African American Heritage Dinner moves those in attendance
- February 27, 2004
- |
- Lindsey Cruce, Staff Writer
- Section: News
Students and faculty participated in the African-American Dinner.
The dinner took place on Wednesday, February 25, in the cafeteria in the Boling University. Service from 4:30-7:00 p.m. Mike Munkel, director of food production, served as master of ceremonies, leaving the preparation of food in the capable hands of Chef Clint Killion.
After opening remarks by Munkel, the audience was encouraged to deliver individual selections of poetry to the attentive audience. Some of the highlighted selections included: “The Creation” by James W. Johnson, read by history professor, Preston B. Hardy.
Carin Malone, UTM sophomore communications/news major delivered a moving original poem entitled, “Ancestors of the Past.” A talented writer and speaker her poem included the words, “It isn’t the color of their skin that made them different, it was the size of their hearts.”
Candice Lampkins, a junior, read a poem then lead the audience in the song, “We Shall Overcome.” David Stokes, a senior, read “It is the End of the World,” by Arnold Kemp with a strong cadence and Mishonee Hicks presented “A Macon County Alabama Slave Narrative,” by Zack Ivey.
Dr. Luther Mercer, a newcomer this semester as director of multi-cultural affairs, delivered a haunting rendition of “Song of the Smoke,” contrasting the rap-style writing by Anthony Broussard brother’s poem entitled “Half and Half.” Frank S. Black, professor of educational studies, took part in the program, reading a poem by Charles S. Johnson, entitled, “From the Dark Town.”
Spirits were high throughout the program, appetites hardy and the fellowship was overwhelming It was a huge success, enjoyed by all that attended and participated.