Carnival promotes cultural awareness

by Alie Neumeyer
Vanguard Staff Writer

January 22, 2007 —

While some students were relaxing Friday night, others were getting tips on how to become a better salsa dancer as Valley Nights and the Hispanic Interest Student Organization sponsored a Cardinal Carnival in the Multi-Purpose Room.

H.I.S.O. President Mario Cornejo and Vice President Amber St. Marie planned the majority of the first-time event.

By holding the carnival, Cornejo hoped to not only give students something fun to do, but also bring awareness to H.I.S.O. and all it has to offer.

"Planning has been going on for a long time," he said. "We want to share the Hispanic culture with Saginaw Valley."

Students were able to receive free salsa dance lessons from dance instructor Angela Markle, who has been teaching in the Saginaw area for about 16 years. She was professionally trained by competitive ballroom dancers and previously taught at their dance studio.

"I always enjoy teaching," said the former SVSU adjunct professor. "Especially salsa."

Lined up like a scene from a movie - boys on one side and girls on the other - 40 students watched as Markle provided guidelines and techniques to becoming a great dancer. She taught the ladies etiquette and showed the men how to lead.

Freshman Lacy Pease learned about the carnival through on-campus advertisements. She said she found the event enjoyable and was surprised at the turnout.

"If they offered other dances, I would probably come out," Pease said.

After the salsa lessons, the carnival offered authentic Mexican food and a DJ playing music until 1 a.m.

Both Cornejo and St. Marie said they are excited about sponsoring future events like the Cardinal Carnival.

Plans are in progress for a road run event, which would take place 1 p.m. on Saturday, April 21. More information will be available in the upcoming weeks.

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