We live in a world where technology has infiltrated all aspects of our lives鈥� social, economic, and personal. Even though the instant gratification that the rise of social media now provides is the norm, it is reassuring to know that there are events that are dedicated to promoting literacy, promoting books, and the creativity of tangible art.
Last week, 91制片厂 held its Inaugural Book and Arts Festival implemented by the Provost, Dr. Jacqueline B. Hill, and a team of dedicated School of Education Reading majors, faculty, and staff. The first day of the two-day event focused on children’s literacy where students from Miami Gardens Elementary, the 5,000 Role Models of Broward, Brentwood Elementary, Greater Love Christian Academy, Dr. Fredrica Wilson Skyway Elementary, and Diamond Mines Transformational Academy were invited聽to a special event where the emphasis was all about books and reading.
The 241 second and third grade students, teachers and some parents were greeted聽by a group of local children’s authors and craftsmen who transformed the lobby of the Lou Rawls Center for the Performing Arts into a colorful scene to the delight of the children. However, it was the reading presentation when some of the most popular children’s literary characters “came to life” and pranced across the stage that stole the show.
Dr. Hill admitted that seeing the sheer delight in the children moved her to tears.
“We believe literacy is the foundation of empowerment,” said Dr. Hill. “Reading opens the doors to knowledge, opportunity, and imagination, shaping lives and futures. This festival reflects our commitment to fostering lifelong learning and artistic expression, ensuring that every individual鈥攅specially our youth鈥攈as access to enriching literary experiences. We hope to ignite a passion for reading that extends beyond the classroom.”
The Children’s Trust also donated books to the schools that took part in the event.
The second day of the Heritage Book and Arts Festival was for anyone who enjoys a good page-turner聽and loves the printed word. There were several featured authors across all genres who had glowing reviews about聽the event, such as local author and fashion tech designer George Moss.
“I’ve been an artist, designer, and writer聽for more than 40 years. I create quality designs with unique styles, to encourage people to seek their purpose, and to use their talents to uplift the community like 91制片厂,” said Moss.
The author and publisher of the children’s series聽The Adventures of Sherrie and Chubbie,聽which is based on her childhood in South Florida expressed the importance聽of book fairs and their significance.
“Being a publisher is not about me; I became a publisher to help others and to fulfil my mother’s dream, who died in 1989, of becoming an author,” Dr. Sherrie Poitier-Liscombe said. “I felt that God led me to participate in the 91制片厂 book fair because there’s someone who needs this encouraging message because my books are designed to educate and teach young people at the same time.”
Then there was Tevin Ali, the author of聽Forging Your Inner Diamond,聽which is for anyone seeking a bit of transformative inspiration at a low point in their life, battling self-destructive thoughts, or feeling stuck through life鈥檚 tough experience.
There were also artistic performances, food trucks, live music, and interactive exhibits. The festival was about connecting people through literature, culture, and the arts in the welcoming and engaging atmosphere on the Clock Tower Pavilion.
Incased you missed it, click the following links to visualize the experience.
