Whiteman sponsors Multicultural Fest Oct. 29

  • Published
  • By Heidi Hunt
  • 509th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  The 2010 Whiteman Multicultural Fest is held Oct. 29 from 2 - 4 p.m. at Mission's End. The theme "Understanding our heritage and communicating our difference is the true spirit of Whiteman."

"The purpose for celebrating a multicultural fest in our community is to recognize the contributions of all Americans, which is the thread of our nation's tapestry," said Jerald Alexander, 509th Bomb Wing Equal Opportunity director.

"The committee volunteers selected this theme because it reflects the 509th Bomb Wing mission. Compared to last year's fest, the 2010 event will encompass a local flair of talents, entertainers and presenters," said Master Sgt. Tammy Klonowski, 509th Bomb Wing Equal Opportunity superintendent. "There is a lot of good talents within Johnson County that many of us are not even aware of. It is great that our friends are coming to share their experiences with us."

"This Air Force Global Strike Command event compasses the attributes of our accomplishments as a country," Mr. Alexander said. "It is important that each of us share and listen to how our ancestors helped forge this nation from the colonial era to the present. This is a gift we all need to convey with each generation."

Dr. Margaret DePalma, 509th Bomb Wing historian is scheduled to be the guest speaker and her presentation is about the history of the Whiteman.

"Whiteman's cultural history will also be depicted through displays, which dates back to the 1940s," Mr. Alexander said.

The fest includes free food and choices from North America, Europe, Africa, Africa, Australia, Asia and the Middle East.

Musical entertainment includes Hal Sappington, Herb Best and Rose Maria Kinder, a bluegrass, Cajun, country and blues band from Warrensburg, Mo. The Red Star and Family Pow Wow Exhibition will provide Native American dancing and singing.

Students from the University of Central Missouri will present poetry readings and monologues. Ms. JaNomia Smith, graduate assistant at UCM, along with a trio of undergraduate students will recite the works of Langton Hughes, Gwendolyn Brooks, Maya Angelou and other African-American poets.

"Also, from UCM is Dr. Carla Maltas, music professor who will entertain the crowd with a puppet show with puppet friend, Harley," Mr. Alexander said. "Guests can also enjoy popular balloon art from the works of Scott Norwood. This event is both for young and old members."

"We'd like for everyone to come and enjoy this community event," said Staff Sgt. Maurice Ingram, 509th BW Equal Opportunity advisor. "This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about others along with hearing, seeing and tasting the best of America."

Everyone with base access is invited to attend this free event. For more information contact (660) 687-5737.