By Michael Freeman, Managing Editor
Every year, Hispanos Unidos showcases the cultures and traditions of Latin American countries through music, dance and food at Entra a la Plaza. The cultural celebration will be Friday around the GATA Fountain from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. as part of Hispanic Heritage Month.
“I think it’s going to be great,” said Stephanie Robles, president of Hispanos Unidos and senior psychology major from Mesquite. “Last year’s was great, and we’re looking to step it up even more.”
Entra a la Plaza debuted in 2005 and was a huge hit. This year will be the fourth year for Hispanos Unidos to host the event. Rosa’s Tortilla Factory, Ta Molly’s, El Phoenix Café, Hernandez Bakery and Alfredo’s will provide food. Attendees can enjoy piñatas and face painting, as well as a mariachi band from Lubbock and the ACU Milonga Latin Dancing group. The event is free and open to the Abilene community. Robles said she expects 200-400 people to attend.
Bob Gomez, retired coordinator of Student Multicultural Enrichment and Spiritual Life, will be one of the people present. Hispanos Unidos will honor Gomez with a plaque for his contributions to the ACU community and his help in promoting Hispanos Unidos.
“We’re still here mainly because he helped us,” Robles said. “Everyone appreciates all of his help.”
Gomez retired in 2004, but his influence still is present. Robles said Hispanos Unidos is considering producing a “Bob Gomez Award” to present every year.
“When I was a student, we didn’t know what was going on out there in the Hispanic community,” said Jorge Daniel Garcia, Multicultural Enrollment Marketing Specialist and Hispanos Unidos sponsor. “I think it’s really important for students to see role models like Bob Gomez.”
Entra a la Plaza, which translates to “enter the plaza,” already has been promoted via local television, the Abilene Reporter- News and several Hispanic publications. Hispanos Unidos also has worked on service projects at Dyess Air Force Base and the Abilene Chamber of Commerce in the past week, which may motivate people from these organizations to attend Friday’s event.
“When this event comes, everyone is really happy to come and be part of this event,” Garcia said.
