YOUR WEEKEND: Concert to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month

Bring the family and a picnic for an evening in celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month under the stars from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 18 at the Rainbow Library's amphitheater, 3150 N. Buffalo Drive. The Fiesta de la Noche is free and open to the public. The gate will be open one hour before the performance.

The event will feature the Michito Sanchez Orchestra led by Cuban conguero, Michito Sanchez. The concert also will feature the talents of Mexican headliner Olga Breeskin.

When Breeskin came to Las Vegas 11 years ago, she was already a big star in her native Mexico.

"She was a huge star in Mexico," said Irma Wyants, Clark County cultural specialist. "She was in movies, TV, everywhere. She's a great performer. Her show on Friday, is in honor of Mexican Independence Day.

"Sometimes people think Cinco de Mayo is Mexican Independence Day, but that's the date of the Battle of Pueblo, and it's celebrated more here than in Mexico," Breeskin said. "Sept. 17 is just like Fourth of July, and I love to celebrate both Mexican and the U.S. independence days."

She still wears the sexy outfits that were her signature coming up in the performance business.

"I'm in shape, I'm ageless, like Cher," Breeskin said. "I feel so happy. When you are a mature woman, it's fantastic, because you have the experience and the knowledge. You have the choice to do what is right for you, and you know exactly whatуs going on."

Next on Breeskinуs calendar is a two-hour TV special in Mexico, celebrating her long career. She has no plans to slow down, and it seems likely Nevadans won't have to wait until Cinco de Mayo to see her perform again.

For more Hispanic Heritage Month events, visit the library district's Web site.

-- F. Andrew Taylor/View File Photo