The Unity Project of Fort Atkinson co-hosted its fifth Fort Fall Fiesta Saturday afternoon.
The bilingual festival at Jones Park brought together English and Spanish speakers for an afternoon of food, music, dancing and kids’ activities. There were 30 educational, craft and activity booths.
Co-hosts were the Unity Project, Fort Community Credit Union, Fort HealthCare, Madison Area Technical College, mkCellular and Griffin Ford.
Emcees were the husband-and-wife team of José Mieses and Whitney Townsend. Mieses is a former pitcher for the Milwaukee Brewers. They also provided salsa dance demonstrations.
Local deejay José Ramirez provided music.
The Fall Fort Fiesta originally was created by former Fort Atkinson Parks and Recreation Director Scott Lastusky, who observed a lack of Hispanic children utilizing the city’s Parks and Recreation Department programs. Seeking an opportunity for outreach, he partnered with the Unity Project, then in its infancy. The Unity Project has since organized the bilingual festival.
Fort Fall Fiesta attendees enjoy dancing to music provided by deejay José Ramirez.
Emcees José Mieses, from left, and Whitney Townsend thank the public for attending the Fort Fall Fiesta while deejay José Ramirez and a helper prepare to provide music.
A School District of Fort Atkinson English Language teacher help youngsters create “LOVE” keychains to decorate backpacks.
Children receive balloon creations.
Deb Brown, Humane Society of Jefferson County, at left, introduces Jenny Koch, Fort Atkinson, to a kitten.
Irma Hernandez, at left, and Carmen Garcés, a bilingual counselor/advocate, welcome visitors to the New Beginnings APFV booth. Located in Whitewater, New Beginnings provides support and services to people affected by domestic abuse, sexual violence, stalking and human trafficking. This includes crisis intervention, legal advocacy, safety planning, individual counseling, housing advocacy, children’s services, medical advocacy and information and referral to other relevant community resources. To learn more, visit newbeginningswalworth.com.
Nora Hernadez, a bilingual family advocate with Jefferson County Head Start, hosts a booth at the Fort Fall Fiesta. Chris Spangler photos.
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What a beautiful event! Thanks to Laura and Sue, as well as all the other volunteers that made this event possible. It’s good for the Heart of Fort Atkinson to welcome all our new members and make them feel at home.