California State Senator Benjamin Hueso received a warm welcome Tuesday, July 21 on his second visit to Chapala in pursuit of a sealing a cooperative agreement with his home district.
The Democratic representative of southern Caifiornia’s District 40, which encompasses the city of San Diego, sat down with Mayor Joaquín Huerta, city councilman Octavio Aguirre and incoming councilman Juan Carlos Pelayo to further dialogue on a twinning arrangement to develop cross-border business, educational and cultural exchanges.
The mayor expressed special interest in establishing a sister city link with Santa Barbara, a community where a large number of Chapala natives have put down roots.
Hueso, on the other hand, has deep family ties to Jalisco. His parents hail from Tecaltitlán, cradle of the mariachi and the inspiration for his personal appreciation for Mexican music and culture.
Following their discussion, the local officials escorted the senator to the city hall lobby for a brief public ceremony during which Huerta presented Hueso with a plaque honoring him as a distinguished visitor. The two then put their signatures on a formal letter of intention to formalize the bond of productive friendship. Pelayo gave his pledge to keep his eye on the ball after the October 1 change of administration.
The event then loosened up with a program of music and dance and a cocktail reception.