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FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | JUNE 2018 45 "Juneteenth is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. "From its Galveston, Texas origin in 1865, the observance of June 19th as the African American Emancipation Day has spread across the United States and beyond. "Juneteenth commemorates African American freedom and emphasizes education and achievement. It is a day, a week, and in some areas a month marked with varied celebrations, guest speakers, picnics and family gatherings. It is a time for reflection and rejoicing. It is a time for assessment, self-improvement and for planning the future. "Its growing popularity signifies a level of maturity and dignity in America long overdue. In cities across the country, people of all races, nationalities and religions are joining hands to truthfully acknowledge a period in our history that shaped and continues to influence our society today. Sensitized to the conditions and experiences of others, only then can we make significant and lasting improvements in our society." Excerpted from www.Juneteenth.com. The AACC will be holding its Juneteenth Celebration on Tuesday, June 19 at The Courts from 5 to 8 pm. A big thank you is in order to Janice Pugliese who organized the first Festival of Cultures here at Four Seasons on April 21. Its purpose was to unite, share, and educate. Over 200 people attended and the countries represented were England, Italy, United States, Ghana, Russia, Thailand, Japan, China, Mexico, Mauritania, Morocco, Senegal, Cote D'Ivoire, Togo, Nigeria, Congo, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Zambia. This was a beautiful event sponsored by Four Seasons and the AACC. Danya O'Harra put together a nice slideshow of all the different countries represented. There were tables decorated with memorabilia from countries around the world. People came dressed in traditional clothing. The AACC hosted the wine and cheese tasting from an array of countries. Additionally, we had the pleasure of listening to a very talented Celtic Harpist and watching a folk dance demonstration. You're invited to join us and become a part of a growing group that is striving to make a difference in our community. We meet the first Monday of the month in the Lodge Card Room at 6 pm. For more information please contact Joyce Allen at (951) 769-4354 or Roxie Elliott at (951) 769-2517. ~ Regina Thomas African American Cultural Club The Four Seasons Rainbow Group is an informal opportunity for our LGBT neighbors and any other residents who are interested in meeting with us, to keep up to date, meet new members and to have a relaxing dinner together. We meet every month on the fourth Thursday. Our next meeting will be on Thursday, June 28 at 6 pm. We gather at the atrium in the Lodge, order food from Smitty's and then move to the Lodge Card Room. Feel free to bring your own adult beverage, if you desire, and appropriate glassware. Everyone is welcome. Any questions can be directed to Dale at (951) 797-0364. ~ Dale Beckes Rainbow Group Festival of Cultures Event organizer Janice Pugliese The table representing Zambia and Ghana was put together by Betty Ann James