OTT: Sofia Quintero Center celebrates art, memories

From left, Duane Rodriguez-Winter, Javier Rodriguez-Winter, Magdelena Steiner, Maria Rodriguez-Winter, Thelma Rodriguez-Winter, Barbara Winter, and artist Richard Mauere with his daughter Samantha at the sculpture dedication.

The 14th annual Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration presented by the Sofia Quintero Art & Cultural Center was Nov. 6 at the center. Dora Lopez, board president, was chairman of the event, which is a traditional celebration commemorating the lives of those who have passed away.

The festivities began that morning with a procession from the center to SS Peter & Paul Catholic Church for a Mass. That night, a sculpture entitled "Metaphysical Personification," donated by artist Richard Mauere, was dedicated in the center's community garden in honor of long-time supporter Barbara Winter of California, who was present for the occasion.

The celebration continued at a reception featuring Mexican foods prepared by Jose Carlos Mendez of Mi Hacienda and O.K. Patron restaurants. Miguel Saucedo sang romantic songs.

Featured were artistic altars displayed at La Galeria across Broadway Street from the center. The altars were prepared by Kirsten Snodgrass, Ms Lopez, Genoa High School, Montessori School of Monroe, Bowling Green State University Arts Village, Amy Hernandez, Maria Rodriguez-Winter, Javier Rodriguez-Winter, and Thelma Rodriguez-Winter and her family. The exhibits are on display until Friday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays.

Among the more than 250 supporters were Mayor Michael Bell, Toledo city councilmen Adam Martinez and Mike Craig, the Rodriguez-Winter family (Maria Rodriguez-Winter is the co-founder of cultural center), and philanthropists Lee Murray and Dorothy Price.

The event raised about $18,000.