Chico came up to me at a performance of Dona Rosita’s Jalapeno Kichen.  It was kind of that 
“guy thing” where you bump and push and jostle and joke.  Hell, we were in the Su Teatro’s 
Tiendita and it was crowded.  After we settled a few business matters, he wanted to get us some 
more CDs and I wanted to collaborate with Hulos Culturales to bring in Dr. Loco and his 
Rocking Jalapeno Band for the Summer Pachanga.  Chico turned serious.  

He told me he had spent the day with Artie Ornelas, someone we both knew from back in the 
old days.  Artie was dying of cancer and we both lamented the loss of someone with so much 
potential.  Chico spoke of shaving him and getting him cleaned up.  I was struck by the kindness
 and compassion.  Maybe I was underestimating my gender.  We reassured each other that we 
stayed active and worked out and that we would be around for a while.  I remember Chico 
saying,” Man, six months, not much time. Too much to do.”  I look at Chico and he was 
muscular and strong and I wished I was as healthy as he. 

My last conversation with him was about the Building Fund.  I had made an announcement that 
we were collecting $100 donations to make the final payment on the building. Chico called to let
 me know he and Marie would make a donation.   
A couple of days later, Chico died.  Ironically, Artie would outlive him by a day.

I had known Chico since our old days at UMAS, Su Teatro toured all the campuses (he was at 
CSU), and afterwards we would all get together and play guitar.  Chico could give as good as he
 got.  A few years ago, he invited the Teatro over to his place outside Trinidad to perform 
“La Carpa Aztlan presents I Don’t Speak English Only”.  We did it outside in the dirt, just a 
backdrop behind us, hurrying to finish before it got dark. That night under the stars we played
 guitar.  Man, the guy could remember songs that I hadn’t memorized, when I was capable of 
memorizing.  We sang and laughed and joked until long after our audience had abandoned us. 
 Later, I invited Chico and his group, Los Tres Centavos, to perform at the Summer Pachanga. 
 Like always Chico was there on time...early.  But in leaving, carnal, you left too soon.  
You are missed.

Your contributions are many; cultural activist, community organizer,  artist, musician, husband,
 father and friend.

TG