LAURINBURG — The African American Cultural Society is holding an organizational meeting for the upcoming Tema Fest tonight at 6 p.m.

The meeting will be held at 200 Atkinson St.

Nuekie Aku Opata, president of the AACS, Inc. said this meeting is designed to solicit members and volunteers of the community to assist in developing the cultural arts festival as well as many other events planned throughout the year.

“We want to build on the strengths of others and put everyone to work in their respective areas.”

Assistance in all areas are needed, to include hospitality, marketing, and logistics.

“We want people to come, have an overnight stay and enjoy both our city and the event” said Opata. “Currently we are looking for several Zumba instructors and their fitness teams to participate in leading our citizens in the Zumbathon, which is set to take place Saturday morning promoting health and wellness in our community.

Volunteers willing to work security are also encouraged to attend. They will be partnering with all divisions of law enforcement as the group introduces a “See Something Say Something” campaign to encourage those attending to promote safety and report anything suspicious.

Opata said the group is looking for people willing to work and to see the success of the festival.

“This festival is by our community, for our community and in our community”. There will be a strong educational component and many heritage exhibits in hopes of building on the rich history of African Americans to reignite a sense of culture and pride for all in attendance.

She also wanted to make it clear that the AACS Inc. is community oriented and diversity is going to be the key to success. The organization is founded on African American culture and experiences but is open all races and nationalities.

For information, call 910-706-7252, or visit www.theaacsinc.com.

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by Maria D. Grandy

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