​  Cinco de Mayo!

 

    Children in traditional Mexican costumes dancing at a Cinco de Mayo celebration.  By Lawrence Migdale

  

Hillary Lapham, Big Bear Prevention of Rim Family Services __ April 2016 __  

The Breakthrough Task Force wishes everyone a happy and safe Cinco de Mayo!

Cinco de Mayo is a holiday meant to commemorate the Mexican Army’s victory over the French in the Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867). This battle took place on the fifth of May in 1862.

The Mexican army was vastly outmatched; numbering about 4,500 men while the French forces easily reached about 6,000 and were much better equipped. Despite the disadvantages, the Mexican army held their ground in the city of Puebla against not one, not two, but THREE French advances on the city. In the end, the French were forced to retreat, leaving about 460 casualties compared to the Mexican Army’s 83. It is the quintessential underdog story. The history behind the holiday is truly amazing.  (Source: www.history.com)

Fast-forward to the present, the Cinco de Mayo holiday has become a huge celebration in America of Mexican culture and pride. Unfortunately, the holiday can also be a time for unhealthy amounts of alcohol consumption, underage drinking, and drunk driving.

The Breakthrough Task Force encourages the community to celebrate safely this Cinco de Mayo, keeping in mind all the dangers associated with irresponsible use of alcohol.

The Task Force Coalition reminds the community of San Bernardino County Social Host Ordinance, clarifies that it is illegal to provide a place for underage drinking to occur. 

Instead it is within the integrity of the law, to honor those who risked their lives in the Battle of Puebla by protecting yourself and the lives around you by being responsible with your celebrating this holiday season.  


The Breakthrough Task Force is a volunteer group in the community whose goal is to reduce access to drugs and alcohol by youth. The Big Bear Valley supportive citizens are welcome to join the various programs of the Breakthrough Task Force, as well as the Big Bear Designated Driver Program. For information contact: C/O Rim Family Services (909) 366-0545 btf4prevention@gmail.com (909) 366-0545.