The Arts In Black Festival held in Fulwood Park in the spring of each year kicked off with a new focus this year following the opening ceremony. 

Mayor Julie Smith welcomed all to the park and planned festivities. Commissioner Donnie Hester offered prayer and sincere thanks for your presences and participation.

Ms. Fran Kinchen served as hostess for the day. She got the festivities going and kept the activities moving. Thanks for being available.

The opening act, a local group, Dancers Point. Ms. Pam Byrd, director, gave an inspiring number of exquisite and artful performances. Thank you for a great opening act.

The poetry contest followed. The youth demonstrated great prose and confidence between each age group. Jerriel Taylor and Winnie Whitfield presented their original poetry. Thanks to all participants and judges.

Sincere thanks to all contributors, financial and food, your donations of time, funds and talent.

To the many vendors who provided a variety of food and other custom items for the festival: Thank you.

To vendors who provided health information, financial and other resources: Thank you for your support.

Thank you to all of Tift County Recreation Department and its dedicated workers who had set up for all seasons rain or shine.

Essence Band, you are the best. Thanks for the great music from back in the day.

Harold E Thomas and Danger Zone, you all rock. Thanks for great music and memories.

Thank you to our DJ and Sound Production Specialist, Nick McClellan, who kept the music going and all who enjoyed the festival.

Our sincere appreciation to Plight, Inc., for chairing the AIB Festival event, President Melissa Hughes, Vice President Leila Dollison and the organization at large.

The community showed up making this a successful event.

Thank you all, until next spring!

Arts in Black Planning Committee