Unity shines at Monmouth’s 4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival

Join Jeannie Weber, executive director of United Way of West Central Illinois, and Jackie Arteaga as they preview the 4th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival, happening Saturday, September 20, 6 p.m. to midnight at Public Square in Monmouth. This free event has grown from 1,500 to an expected 5,000-7,000 attendees, uniting a 60-mile radius. They discuss its start from community talks, the power of food and music to connect, and the symbolic proclamation reading in English and Spanish. Highlights include live bands, plus new kids’ activities and a community video. With 26 vendors offering fresh fare like tamales and chocoflan, and sponsors Smithfield Foods, G&M Distributors, Midwest Bank, United Way of West Central Illinois, Dave’s Auto Body, and Norris Sound making it possible, all bar proceeds support the Hispanic community. Details at wcunitedway.org.