Hispanic Heritage; ARTWalk Alive 

School might be in, but festival-style fun doesn't have to end. To paraphrase a wise man, throw the kids' homework on the fire and take the car downtown.

On Sunday, September 17, there are two great events sure to please every age group. Budget your time wisely and you can hit them both.

Start at the MemorialArtGallery's Hispanic Heritage Family Day. Subtitled "Latino Traditions: Honoring Our Ancestors," it runs noon to 5 p.m. Enjoy art activities for children as well as performances by groups including the Mambo Kings, Borinquen Dance Theater, and Arco Iris Mexicano; a meet-the-artists art show; talks by area artists; storytelling; and cultural displays. The Salute to Hispanic Elders awards will be presented, too.

If your family's familiar with Hispanic culture, you know you're in for a good time. If your kids' exposure to Hispanic culture has been limited to watching you knock back Coronas on the deck, here's your chance to make it right. Admission is $1 for ages 6 and up, 5 and under are free. Get further info at mag.rochester.edu or call 473-7720.

Afterwards, stroll a couple blocks east on University Avenue to ARTWalk Alive! on the Museum Trail running between MAG and the George Eastman House. The festival runs noon-4 p.m. You'll find dance troupes, spoken-word performers, live music, the announcement of the winners of the bus-shelter design contest, and artists at work, including bead makers, painters, and sidewalk artists. There will also be free interactive art activities for the entire family. And don't miss the Grand Finale, "Bob Cat Boogie with United Rental," featuring construction equipment choreographed by RIT Director of Dance Thomas Warfield --- sort of like Bob the Builder meets Angelina Ballerina. Admission is free. Go to www.rochesterartwalk.org or call 234-6670.