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Peace & Dignity Journey: Veterans Park destination for March 14 festival

February 27, 2004
Santa Paula City Council
By Peggy KellySanta Paula TimesPeace & Dignity Journey 2004/South Mountain Run, this year honoring women, the sacredness of Mother Earth and commemorating the Mexica New Year, will bring runners from the East and the West to Santa Paula on March 14, the City Council learned at the Feb. 17 meeting.The Peace & Dignity Journey is to promote peace, justice, respect and dignity between all people. Art, dance, music and ceremonies that can be shared and respected promote cultural exchange, according to the local event’s organizers. Such festivities that will start at noon with a community gathering at Veterans Memorial Park, the destination for the runners starting off in Fillmore and Saticoy.The March 14 noon program will also feature speakers and performances by the Cuahaochitl Dancers.Luz Marie Espinosa, a member of the noted dance troupe, told the council of the event and requested that the city consider co-sponsoring the park festivities.“We’re very excited and gearing up for 2004,” said Moses Mora.
The global run has two pivotal starting points: the tips of Alaska and Argentina, he noted.The run attracts many Native-Americans and now “is coming to our community; we’re excited about playing a role in this and would really appreciate,” city assistance.City Manager Wally Bobkiewicz asked for clarification on city assistance and was told that it would be a matter of labor and materials, such as a stage.“I’ve been a part of this before,” said Mayor Gabino Aguirre. “Four years ago I ran along Highway 1 and there was a blessing at Mugu Rock. It’s a traditional way to deal with issues,” that are shared by indigenous tribes. “. . .there are things that must be healed and the symbolism here is healing Mother Earth,” and the year’s theme of honoring women.The council also learned that the international run will be staged this summer and the March 14th event could draw the worldwide event to stop in the local area.On March 14 runners will gather at 9 a.m. at Fillmore’s Shields Park, C Street and Telegraph Road, and at Clinicas del Camino Real, 200 S. Wells Road for the run west and east respectively to Santa Paula’s Veterans Memorial Park.