Rain-drenched Spanish Heritage festival will forge on

YOUNGSTOWN

Despite inclement weather Friday and Saturday keeping down attendance at the sixth annual Youngstown Spanish Heritage Festival, organizers say they plan to continue the yearly celebration.

“It’s important to bring the community together to share our culture, out heritage and our great food,” said Victoria DeJesus of Campbell, festival president.

DeJesus and her brother, Carlos Rivera Jr., a Youngstown policeman, started the festival, which not only showcases the culture, heritage and food, but also raises money for scholarships and a charity.

Part of the event’s net proceeds are used for scholarships for two Latino students attending Youngstown State University. Anyone interested in applying for the scholarships can visit the festival website or call DeJesus at 330-398-0505.

Hospice of the Valley, where DeJesus’ father, Carlos “Kiki” Rivera Sr., was a patient, is this year’s charity.

Read more about this year's event in Saturday's Vindicator or on Vindy.com.