Mario Martino de Lima Teixeira, born November 11, 1953, in Angra Tercira, Azores, had a childhood filled with sunshine and simple joys. Playing in an old garden and eagerly stepping into school at six shaped his early years. However, life took a turn when, at the age of 23, Mario decided to pack his bags and try his luck in the United States.

Arriving on August 29, 1977, Mario settled in Riverdale, California, captivated by the promise of love with his girlfriend, who would soon become his life partner. The transition to American life was not without its hurdles, especially during his first job on a dairy farm. The unfamiliarity with cows, mud, rain, and the overall farm life made those initial years challenging. Yet, in the face of adversity, Mario persisted for two years before deciding to explore other career avenues.

Despite his physical distance from the Azores, Mario carried his Portuguese identity. He maintained a connection to his roots through the comforting flavors of alcatra and sopas, traditional Azorean dishes. A unique expression of his cultural pride unfolded in the unexpected bullfighting arena, a passion cultivated at the tender age of 14 in the Azores and now flourishing as a professional pursuit in the United States.

The preservation of Portuguese traditions became a cornerstone of Mario’s life. Whether participating in festivals, dancing to traditional tunes, or engaging in bullfighting events, he became a custodian of his cultural heritage. Frequent visits to the Azores further solidified his commitment to passing down the richness of his heritage to future generations.

Reflecting on his life’s journey, Mario takes pride in his entrepreneurial accomplishments and the unique feat of becoming a professional bullfighter. His story is not just about personal triumphs but a contribution to the broader tapestry of the Portuguese American community in California’s Central Valley.

Mario’s narrative underscores the enduring significance of Portuguese identity. Even as he became a part of the American landscape, the essence of being Portuguese remained a source of strength and continuity. Today, in the Portuguese American community, Mario observes the challenges and resilience of maintaining cultural traditions. While immigration may have slowed, the vibrancy of Portuguese identity endures, expressed through festivals, dances, and a shared love for traditional music.

In conclusion, Mario Martino de Lima Teixeira’s journey symbolizes the resilience of Azorean roots in the American story. From childhood in the Azores to the challenges of immigration and the proud preservation of cultural traditions, Mario’s tale encapsulates the rich tapestry of the Portuguese American experience. As he continues embracing his Azorean and American heritage, Mario is a living testament to the vibrant cultural mosaic that defines the Portuguese American community.

By Mandy Pimentel– Azores Culture Class (Central California Portuguese-American Oral History project at Fresno State has recorded over 90 oral history interviews–our goal is to reach 200 by 2028)

PBBI-Fresno State thanks Luso-Financial for sponsoring this story