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The hottest ticket in town Saturday, August 17, 2002 was for the Center for Employment Training's 35th Anniversary Celebration in San Jose, California. This Gala affair featured a masterful four course banquet by CET's Culinary Academy and a grand theatrical production by the world renowned El Teatro Campesino. 35 Years and 100,000 persons trained and placed in jobs was the theme of the Celebration.

CET's award winning Executive Chefs Ricardo Cortes and Rochelle Sigler prepared a scrumptious dinner; wine served, compliments of the Chalone Wine Foundation, graced the tastefully decorated dinner tables.

Over 400 guests enjoyed the splendid dinner and the play in CET's newly renovated theatre. CET's theatre was officially dedicated this night in honor of CET's co-founder and long-time Board Chairman, the late Antonio R. Soto. Mrs. Phyllis Soto was on hand to receive special recognition for her husband's contributions to the CET legacy.

Recognition was given to CET's numerous sponsors, community partners, elected and public officials, employer and corporate representatives, CET Board Members, colleagues and special friends that attended the Celebration. Individual awards were presented to CET benefactors, John A. Sobrato Sr. of Sobrato Development Companies and to Joe Parisi, of Therma, Inc. for their many contributions to CET. Ms. Sapien, CET’s Exeucutive Director also presented accolades and gifts to Film Director Luis Valdez and his wife Lupe.

Three CET alumni gave brief but moving testimonies on how CET impacted their lives. All speakers were farmworkers before coming to CET, and their heart rendering stories and accomplishments inspired a very attentive audience.

Director, Playwright and Founder of El Teatro Campesino, Luis Valdez was the evening's Keynote Speaker. Mr. Valdez, introduced by Rigo Chacon, gave an inspiring and passionate speech. Following dessert, El Teatro Campesino performed their epic play entitled "La Carpa de los Rasquachis (The Tent of the Underdogs).

CET directors from across the U.S. that were in town for a conference at the Sobrato CET Center during the week, stayed on board for an extra day to participate in this historic celebration.

Among CET's important guests was a virtual Who's Who in public service at the national, state, county, municipal and educational institution levels. Present were Santa Clara County Supervisors Jim Beall, and his wife, Pat Beall, and Supervisor Blanca Alvarado. San Jose Mayor Ron Gonzales spoke briefly and received a gift in honor of his father, Bob Gonzales Sr.. Council Members, Forrest Williams, Cindy Chavez, Nora Campos and Chuck Reed were also in attendance. Marlen Alcazar represented Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren. Drina Collins represented State Assemblyman, Manny Diaz.

CET received Proclamations from the U.S. House of Representatives, the State Assembly the State Senate and the County of Santa Clara.

Alicia Fernandez-Mott, Chief of National Farmworker Programs in Washington, D.C., represented the U.S. Department of Labor. CET thanks and salutes the community for its support of the event and for 35 years of collaboration.

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