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Culture came alive for Mrs. Cronauer's Spanish II and III classes on April 29. Alejandra Whittier, wife of Adam Whittier, of Tehachapi, was a guest speaker in a full day of Spanish classes.

Students showed a lot of interest in what Mrs. Whittier had to say and in the Mexican items she showed them like Talavera ceramics and her year books. A lively question and answer session added a lot of insight into the Mexico of today.

Alejandra is from Puebla, Mexico- the city made famous by the Battle of Puebla which sparked the "Cinco de Mayo" celebrations we have each spring. Puebla also has four volcanoes near it and the most famous and most active now is Popocatepetl.

Mrs Whittier talked of the importance of her family and the way they celebrate holidays like "El Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead), "La Navidad" (Christmas), and "Quinceanera"(coming-out party for 15 year old girls).

With a bright smile, she talked of dating and parties in her hometown, which definitely had the students' interest. Alejandra noted that hanging out with friends and going bowling and even studying is a big part of their lives.

Food was also a fun topic. Seafood, sweet empanandas, mole (a sauce made with chiles, chocolate and spices) and meats are some of her favorites. She misses the fresh fruit of her native land.

She talked about her education at private school and her graduation from college with a degree in industrial design. This led to a position in Ecuador where she met her husband, Adam.

Several students asked Mrs. Whittier about gas prices in Mexico and she responded that they are cheaper in Mexico than they are here.

Alejandra's presentation was very well-received. She may have inspired some students to visit Puebla or to sample empanadas. She truly was a good-will ambassador from Mexico.