The creativity of Salinas: make a film, watch a dance recital

Alisal High student Eduardo Velasquez told me today Salinas is a very creative city, even if it's not often portrayed that way.

Well, here's two events that speak to the creative work happening in Salinas. One is the kind where you sit and enjoy, the other one's the type that makes you work.

The Salinas Union High School District and the Salinas Public Library are sponsoring the High School film festival, which will take place at 7 p.m. on April 15. And your film could be the big winner.

Award winner receive cash and prizes. All genres, including animation, will be accepted. You can edit your film at the digital labs of John Steinbeck or César Chavez libraries. Each lab provides access to video editing software and personal instruction.

Submit your film via DVD with student names to Michael Roddy, Salinas Union High District, 431 West Alisal St., Salinas, CA 93901. michael.roddy@salinasuhsd.org. All submissions must be received by March 31.

The second event happens this weekend : Tonatiuh, Danzantes del Quinto Sol, the dance troupe that enlivens the city at every step, will present its 18^th anniversary concert Saturday, at 6 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. At the Western Stage of Hartnell College, 411 Central Ave., Salinas. Tickets: $15 adult, $10 children under 12.

Come and support maestro Ramón Silva and his dancers. They’re one of the groups that make Salinas a better place.