It Takes A Village

There was one corner devoted to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

On the opposite corner was a collection of photographs of other "contemporary African-Americans" who have made their own unique impacts on society - from former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Colin Powell to Motown founder Barry Gordy.

"I've seen a lot of people come through here today," said Cynthia Yvonne Williams, who encouraged people to sign the book and stroll through Lorenzo Hamilton Community Center at Kennedy Park.

That was where people could read about the faces and names behind black history and view the art and artifacts on display. The event ran from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.

The Village Extravaganza culminated Brooksville's celebration of Black History Month.

There was a presentation ceremony in the morning and live performances from local school and church groups throughout the day. Food also was served.

Williams said the extravaganza was designed to be "exciting, informational, educational, profoundly enlightening and fun." The theme for the day was "Yes We Can."

Some of the "networking partners" involved in the event included Hernando County Parks and Recreation, Shiloh New Beginnings Pillar of Truth Ministries and Shiloh Problem Solvers.