Phi Iota Alpha, the Latino fraternity at Union College, is “taking it to the
street” with a Latino Festival on Saturday, May 22, from 1 to 6:30 p.m. at the corner
of Emmet and Craig streets in Schenectady's Hamilton Hill.
The event – which is free and open to the public — will feature Latin
American music, food, games, prizes and education. There will be face painting, a dominoes
contest, dance contest, a clown, and the opportunity for children to have their picture
taken with Simba from Disney's The Lion King.
For adults, Phi Iota Alpha has engaged representatives of a number of College and
community organizations to offer information ranging from health care to employment
networking to Army and Navy recruiting.
The theme of the festival is Siempre Se Puede Más (You Can Always Do More).
Last year's inaugural event drew about 100 residents and 50 Union students. Latin
music, which could be heard from a block away, drew a number of residents to the area,
organizers said.
Members of the fraternity said they decided to host the event on Hamilton Hill rather
than on Union's campus to “show residents that they can host safe and fun events
in their own community,” said David Torres, vice president of Phi Iota Alpha.
For more information, call ext. 6846.