RSFLA's 10th Anniversary Celebrations

On Saturday 11th September the RSFLA, in conjunction with Reading Borough Council, held a series of events to celebrate ten years of Reading's twinning link with San Francisco Libre. The events at the Rivermead Centre were an opportunity for both RSFLA's supporters, and the general public, to learn more about Reading's link with Nicaragua.

Workshop Speakers

The first event of the day was a workshop opened by Reading's Mayor, Councillor Richard Stainthorp.

The Mayor spoke of Reading's tradition of international solidarity, which has lead to twinnings with four towns across the world. He also talked about the trip to Nicaragua he and his family were due to take, and how he looked forward to visiting San Francisco Libre.

The workshop's participants then heard talks by Sue Errington and Leader of the Council, Councillor David Sutton, who were both instrumental in the development of a solidarity group, founded during the Contra War of the 1980s, which evolved into today's twin town link.

As a special treat, Alina Briceño travelled from San Francisco Libre in order to attend the anniversary celebrations. Alina is the RSFLA's main contact in San Francisco Libre, and spoke about the projects which Reading is involved in in SFL, and the effect they have on the community. Alina then participated in a general discussion on the future direction of the RSFLA.

Nicaraguan Meal

After the workshop, tables were laid and more people arrived for an early evening Nicaraguan Dinner-a wonderful meal prepared by the Rivermead Centre's catering staff.

Salsa Disco

To round off the events, Alina demonstrated a couple of Nicaraguan dances, then Larry and a team from the Rising Sun Arts Centre entertained and involved participants in a Salsa dancing lesson. After the Salsa lesson, everyone continued dancing until the end of the evening.