African American Heritage Festival Begins Sunday

The 27th African American Heritage Festival (AAHF) will kick off with an opening ceremony, games, entertainment and a cookout from 2 to 5 pm. on Sunday (5/1) at the Hale Black Cultural Center, 153 West 12th Ave. The theme for the 2005 celebration is “Kisima: Healing the Mind, Body and Soul.” Kisima means “well” in Swahili.

Student chair Adison McNeill will moderate the program. Entertainers include the East High School marching band, Tony West and the Imani Dancers, and the Saints Drumline. Caricature artists, massage therapists and various health organizations will also be present. The Tri-Black Student Association cookout will be held in conjunction with the events.

The event is free and open to the public. Non-perishable food items will be collected to assist the Mid-Ohio Food Bank.

WHAT: Opening ceremony for the African American Heritage Festival.

WHEN: 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday (5/1).

WHERE: The Hale Black Cultural Center, 153 West 12th Ave.

WHY: To mark the official start of the 2005 celebration.