.

Held at the England Brothers Bandshell, the festival celebrated its fourth year in Pinellas County during Hispanic Heritage Month. According to the 2000 census, Pinellas Park - a city working its way toward 50,000 residents - was home to more than 1,200 Puerto Ricans, about double the number from the previous census.

"We keep to the traditions," Acevedo said. "If we don't, we will lose them. That is why this event is important, because this is a celebration for all Hispanics."

One tradition that has held strong through centuries of cultural and political changes is the music. In no time at all, a group of six men calling themselves Johnnie LaTraburo had folks gathered 'round and singing Que bonita la bondera Puertorriqueña (how beautiful the Puerto Rican flag).

Young and old circled around the musicians, clapping and dancing with the beat.

"This is a type of Caribbean music. It was a form of communication brought over by the slaves of Puerto Rico. Through the years it turned into songs of love for culture, history and pride," said Pablo Rivera, a member of the band.

The Puerto Rican flag was everywhere - on shirts, hats and jackets. Some people draped the flag over their cars.

One local man expressed his love by including the Puerto Rican flag in most of his paintings. Obed Gómez combines his love of nature, country and God in his artwork.

"I want to send a message of Puerto Rico through my work, but more importantly I want the Lord to give a message through my work," Gomez said.

The festival was filled with messages of passion and pride. Two representatives of Sila Maria Calderon, the governor of Puerto Rico, flew in to the festival, saying it is important to unite the Puerto Rican community, whether here or on the island.

"I hope that the United States and Puerto Rico will continue to be a team. I hope to encourage tourism to the island and spread pride for our culture," said Eduardo Martinez, a special assistant to her.

"It is important to continually make a difference and positively influence everyone," said Nelson Cintrón, another assistant. "We also want to encourage all Hispanics to vote in this presidential election."