Hispanic Festival rich in culture

COLUMBUS -- A cultural celebration featuring music, food and entertainment is featured at Hispanic Festival 2008.

The three-day event is being held at Platte County Agricultural Park and will conclude today.

This is the sixth year the event has been hosted, and one of its organizers, Fernando Lopez, said all are welcome to attend.

“Combining both cultures, that is our goal,” Lopez said.

Those who came out Saturday were treated to music by the Columbus High School and Middle School bands, folkloric traditional dancers, called “Sangre Azteca,” and a fashion show. The night capped off with a Mexican dance concert.

There have been new additions to the festival this year including a petting zoo. But there are the regular standards like carnival rides, several booths and authentic Mexican food.

One can enjoy the food and also know their purchase is going toward a good cause. Proceeds from the food vendor set up under the grandstand goes toward supporting Marco Maldonado who is awaiting a kidney transplant.

The 11-year-old Maldonado, from David City, has renal dysplasia, and will be receiving a kidney transplant from his father, Marco Maldonado. The money raised from the proceeds from the food will go toward the medical expenses and medication.

People also may make donations to Maldonado at a benefit June 14 at the former Hy-Vee store parking lot, or they can donate to the “Marco Fund” through Columbus Bank & Trust of Columbus.

The festival will continue today with special activities to celebrate Mother’s Day. The festival will open at noon. Some of the activities include musical entertainment and a Miss Latina ’08 contest. A fireworks display will be held at dusk.

Other organizers of the festival include Socorro Rodriguez, Victor Rodriguez and Joaquin Velez.