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For several years, Ms. Franklin, known as La Grande Dame of the Arts, actively participated in the Día de los Muertos planning committee. She had a special interest in the ceramic heritage that infused the region of the Americas and supported the Quintero Center’s programs that helped individuals discover and grow their talents. This year’s Día de los Muertos event will honor Ms. Franklin’s passion for the ceramic and cultural arts and her interest in helping others grow their own artistic creativity.
Alberto Flores regularly attended many of the cultural programs of the Quintero Center, particularly, Aquí se Habla Español, a program for those interested in practicing Spanish and learning about the diverse Latino culture. He was a teacher for 37 years at Libbey High School and was one of the founding members of the Excel Program at the University of Toledo (UT).
According to UT’s website, “The Excel Program is designed to stimulate academic success, self-confidence, and social and personal growth in high school students from ethnic and socioeconomic groups underrepresented in institutions of higher education.” Toledo’s Día de los Muertos will celebrate Mr. Flores’ life of inspiring young kids to stay in school and individuals to be their best and make a difference in the world.
Both, Ms. Franklin and Mr. Flores, shared their enthusiasm for promoting opportunities to expand artistic and cultural knowledge through the programs of the Quintero Center. Their contributions to art and education increased growth opportunities for many in our community, particularly children, artists and Latinos.
The Día de los Muertos includes an altar exhibit displaying the works of community residents and local artists. Events featuring altars are free and open to the public starting with a blessing ceremony at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 3, at the Quintero Center (1225 Broadway, Toledo, Ohio 43609) followed by a procession to SS Peter & Paul Parish (728 S. St. Clair St., Toledo, Ohio 43609) for a special mass honoring loved ones and a pan dulce y chocolate (sweet bread and hot cocoa) reception. The altars will be exhibited at the Quintero Center on November 4, 10 and 11 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. and refreshments will be served.
The evening fundraiser on November 3 will be from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. at 1 Aurora Gonzalez Drive, Toledo
OH 43609 (off South Avenue near the Anthony Wayne Trail; location of the Aurora Gonzalez Center and the Believe Center) where the main altar will be dedicated to the memory of Ms. Franklin and Mr. Flores.
A traditional Mexican dinner will be served featuring chef José Carlos Méndez of O.K. Patrón in Perrysburg. Guests will be entertained by Glass City Mariachi Band, Corazón de México Ballet Folkórico and the University of Toledo Latin Jazz Ensemble.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call 419-490-6130.
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