TERRE HAUTE —
Music jammed out of Thompson Park on Saturday, drifting along air seasoned by barbecue sauce.
The 26th Annual African-American Festival kicked off at 10 a.m., with music and activities running through late Saturday night. Organizer Franklin Brown noted he’s been active in the event for more than 15 years, helping raise funds for the Charles T. Hyte Community Center.
Amid the games and fellowship, he said his favorite part of the festivities was in the sounds.
“What you’re hearing now, the music,” he said. “And the food is excellent.”
Dwayne Malone, Hyte Center coordinator, said the group hoped to draw more than 1,000 people to the event at South 17th and Oak streets. Funds raised there will go toward helping the center maintain its after-school tutoring program.
“We’re hoping to continue it if our finances are better,” Malone said, remarking the group’s “shoe-string budget” is about gone.
The program matches local school children with students from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology and Indiana State University, providing free help with homework after school at the Hyte Center on Wabash Avenue. About 45 children come to the center, he said, adding individuals wishing to contribute to the program can call (812) 234-0724 for more information.
Margaret Taylor said the programs provided by the Hyte Center are worth supporting, and she remarked with pride that she’s been at each of the 26 festivals.
“For one thing, it helps keep my youth,” she laughed, adding she enjoys seeing old friends who return for the event. “I do like it. It’s for the community. It’s for our children.”
Georgia Bailey, another long-time supporter, said the camaraderie makes the event special.
“I enjoy it. I enjoy the people. I enjoy the singing and I enjoy the fellowship,” she said.
Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.
Local & Bistate
Related Photos
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Tribune-Star/Bob Poynter Saxophone man: Michael Reid plays while sitting on a scooter in Thompson Park during Saturday’s African-American Festival.
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Tribune-Star/Bob Poynter Fest rest: A group of children take a break from bouncing in the fun house for a short rest before bouncing again during Saturday’s African-American Fest at Thompson Park.
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Organizer: Franklin Brown is the organizer for this year's African-American Festival at Thompson Park.
Discussion
‘For the Community’
26th Annual African-American Festival looks to draw a crowd to help Hyte Center
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