Column from August 13, 2009

Fiesta offers unique blend of music

This weekend marks the 11^th anniversary of American Fiesta Amistad.

Fiesta features a unique blend of Anglo and Hispanic bands from around the area. The two days promise to have something to please everyone.

I’ve attended Fiesta Amistad since the first year. Not only do you get to hear some great music, it’s also a wonderful opportunity to visit with others from the community.

It’s a chance to sit back and relax. Enjoy the company of old friends and meet some new ones.

Everyone is there for one purpose – to have a great time.

For the last few years, Fiesta has come full circle as it returned to its roots.

The event began with lots of local talent. Partially due to limited funds, Fiesta gave area groups a way to show off their stuff.

As it evolved, groups were invited from as far away as California. That made for entertaining shows, but it didn’t seem get the reception it deserved.

Now, we can again here local and area bands perform. It means we can see friends and relatives on the stage singing and playing their hearts out to the crowd.

There are still some big name bands, such as Domador de la Sierra, from Seattle, but they could still be considered local because they are from our state.

Fiesta also grew into a two-day event, with bands playing on Friday evening, as well as the traditional Saturday line-up.

And there are always fun activities for the kids, making this a family event.

To top it off, vendors feature a variety of American and Mexican foods to tempt every palate.

In honor of this great musical event right here in Othello, I’m sharing this fun recipe I’m sure you’ll all enjoy. It’s sort of like our event … an American tradition (Kraft macaroni and cheese) jazzed up with a Mexican flare!

Fiesta Mac

1 (14-ounce) package Kraft Deluxe Macaroni and Cheese Dinner

1 pound lean ground beef

1 large green pepper, chopped

1 (10-ounce) package frozen corn, thawed

1 cup Taco Bell Home Originals Salsa

Prepare dinner in large saucepan as directed on package, cooking macaroni for just 8 minutes.

Meanwhile, brown meat with green pepper in skillet; drain.

Add meat mixture, corn and salsa to prepared dinner; mix well. Cook until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Yield: 4 servings

Remember, I would love to have your recipes to share with readers. You can send them to me at labordi at hotmail.com.

Please include a few words about the recipe, where you got it, etc.