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Latin American culture on display in Corning

The sounds, sights and culture of Latin America were on display Sunday at Centerway Square.

Hundreds flocked to the heart of the Gaffer District to enjoy the first annual Corning Latino Festival.

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"It's gone really well," said Maritza Lopez, president of the Corning Latino Association which organized the event. "We decided to hold the festival because we wanted to promote diversity awareness, and let people know more about the Latino cultures."

Local Latino residents showcased traditional clothing, presented a brief history of the many country's and performed classical music and dances.

Foods of South American, and arts and crafts were also on display.

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"It's a very nice event," said Yissel Duran, a native of the Dominican Republic who lives in Addison. "It's a good way to show a lot of the different Latino cultures to people of the United States."

Dave Smith, of Corning, said the festival brought together many of the facets of Latin American culture.

"I've had a good time," Smith said. "There is a lot to do and a lot going on."

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Lopez said the Latino Association thought the event would be a good opportunity for the group to introduce itself to the community. The festival will become an annual event.

"Many Latino families live in the area and contribute to the community in different ways," Lopez said.