Remarks by the President at Cinco de Mayo Reception

5:58 P.M. EDT

     THE PRESIDENT:  Viva!  Good evening, everyone.  Buenas noches.  Michelle and I are so honored to welcome you to the White House. And you all brought outstanding weather, so we thank you for that.  (Laughter.)  Thank you.  I know that a lot of you would rather be watching tonight’s game —- the Spurs against “Los Suns” from Phoenix.  (Applause.) 

Tonight is another one of our great events here at the White House celebrating Latino culture in America, including our concert some of you might have attended that we had during Hispanic Heritage Month on the South Lawn —- Fiesta Latina.  (Applause.)  And Malia and Sasha will probably never forget playing drums with Shelia E.  (Laughter.)  Michelle, on the other hand, would prefer to forget the sight of me trying to dance with Thalia.  (Laughter.)  I didn’t think I was that bad.  (Laughter.) 
MRS. OBAMA:  You were okay.  (Laughter.) 

THE PRESIDENT:  But there will be no —- there will be no repeat performances tonight.

AUDIENCE:  Awwww –- (laughter.)

THE PRESIDENT:  We gather to mark a day that’s become as celebrated here in the United States as it is in Mexico.  And we’re honored to be joined by Mexico’s Interior Secretary, Fernando Gomez Mont and his lovely wife Gloria.  Please give them a big round of applause.  (Applause.)  It’s good to see you again.  And a great friend to me and the United States —- Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan and his wonderful wife Veronica, who are also here