African American Culture & History Festival Saturday October 2nd 2010

copyright 1999 2010 Kim and Reggie Harris   New York State Office of Parks, Recreation, and Historic Preservation Palisades Interstate Park Commission Senate House State Historic Site  African American Culture & History Festival  Saturday, October 2, 2010 10 am to 7 pm A stellar lineup of musical and poetic talent comes to Senate House State Historic Site for its second annual African American History & Culture Festival, from 10 am to 7pm on Saturday, October 2. And the best part? All the performers—along with a renowned lecturer, hands-on activities for kids, food, and tours--are free! Join Master Drummer Maxwell Kofi Donkor and Sankofa, Kim and Reggie Harris, Kansas City Sound and jazz luminary Hugh Brodie, Michael Monasterial, Percussion Orchestra of Kingston (POOK), and Readnex Poetry Squad for a full day of first-class entertainment.  This free event offers fun for all ages, and occurs rain or shine. For more information, please call (845) 338-2786. The festival begins with a free drum workshop at 10:00 am by master drummer Maxwell Kofi Donkor. Some drums will be supplied, or bring your own. Young people are especially welcome, and no experience is necessary. Also at 10 am, Professor A.J. Williams-Myers speaks on the influence of Africans on the Hudson Valley tradition of Pinkster, originally a European celebration marking Pentecost and the arrival of spring.  A hands-on activity for kids, delicious food for sale, and free tours and admission to the Senate House and the site’s museum are all part of this terrific event, presented by the Friends of Senate House. The Senate House is located at 296 Fair Street, Kingston, NY 12401.  For further information about this and other upcoming events please call the site at (845) 338-2786