Hearts United Gathering draws a big crowd to hear a witness of history and how both she and the country have changed.

Peggy Wallace Kennedy recalls what she witnessed as daughter of longtime segregationist, then-Alabama Gov. George Wallace, and how her life changed. Below, she is greeted on stage by Rome Mayor Bill Collins. Photos courtesy of Art Newell.,

Terri Morgan with Once Community United welcomes guests in this photo courtesy of Wendy Davis.

The Fourth Annual Hearts United Gathering drew another huge crowd to the Wilder Center at Rome First United Methodist Church to hear an eyewitness to different times courtesy of Peggy Wallace Kennedy, daughter off the late Gov. George Wallace. In addition to her moving delivery, the Rome Symphony Orchestra entertained the crowd soon after doors opened at 5 p.m. The event was organized by One Community United and cosponsored by SERVE Rome.

Those who attended Thursday’s gathering and others are invited to One Community United’s next small group meeting, facilitated by Rick Stevenson, at Troy’s Barbecue on North Broad Street beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday.